Hunters encouraged to participate in Big Buck Photo Contest for a chance to win prizes
Governor Patrick Morrisey and the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) announced that the buck firearms season will open on Monday, Nov. 24. Hunters are encouraged to purchase their hunting license and stamps before the season begins.
“Buck firearms season is woven into the fabric of West Virginia,” said Governor Morrisey. “It reflects our respect for the land, our love of the outdoors, and the traditions we pass down from one generation to the next. Here is to a safe and successful season for all.”
West Virginia’s two-week buck firearms season runs Nov. 24 to Dec. 7 in every county except Logan, McDowell, Mingo, and Wyoming, which remain closed to firearms deer hunting. Hunters may harvest one buck with a base license but are required to purchase a Class RG or RRG stamp before the season begins if they want to take a second buck.
“The buck firearms season is a time-honored tradition that brings generations of West Virginians together in the woods each fall,” said WVDNR Director Brett McMillion. “As hunters head back into the woods, we encourage everyone to review the latest regulations, follow the safety guidelines, and look out for one another.”
To help hunters stay safe and follow current regulations, the WVDNR reminds everyone of the following important updates and requirements:
- Blaze Orange Requirement: All hunters must wear at least 400 square inches of blaze orange when hunting in any county or area with an open deer firearms season.
- Electronic Checking: All big game must be field tagged and electronically checked at WVhunt.com.
- Deer Stamps: Hunters who want the opportunity to harvest an additional buck during the buck firearms season must purchase Class RG or RRG stamp before the season starts.
- Deer Carcass and Baiting Restrictions: Carcass transportation restrictions are now in effect in Grant County, while baiting and feed restrictions apply in Pendleton County.
- Mortally Wounded Game Recovery: An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) may be used to track and locate mortally wounded deer. Only one leased dog may be used for recovery.
All hunters 15 and older are required to have a valid West Virginia hunting license, unless hunting under resident landowner privileges. Hunters must also carry a valid form of identification. To purchase a hunting license and stamps, visit WVdnr.gov/buy-a-license. For more information about deer hunting and safety requirements, visit WVdnr.gov/hunting-regulations.
Big Buck Photo Contest Returns
The WVDNR also announced the return of the Big Buck Photo Contest, which is open to resident and nonresident youth and adults. Eligible hunters who submit a photo of a buck legally harvested during a 2025 season will be entered into a prize drawing.
One resident adult grand prize winner will receive a lifetime hunting license or a West Virginia State Park cabin stay. The remaining resident adults and non-resident adult winners will receive a State Park cabin stay or a Bass Pro Shops prize package. All youth winners will receive a Bass Pro Shops prize package.
Photos must be submitted by Jan. 9, 2026 and a valid 2025 hunting license and valid WVDNR-issued game check number are required to enter the contest. Finalists will be selected by random drawing and winners will be announced in January 2026. To submit a photo and review contest rules, visit WVdnr.gov/photocontest.
