The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) announced that youth hunting seasons for squirrels and black bears will open in September.

West Virginia’s squirrel season for youth hunters is scheduled for September 7-8. The first split of the state’s black bear season for youth hunters will be September 14-15.

“Hunting in West Virginia is a time-honored tradition that has been passed down for generations and we want to encourage parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles to share their love for hunting and the outdoors with their family this fall,” said WVDNR Director Brett McMillion. “West Virginia has several seasons dedicated to taking a young person hunting, but don’t limit their exposure to these dates only. The more you take your kids into the woods and expose them to hunting, the more they’ll want to carry on these traditions.”

West Virginia provides many opportunities for youth hunters, including seasons for squirrels, black bears, white-tailed deer and waterfowl in the fall, and wild turkeys in the spring. Youth hunters must be at least 8 years old and less than 18 years old. Kids ages 15-17 must comply with all licensing requirements. Kids between ages 8-14 must be accompanied by a licensed adult over 21 who cannot carry a weapon and must remain near the youth at all times to render advice and assistance. West Virginia hunting licenses can be purchased online at WVhunt.com.

The WVDNR is also reminding hunters that youth hunters are required to check big game harvests with their own WVDNR account. Accounts can be created online, and game checks may be completed online at WVhunt.com.

To learn more about youth hunting in West Virginia, check page 29 in the Hunting Regulations Summary or visit WVdnr.gov/youth-hunting.