Virginia Hunting Seasons Information and Regulations
*All information listed below is disclosed based on research we have conducted. We do our best to ensure that all information is up to date and accurate. However, rules and regulations are changing every day. Please make sure to verify your state-specific regulations prior to your hunt.
The hunting season in Virginia is a favorite pastime for many outdoors enthusiasts. During the fall and winter months, hunters can take advantage of the state’s abundant wildlife population to find white-tailed deer, black bear, wild turkey, waterfowl and game birds. Hunting regulations vary by species, so be sure to check your local game and fish regulations before heading out into the field. Most hunting seasons run from September through February, and deer season is typically divided into archery, primitive weapons and firearms segments. In addition to legal game species, hunters may also encounter numerous small mammals, reptiles and amphibians during their outing. Depending on the region of Virginia you are hunting in, it is possible to also come across a variety of bird species, including hawks, eagles, songbirds and waterfowl.
By following the rules and regulations in place, hunters can have an enjoyable time while partaking in this traditional recreational activity. From sourcing your gear to understanding the regulations on hunting season dates and bag limits, it is important for hunters to be well-informed about their activities. With this knowledge and a little luck, you can have an enjoyable and successful hunting experience in Virginia. Happy hunting!
Virginia Bear Seasons
| Youth Hunt | Oct. 8 – 9 |
| Archery | Oct. 1 – Nov. 18 |
| Muzzleloader | Nov. 12 – 18 |
| Early Firearms | Sept. 26 – 28 |
| General Season | Oct. 1 – Jan. 7 |
*In Virginia, bear hunting is regulated by the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (VDGIF). Hunting season for black bears in Virginia typically occurs in the fall and winter months. It’s important to note that these regulations are subject to change, and it’s always a good idea to check the most current regulations on the VDGIF website before hunting bears in Virginia. Additionally, it’s important to follow all state and local laws and regulations when hunting, including hunting seasons, bag limits, and other restrictions.
Virginia Deer Seasons
| Youth Hunt | Sept. 24 – 25 |
| Early Archery | Oct. 1 – Nov. 18 |
| Late Archery | Dec. 1 – Jan. 7 |
| Urban Archery | Sept. 3 – 30 Jan. 8 – March 26 |
| NOVA Late Archery | March 27 – Apr. 30 |
| Early Muzzleloader | Nov. 5 – 18 |
| Late Muzzleloader | Dec. 17 – Jan. 7 |
| General Season | Nov. 19 – Jan. 7 |
*Black bears in Virginia are protected by law, and hunting and trapping of the species is regulated by the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (VDGIF). The VDGIF manages black bear populations in Virginia through a combination of hunting, research, and education programs.
Virginia Elk Seasons
| General Season | Concurrent with open deer season |
*The dates for hunting seasons vary depending on the specific zone. For more information visit the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries website.
Virginia Turkey Seasons
| Fall Archery | Oct. 1 – Nov. 18 |
| Fall Youth Hunt | Oct. 8 – 9 |
| Fall General Season | Oct. 22 – Jan. 28 |
| Spring General Season | Apr. 8 – May 13 |
| Spring 2023 Youth Hunt | Apr. 1 – 2 |
*The dates for hunting seasons vary depending on the specific zone. For more information visit the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries website.
Virginia Small Game Seasons
| Crow | Aug. 20-March 17 |
| Groundhog | Open Season |
| Grouse | Oct. 29 – Feb. 11 Closed season west of I – 95 |
| Quail and Pheasant | Nov. 12 – Jan. 31 |
| Rabbit | Nov. 5 – Feb. 28 |
| Squirrel | Gray/Red: Sept. 3 – Feb. 28 Fox: Sept. 3 – Jan. 31 |
*The dates for hunting seasons vary depending on the specific zone. For more information visit the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries website.
Virginia Crossbow Regulations
Crossbow Specific Regulations: The regulations for using a crossbow in Virginia are governed by the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (VDGIF).
Here are some of the key regulations in Virginia regarding the use of crossbows:
- Crossbows can be used during archery season as well as during firearms season for hunting game animals.
- Crossbows must have a minimum draw weight of 125 pounds and bolts (arrows) must have a minimum length of 16 inches.
- Crossbows must be equipped with a functional safety mechanism to prevent accidental discharge.
- It is illegal to hunt big game animals (deer, bear, turkey) with a crossbow from a motor vehicle, boat, or other floating device.
- It is illegal to hunt game birds with a crossbow.
- Crossbows may not be used to hunt game animals within 100 yards of a baited area.
It is important to note that these regulations are subject to change, and it’s always a good idea to check the most current regulations on the VDGIF website before using a crossbow in Virginia. Additionally, it’s important to follow all state and local laws and regulations when using a crossbow for hunting or any other purpose.
Virginia Hunting License
In Virginia, anyone over the age of 12 must have a valid hunting license to hunt. Residents must provide proof of residency, and all first-time license buyers must complete a hunter education course. License fees range from $12 to $100, based on residency status and type of license. The requirements are subject to change and hunters should always check current regulations on the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (VDGIF) website.
If you want to check out the next state on our list, click here to see Washington.
Or, you can check out the last state on our list, Vermont.
