West Virginia’s two-week buck firearms season opens Nov. 24 and runs through Dec. 7 in every county except Logan, McDowell, Mingo and Wyoming, which remain closed to firearms deer hunting.
Hunters may harvest one buck with a base license. A Class RG or RRG stamp is required to take a second buck and must be purchased before the season begins.
The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources announced the season opening and reminded hunters to review current regulations and safety guidelines.
“The buck firearms season is a time-honored tradition that brings generations of West Virginians together in the woods each fall,” said WVDNR Director Brett McMillion. “As hunters head back into the woods, we encourage everyone to review the latest regulations, follow the safety guidelines and look out for one another.”
Governor Patrick Morrisey joined the announcement. “Buck firearms season is woven into the fabric of West Virginia,” Morrisey said. “It reflects our respect for the land, our love of the outdoors and the traditions we pass down from one generation to the next. Here is to a safe and successful season for all.”
Safety and regulations
All hunters must wear at least 400 square inches of blaze orange when hunting in any county or area with an open deer firearms season.
All big game must be field tagged and electronically checked at WVhunt.com.
Carcass transportation restrictions are now in effect in Grant County. Baiting and feed restrictions apply in Pendleton County.
Hunters may use an unmanned aerial vehicle to track and locate mortally wounded deer. Only one leashed dog may be used for recovery.
All hunters 15 and older must have a valid West Virginia hunting license, unless hunting under resident landowner privileges. Hunters must also carry valid identification.
To purchase a hunting license and stamps, visit WVdnr.gov/buy-a-license. For more information about deer hunting and safety requirements, visit WVdnr.gov/hunting-regulations.
Big Buck Photo Contest returns
The WVDNR announced the return of the Big Buck Photo Contest, open to resident and nonresident youth and adults. Hunters who submit a photo of a buck legally harvested during a 2025 season will be entered into a prize drawing.
One resident adult grand prize winner will receive a lifetime hunting license or a West Virginia State Park cabin stay. The remaining resident adults and non-resident adult winners will receive a State Park cabin stay or a Bass Pro Shops prize package. All youth winners will receive a Bass Pro Shops prize package.
Photos must be submitted by Jan. 9, 2026 and a valid 2025 hunting license and valid WVDNR-issued game check number are required to enter the contest. Finalists will be selected by random drawing and winners will be announced in January 2026. To submit a photo and review contest rules, visit WVdnr.gov/photocontest.
