West Virginia runs a combined archery and crossbow deer season from September 26 through December 31, 2026, and crossbows are legal statewide except in Logan, McDowell, Mingo and Wyoming counties, where only vertical bows are allowed unless the hunter holds a Class Y/YY disability permit. Legal crossbows need 125 pounds draw weight, a working safety, single-string design and 16-inch bolts with 3/4-inch broadheads.
Terrain & Hunting Landscape
Known as the 'Mountain State,' West Virginia is characterized by its rugged, steep ridges and deep, heavily forested valleys. The terrain is famously challenging and requires good physical conditioning.
Whitetail deer are the most hunted, but the state also supports healthy populations of black bear, wild turkey, and ruffed grouse in the high-elevation forests.
Public Hunting Areas
Monongahela National Forest, Coopers Rock State Forest, Chief Cornstalk WMA, Sleepy Creek WMA, and the Cranberry Glades area.
Crossbow & Bowhunting Culture
Hunting is a generational tradition that is deeply woven into the local identity. The 'Mountaineer Heritage Season' celebrates traditional methods like longbows and flintlock muzzleloaders.
Season Overview
2026 archery and crossbow deer season runs Sept. 26 – Dec. 31. Crossbows are legal statewide except Logan, McDowell, Mingo and Wyoming counties (Class Y/YY permit exception). Most counties allow up to three deer with RB/RRB stamps; McDowell and Wyoming are limited to two. All deer must be electronically registered through WVDNR.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a crossbow during West Virginia's archery season?
Yes, statewide during the archery and crossbow deer season (Sept. 26 – Dec. 31, 2026), except in Logan, McDowell, Mingo and Wyoming counties, where crossbows are prohibited unless the hunter holds a Class Y/YY permit.
What is the Class Y/YY permit in West Virginia?
The Class Y/YY permit is issued to qualified persons with disabilities and allows crossbow use during archery seasons in counties such as Logan, McDowell, Mingo and Wyoming where crossbows are otherwise restricted.
What are West Virginia's crossbow equipment requirements?
A legal crossbow must have a minimum draw weight of 125 pounds, a functioning safety and a single string. Bolts must be at least 16 inches long with broadheads at least 3/4 inch wide with two sharp cutting edges.
Are there archery-only or crossbow zones in West Virginia?
Logan, McDowell, Mingo and Wyoming counties are vertical-bow-only for deer unless a hunter holds a Class Y/YY permit. The rest of the state allows crossbows during the combined archery and crossbow season.
What licenses do I need to bowhunt in West Virginia?
Hunters 15 and older need a valid base hunting license plus required stamps such as the Big Game Stamp and Class RB/RRB stamps for additional deer.
How many deer can I take in West Virginia's archery season?
In most counties hunters may take up to three deer during the archery and crossbow season, using the base license and Class RB/RRB stamps. McDowell and Wyoming counties have a two-deer season limit.
What does purple paint signify on trees in West Virginia?
Purple paint on trees or posts serves as a legal notice that the land is private and hunting or trespassing without written permission is prohibited.
Are air rifles legal for big game hunting in West Virginia?
Yes, air rifles are now permitted for taking both small and big game during firearms seasons, provided the county is open to firearm deer hunting.