The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) today announced that it will host 12 in-person public meetings on March 10-11 to discuss proposed hunting, trapping and fishing regulations for the 2025-2026 seasons. Additionally, those unable to attend a meeting in person may conveniently review and comment on the proposals through an online questionnaire available at WVdnr.gov/regulations-questionnaire.
“Managing West Virginia’s natural resources is a responsibility we all share, and public input is a critical part of that process,” said WVDNR Director Brett McMillion. “Whether you attend a meeting or submit feedback online, we encourage everyone to take part in shaping the future of our state’s outdoor traditions.”
This year’s proposed regulations include updates to 2025 big game hunting season dates and 2026-2027 small game hunting and trapping season dates. Hunters and trappers may also weigh in on two proposed changes for Hillcrest WMA in Hancock County — removing the special muzzleloader deer season regulation and adding a buck firearms season. No changes are proposed for West Virginia’s fishing regulations in 2026.
Public meeting dates and locations
The public meetings, scheduled for 6-8 p.m. at various locations across the state, will give hunters, trappers, anglers, landowners and other interested individuals a chance to provide input on proposed regulation changes. WVDNR staff will be available to answer questions and discuss the proposals in detail. Meetings are scheduled for 6-8 p.m. at the following locations:
Monday, March 10
- Beckley – Beckley-Raleigh County Convention Center
- Buckhannon – West Virginia Wesleyan College (Performing Arts Center – 58 College Ave.)
- Cairo – North Bend State Park
- Farmington – WVDNR District 1 Office
- Martinsburg – Martinsburg Holiday Inn (I81, Exit 13)
- Milton – West Virginia Pumpkin Park (Office Building)
Tuesday, March 11
- Moorefield – South Branch Inn (Rt. 220 and Corridor H)
- Lewisburg – Clingman Center
- Logan – Chief Logan State Park Conference Center
- Parkersburg – WVDNR District 6 Office
- Summersville – Nicholas County High School
- Triadelphia – Cabela’s Wheeling (2nd-floor conference room)
Comments must be received by the WVDNR by April 3, 2025. For more information about the proposed regulations and public meetings, visit WVdnr.gov/regulations-questionnaire.
