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CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WVDN)— The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources announced today that the first segment of a special antlerless deer season for youth hunters, Class Q permit holders and senior citizens with a Class XS license will open Oct. 17-18. The season will be open on public and private lands in 51 counties.
“We are dedicated to ensuring anyone can enjoy hunting in West Virginia, regardless of age or ability,” said WVDNR Director Brett McMillion. “We hope eligible hunters take full advantage of this chance to get out and experience the upcoming hunting season.”
Youth hunters age 17 and under, hunters 65 and older with a Class XS license, and those with a Class Q permit are eligible to participate in the season. Hunters under 15 must be accompanied by a licensed adult and hunters 15-17 must comply with all licensing requirements. All participants must wear at least 400 square inches of blaze orange.
The daily bag limit is one antlerless deer per day, with a total of four antlerless deer and one antlered deer allowed over both segments of the special season. Senior Class XS hunters may not kill an antlered deer during the special seasons. Antlerless deer harvested during this season do not count toward the annual bag limit, and a Class N/NN license is not required.
Antlered deer harvested count towards the youth and Class Q hunters annual antlered deer bag limit. Registration of harvested deer can be done online, by phone or at a license agent.
A second segment is scheduled for Dec. 26-27. For more information on this special split season, check page 27 in the West Virginia Hunting Regulations Summary, available online at WVdnr.gov/hunting-regulations. Hunters who still need to purchase a license may do so at WVhunt.com.
Class Q Permit Holders Have Access to Select Roads
Class Q permit holders are reminded that select access roads on public lands, including 11 roads in national forests and 12 in state wildlife management areas, are open for hunters with disabilities. These roads are gated and accessible only to Class Q hunters.
To apply for a Class Q permit, hunters must have a permanent and irreversible respiratory, cardiovascular or lower extremity use limitation and submit a certified application from a licensed physician. Once approved, hunters receive a permit card, gate key and letter of authorization.
Class Q hunters may hunt from a stationary vehicle in designated areas but must follow all hunting regulations. For more information about the program, including a list of Class Q access road sites, visit WVdnr.gov/class-q-hunting.
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