Frequently Asked Questions

Start Your Hunting and Fishing Journey in 2025

Tips and resources to help you become a hunter and angler in 2025 If you’ve ever wanted to hunt or fish but didn’t grow up with those traditions, 2025 is a perfect time to get started. Learning the rules, gathering…

Field Report: Tracking Snowshoe Hares in West Virginia

How WVDNR biologists are uncovering the secrets of a hidden small game species In the quiet, snowy forests of West Virginia, the elusive snowshoe hare can be found hopping across the landscape. Known for their white seasonal coat and oversized…

Bet You Didn’t Know These French Creek Freddie Facts

West Virginia’s 2025 Groundhog Day Celebration is scheduled for Feb. 2 You might know French Creek Freddie as West Virginia’s most popular weather-predicting groundhog, but do you know the story of how Freddie started forecasting or how he got his…

How to Use West Virginia’s Updated Fishing Regulations Summary

Fishing Regulations are a helpful resource for planning fishing adventures in West Virginia Every year, the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources releases an update to the state’s fishing regulations. While most regulations remain consistent from year to year, occasional…

Gift of the Outdoors: 2024 WVDNR Holiday Gift Guide

Holiday gifts designed for hunters, anglers and outdoor enthusiasts Need a little help finding a gift for the hunter, angler or outdoors lover in your family? To make holiday shopping easier this year, we’ve partnered with the West Virginia Department…

Top Hunting and Fishing Resolutions for 2025

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…

2025 West Virginia Outdoor Adventure Calendar

Plan your year of outdoor adventures in West Virginia with these can’t-miss hunting and fishing opportunities West Virginia offers endless opportunities for hunters, anglers and outdoor enthusiasts to connect with nature and create unforgettable memories. From thrilling hunting seasons to…

Hunter’s Guide to West Virginia’s Deer Muzzleloader and Mountaineer Heritage Seasons

Gear up for West Virginia’s deer muzzleloader and Mountaineer Heritage seasons West Virginia’s hunting seasons are steeped in tradition, and participating in the deer muzzleloader season in December and the Mountaineer Heritage Season in January provide incredible opportunities for you…

Buyer’s Guide: 2025 West Virginia Hunting and Fishing Licenses

Find the Perfect West Virginia Hunting and Fishing License A West Virginia hunting and fishing license is your ticket to unforgettable adventures in the Mountain State. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter, an avid angler, starting your hunting and fishing journey…

How to Capture the Perfect Photo for Your Big Buck Photo Contest Entry

Tips and tricks for taking a winning big buck photo The WVDNR’s annual Big Buck Photo Contest is the perfect opportunity for you to showcase your hunting skills and win exciting prizes. But standing out in the contest requires more…

5 Common Questions About Buck Firearms Season Answered

Tips for a safe and successful buck firearms season West Virginia’s buck firearms season is a cherished tradition that excites hunters statewide. Alongside the thrill of the hunt, knowing and following the season’s rules and regulations is essential to ensure…

4 reasons why you need to participate in West Virginia’s 2024 fall trout stockings

Fall trout stockings provide an opportunity to enjoy fall foliage and win prizes Get ready to enjoy West Virginia’s world-class fishing and fall foliage because fall trout stockings are only a few weeks away! During the last two weeks of…