West Virginia Small Game Hunting and Trapping Seasons Set to Open
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
