CHARLESTON, W.Va. (The Hinton News) — The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources reminds hunters and trappers that seasons for several small game and furbearing species are set to open from Nov. 7, 2026 to Feb. 28, 2027.
Hunting seasons open for bobwhite quail, cottontail rabbit, snowshoe hare and ring-necked pheasant (cock birds only). Trapping seasons open for raccoons, mink, muskrat, fisher, beaver, otter, skunk, opossum, coyote and weasel. Hunting and trapping seasons open for red fox, gray fox and bobcat. As a reminder, hunting for bobwhite quail is closed on Tomblin Wildlife Management Area in Logan County. Additionally, ring-necked pheasant hunting on Hillcrest Wildlife Management Area in Hancock County runs Nov. 14 to Dec. 5.
“The opening of small game seasons marks the start of many long-held traditions across the Mountain State,” WVDNR Director Brett McMillion said. “Our diverse public lands and abundant wildlife offer fantastic opportunities for both seasoned outdoorsmen and newcomers taking to the fields and woods for the first time. We encourage all hunters and trappers to prioritize safety and enjoy the unmatched natural beauty West Virginia has to offer.”
Trappers who harvest a beaver, fisher or otter must electronically check their catches at WVhunt.com. A WVDNR-issued game check confirmation number must be recorded in writing with the trapper’s name and address and stay attached to each pelt or whole animal until sold, tanned, processed into commercial fur or mounted. Hunters and trappers who harvest a bobcat must electronically check the bobcat at WVhunt.com.
Bobcat hunters and trappers and otter trappers must also obtain a Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) seal for each bobcat and otter pelt they plan to sell out of state. All bobcat and/or otter pelts being sold by licensed fur dealers must have a CITES seal from the state where the animal was harvested before being sold on the international market. CITES seals may be obtained from the Elkins Operations Center or a local WVDNR district office.
WVDNR also reminds trappers about its ongoing otter research project. Trappers who harvest a radio-tagged otter should report the tag number and return the transmitter to the District 4 office in Beckley. Trappers who deliver a legally harvested and electronically registered skinned otter carcass to a WVDNR district office will be eligible to receive a $20 gift card.
Hunters and trappers 15 and older, except those hunting or trapping with resident landowner privileges, are required to have a valid West Virginia hunting license and form of identification while hunting. To purchase a hunting and trapping license, visit WVhunt.com. For more information about small game and furbearer season dates and limits, visit WVdnr.gov/hunting-seasons.
