Hunting and Shooting Sports
With acres of wide-open public lands, West Virginia makes an excellent destination for hitting the trails on a hunt. From whitetail deer and native black bear to turkey and gray squirrels, the game is as diverse as the mountain landscape behind it. West Virginia’s hunting seasons start early in the spring and transition throughout the fall months. If you’re looking to connect with nature through a hunt, this is the place for you.Featured Itinerary
DAY 1
Start your hunting trip in rural West Virginia with an excursion at Land Baron Outfitters. This hunting lodge offers exclusive access to more than 230 acres of property in Wirt County. Here, you’ll find whitetail deer and turkey. Surrounded by farmland and mountains, this area possesses the natural habitat required for quality hunts. While you’re in the area, visit Wirt County Public Shooting and Archery, to hone in on your skills. After a long day, take a short drive over to The Shade Tree Diner for a hearty meal.
Know Before You Go
Before you make your way into the woods of Almost Heaven for a hunt, make sure you know the best locations, regulations and dates throughout the year. With a proper license from WV Division of Natural Resources, West Virginia state forests are open to hunting during both small and big game seasons and make for an adventurous hunting destination.
How to Start
Are you a first-time hunter in West Virginia? Get started by purchasing your West Virginia hunting license. The easiest way is to purchase your license from the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources website. All hunters are required to be 15 years old or older when hunting on public land. All hunters are required to have a hunting license. For more information please visit the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources website.
What to Bring
Your gear list is always going to vary on the weather, time of year, and Almost Heaven destination. If you are traveling with friends or a local guide, it is always best to consult them on specific gear needs. However, if you’re just looking for the basics, here’s a helpful list that outlines the gear almost every adventurer needs.
- License – Make sure you have your license
- Appropriate clothes to hunt in
- Dry change of clothes
- A water bottle with extra water
- A rain jacket in case of rainy days
- A small backpack
Season
Most hunting seasons take place from the fall through the winter. Each species has its own hunting dates. Don’t forget dates can vary if you are hunting either with a firearm or with a bow. Find out the specific dates for each season by visiting the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources website.
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