Thrill and excitement build in us as we near deer hunting season in Virginia. With its diverse landscape, you are in for an exciting hunting season. As you prepare for the season, knowing and understanding the license and weapon requirements is vital. This article explains everything you need to prepare and legally participate in the 2024-24 hunting season.
Season Dates
The dates below are the general dates for each season. You can look at the Virginia Deer Hunting Season 2024-2024 for specific information on the unit dates.
Licensing & Draw License Fees
You must purchase the relevant licenses to hunt for deer this season legally. Keep in mind that license prices differ. You might also have additional costs for extra permits for your area or weapon. Take a look at the list below to ensure you buy the correct license:
What Weapons can you Hunt Deer Within Virginia?
Whether you are hunting with a bow or firearm, either weapon needs to meet the minimum weapon requirements set by the state of Virginia. Below we have put together a list of the weapon requirements for you:
Firearms:
Bow and Arrow:
Crossbow:
Muzzleloading Rifle:
For more information regarding the weapon regulations, you can check the e-regulations page for Virginia Deer Hunting Season.
What Types of Deer Are Popular in Virginia?
Virginia is home to several species of deer. As you explore Virginia, you will come across the following deer:
- Sika Deer
- Fallow Deer
- Red Deer
With such a wide variety of deer to target, it can be easier to misidentify them. We suggest learning how to identify each species and where to find them. Let’s kick off with the Sika deer. Often mistaken for the white-tailed deer because of its similar size and coloration, the Sika deer has a reddish brown coat with red spots in summer which turns darker in winter. A distinctive feature of the Sika deer is the white rump patch bordered by a dark outline. You will often find Sike deer near the eastern shore counties.
The Fallow dear are beautiful deer to behold. Known for their impressive antlers, they resemble the White-tailed and Sika Deer. Their coats are tan to light brown with white spots over their backs. You can also quickly identify a Fallow Deer by their movements. While running, they often have a graceful leap. You will often find Fallow Deer in enclosed areas or mountainous areas.
Red Deer, on the other hand, have distinctive features. Named after their red coats, the Red Deer also have a discolored light rump patch like the Sika Deer and are the largest deer species weighing 350 to 550 pounds. Red Deer are also known for their social behavior. They generally stay in large herds, especially during winter. You will find Red deer in enclosed areas with sufficient grazing.
What Else is Popular to Hunt in Virginia?
Hunting for deer is fun, but what if you want to pursue something else? Virginia has a wide variety of animals you can track. Here’s a list of all the animals you can legally hunt in Virginia.
Big Game:
- White-tailed Deer
- Sika Deer
- Elk
- Fallow Deer
- Black Bear
- Eastern Wild Turkey
Upland Birds:
- Bobwhite Quail
- Ring-necked Pheasant
- Ruffed Grouse
- Wild Turkey
- Woodcock
Waterfowl:
- Canada Goose
- Snow Goose
- Various duck species (e.g., Mallard, Wood Duck, Black Duck)
Small Game:
- Cottontail Rabbit
- Gray Squirrel
- Fox Squirrel
- Raccoon
- Opossum
- Groundhog
- Coyote
- Crow
- Snipe
- Bobcat (with specific regulations)
While this list presents what you can hunt in Virginia, you must remember that specific licenses and requirements are attached to each species. Before you get out there, check and understand the laws regarding hunting these animals first. Check the e-regulations document for more information.
