When Does Rifle Season Start in WV?
Hunting is a popular activity in West Virginia, and one of the most anticipated times of the year is rifle season. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just starting out, it’s essential to know when rifle season starts in WV so you can plan your trip accordingly. In this article, we’ll provide you with the answers you’re looking for.
What is Rifle Season?
Rifle season is a regulated hunting period in West Virginia where hunters are allowed to use rifles to hunt deer, turkey, and other game species. The season is divided into different phases, each with its specific dates and bag limits.
When Does Rifle Season Start in WV?
In West Virginia, rifle season typically starts in mid-November and lasts for two weeks. The exact dates may vary from year to year, but here’s a general idea of what you can expect:
| Season | Dates |
|---|---|
| Early rifle season | 2nd Saturday in November – 6th Saturday in November |
| Late rifle season | 3rd Saturday in November – 1st Saturday in December |
What Species Can Be Hunted During Rifle Season?
During rifle season, hunters can target the following species:
- White-tailed deer
- Wild turkey (eastern wild turkey)
- Coyote
What Are the Bag Limits?
Bag limits refer to the maximum number of game species that a hunter can take during a specific hunting season. Here are the bag limits for rifle season in WV:
- White-tailed deer: 2 deer per day, with a total of 6 deer for the entire season
- Wild turkey: 2 turkeys per day, with a total of 4 turkeys for the entire season
- Coyote: unlimited
What Are the Hours of Operation?
During rifle season, hunting hours are as follows:
- Monday to Saturday: 1/2 hour before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset
- Sunday: 1/2 hour before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset, but not during the last 2 hours of the day
What Are the Licenses and Permits Needed?
To hunt during rifle season in WV, you’ll need the following licenses and permits:
- Resident or non-resident hunting license: This license is required for all hunters, regardless of residency.
- Big game license: This license is required for hunting deer, turkey, and coyote.
- Small game license: This license is required for hunting other game species, such as rabbits and squirrels.
Additional Regulations
There are several additional regulations you should be aware of when hunting during rifle season in WV:
- CWD (Chronic Wasting Disease) restrictions: Hunters are required to take a CWD sample at the time of harvest, and only whole carcass exports are allowed.
- Check stations: Hunters are required to stop at check stations when transporting deer or turkey, and submit their game for inspection and sampling.
- Electronic deer calling: Electronic deer calling is prohibited during rifle season.
- Deer baiting: Deer baiting is prohibited, and any deer feeding device or structure must be removed from the area.
Conclusion
Rifle season is an exciting time in West Virginia, and knowing the dates, bag limits, and regulations is essential for a successful and enjoyable hunt. Make sure to check the official website of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources for any changes or updates to the season dates and regulations.
