Governor Justice reminds hunters to prepare for upcoming archery and crossbow seasons

CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Governor Jim Justice is reminding hunters across the state to prepare for the opening of archery and crossbow seasons for white-tailed deer, black bear, and wild boar, which begin on September 28.

Hunters are encouraged to purchase their licenses and stamps online at WVhunt.com before the start of the season.

“With the start of archery and crossbow seasons, West Virginia’s fall beauty will be on full display, giving hunters the perfect opportunity to experience the thrill of the outdoors,” Gov. Justice said.

“I encourage everyone to get their licenses early and make the most of this incredibly exciting season. As a lifelong outdoorsman, I can tell you this is one of my favorite times of the year.”

White-Tailed Deer

Hunters with a base license may harvest one deer, with the option to take up to two additional deer with a Class RB or RRB stamp.

Resident landowners hunting on their own property, as well as Class DT license holders, do not need additional stamps.

In nine counties, hunters are required to harvest an antlerless deer before taking a second antlered one.

In archery-only counties (Logan, McDowell, Mingo, and Wyoming), hunters can harvest up to two deer, with only one being antlered.

Black Bear

Hunters are allowed to take two black bears annually, as long as one is harvested in Boone, Fayette, Kanawha, Logan, McDowell, Mingo, Nicholas, Raleigh, or Wyoming counties. The daily bag limit is one bear.

West Virginia residents need a base license and Bear Damage Stamp (Class DS), while nonresidents require additional permits, including a Bear Hunting License (Class EE) and a Conservation/Law Enforcement Stamp (CS/LE).

Wild Boar

Wild boar hunting is restricted to Boone, Logan, Raleigh, and Wyoming counties, with hunters allowed to harvest one boar per season.

A second split of the season will take place from February 7-9, 2025, for which hunters will need a 2025 license.

Hunters are reminded that all big game must be tagged and electronically registered.

Licenses are required for all hunters aged 15 and older unless they are hunting under resident landowner privileges. Licenses and additional information can be found at WVhunt.com .

Additionally, last season’s bowhunters are invited to participate in the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) bowhunter survey, which aids in wildlife management efforts.

Survey invitations will be emailed the week of September 23.