CALDWELL, W.Va. — Gov. Patrick Morrisey formally announced preparations for the 2026 spring gobbler season during a press conference at Greenbrier State Forest on April 13, tying West Virginia’s hunting tradition to the state’s broader economic outlook.
The general spring gobbler season opens Monday, April 20 and runs through May 24, with a special youth spring gobbler season set for April 18-19 for hunters under 18. Morrisey was joined by West Virginia Division of Natural Resources Director Brett McMillion to outline the season.
“There is a specific kind of magic in the West Virginia woods this time of year,” Morrisey said. “But beyond tradition, hunting is a massive driver for our state’s prosperity. In West Virginia, hunting supports over 7,400 jobs and generates more than $850 million in annual spending. By turning our world-class outdoor recreation into economic opportunity, we are building a stronger future for every Mountain State family.”
Morrisey said cabin reservations at Greenbrier State Forest open April 17, timed to accommodate an influx of tourists and hunters who spend money in small-town cafes and local hotels. Hunters were encouraged to visit WVhunt.com ahead of opening day to secure their 2026 licenses and to consider picking up the physical collectible license card. The governor also reminded hunters to identify their targets clearly and share hunting plans with family or friends.
Technical season details
- Bag limit: One bearded bird per day, with a season limit of two.
- Legal hours: Hunting is permitted from a half-hour before sunrise until 1 p.m.
- Equipment: Firearms, bows and crossbows must be cased and removed from the woods by 1 p.m. Electronic calls and hunting over bait are strictly prohibited.
- Public land: West Virginia offers more than 1.6 million acres of public hunting land across 96 wildlife management areas and various national and state forests.
“Our hunters are our best conservationists,” McMillion said. “We want everyone to enjoy the incredible resources West Virginia offers while strictly adhering to the regulations that ensure a healthy turkey population for years to come.”
More information on the 2026 spring gobbler season is available at WVdnr.gov.
