Virginia Hunting Season 2025-2026 – Dates, Regulations & Wildlife Lands
Welcome to your complete guide for Virginia’s 2025-2026 game calendar! Whether you’re a seasoned local sportsman or visiting the Old Dominion State for the first time, this comprehensive breakdown covers everything you need to know about season dates, licensing requirements, bag limits, and prime wildlife areas. We’ve organized all the essential information to help you plan successful outdoor adventures while staying compliant with state regulations.
Virginia offers some of the most diverse opportunities on the East Coast, from whitetail deer in the Blue Ridge Mountains to waterfowl along the Chesapeake Bay. Make sure to review these details carefully and secure your permits early – some of the most popular quota opportunities fill up fast!
📅 Quick Highlights
Here’s your at-a-glance summary of Virginia’s major species and their primary dates for the 2025-2026 cycle:
Major Species Overview:
- Deer (Archery): October 4 – November 14, 2025 (Early), December 14, 2025 – January 3, 2026 (Late)
- Deer (Muzzleloader): November 1 – November 14, 2025 (Early), December 13, 2025 – January 3, 2026 (Late)
- Deer (Firearms): November 15 – January 3, 2026 (varies by zone)
- Turkey (Spring): April 11 – May 16, 2026 (split seasons)
- Turkey (Fall): October 25 – January 24, 2026 (select counties)
- Bear: Various dates by weapon type and region
- Waterfowl: October through February (zone-dependent)
- Small Game: September through March for most species
Youth & Apprentice Opportunities:
- Deer Youth Weekend: September 27-28, 2025
- Turkey Youth Weekend: April 4-5, 2026
- Waterfowl Youth Days: October 25, 2025 & February 7, 2026
Big Game Overview
Whitetail Deer Seasons
| Season Type | Dates | Legal Methods | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Youth & Apprentice | September 27-28, 2025 | Archery, Muzzleloader, Firearms | Supervised youth under 16 |
| Early Archery | October 4 – November 14, 2025 | Bow only | Statewide opportunity |
| Late Archery | December 14, 2025 – January 3, 2026 | Bow only | Continues through most of state |
| Early Muzzleloader | November 1 – November 14, 2025 | Muzzleloader only | Not available in Chesapeake, Suffolk (east), Virginia Beach |
| Late Muzzleloader | December 13, 2025 – January 3, 2026 | Muzzleloader only | Extended opportunity |
| Firearms Season | November 15 – January 3, 2026 | Centerfire rifles, shotguns | Dates vary by county/zone |
Bag Limits: Daily bag limits vary significantly by region. In cities and towns west of the Blue Ridge, daily bag limits are unlimited, but no more than two antlered deer may be taken per license year. National Forest and Department lands west of the Blue Ridge allow only one deer per day.
Either-Sex Days: Specific dates are designated in certain counties when hunters may harvest deer of either sex. Check your specific county regulations, as these vary considerably across the state.
Black Bear Opportunities
Bear seasons in Virginia are more limited and zone-specific compared to deer. Most bear opportunities occur during:
- Archery Bear Season: Concurrent with deer archery dates in designated bear counties
- Muzzleloader Bear Season: Concurrent with muzzleloader deer dates where legal
- Firearms Bear Season: Specific dates in designated counties, typically November through December
A separate bear license is required in addition to your base permit. Bear opportunities are concentrated in mountainous regions and certain coastal counties with established populations.
Elk Prospects
Virginia has a very limited elk program with lottery-drawn tags only. These opportunities are extremely competitive and require advance application through the Department of Wildlife Resources quota system.
Turkey Dates
Spring Gobbler Season
| Season Period | Dates | Bag Limit | Legal Methods |
|---|---|---|---|
| Youth & Apprentice Weekend | April 4-5, 2026 | 1 bearded turkey per day | Shotgun, archery, crossbow |
| Spring Season (First Period) | April 11-26, 2026 | 1 bearded turkey per day | Shotgun, archery, crossbow |
| Spring Season (Second Period) | April 27 – May 16, 2026 | 1 bearded turkey per day | Shotgun, archery, crossbow |
Fall Turkey Opportunities
Fall turkey schedules are more complex and vary significantly by county:
| Region | Dates | Bag Limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Select Counties (First Period) | October 25 – November 6, 2025 | 2 turkeys per day | Either sex legal |
| Select Counties (Second Period) | November 26 – December 9, 2025 | 2 turkeys per day | Either sex legal |
| Select Counties (Third Period) | December 22, 2025 – January 24, 2026 | 2 turkeys per day | Either sex legal |
Important Note: Fall turkey opportunities are not available statewide. Check the official county list to confirm if your target area has fall seasons. Most fall opportunities are concentrated in western and southwestern counties.
Furbearer Opportunities
Virginia offers extensive furbearer opportunities, with many species available year-round or with generous seasons:
| Species | Season Dates | Methods | Daily Bag |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coyote | Year-round | Firearms, archery, trapping | No limit |
| Red Fox | November 1 – February 28 | Firearms, archery, trapping | No limit |
| Gray Fox | October 15 – February 28 | Firearms, archery, trapping | No limit |
| Bobcat | December 1 – February 28 | Firearms, archery, trapping | 2 per day |
| Raccoon | October 15 – February 28 | Firearms, archery, trapping | No limit |
| Opossum | Year-round (nighttime restrictions vary) | Firearms, archery, trapping | No limit |
| Beaver | December 1 – March 31 | Trapping only | No limit |
| Muskrat | December 1 – March 31 | Trapping only | No limit |
Trapping License: A separate trapping license is required for trap use. Many furbearers can also be taken during regular small game seasons with appropriate licenses.
Night Activities: Some species like raccoon and opossum may be taken at night with proper equipment and landowner permission on private property.
Small Game Section
| Species | Season Dates | Daily Bag Limit | Methods |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gray Squirrel | September 1 – February 28 | 6 per day | Firearms, archery |
| Cottontail Rabbit | November 8 – February 28 | 4 per day | Firearms, archery, dogs allowed |
| Bobwhite Quail | November 8 – February 28 | 6 per day | Firearms, archery, dogs allowed |
| Ruffed Grouse | October 17 – February 28 | 4 per day | Firearms, archery, dogs allowed |
| Crow | September 1 – March 9 | No limit | Firearms, archery (Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat only) |
| Groundhog | September 1 – February 28 | No limit | Firearms, archery |
Special Regulations: National Forest lands and Department-owned properties may have different dates or additional restrictions. Some areas operate on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday only schedules.
Dog Use: Dogs are permitted for rabbit and quail pursuits during their respective seasons on private land with landowner permission. Public land dog use varies by location.
Complete Waterfowl Seasons
Waterfowl schedules in Virginia are complex due to federal regulations and multiple zone divisions:
Duck Seasons
| Zone | Season Dates | Daily Bag | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eastern Zone | October 14 – December 8, 2025 | 6 ducks total | Species-specific limits apply |
| Western Zone | October 21 – December 15, 2025 | 6 ducks total | Species-specific limits apply |
| Late Season (Both Zones) | December 23, 2025 – January 31, 2026 | 6 ducks total | Weather dependent |
Goose Seasons
| Population Zone | Season Dates | Daily Bag |
|---|---|---|
| Atlantic Population (AP) | December 24-31, 2025 & January 10-31, 2026 | 1 per day |
| Resident Population (RP) | November 19-30, 2025 & December 14-22, 2025 | 5 per day |
Youth & Veteran Waterfowl Days
- October 25, 2025
- February 7, 2026
Required Permits: All waterfowl hunters 16 and older must have a federal duck stamp, state waterfowl license, and HIP authorization. Steel shot is mandatory for all waterfowl opportunities.
Other Available Game
| Species | Season Dates | Bag Limit | Special Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mourning Dove | September 1 – October 9, 2025 & December 18, 2025 – January 16, 2026 | 15 per day | HIP authorization required |
| Woodcock | October 25 – December 8, 2025 | 3 per day | HIP authorization required |
| Snipe | October 25 – February 9, 2026 | 8 per day | HIP authorization required |
| Rail Species | September 12 – November 20, 2025 | Varies by species | HIP authorization required |
| Bullfrog | June 15 – September 30 | 25 per day | Fishing license required |
| Snapping Turtle | June 15 – September 30 | 5 per day | Fishing license required |
HIP Authorization: The Harvest Information Program (HIP) authorization is free but required for all migratory bird opportunities including dove, woodcock, snipe, and rails.
Game Management Areas & Zones
Virginia is divided into multiple management zones and contains over 40 Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) totaling more than 200,000 acres of public access:
Key WMA Highlights:
- C.F. Phelps WMA: 20,564 acres in Fauquier County – excellent deer and turkey habitat
- Mattaponi WMA: 2,564 acres in King William County – diverse small game opportunities
- Big Woods WMA: 15,000+ acres spanning multiple counties – premium bear country
- Featherstone NWR: 325 acres in Woodbridge – waterfowl focus area
- Hardware River WMA: 11,000+ acres in Albemarle County – mixed species opportunities
Zone Considerations: Virginia uses different zone systems for different species. Deer zones affect bag limits and either-sex days. Waterfowl zones determine season dates. Turkey zones affect spring season timing.
Public vs Private: Regulations can differ significantly between private property and public lands. Many public areas have quota opportunities that require advance applications and drawings.
Finding Your Zone
The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources provides interactive mapping tools on their website to help determine your specific zone classifications. County-by-county breakdowns are also available in the annual regulations digest.
If you’re planning to hunt in neighboring states, you might also want to check out opportunities in North Carolina which offers similar species with different season structures.
Permits, Tags & Licenses Details
Resident License Structure
| License Type | Cost | What’s Included | Valid Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Permit | $25.00 | Small game, furbearer opportunities | July 1 – June 30 |
| Deer/Turkey License | $23.00 | Required addition for big game | July 1 – June 30 |
| Bear License | $25.00 | Required addition for bear | July 1 – June 30 |
| Archery License | $8.00 | Required for bow use | July 1 – June 30 |
| Muzzleloader License | $8.00 | Required for muzzleloader use | July 1 – June 30 |
| Resident Sportsman’s | $87.00 | Most permits bundled | July 1 – June 30 |
| 3-Day Trip License | $30.00 | Short-term resident option | 3 consecutive days |
Non-Resident License Structure
| License Type | Cost | What’s Included |
|---|---|---|
| Non-Resident Base | $65.00 | Small game, furbearer access |
| Non-Resident Big Game | $95.00 | Deer, turkey, bear opportunities |
| Non-Resident 7-Day | $55.00 | Short-term comprehensive option |
| Non-Resident Youth | $25.00 | Under 16 discount rate |
Additional Stamps & Authorizations
- Federal Duck Stamp: $25.00 (required for waterfowl hunters 16+)
- Virginia Waterfowl Stamp: $13.00
- Virginia Trout Stamp: $10.00 (if fishing while afield)
- HIP Authorization: Free (required for migratory birds)
Military & Special Discounts
- Active Military: 50% discount on most resident licenses
- Disabled Veterans: Lifetime licenses available for service-connected disabilities
- Senior Citizens: Reduced rates for residents 65+ on certain permits
Pro Tip: The Resident Sportsman’s License offers the best value if you plan to pursue multiple species with different weapon types. It bundles most add-on permits at a significant savings.
Virginia Game Calendar Quick FAQ
Q: Can I use my bow during muzzleloader season?
A: Yes, Virginia allows bow use during muzzleloader-only periods, but you must have the appropriate archery license in addition to your muzzleloader permit.
Q: Are there Sunday restrictions?
A: Sunday options are limited in Virginia. Most opportunities are Monday through Saturday only, though some private land exceptions exist with proper permissions.
Q: What’s the deal with either-sex days for deer?
A: Most of Virginia operates under antlered-only regulations except on designated either-sex days. These dates vary significantly by county and are listed specifically in the regulations digest.
Q: Do I need landowner permission for small game on private property?
A: Absolutely. Virginia law requires written landowner permission for access to private property, regardless of species pursued.
Q: Can I hunt multiple species on the same day with one license?
A: Generally yes, if seasons overlap and you have the proper licenses. For example, you could pursue squirrel and deer on the same outing if both seasons are open and you have appropriate permits.
Q: What about crossbow use?
A: Crossbows are legal during archery seasons for all hunters (no special permit required). They’re also legal during muzzleloader and firearms seasons.
Q: Are there special regulations for military personnel?
A: Active military stationed in Virginia can purchase resident licenses regardless of their home state. Military personnel also receive significant discounts on most permit types.
Related Resources & Official Links
For the most current information and detailed regulations, always consult these official sources:
- Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources: Complete regulations digest and interactive tools
- Federal Duck Stamp Office: Required waterfowl stamp purchases
- Virginia Interactive WMA Map: Public land locations and specific area regulations
- HIP Authorization Portal: Free migratory bird registration
- License Purchasing System: Online permit purchases and renewals
Remember that regulations can change, and emergency closures or extensions may occur due to weather or wildlife management needs. Always verify current information before heading afield.
States with similar opportunities and comparable seasons include Tennessee to the southwest, which offers excellent small game prospects with slightly different timing.
Conclusion
Virginia’s 2025-2026 game schedule offers something for every outdoor enthusiast, from the casual weekend small game pursuer to the serious trophy whitetail bowhunter. The diversity of species, generous bag limits on many opportunities, and extensive public land access make the Old Dominion a premier destination for sporting adventures.
Key takeaways for the upcoming cycle include the new 3-day trip license for residents, expanded WMA camping opportunities, and several county-specific regulation changes that could affect your traditional areas. Youth and apprentice programs continue to provide excellent introduction opportunities with dedicated weekends and extended seasons.
Plan ahead for quota draws on premium WMAs, secure your licenses early to avoid last-minute rushes, and remember that weather can significantly impact waterfowl schedules. Most importantly, prioritize safety, practice ethical practices, and respect private property rights.
Mark your calendar, gather your gear, and get ready for another outstanding year in Virginia’s diverse landscapes. Whether you’re pursuing gobblers in the Blue Ridge foothills or setting up for mallards along the Chesapeake tributaries, the 2025-2026 schedule has the opportunities you’re looking for.
Make sure to bookmark this guide and check back for any mid-season updates or regulation changes that might affect your plans!
