Your guide to setting outdoor goals for 2025 and beyond
The start of a new year is the perfect time to set goals and make resolutions for the activities you love. For hunters and anglers in West Virginia, that means planning your next outdoor adventure, challenging yourself to try something new or taking the first steps toward becoming part of an outdoor community. From learning new skills to supporting conservation, here are some hunting and fishing resolutions to inspire your 2025 adventures.
Beginner: Start Your Hunting and Fishing Journey
If you’re new to hunting and fishing, 2025 is your year to dive in and explore West Virginia’s incredible outdoor adventures. The key to success is to start with achievable goals to build confidence and make the most of your experiences. Here are a few options to help you get started.
Take a Hunter Education Course
Before you start your hunting journey, completing a hunter education course is a crucial first step. West Virginia offers online and in-person options that teach safety, ethics and essential skills. Once certified, you can purchase your first hunting license and get ready to join the state’s proud hunting community. Learn more with our Guide To Hunting In Almost Heaven For The First Time.
Catch Your First Fish
If you’ve never felt the thrill of reeling in a fish, now’s the time to make it happen. West Virginia’s lakes, rivers and streams are perfect for beginners and have accessible spots for anglers of all ages. Start simple with a basic rod-and-reel setup and target species like bluegill or trout. Learn more with our Guide to Fishing In Almost Heaven For The First Time.
Target a New Species
Expand your skills by pursuing a species you’ve never hunted or fished before. Whether landing your first largemouth bass or harvesting your first turkey, setting a new goal will keep your outdoor adventures fresh and exciting.
Explore New Waters or Terrain
One of the best parts of hunting and fishing is discovering new places. Plan a trip to a state wildlife management area or a remote stream you’ve never fished before. Each new location offers unique challenges and opportunities. To find public fishing waters and hunting lands near you, click here.
Experienced: Push Your Limits
If you’ve already spent time in the woods and on the water, challenge yourself to take your skills to the next level in 2025.
Harvest a Deer During Mountaineer Heritage Season
Test your skills with primitive weapons, such as recurve bows or flintlock rifles, during West Virginia’s special Mountaineer Heritage Season (January 9–12, 2025). This unique opportunity celebrates West Virginia’s hunting tradition and offers a rewarding challenge for seasoned hunters.
Earn the Master Angler Award
Are you ready to join an elite group of anglers? Become the next West Virginia Master Angler. To receive this prestigious award, you must complete six slams, each requiring you to reel in specific fish species that meet specific requirements. Each slam must be completed within a calendar year to qualify. Pursuing a variety of trophy fish is a fun way to challenge yourself and explore different fishing techniques and waters.
Mentor a New Hunter or Angler
Share your passion and experience by mentoring someone new to hunting or fishing. Whether it’s a child, friend or family member, your guidance can help them build confidence and develop a lifelong love of the outdoors.
Join a Conservation Effort
Experienced sportsmen and women play a critical role in protecting West Virginia’s natural resources. In 2025, consider volunteering with a local hunting, fishing or wildlife conservation group, participating in habitat restoration projects or helping with a citizen science project or wildlife survey.
Everyone: Stay Engaged and Have Fun
No matter your experience level, these resolutions can help you stay connected to West Virginia’s outdoor traditions in 2025.
Keep a Hunting and Fishing Journal
Document your adventures in a journal. Record details like locations, conditions and your successes or lessons learned. Over time, your journal will become a cherished record of your outdoor experiences in West Virginia.
Practice Catch and Release
Help preserve fish populations by practicing catch-and-release when appropriate. Learn the best techniques to ensure fish you release have the highest chance of survival.
Explore West Virginia’s Public Lands
West Virginia boasts millions of acres of public lands, including state parks and forests and national forests. Make it a goal to explore new areas and discover hidden gems, such as the West Virginia State Wildlife Center or Claudia L. Workman Wildlife Education Center.
Try a New Technique
Challenge yourself by mastering a new hunting or fishing technique, such as learning how to fly fish or call in a gobbler. Expanding your skill set will enhance your appreciation for the sport.
Share Your Stories
Share your deer hunting adventures with us by participating in our Big Buck Photo Contest. Use social media to share your hunting and fishing experiences to inspire your friends, family and fellow West Virginians to join you in preserving our state’s outdoor heritage. Be sure to tag us on Facebook (@wildlifewv), X (@wvdnr) and Instagram (@dnrwv) — we might just reshare your photos and videos on our page!
Make 2025 Your Best Year Outdoors
From beginner-friendly firsts to advanced challenges, these resolutions are all about helping you celebrate West Virginia’s incredible hunting and fishing opportunities. By setting goals and stepping out of your comfort zone, you’ll create memories that last a lifetime.
Get started by purchasing your 2025 hunting and fishing license today, and make this the year you achieve your outdoor dreams.