For outdoor lovers, hunting in Virginia provides a rich and varied experience. The state offers plenty of possibilities for hunters to chase a broad variety of game species because of its diverse terrain and rich wildlife. The Virginia Department of Animal Resources (VDWR) strictly regulates the hunting seasons in Virginia to guarantee the protection of animal populations and encourage ethical hunting techniques.
The hunting seasons in Virginia normally follow a schedule, with many of them beginning in the fall and continuing into the winter. Each species of game has a set season for hunting, which is carefully controlled to find a balance between maintaining animal numbers and giving hunters recreational opportunities.
Virginia provides a wide variety of public hunting sites, including Wildlife Management sites (WMAs), national forests, and wildlife refuges, whether you’re interested in shooting deer, turkey, waterfowl, small game, or other species. Both residents and non-residents can hunt on these public grounds in a safe and controlled manner.
When does hunting season begin?
The opening and closing dates for each hunting season, as well as the daily bag restrictions, possession limitations, and season limits for each species of game, are shown in the table below.
| Species | Opening Date | Closing Date | Daily Bag Limit | Possession Limit | Season Limit |
| Wild Boar* (Gun-1) | Oct. 28, 2023 | Nov. 4, 2023 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Wild Boar* (Gun-2) | Feb. 2, 2024 | Feb. 4, 2024 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Wild Boar* (Archery/Crossbow – 1) | Sept. 30, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2023 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Wild Boar* (Archery/Crossbow – 2) | Feb. 2, 2024 | Feb. 4, 2024 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Deer* (Buck Firearm) | Nov. 20, 2023 | Dec. 3, 2023 | Varies by County | Varies by County | Varies by County |
| Deer* (Archery/Crossbow) | Sept. 30, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2023 | Varies by County | Varies by County | Varies by County |
| Deer* (Antlerless-1; Selected Counties) | Oct. 26, 2023 | Oct. 29, 2023 | Varies by County | Varies by County | Varies by County |
| Deer* (Antlerless-2; Selected Counties) | Nov. 20, 2023 | Dec. 3, 2023 | Varies by County | Varies by County | Varies by County |
| Deer* (Antlerless-3; Selected Counties) | Dec. 7, 2023 | Dec. 10, 2023 | Varies by County | Varies by County | Varies by County |
| Deer* (Antlerless-4; Selected Counties) | Dec. 28, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2023 | Varies by County | Varies by County | Varies by County |
| Deer* (Muzzleloader) | Dec. 11, 2023 | Dec. 17, 2023 | Varies by County | Varies by County | Varies by County |
| Deer* (Youth/Class Q/ Class XS-1; Selected Counties) | Oct. 21, 2023 | Oct. 22, 2023 | 1 | 4 | 4 |
| Deer* (Youth/Class Q/ Class XS-2; Selected Counties) | Dec. 26, 2023 | Dec. 27, 2023 | 1 | 4 | 4 |
| Deer, Bear & Turkey* (Winter 2024 – Mountain Heritage) | Jan. 11, 2024 | Jan. 14, 2024 | Deer-1 Bear-1 Turkey-1 | Deer-1 Bear-1 Turkey-1 | Deer-1 Bear-1 Turkey-1 |
| Bear* (Archery/Crossbow) | Sept. 30, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2023 | 1 | 2 | 2 |
| Bear* (Gun-1; Selected Counties) | Sept. 2, 2023 | Sept. 10, 2023 | 1 | 2 | 2 |
| Bear* (Gun-2; Selected Counties) | Oct. 7, 2023 | Oct. 13, 2023 | 1 | 2 | 2 |
| Bear* (Gun-3; Selected Counties) | Oct. 26, 2023 | Oct. 29, 2023 | 1 | 2 | 2 |
| Bear* (Gun-4; Selected Counties) | Nov. 20, 2023 | Dec. 3, 2023 | 1 | 2 | 2 |
| Bear* (Gun-5; Selected Counties) | Dec. 4, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2023 | 1 | 2 | 2 |
| Bear* (Youth/Class Q/ Class XS-1) | Sept. 16, 2023 | Sept 17, 2023 | 1 | 2 | 2 |
| Bear* (Youth/Class Q/ Class XS-2) | Oct. 21, 2023 Oct. 22, 2023 | Oct. 22, 2023 | 1 | 2 | 2 |
| Turkey* (Fall-1; Selected Counties) | Oct. 14, 2023 | Oct. 22, 2023 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Turkey* (Fall-2; Selected Counties) | Oct. 30, 2023 | Nov. 5, 2023 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Turkey* (Fall-3; Selected Counties) | Oct. 30, 2023 | Nov. 19, 2023 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Turkey* (Spring; Bearded Only) | April 15, 2024 | May 19, 2024 | 1 | 2 | 2 |
| Turkey* (2024 Youth Season) | April 13, 2024 | April 14, 2024 | 1 | 2 | 2 |
| Squirrel (Gray, Black Albino & Fox) | Sept. 9, 2023 | Feb. 29, 2024 | 6 | 24 | None |
| Squirrel (Youth Season) | Sept. 2, 2023 | Sept. 3, 2023 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
| Ruffed Grouse | Oct. 14, 2023 | Feb. 29, 2024 | 4 | 16 | None |
| Bobwhite Quail (Closed on Tomblin WMA) | Nov. 4, 2023 | Jan. 6, 2024 | 3 | 9 | None |
| Cottontail Rabbit | Nov. 4, 2023 | Feb. 29, 2024 | 5 | 20 | None |
| Snowshoe or Varying Hare | Nov. 4, 2023 | Feb. 29, 2024 | 2 | 8 | None |
| Ring-neck Pheasant (Cock Birds Only) | Nov. 4, 2023 | Jan. 6, 2024 | 2 | 2 | None |
| Ring-neck Pheasant (Hillcrest WMA, Cock Birds Only) | Nov. 11, 2023 | Dec. 2, 2023 | 1 | 1 | None |
| Raccoon (Hunting) | Oct. 14, 2023 | Feb. 29, 2024 | 4 | None | None |
| Racoon (Trapping) | Nov. 4, 2023 | Feb. 29, 2024 | None | None | None |
| Red Fox, Gray Fox (Hunting & Trapping) | Nov. 4, 2023 | Feb. 29, 2024 | None | None | None |
| Red Fox, Gray Fox (Night hunting with artificial light) | Jan 1. 2024 | Feb. 29, 2024 | None | None | None |
| Bobcat* (Hunting & Trapping) | Nov. 4, 2023 | Feb. 29, 2024 | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Mink, Muskrat | Nov. 4, 2023 | Feb. 29, 2024 | None | None | None |
| Fisher* (Trapping) | Nov. 4, 2023 | Jan. 31, 2024 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Beaver* (Trapping) | Nov. 4, 2023 | March 31, 2024 | None | None | None |
| Otter* (Trapping) | Nov. 4, 2023 | Feb. 29, 2024 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Crow-1 | Oct. 1, 2023 | Nov. 18, 2023 | None | None | None |
| Crow-2 | Jan. 1, 2024 | March 2, 2024 | None | None | None |
| Coyote (Trapping) | Nov. 4, 2023 | Feb. 29, 2024 | None | None | None |
| Skunk (Trapping) | Nov. 4, 2023 | Feb. 29, 2024 | None | None | None |
| Opossum (Trapping) | Nov. 4, 2023 | Feb. 29, 2024 | None | None | None |
| Weasel (Trapping) | Nov. 4, 2023 | Feb. 29, 2024 | None | None | None |
Virginia hunting seasons
Archery Deer Seasons
Early Archery Season
– October 7 through November 17:
- Statewide.
- Firearm season in Chesapeake, Suffolk (east of the Dismal Swamp line), and Virginia Beach overlap with early archery season.
Late Archery Deer Seasons
– December 3 through January 6:
- In all areas west of the Blue Ridge unless noted in the season exception below.
- On all National Forest and Department-owned lands west of the Blue Ridge.
- On the C. F. Phelps WMA.
- On National Forest lands in Amherst, Bedford, and Nelson counties.
– December 1 through January 6:
- In the cities of Chesapeake, Suffolk (east of the Dismal Swamp line), and Virginia Beach.
– December 17 through January 6:
- In the counties (including the cities and towns within) of Amherst (west of Route 29), Bedford, Carroll, Floyd, Franklin, Henry, Montgomery, Nelson (west of Route 151), Patrick, and Pulaski.
Urban Archery Deer Seasons
During these seasons only antlerless deer may be taken.
– September 2 through October 6 and January 7, 2024, through March 31, 2024
Archery or crossbow deer hunters hunting during the early urban archery deer season are required to wear blaze color on the Youth and Apprentice Deer Hunting Weekend.
NOVA Late Archery Season
During this season only antlerless deer may be taken.
– April 1, 2024 through April 28, 2024:
- In Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William (except on Department-owned lands) counties (including the cities and towns within).
Muzzleloader Deer Seasons
Everywhere that muzzleloading rifle hunting is allowed.
Except for when they are really in a tree stand or another permanent hunting spot, muzzleloader deer hunters and others who are with them must wear blazing colors.
Early Muzzleloader Season
– November 4 through November 17:
There is no early muzzleloader season in the cities of Chesapeake, Suffolk (east of the Dismal Swamp line), or Virginia Beach since it occurs during the general firearms season.
Every day of the season, antlered deer may be taken. Only the approved either-sex deer hunting days of early muzzleloader season mentioned below are permitted for the harvest of antlerless deer.
Either-sex Deer Hunting Days East of the Blue Ridge – November 4 through November 17 (full season):
In all areas (including Merrimac Farm WMA and Occoneechee State Park) unless otherwise noted below.
- November 11: On State Forest lands, State Park lands (except Occoneechee State Park), Department-owned lands (except Merrimac Farm WMA), and Philpott Reservoir.
- Antlered deer only–no either-sex deer hunting days: On National Forest lands in Amherst, Bedford, and Nelson counties.
Either-sex Deer Hunting Days West of the Blue Ridge – November 4 through November 17 (full season):
On private lands in Augusta, Botetourt, Car- roll, Clarke, Floyd, Frederick, Grayson, Montgomery, Page, Pulaski, Roanoke, Rockingham (east of Route 613 and 731), Scott, Shenandoah, Smyth, Warren and Wythe counties.
– November 11:
- On private lands in Alleghany, Bath, Bland, Craig, Dickenson, Giles, Highland, Lee, Rock- bridge, Russell, Tazewell, Wise, and Washing- ton counties, and on the Highland WMA.
Antlered deer only–no either-sex deer hunting days:
- On all National Forest and Department-owned lands in all counties west of the Blue Ridge Mountains (except the Highland WMA).
- In Buchanan and Rockingham (west of Routes 613 and 731) counties.
- On Channels State Forest, Grayson Highlands State Park, Hungry Mother State Park, and Flannagan Reservoir.
- Special Youth and Apprentice Antlerless Deer Regulation applies.
Late Muzzleloader Season East of the Blue Ridge
– December 16 through January 6:
- In the counties (including the cities and towns within) of Amherst (west of Route 29), Bedford, Franklin, Henry, Nelson (west of Route 151), and Patrick, and in the cities of Chesapeake, Suffolk (east of the Dismal Swamp line), and Virginia Beach.
Either-sex Deer Hunting Days East of the Blue Ridge: December 16 through January 6 (full season):
- In the counties of Amherst (west of Route 29 except on National Forest lands), Bedford (except on National Forest lands), Franklin, Henry, Nelson (west of Route 151 except on National Forest lands), and Patrick.
– January 1 through January 6:
- In the cities of Chesapeake, Suffolk (east of the Dismal Swamp line), and Virginia Beach.
– January 6:
- On National Forest lands in Amherst, Bedford, and Nelson counties.
Late Muzzleloader Season West of the Blue Ridge
– December 16 through January 6:
In all areas west of the Blue Ridge unless noted in the season exception below.
Season Exception:
- There is no late muzzleloader season West in Clarke County and on private lands in Frederick County since it occurs during the general firearms season.
Either-sex Deer Hunting Days West of the Blue Ridge: December 16 through January 6 (full season):
- On private lands in Augusta, Botetourt, Carroll, Craig, Floyd, Giles, Grayson, Montgomery, Page, Pulaski, Roanoke, Rockingham (east of Routes 613 and 731), Scott, Shenandoah, Smyth, Warren, and Wythe counties.
– January 1 through January 6:
- On private lands in Bland, Dickenson, Rockbridge, and Washington counties.
– January 6:
- In Alleghany, Bath, Highland, Lee, Rockingham (west of Routes 613 and 731), Russell, Tazewell, and Wise counties.
- On all National Forest and Department-owned lands in all counties west of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
- On Channels State Forest, Grayson Highlands State Park, and Hungry Mother State Park.
Antlered deer only–no either-sex deer hunting days:
- In Buchanan County. Special Youth and Apprentice Antlerless Deer Regulation applies.
Firearms Deer Seasons
Every day of the season, antlered deer may be taken. Only defined days for either-sex deer hunting are allowed for the harvest of antlerless deer. Applying statewide is the Special Youth and Apprentice Deer Regulation.
November 18 through December 2
In the counties (including the cities and towns within) of Augusta, Botetourt, Craig, Giles, Grayson, Page, Rockingham, Shenandoah, Smyth, Warren, and Wythe.
Either-sex Deer Hunting Days:
– November 18 through December 2 (full season): In all areas unless otherwise noted below.
- November 25 and December 1 and 2: On National Forest and Department-owned lands in Craig, and Wythe counties and on National Forest lands in Giles County.
- November 25 and December 2: On private land west of Rts. 613 and 731 in Rockingham County.
- December 2: On National Forest and Department-owned lands in Augusta, Botetourt, and Smyth counties and on National Forest lands in Grayson, Page, Rockingham, Shenandoah, and Warren counties, Hungry Mother State Park, and on portions of Grayson Highlands State Park.
November 18 through December 2
In the counties (including the cities and towns within) of Bland, Lee, Rockbridge, Russell, and Tazewell.
Either-sex Deer Hunting Days:
– November 25 and December 1 and 2: In all areas unless otherwise noted below.
- December 2: On Department-owned lands in Russell County and on National Forest and Department-owned lands in Rockbridge and Tazewell counties and on the Channels State Forest.
- Antlered deer only–no either-sex deer hunting days: On National Forest lands in Lee County. Special Youth and Apprentice Antlerless Deer Regulation applies.
November 18 through January 6
In the counties (including the cities and towns within) of Accomack, Albemarle, Arlington, Campbell (west of Norfolk Southern Railroad), Charles City, Chesterfield, Clarke, Culpeper (see season exception for C. F. Phelps WMA below), Fairfax, Fauquier (see season exception for C. F. Phelps WMA below), Frederick(see season exception for National Forest lands below), Greene, Goochland, Hanover, Henrico, Isle of Wight, James City, Loudoun, Madison, New Kent, Northampton, Orange, Pittsylvania (west of Norfolk Southern Railroad), Powhatan, Prince George, Prince William, Rappahannock, Southampton, Spotsylvania, Stafford, Suffolk (west of the Dismal Swamp line), Surry, Sussex, and York.
- In Arlington County, the City of Hampton, and the City of Richmond (in the City of Richmond: archery only, no special permit is required for archery deer hunting). Note: Local Ordinances prohibit the discharge of firearms in these three areas (see Local Firearms Ordinances).
- In the City of Lynchburg (on private lands for which a special permit has been issued by the Chief of Police).
- In the City of Newport News: archery only, no special permit is required for archery deer hunting.
- In Fairfax County, firearm hunting is restricted by location and parcel size. Contact the Div. of Animal Control, 4500 West Ox Road, Fairfax, VA 22030 for details. No parcel size restrictions exist for archery deer hunting.
Season Exception:
– November 18 through December 2: On C.F. Phelps WMA and National Forest lands in Frederick County.
Either-sex Deer Hunting Days:
– November 18 through January 6 (full season):
In all areas unless otherwise noted below.
- November 25 and December 2, and December 25 through January 6: On G.R. Thompson, Oakley Forest, Powhatan, and Rapidan WMAs.
- November 25: On C.F. Phelps WMA.
- December 2: On National Forest lands in Frederick County.
- Antlered deer only–no either-sex deer hunting days: On the Carlisle and Stewart tracts of the Hog Island WMA, and on the Ragged Island and Chickahominy WMAs. Special Youth and Apprentice Antlerless Deer Regulation applies.
November 18 through January 6
In the counties (including the cities and towns within) of Appomattox, Brunswick, Buckingham, Caroline, Charlotte, Dinwiddie, Essex, Greensville, Lunenburg, Mathews, Mecklenburg, Middlesex, and Prince Edward.
Either-sex Deer Hunting Days:
– November 25 and December 2 and January 1 through January 6: In all areas unless otherwise noted below.
- November 25 and December 2, and December 9 through January 6: On Featherfin WMA.
- November 25 and December 2: On Appomattox-Buckingham and Prince Edward State Forests.
November 18 through January 6
In the counties (including the cities and towns within) of Amelia, Cumberland, Gloucester, Halifax, King and Queen, King William, and Nottoway.
Either-sex Deer Hunting Days:
– November 25 and December 2, and December 25 through January 6: In all areas unless otherwise noted below.
- November 25 and December 2, and January 1 through January 6: On Amelia WMA.
- November 25 and December 2: On Cumberland State Forest.
November 18 through December 2
In the counties (including the cities and towns within) of Scott and Washington.
Either-sex Deer Hunting Days:
– November 25 and November 27 through December 2: In all areas unless otherwise noted below.
- December 2: On National Forest and Department-owned lands in Washington County and on Channels State Forest.
- Antlered deer only–no either-sex deer hunting days: On National Forest lands in Scott County. Special Youth and Apprentice Antlerless Deer Regulation applies.
November 18 through December 16
In the counties (including the cities and towns within) of Henry and Patrick.
Either-sex Deer Hunting Days:
– November 25 and December 2, and December 4 through December 16: In all areas unless otherwise noted below.
- November 25 and December 11 through 16: On Fairystone Farms and Turkeycock Mountain WMAs, designated areas of Fairystone State Park, and Philpott Reservoir.
October 1 through November 30
In the cities of Chesapeake, Suffolk (east of the Dismal Swamp line), and Virginia Beach.
Either-sex Deer Hunting Days:
– October 1 through November 30 (full season): In all areas.
November 18 through December 2
In the counties (including the cities and towns within) of Buchanan, Dickenson, and Wise.
Either-sex Deer Hunting Days:
- Antlered deer only–no either-sex deer hunting days in all areas. Special Youth and Apprentice Antlerless Deer Regulation applies.
November 18 through December 16
In the counties (including the cities and towns within) of Amherst (west of Route 29 except on Forest lands), Bedford (except on Forest lands), Carroll (except on National Forest and Department-owned lands), Floyd, Franklin, Montgomery (except on Forest lands), Nelson (west of Route 151, except on Forest lands), Pulaski (except on Forest lands), and Roanoke (except on National Forest and Department-owned lands).
Season Exception
- November 18 through December 2: On National Forest lands in Amherst, Bedford, Montgomery, Nelson, and Pulaski counties and on National Forest and Department-owned lands in Carroll and Roanoke counties.
Either-sex Deer Hunting Days:
– November 18 through December 16 (full season): In all areas unless otherwise noted below.
- December 2: On National Forest lands in Amherst, Bedford, and Nelson counties.
- November 25 and December 2: On National Forest lands in Montgomery and Pulaski counties and on National Forest and Department-owned lands in Carroll County.
- November 25 and December 11 through 16: On Philpott Reservoir and Turkeycock Mountain WMA.
November 18 through January 6
In the counties (including the cities and towns within) of Amherst (east of Rt. 29), Campbell (east of Norfolk Southern Railroad), Fluvanna, King George, Lancaster, Louisa, Nelson (east of Rt. 151), Northumberland, Pittsylvania (east of Norfolk Southern Railroad) Richmond, and Westmoreland. Note: Dogs may not be used for deer hunting in Campbell County (west of Norfolk Southern Railroad) and in Pittsylvania County (west of Norfolk Southern Railroad).
Either-sex Deer Hunting Days:
– November 25 and December 2, and December 11 through January 6: In all areas unless otherwise noted below.
- November 25 and December 2, and December 25 through January 6: On Hardware River WMA.
- November 25 and January 1 through January 6: On James River and Tye River WMAs.
- November 25, and January 4, 5, and 6: On White Oak Mountain WMA.
November 18 through December 2
In the counties (including the cities and towns within) of Alleghany, Bath, and Highland.
Either-sex Deer Hunting Days:
- November 25 and December 2: On all private lands in the counties listed above and on the Highland WMA.
- December 2: On National Forest and Department-owned lands in Bath County and on Forest lands in Alleghany and Highland counties.
Hunting rules in Virginia
The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR) establishes and upholds hunting laws in Virginia. These regulations were put in place to control animal populations, maintain public security, and encourage ethical and sustainable hunting methods. The following are some typical Virginia hunting laws:
General hunting rules
Licenses and Permits
To hunt particular game species, hunters must have a valid hunting license and the necessary permissions. Both citizens and non-residents can often purchase licenses, although the costs vary based on the license category and the hunter’s status.
Season Dates
There are specific times of the year when hunters are permitted to pursue each kind of wildlife. These seasons might shift from year to year and vary based on the species.
Bag Limits
The number of animals that can be taken down by a hunter in a single day or throughout a hunting season is specified by bag limits. Bag restrictions aid in protecting animal populations.
Hunting Zones
Different hunting zones may exist in Virginia, and each zone may have its own set of laws and restrictions. The precise rules that apply where a hunter plans to hunt must be known to them.
Hunting Hours
In general, hunting is only permitted within certain times, frequently from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after dusk. Except for some game species and under particular conditions, hunting at night is generally not permitted.
Hunter Education
To maintain safety and ethical hunting practices, Virginia may require hunters to attend a hunter education course, particularly for beginning hunters or those who are a specific age.
Safety Requirements
Hunters must follow safety regulations, which include dressing in blaze orange during specific Virginia hunting seasons, utilizing the proper gear, and being mindful of their surroundings.
Prohibited Activities
It may be against the law to hunt protected or endangered species, use unlawful hunting tactics, or hunt on private property without authorization.
Reporting and Tagging
To properly manage wildlife populations and track harvest counts for some game species, mandated reporting, and tagging methods may be necessary.
To maintain moral and legal hunting activities, it is crucial for hunters to be informed of and adhere to all hunting laws and standards. Always consult the website of the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR) or get in touch with them personally for the most up-to-date and comprehensive information about hunting regulations in Virginia.
Antlered and Antlerless Deer
Deer Tags
- Deer with or without antlers are eligible to wear either-sex deer tags.
- Only antlerless deer are allowed to wear tags designed specifically for them.
Antlered Deer
- Antlered deer must have antlers visible above the hairline.
- An antlered deer must be tagged with an either-sex deer tag.
Antlerless Deer
- Only authorized either-sex deer hunting days throughout the archery, muzzleloader, and firearms seasons are allowed to harvest antlerless deer. Deer hunters who are young or learning should note the exceptions.
- An antlerless-only deer tag or an either-sex deer tag may be used to identify antlerless deer (does, button bucks, and shed antlered bucks).
- Six-month-old male fawns known as button bucks are referred to as antlerless deer. Antlers are not the hair-covered lumps on a button buck’s head. They are the pedicels that the antlers will develop from the next year.
- Deer with antlers are sometimes referred to as antlerless deer if they have lost them, which typically occurs in late December or early January.
Antler Point Restrictions
Alleghany, Bath, Highland, and Rockbridge Counties
In each of the aforementioned counties, if a deer hunter takes down two antlered bucks in a license year, at least one of the bucks must have at least four antler points that are at least one inch long on one side of the antlers.
Wildlife Management Areas
Antler point restrictions (APRs) are in effect on the Flippo-Gentry WMA and Featherfin WMA. Antlered deer must have at least four antler points, one inch or longer, on one side of the antlers to be legally harvested. See informational kiosks at these locations for specific details and APR boundaries.
Legal Methods and Restrictions During Archery Deer Seasons
During this season, certain limitations can be in place. For further information, see Local Firearms Ordinances, Legal Use of Firearms and Archery Tackle.
- Tackle for archery.
- During the designated archery season(s), individuals with disabilities that prevent them from using a bow or crossbow may hunt using an arrow gun provided they have a completed authorization form from the Department signed by their doctor.
- The minimum width of a broadhead is 7/8 inches, and it must expand to 7/8 inches upon impact.
- It is forbidden to employ arrows with explosive heads or arrows that have poisonous, chemical, or pharmacological additives.
- It is illegal to employ dogs, with the exception of when tracking injured or dead deer (see Hunting with Dogs).
- Except when and where there is an overlap with a muzzleloading deer season where deer hunting with a rifle or muzzleloading firearm is allowed, it is illegal to possess a firearm. A muzzleloading firearm, as defined in the muzzleloader deer seasons section, may also be in possession.
Legal Methods and Restrictions During Muzzleloading Deer Seasons
During this season, there are special limitations on the usage of certain guns. For further information, see Local Firearms Ordinances, Legal Use of Firearms and Archery Tackle.
- During certain deer seasons, muzzleloading weapons can be used, including:
- Single shot muzzleloading rifles .40 caliber or larger, firing a single projectile or sabot (with a .35 caliber or larger projectile) where the projectile is loaded from the muzzle;
- Muzzleloading shotguns (one or more barrels) not larger than 10 gauge where the projectiles are loaded from the muzzle;
- Muzzleloading pistols (one or more barrels) .45 caliber or larger, firing a single projectile or sabot (with a .35 caliber or larger projectile) per barrel where the propellant and projectile are loaded from the muzzle;
- Muzzleloading revolvers .45 caliber or larger, firing a single projectile or sabot (with a .35 caliber or larger projectile) per cylinder where the propellant and projectile are loaded from the forward end of the cylinder.
- Electronic, percussion, or flintlock ignitions are all acceptable.
- While muzzleloader hunting, it is forbidden to have any other type of firearm in your immediate possession. (See the exemption for holders of active concealed handgun permits.)
- Firearms intended for muzzleloading that use smokeless powder are permitted. In a muzzleloading weapon that wasn’t made for it, never use smokeless powder.
- Scopes are permitted.
- Muzzleloading weapons are deemed “unloaded” for transportation in a vehicle when the percussion cap, primer, or battery has been taken off the weapon and all powder has been taken out of the flash pan.
- It is allowed to use pneumatic arrow guns.
- With the exception of tracking injured or dead deer (see Hunting with Dogs), it is illegal to hunt deer using dogs.
- When and when a deer muzzleloader and archery season overlap, it is legal to carry archery equipment.
Legal Methods and Restrictions During Firearms Deer Seasons
During this season, there are special limitations on the usage of certain guns. For more information, see Legal Use of Firearms and Local Firearms Ordinances.
- Modern weapons
- Air arrow guns are permitted.
- Air rifles must be at least.35 caliber.
- During the firearms deer season, hunters are permitted to pursue deer using archery equipment or muzzleloading weapons with the following restrictions:
- The either-sex deer shooting days for the firearms deer season must be adhered to by all hunters.
- Only when not prohibited by other laws is the use of muzzleloading guns permitted.
- During the firearms deer season, muzzleloader deer hunters must use blaze-colored clothing.
- Except when hunting in regions where weapon discharge is forbidden, archery deer hunters are required to wear blaze color throughout the guns deer season.
Dogs May Not Be Used For Deer Hunting
- West of the Blue Ridge.
- East of the Blue Ridge in Bedford, Fairfax, Franklin, Henry, Loudoun, Northampton, and Patrick counties, and Amherst (west of Rt. 29), Campbell (west of Norfolk Southern Railroad), Nelson (west of Rt. 151), Pittsylvania (west of Norfolk Southern Railroad), and the City of Lynchburg.
- On Sunday while in possession of a weapon.
- When hunting during archery and muzzleloading seasons and on the Youth and Apprentice Deer Hunting Weekend.
- In many military areas.
- On Amelia, Cavalier, Doe Creek, Featherfin, Mattaponi, Mattaponi Bluffs, Merrimac Farm, Oakley Forest, Flippo-Gentry, Pettigrew, C. F. Phelps, G. Richard Thompson, Robert W. Duncan, Tye River, and Ware Creek Wildlife Management Areas.
- November 18 through December 1 in Madison and Greene counties.
- In the course of an early or late firearms-only antlerless deer season.
Where are the public hunting areas in Virginia?
Firearms and Virginia State Parks provide several hunting possibilities as well as a wealth of other outdoor family activities. There are many different types of hunting possibilities, from open hunting in defined regions to regulated deer hunts in which anyone can take part through a reserve.
| Virginia State Park | Phone Number | County |
| Belle Isle State Park | 804-462-5030 | Lancaster County |
| Caledon State Park | 540-663-3861 | King George County |
| Chippokes State Park | 757-294-3728 | Surry County |
| Claytor Lake State Park | 540-643-2500 | Pulaski County |
| Grayson Highlands State Park | 276-579-7092 | Grayson County |
| Kiptopeke State Park | 757-331-2267 | Northampton County |
| James River State Park | 434-933-4355 | Buckingham County |
| Lake Anna State Park | 540-854-5503 | Spotsylvania County |
| Leesylvania State Park | 703-730-8205 | Prince William County |
| Mason Neck State Park | 703-339-2384 | Fairfax County |
| Natural Tunnel State Park | 276-940-2674 | Scott County |
| Pocahontas State Park | 804-796-4255 | Chesterfield County |
| Shenandoah River State Park | 540-622-6840 | Warren County |
| Smith Mountain Lake State Park | 540-297-6066 | Bedford County |
| Staunton River State Park | 434-572-3694 | Halifax County |
| Sweet Run State Park | 540-288-1400 | Loudoun County |
| Widewater State Park | 540-288-1400 | Stafford County |
| York River State Park | 757-566-3036 | James City County |
What guns and equipment can I use during hunting season?
- Archery- Bow & Arrow
- Muzzleloading rifles
- Rifles
- Handguns
- Shotguns
- Crossbows
Firearms:
Shotgun – It is forbidden to hunt deer with a shotgun that is loaded with more than one solid ball of ammo.
Handgun – Must have a bottle-necked case of at least.24 caliber and a minimum caliber of.357 magnum.
Rifle – Rimfire ammo is required at least .25 caliber.
Any automatic rifle, shotgun, or pistol is prohibited.
Bow and Arrow:
Arrows – An arrow must be at least 16 inches long.
Broadheads – Broadheads must have two 3/4-inch-wide, acute cutting edges.
Bow characteristics – A minimum draw weight of 40 lbs. is required for deer hunting.
Crossbow:
Crossbow draw weight – A crossbow must have functional mechanical safety and a minimum pull of 125 lbs.
Arrows/ bolts – Arrows and bolts must be at least 16 inches long.
Broadheads – Broadheads must have two sharp, 3/4-inch-wide cutting blades and be properly honed.
Muzzleloading Rifle:
Powder – black powder or black powder substitute only.
Caliber – A Muzzleloading shotgun or rifle used to hunt deer must be .38 caliber or larger.
Legal projectile – Must be a single-shot muzzleloader, which allows for the muzzle loading of a single projectile.
Ignition – Wheel-lock, matchlock, flintlock, and in-line ignition systems employing percussion caps are all forms of ignition.
Ammunition – Single projectile ammunition, such as round ball or maxi ball types.
What are the limits for Virginia counties?
Two deer may be taken every day and six may be taken per license year. No more than three of the six allowed deer may have antlers, and at least three must be antlerless (unless noted in the exceptions below).
Exceptions
- The daily bag limit for deer shall be unlimited in Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William counties and in all cities and towns east of the Blue Ridge except in the cities of Chesapeake, Suffolk, and Virginia Beach. However, no more than three antlered deer may be killed in a licensed year.
- Only one deer per day may be taken on Forest lands and Department-owned and Department-managed lands east of the Blue Ridge.
West of the Blue Ridge and on National Forest lands in Amherst, Bedford, and Nelson counties
Two deer may be taken every day and five may be taken per license year. No more than two of the allowed five deer may have antlers, and at least three must be antlerless deer (unless noted in the exceptions below).
Exceptions
- The daily bag limit for deer shall be unlimited in all cities and towns west of the Blue Ridge. However, no more than two antlered deer may be taken in a licensed year.
- Only one deer per day may be taken on Forest lands and Department-owned and Department-managed lands west of the Blue Ridge.
- If a deer hunter kills two antlered bucks in a license year in Alleghany, Bath, Highland, or Rockbridge County, at least one of the bucks must have at least four antler points, one inch or longer, on one side of the antlers.
- Only one elk per day may be taken statewide.
Bag Limit Exceptions
- Deer hunters, including those exempt from purchasing a license, on private land and authorized public lands may take more than the license-year bag limit of antlerless deer by using bonus deer permits or special deer permits (DCAP, DMAP, and DPOP).
- DCAP, DMAP, and DPOP deer tags do not count against the daily or season bag limit.
Limits of the cities
Within the incorporated limits of the cities of Charlottesville, Chesapeake (except on Department-owned lands), Colonial Heights, Danville, Emporia, Franklin, Fredericksburg, Galax, Hopewell, Lexington, Lynchburg, Martinsville, Poquoson, Radford, Richmond, Staunton, Suffolk, and Winchester
And in the towns of Altavista, Amherst, Bedford, Blacksburg, Blackstone, Boones Mill, Buchanan, Chatham, Christiansburg, Farmville, Front Royal, Halifax, Hillsville, Hurt, Independence, Irvington, Kenbridge, Lebanon, Pearisburg, Pulaski, Richlands, Rocky Mount, Saltville, Scottsville, Smithfield, Stuart, Tazewell, Victoria, West Point, and Wytheville; and in the counties of Chesterfield, Fairfax, James City, Prince William (except DOD land), Roanoke (except on National Forest and Department-owned lands), Stafford, and York.
FAQs
1. What animals can you hunt in Virginia?
You can hunt deer, elk, coyote, turkey, bear, fox, duck, pheasant, dove, and other animals in Virginia.
2. Can you hunt deer year-round in Virginia?
Deer, elk, bears, turkeys, and tiny birds like squirrels and quails are among the smaller species that can be hunted in Virginia. The lovely Appalachians in Virginia host the Virginia Hunting Season all year long.
3. Can you hunt on Sunday in Virginia?
With a landowner’s consent, Sunday hunts are permitted on private property.
4. How much is a hunting license in Virginia?
Residents must pay $23 and non-residents $111 for a hunting license. Depending on the weapon and species you’re hunting with, you’ll then require extra permits.
5. Are deer cover scents legal in Virginia?
Yes, but there’s a problem. If they are utilized in a way that a deer may lick them or eat them, they are illegal. A reasonable rule of thumb for these items is that they are cover scents and are legal if a deer can only sniff them. It is forbidden to use something as bait if a deer can lick it and consume it.