HUNTING &TRAPPING IN VIRGINIA - July 2015-June 2016
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HUNTING &TRAPPING IN VIRGINIA July 2015-June 2016 Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries www.dgif.virginia.gov
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HUNTING
&TRAPPING
IN VIRGINIA
July 2015-June 2016
©Ralph Hensley
GENERAL�����������������������������������������������4
Commonwealth of Virginia
Terry McAuliffe, Governor
Secretary of Natural Resources INFORMATION
Molly J. Ward
Department of Game and Inland Fisheries BEAR HUNTING�������������������������������������30
Bob Duncan, Executive Director
REGULATIONS
Members of the Board
Ben Davenport, Chairman, Chatham
Charles H. Cunningham, Vice-chairman, Fairfax DEER HUNTING�������������������������������������34
Watkins M. Abbitt, Jr., Appomattox
David Bernhardt, Arlington
REGULATIONS
Bill Bolling, Mechanicsville
Leon Boyd, Vansant
Garry L. Gray, Bowling Green
TURKEY HUNTING����������������������������������46
Hugh Palmer, Highland Springs
Clayton L. Spruill, Virginia Beach
REGULATIONS
Leon O. Turner, Fincastle
Mark A. Winkler, DDS, Fairfax Station SMALL GAME HUNTING�������������������������48
Mission Statement REGULATIONS
To manage Virginia’s wildlife and inland fish to maintain
optimum populations of all species to serve the needs
of the Commonwealth; To provide opportunity for all to FURBEARER HUNTING & TRAPPING��������49
enjoy wildlife, inland fish, boating and related outdoor
recreation and to work diligently to safeguard the REGULATIONS
rights of the people to hunt, fish, and harvest game as
provided for in the Constitution of Virginia; To promote
safety for persons and property in connection with PUBLIC HUNTING LANDS�����������������������54
boating, hunting, and fishing; To provide educational
outreach programs and materials that foster an REGULATIONS
awareness of and appreciation for Virginia’s fish and
wildlife resources, their habitats, and hunting, fishing,
and boating opportunities.
The Department of Game and Inland Fisheries shall This booklet is for general information and contains information
afford to all persons an equal access to Department regarding programs, policies, regulations, rules, and fees of the
programs and facilities without regard to race, color, Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (VDGIF) current
religion, national origin, disability, sex, or age. If you at the time of printing. Information and prices are subject to change.
Specific laws are found in the Code of Virginia (http://law.lis.virginia.
believe that you have been discriminated against in any gov/vacode) or the Game Department Regulation Manual (http://law.
program, activity, or facility, please write to: Virginia lis.virginia.gov/admincode/title4/agency15). For answers to specific
Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, Attn: questions about hunting and fishing, contact the Department of Game
Compliance Officer, 7870 Villa Park Dr, Suite 400, P.O. and Inland Fisheries once nearest you.
Box 90778, Henrico, VA 23228.
The sale of advertising paid a large portion of the cost of this publica-
tion. The Department of Game and Inland Fisheries neither endorses
On the Cover: the products or services offered in the advertising, nor accepts any
A young black bear sits on a tree branch, safely looking View regs on your smartphone liability from the use of such products or services.
at goings on down below.
DIRECTOR’S
MESSAGE
HUNTING
Welcome to another year of great hunting opportunities in &TRAPPING
IN VIRGINIA
the Old Dominion! This 2015-2016 digest coincides with the July 2015-June 2016
countdown to our agency’s 100-year anniversary next June. As
we think about the status of wildlife when this Department
was created in 1916 and the many wildlife success stories that
have followed, one cannot help but consider the outlook for
the next hundred years.
Recruiting and introducing new hunters to cherished
traditions will help ensure the future of our hunting heritage
in Virginia, while serving to benefit wildlife populations via
science-based management. The most rewarding hunts I Virginia Department of
Game and Inland Fisheries
have experienced involved hunting with family members and www.dgif.virginia.gov
friends, especially young people. With the numerous youth
hunting days being offered, I encourage you to share your
passion of the season by introducing new hunters to the joys
of time well spent in the outdoors! Hope to see you out there! About this Guide
Bob Duncan This high-quality regulation guide is offered to you
Executive Director, VDGIF by the Virginia Department of Game and Inland
Fisheries through its unique partnership with J.F.
Griffin Publishing, LLC.
J.F. Griffin is an award winning publishing house
that specializes in producing state fish & wildlife
regulation books. J.F. Griffin supports VDGIF’s staff
in the design, layout, and editing of the guides. They
VIRGINIA’S WILDLIFE also manage the marketing and sales of advertising
to appropriate businesses within the book.
RESTORATION The revenue generated through ad sales signifi-
cantly lowers production costs and generates savings.
PROGRAM AND YOU These savings translate into additional funds for other
important fisheries and habitat programs.
Hunters and trappers create many opportunities for Virginians to enjoy excep-
If you have any feedback or are interested in advertis-
tional hunting, trapping, and wildlife watching. Through the Federal Assistance
ing, please contact us at 413.884.1001 or online at
in Wildlife & Sport Fish Restoration program, you help the Virginia Department of
www.JFGriffin.com
Game and Inland Fisheries make wildlife-oriented outdoor recreation even better
each time you buy a firearm, ammunition, or a hunting or trapping license.
Graphic Design:
When you buy hunting-related equipment, a portion of the excise tax levied on Jon Gulley, Evelyn Haddad, Dane Fay
the manufacturer goes to the Federal Assistance in Wildlife & Sport Fish Resto- and Chris Sobolowski
ration program. Virginia currently receives over $15 million each year from this
program, which funds a large portion of the Department’s habitat management
and wildlife population research projects.
430 Main St. Suite 5 | Williamstown, MA 01267
J.F. Griffin Publishing, LLC is proud to print the
Virginia Hunting and Trapping Digest on recycled
content paper.
available online
in a new Digital Edition!
Fully searchable Email pages
Live hyperlinks to One-click printing
expanded content
www.eRegulations.com/VA
©Ralph Hensley
2 2015–2016 VIRGINA HUNTING & TRAPPING REGULATIONS WWW.DGIF.VIRGINIA.GOV
Private Landowner Names
Color Coded Public Lands
Roads & Trails
Possible Access
Points of Interest
24k Topo
Multiple Basemaps
Get the app to start your FREE 7 day trial
To learn more and view all product offerings visit:
HuntingGPSmaps.com
CONTACT
INFORMATION
Richmond Regional Offices
Headquarters Region 1 Region 4
3801 John Tyler Memorial Hwy. P.O. Box 996, 517 Lee Highway
7870 Villa Park Drive, Suite 400 Charles City, VA 23030 Verona, VA 24482
Henrico, VA 23228 (804) 829-6580 (540) 248-9360
(804) 367-1000; (804) 367-1278 V/TDD
Mailing Address: Region 2 1320 Belman Road
P. O. Box 90778, Henrico, VA 23228-0778 1132 Thomas Jefferson Road Fredericksburg, VA 22401
Forest, VA 24551-9223 (540) 899-4169
(434) 525-7522
Region 3
1796 Highway Sixteen
Marion, VA 24354
(276) 783-4860
Additional Contacts
Report Wildlife Violations Only: Virginia Department of Forestry U. S. Forest Service Supervisor
(800) 237-5712 or wildcrime@dgif.virginia.gov Charlottesville Office (M–Th) George Washington and
www.dof.virginia.gov Jefferson Forest
Boating Registration/Information (434) 977-6555 www.fs.usda.gov/gwj
(804) 367-1000 (540) 265-5100
Department of Conservation and
Checking-in Game Recreation Reservation Center: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
(866) GOT-GAME (866-468-4263) www.dcr.virginia.gov (Federal wildlife inquiries only)
(800) 933-7275 (804) 771-2883; (804) 771-2280
Quota Hunts
www.vaquotahunts.com USDA Wildlife Services
(877) VAHUNTS (877-824-8687) (804) 739-7739
“HUNT • getting the latest news from VDGIF;
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Best of all,
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WHAT’S NEW
FOR 2015-2016?
New Regulations for 2015-2016
Licenses Deer Turkey
• Separate bear license at a fee of $21 for resi- • The September Youth and Apprentice deer • The fall youth and apprentice turkey hunting
dents and $151 for non-residents to hunt bear. hunting day has been extended to a full day has been extended to a full weekend (see
• Certain hunting, trapping and fishing li- weekend (see page 37). page 46).
censes or a hunter education certification • Minor adjustments were made to early and • The bag limit for the fall turkey youth and
may be carried electronically (see page 12). late muzzleloading either-sex deer hunting apprentice hunting weekend is one turkey
• The bear license and deer/turkey license must days west of the Blue Ridge. (either sex) per youth/apprentice hunter per
still be carried as a paper copy. • Rappahannock County now has an Earn- weekend.
A-Buck regulation in effect (see page 36). • The spring youth and apprentice turkey
Bear • Firearms either-sex deer hunting days were hunting day has been extended to a full
• In order to hunt bears, residents and non- reduced in 19 management units and in- weekend (see page 47).
residents must purchase a bear license in creased in three. • The bag limit for the spring turkey youth and
addition to all other applicable licenses and • CWD testing is now mandatory countywide apprentice hunting weekend is one turkey
stamps (see page 16). in Clarke, Frederick, Shenandoah, and War- (bearded birds only) per youth/apprentice
• Bear youth and apprentice day is no longer ren counties during the first two Saturdays hunter per weekend.
in September. It has been moved to the sec- of the firearms deer season (see page 44).
ond Saturday and Sunday in October (see • Effective July 1, 2015, the possession or use Furbearers and Trapping
page 30). of deer scents/lures that contain natural • The maximum snare height has been raised
• There is a new 6-week Bear Hound Training deer urine or other bodily fluids used for with certain restrictions for snares set higher
season in Southwest Virginia (see page 33). the purposes of taking, attempting to take, than 12” above ground level (see page 52).
• Southside Bear Hound Training Season has attracting, or scouting wildlife in Virginia • The season bag limit of 12 bobcats taken by
been extended by 1 week (see page 33). will no longer be legal (see page 45). hunting and trapping combined has been
removed.
FERAL HOGS
Feral hogs (wild hogs, wild pigs, wild boar, or Russian boar) are
designated as a nuisance species in Virginia and are defined as
“any hog that is wild or for which no proof of ownership can be
made.” They are extremely invasive and cause damage to wildlife
habitat and agricultural lands wherever they exist. Feral hogs have
been found to destroy turkey, grouse, and quail nests. They can
also prey on deer fawns, destroy sensitive wetland habitat, con-
taminate waterways, and compete with our native wildlife for food
resources. Feral hogs carry numerous diseases that can affect
wildlife, domestic animals, and humans.
The DGIF is taking every measure possible to fight the spread of
feral hogs in Virginia. If feral hogs or hog damage are observed,
or if feral hogs are harvested or trapped on private or public prop-
erty, we ask you to make a report by calling our toll-free Virginia Help Protect Virginia’s Ag
ricultural
Wildlife Conflict Helpline (1-855-571-9003). It is illegal to transport and Natural Resources
live feral hogs or to release feral hogs to the wild in Virginia. Any
feral hog trapped must be immediately killed at the trap site.
The DGIF does not currently have feral hogs established on any 1 (855) 571-9003
of its lands, nor do we provide information on where to find feral
hogs on private land. To harvest feral hogs, you must have a hunt-
ing license and landowner permission. There is no closed season Please Repor t
on private property. There is no daily bag limit or checking system Hog Sightings
for feral hogs. Hog Damage
For more information on feral hogs please visit:
www.dgif.virginia.gov/wildlife/feral-hogs/hunting-faq/
6
SUNDAY HUNTING
IN VIRGINIA
Frequently asked questions and
Sunday Hunting answers on the new law and
What is meant by “written permission”
as used in the new law?
Sunday hunting in Virginia: A plain meaning interpretation of “written per-
The 2014 General Assembly passed legislation that May I use dogs to hunt on private mission” involves four pieces of information: (i)
was signed by Governor Terry McAuliffe allowing land on Sunday as long as I have the the identity of the person who has been granted
hunting on Sundays in Virginia under certain written permission of the landowner? permission to hunt; (ii) the scope of the permis-
circumstances. The law took effect July 1, 2014. Yes, except you may not hunt or kill any deer or sion, which may include limitations; (iii) the
The law allows Sunday hunting under the bear with a gun, firearm or other weapon with identity of the landowner who gave the written
following circumstances: the aid or assistance of dogs on Sundays. permission, and (iv) the date the permission is
given and expires. Such written permission must
• Allows a landowner and his family or a I hunt with a hunt club and the club be provided after the effective date of the Act.
person with written permission from the president has obtained written
landowner to hunt or kill any wild bird or permission from the landowner for club I have verbal rather than written
wild animal, including nuisance species, on members and guests to hunt on Sunday. permission from Mr. Smith to hunt his
the landowner’s property on Sunday, except Does each member need to carry a copy property because he does not post
within 200 yards of a house of worship or any of that permission document? his property. Do I still need written
accessory structure thereof. They should, but your club president can act permission from him to hunt his property
• It also allows for waterfowl hunting on as the representative of the landowner to pass on Sunday?
Sundays subject to restrictions imposed by on written permission to members and guests Yes and language granting permission to hunt
the Director of the Department and except to hunt on Sunday so long as the landowner on Sundays should be included in the written
within 200 yards of a house of worship or grants the president that authority. Language permission.
any accessory structure thereof. granting permission to hunt on Sundays should
• Continues to allow raccoon hunting until 2 be included in the written permission. Is Sunday hunting of waterfowl on private
a.m. Sunday mornings. or public lands permissible except for
Can I hunt rabbit, squirrel, and those places within 200 yards of places
Other than these exceptions and other allow- quail with dogs on Sundays? of worship or for which geographical
ances that had been made specifically by law in If you are the landowner, a member of his or limitations are established by the
the past, it will continue to be unlawful to hunt her family, or have the landowner’s written Director?
or kill any wild bird or wild animal, including permission to hunt on Sunday, you may use Yes as long as no other prohibition precludes
any nuisance species, with a gun, firearm, or dogs for rabbit, squirrel, and quail hunting. hunting waterfowl under the circumstances
other weapon on Sundays. It will also continue existing at the time hunting occurs.
to be unlawful to hunt or kill any deer or bear I obtained written permission to hunt on
with a gun, firearm, or other weapon with the Sunday from the landowner on whose Is written permission required
aid or assistance of dogs on Sundays. property I hunt. The landowner also for someone waterfowl hunting
gave me permission to bring guests. My on private property?
son and daughter want to hunt with me The new law does not require someone hunting
on Sunday. Do they also need written waterfowl on private property on Sunday to
permission from the landowner? have written permission. However, this does
You can act as the representative of the land- not displace any other laws or regulations that
owner to pass on written permission to your son otherwise prohibit, limit or regulate hunting on
and daughter as long as the landowner gave you private property. Written permission to hunt
written permission authorizing you and your on posted property is required as with all other
guests to hunt on Sunday, however language days of the week.
granting permission to hunt on Sundays should
be included in the written permission. The new law retained existing language
that permits the hunting of raccoons until
2:00 a.m. on Sunday mornings. Is Sunday
hunting of raccoons limited to this time
period only, or may raccoon hunters also
hunt on Sundays in accordance with other
provisions of the new law?
Lawful hunting of raccoons on Sunday ends at
2:00 a.m. on Sunday morning. No other Sunday
hunting of raccoons is allowed on either public
or private lands.
Prior to the new law Sunday hunting
was permitted on licensed shooting
preserves. Does this new law impact the
Sunday hunting operation of the shooting
preserves in any way?
The new law will not change anything with
the current law for the operation of shooting
preserves on Sunday for pen-raised game birds.
Photo by Sally Mills
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FREEDEFINITIONS
Loaded Crossbow or Muzzleloader
Definitions intersection with Rt. 642 (White Marsh Road)
and then along this highway in a southwest A muzzleloading firearm is considered “load-
direction to Rt. 604 (Desert Road), and then ed” when the muzzleloader is capped, or has a
Archery Tackle southerly along this highway to the North Caro- charged pan, or has a primer or battery installed
As used in this digest, archery tackle includes lina state line. in the firearm.
longbow, recurve bow, compound bow, and The definition of a “loaded crossbow” is a
crossbow. Furbearer Species crossbow that is cocked and has either a bolt
Furbearer means beaver, bobcat, fisher, fox, or arrow engaged or partially engaged on the
Bait mink, muskrat, opossum, otter, raccoon, skunk, shooting rail or track of the crossbow, or with
Bait shall mean any food, grain, or other con- and weasel. a “trackless crossbow” when the crossbow is
sumable substance that could serve as a lure or cocked and a bolt or arrow is nocked.
attractant; however, crops grown for normal or Game Animal
accepted agriculture or wildlife management Game animal means bear, bobcat, deer, elk, fox, Nonmigratory Game Birds
purposes, including food plots, shall not be rabbit, raccoon, and squirrel. Nonmigratory game bird means grouse, pheas-
considered as bait. ant, bobwhite quail, and turkey.
Hunting and Trapping
Dismal Swamp Line The act of or the attempted act of taking, hunt- Nuisance Species
Beginning at a point on Rt. 10 where it intersects ing, trapping, pursuing, chasing, shooting, snar- The following animals: house mouse, Norway
the Isle of Wight County line, then along this ing, or netting birds or animals, and assisting rat, black rat, coyote, groundhog, nutria, feral
highway to its intersection with the corporate any person who is doing the same, regardless hog, European starling, English sparrow, mute
limits of Suffolk, then through Suffolk to its of whether birds or animals are actually taken. swan, and pigeon (rock dove) are designated
as nuisance species and may be taken at any
time by use of a firearm or other weapon (unless
prohibited by local ordinances, see page 24)
FR
ED
ER
ICK
RKE
and on some public lands during certain time
CLA
DO
AH RE
N
LOUDOUN
ARLINGTON
periods (see National Forest-Game Department
East & West of the Blue Ridge
R
Regulations page 57).
WA FA PR FAIR
NAN UQ IN FAX
CE
SHE K UI W
OC
ER ILL
Counties colored blue are west of the Blue
NN
HA IA
PPA M
RO PAGE RA
CKIN
Ridge and those counties in white are east
GH
Other Wildlife
M CULPEPER STAF
AM AD FO RD
ISO
LA ND N KING
HIGH
of the Blue Ridge. It is unlawful to take, possess, transport, release,
GEORGE
GREENE IA
ORANGE WES
AUGUSTA SYLVAN TMO
SPOT RELA
ND
or sell all other wildlife species not classified as
ALBEMARLE RIC NORTHUMBERLAND
BATH CAROLINE ES HM
LOUISA SE ON
KIN X D
game, furbearer, or nuisance, unless otherwise
GE
K
NNA
AC
HAN G LA
Y
KIN
ID
NE FLUVA AN
AN
NC
M
OVE GW
BR
GOO D
LSO
CO
MID AS
GH
CHL R ILL Q
CK
TE
AC
N IAM UEE
specifically permitted by law or regulation.
AND DL R
LE
RO
N ES
AL
EX
ND
T AMHERST BUCKINGHAM POWHATAN NEW
HE
UR
LA
GL
MA
NR
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ER
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ET
THE
IC
TO
CH
MB
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CRAIG BOT
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CITA
JAMY
APPO RL
MP
CIT
Y ES
WS
MAT TO
ST
AMELIA CHESTERFIELD
CU
YO
HA
X
ES
ER
Route 29 Line/Amherst County
RO R K NEWPORT
BUC
RT
HAN GILES AN BEDFORD CE NEWS
NO
PRINCE
AN MON OK
E CAMPBELL EDWARD NOTTOWAY
PREINORGE
DIC TGO
MER G SURRY HAMPTON
KEN BLAND P
The Route 29 “line” in Amherst County is de-
SO TAZEWELL Y DINWIDDIE PORTSMOUTH
N UL CHARLOTTE ISLE OF NORFOLK
AS
WISE KI SUSSEX WIGHT
RUSSELL FRANKLIN LUNENBURG
IA
fined as Business U.S. 29 from the James River
VIREAC
WYTHE FLOYD ON
B
AN
ICK
GIN H
SMYTH M PT
HALIFAX
LV
SW
HA
IA
KE
CARROLL T PEA
SY
to its intersection with U.S. 29 just south of the
A
OU SUFFOLK
UN
SCOTT MECKLENBURG CHES
LEE WASHINGTON S
TT
GRAYSON
BR
GREENSVILLE
PATRICK HENRY
PI
West of the Blue Ridge East of the Blue Ridge town of Amherst continuing north on U.S. 29
to the Tye River.
VIRGINIA WILDLIFE CRIME LINE
Since its inception in October 1986, the Virginia Wildlife Crime Line has
become a valuable tool in the enforcement of the Commonwealth’s game, fish,
and boat laws. As awareness of this program increases, so do the number of
calls to report violations. The program has generated thousands of reported
wildlife crime tips that have resulted in over a thousand arrests and nearly
$40,000 in approved rewards. Reward payments are approved and funded
through the Virginia Sportsman Reward Fund, Inc. Their mission is to promote
the enforcement of hunting, fishing, and boating laws in Virginia by supporting
the Wildlife Crime Line in cooperation with the Virginia Department of Game
and Inland Fisheries. You can help support this effort by sending a tax-
deductible donation to: Virginia Wildlife Crime Line, P.O. Box 90778, Henrico,
VA 23228-0778.
Report a Wildlife Crime
If you know someone who kills wildlife out of season or over the game limit,
help the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries catch the individual
and stop others from following that path. If you observe a violation, call
the toll-free Virginia Wildlife Crime Line number at (800) 237-5712 or e-mail
wildcrime@dgif.virginia.gov.
10 2015–2016 VIRGINA HUNTING & TRAPPING REGULATIONS WWW.DGIF.VIRGINIA.GOVHUNTER
EDUCATION
Mandatory Hunter Hunter Skills
verbal contact with, provides adequate direc-
tion to, and can immediately assume control
Education Weekends
of the firearm from the apprentice hunter. The
apprentice hunting license cannot be used as
proof of holding a previous hunting license, for
Hunter Education courses provide instruction the purposes of purchasing a hunting license Every year in May and August Virginia Hunter
in hunter safety, principles of conservation, and without proof of hunter education. Skills Weekends are offered near Appomattox, VA,
sportsmanship. The courses are composed of If you purchase an apprentice hunting through a partnership program by the Virginia
two sections: license and then complete hunter education, Hunter Education Association, the DGIF, and Hol-
you may then use the apprentice license as iday Lake 4-H Educational Center. These unique
Section 1 – Self-study. a basic hunting license to hunt without su- educational programs are open to ages 11–90+
Each student is required to study course mate- pervision until it expires unless otherwise (children under 18 must attend with a parent).
rial prior to the classroom portion. required by law to be supervised as in the Three 4-hour sessions in a variety of topics provide
case of hunting on a youth/apprentice hunt- skills development for new and seasoned hunt-
Section 2 – Classroom portion. ing weekend where apprentice hunters must ers alike and include shooting, archery, survival,
Students will focus on safety and ethics. A writ- be supervised by a licensed adult. You must game cooking, tree stand safety, and a variety
ten test will be given at the end of the class. Test carry proof of hunter education while hunt- of hunting techniques. Completion of a Hunter
questions will cover material from the class- ing unsupervised. Education course is preferred but not required. For
room portion and from the self-study material. Any person 16 years of age or older may more information on registration fees and dates
Courses are offered free of charge throughout certify that he or she has held a previously visit www.holidaylake4h.com, call Holiday Lake
the Commonwealth. For more information, go issued hunting license by signing the license. at (434) 248-5444, or e-mail bbranch@vt.edu.
to the Hunter Education page at the DGIF web-
site www.dgif.virginia.gov/hunting/education/
new or call the Hunter Education Coordinator
Q: Is there a minimum age for taking a hunter education course?
at the nearest DGIF regional office www.dgif.
virginia.gov/about/offices. A: There is no minimum age for taking a hunter education course. The only re-
Hunters over the age of 18 may also take quirement is that a person taking the course must be able to comprehend and
hunter education completely online. There is retain the information learned. Since the course is required for all 12–15 year-old
a fee associated with these courses. For more hunting license buyers, it is designed for those 12 years of age. Some instruc-
information, go to www.dgif.virginia.gov/ tors may require that younger children be supervised by an adult companion.
hunting/education/new. It is recommended that all children under 12 be accompanied by an adult.
Hunter Education Requirements
You must complete an approved hunter educa-
tion course and carry your card while hunting
if either of the following apply:
• You are 12–15 years of age. (You must com-
Over 26,000 items for
plete hunter education but you do not have to
carry your card if accompanied and properly
Farm, Shop and Home
supervised by a licensed adult.) Visit us today or shop online for all
• You are at least 16 years of age and you are your outdoor supplies at unbeatable
hunting with your first hunting license.
prices. we have something for everyone!
Virginia accepts and recognizes all states’ and
countries’ hunting licenses and official hunter
Food Plot
education credentials for the purpose of com- Prep
plying with mandatory hunter education re-
quirements. These may be in the form of an
identification card or certificate.
Animal
Although it is recommended for all hunters, Traps ATV
you are not required to complete hunter edu-
cation if: Supplies
• You only hunt foxes with hounds while on
horseback, but without firearms. Apparel
for the
• You are exempt from the requirement to whole
purchase a license. family
• You are under the age of 12. However, you
may not hunt unless accompanied and di-
rectly supervised by a licensed adult.
• You are hunting with an apprentice license. In
that case you must be accompanied and directly
Hunting
supervised by an adult over the age of 18 who
has, on his person, a valid Virginia hunting
license. “Accompanied and directly supervised” 3001 N. Normandy Dr. • Petersburg, VA • (800) 551-0415
means the adult maintains close visual and Mon-Fri 7:30-5:30 • Sat 7:30-5:00 • www.AgriSupply.com
Visit our website to order a free catalog
11HUNTING LICENSE
INFORMATION
Which Licenses
Every person who is required to have a license must carry such license and shall show the li-
cense immediately upon request of any officer whose duty it is to enforce the game and inland
fish laws, or upon the demand of any owner or lessee, or any employee or representative of such
owner or lessee, upon whose land or water such person may be hunting, trapping, or fishing. Do I Need?
Any person who is required to carry certain hunting, trapping, or fishing licenses or a hunter
education certificate on their person can meet the requirement by carrying an electronic copy To hunt in Virginia, a resident or nonresident
of the relevant license or certificate, except that the bear license and deer/turkey license must hunting license is required, unless you are
still be possessed as a paper copy. license exempt. Other licenses, permits, or
A paper copy license is not valid unless signed by the licensee. stamps may also be required depending on
species hunted and location of hunt. Before
Residency purchasing a hunting license or permit, make
and the spouses of such children and grand- sure you understand what qualifies as a Virginia
Qualifications children, or the landowner’s parents, resident residency, that you really need a license or per-
or nonresident, do not need a license to hunt, mit based on the exemptions, and you have met
trap or fish (on inland waters) within the the hunter safety requirements.
• Persons who have been a bona fide resident boundaries of their own lands.
of the city, county, or state for six consecutive • Tenants, on the land they rent and occupy, To Hunt Small Game
months immediately preceding the date of are not required to have a license, but must A hunting license is required. A National For-
purchasing a license. have the written permission of the land- est Permit or State Forest Use Permit may also
• Persons who have been domiciliary residents owner. Persons who lease property and do be required.
of the state for at least two months upon not permanently reside there are not exempt
approval of a completed affidavit to be fur- from license requirements. To Hunt Dove, Woodcock,
nished by the Department. • Residents, 65 years of age and over, do not Snipe, or Rail
• Legal voters in Virginia. need a license to hunt or trap on private A hunting license and HIP number are required.
• Any member of the armed forces of the property in their county or city of residence. Register for HIP online at www.HuntFishVA.com
United States, or a member of the immedi- • Resident hunters under the age of 12 are not or call 1-888-788-9772. A National Forest Permit
ate family of such a member as defined in required to have a hunting license or hunter or State Forest Use Permit may also be required.
§ 2.2-3101, upon execution of a certificate education. Nonresident hunters under the age of
of residence if the member (i) resides in the 12 need a hunting license but do not need hunter To Hunt Bear, Deer, or Turkey
Commonwealth, (ii) is on active duty, and (iii) education to purchase one. All hunters under A bear license and/or a deer/turkey license is
is stationed at a military installation within, the age of 12 may not hunt unless accompanied required in addition to a hunting license. (These
or in a ship based in, the Commonwealth. and directly supervised by a licensed adult. licenses are valid from July 1–June 30 only.) A
• Students (including nonresident students • Residents under the age of 16 are not required National Forest Permit, State Forest Use Permit,
boarding on campus) residing in Virgin- to have a license to trap when accompanied or Bonus Deer Permits may also be required.
ia who are enrolled in bona fide Virginia by any person 18 years of age or older who
schools. possesses a valid Virginia trapping license. To Hunt With Archery Tackle
• Any unnaturalized person who owns real • Any person who is not hunting, but is aiding An archery license is required when using any
estate in the county or city and who has a disabled person to hunt when such disabled archery tackle during a designated archery sea-
actually resided there not less than five years person possesses a valid Virginia Disabled son. A bear license, deer/turkey license, Na-
next preceding the date of the application for Resident Lifetime hunting license or a Vir- tional Forest Permit, State Forest Use Permit,
the license in the county or city ginia Resident Disabled Veteran Lifetime or Bonus Deer Permits may also be required.
license is not required to have a license.
To Hunt With a Muzzleloader
License • Any Indian who “habitually” resides on an
Indian reservation or a member of the Vir- A muzzleloading license is required in addi-
Exemptions ginia recognized tribes who resides in the tion to the hunting license if hunting with a
Commonwealth is not required to have a muzzleloading firearm during any muzzleloader
hunting or trapping license; however, such deer season. A bear license, deer/turkey license,
All persons, except those listed below, must Indian must have on his person an identifi- National Forest Permit, State Forest Use Permit,
purchase the proper licenses before hunting or cation card or paper signed by the chief of or Bonus Deer Permits may also be required.
trapping. Where exempt, the exemption means his tribe, a valid tribal identification card,
the individual is exempt from the basic hunting written confirmation through a central tribal If hunting with archery tackle or muzzleloading
license; bear license, deer/turkey license, archery registry, or certification from a tribal office. rifle during any firearms deer season you do
license; muzzleloading license; trapping license; • Stockholders owning 50 percent or more of the not need an archery or muzzleloading license.
and Virginia Migratory Waterfowl Conservation stock of any domestic corporation owning land
Stamp. All seasons, bag limits, and checking in Virginia, his or her spouse and children and To Trap
requirements apply. minor grandchildren, resident or nonresident, • A trapping license is required to trap. A Na-
do not need a license to hunt, trap and fish tional Forest Permit or State Forest Use Permit
• Resident or nonresident landowners, their within the boundaries of lands and inland may also be required
spouses, their children and grandchildren waters owned by the domestic corporation.
To Hunt Waterfowl
• A hunting license, Federal Duck Stamp, Vir-
ginia Migratory Waterfowl Conservation
Q: If you buy the apprentice license do you still need to buy a Bear Stamp and a HIP number are required. Reg-
License or Deer/Turkey License, etc? ister for HIP online at www.vahip.com or call
1-888-788-9772. A National Forest Permit or
A: Yes, the apprentice license is in place of the basic hunting license. Any ad- State Forest Use Permit may also be required.
ditional licenses, stamps, or permits would still be required.
12 2015–2016 VIRGINA HUNTING & TRAPPING REGULATIONS WWW.DGIF.VIRGINIA.GOVLifetime Licenses TREE STAND SAFETY
Resident and nonresident lifetime licenses are pur-
chased by an application and require supporting GUIDELINES
documentation of age, residency, and/or disability.
They are issued only through the Richmond office. • Use a full-body safety harness to secure your-
Retail license agents cannot issue these licenses. self to the tree. Stay attached whenever you
Applications can be submitted in person at the are off the ground. Minimize slack in the tether
Richmond office or mailed in. License applica- so that if you fall, it will not be very far. This
tions can be found on the Department’s website reduces the risk of injury and may allow you
at www.huntfishva.com/licenses/lifetime. to climb back into your stand. Hanging in a
harness for a long time may cause irreversible
injury or death. Have a plan for self-rescue.
Virginia Apprentice • Never climb with equipment; use a haul line to get your unloaded gun or bow
Hunting License into and out of the tree stand. Crossbows may be raised while cocked, but
should never be loaded with an arrow until you are securely in the stand and
ready to hunt. It can be dangerous to try to cock a crossbow while in a tree.
The apprentice hunting license serves as a first-
time Virginia resident or nonresident hunting • Keep manufactured tree stands in good working condition. Always follow the
license and is good for two years. manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Previous Virginia resident and non-resident • Many falls occur because of the failure of homemade stands, especially as
hunting license holders are not eligible to pur- they age. It is best to avoid them.
chase an apprentice license.
The license entitles the holder to a one-time • While most manufactured tree stands are safe if used properly, they are
deferral of the hunter education requirement. occasionally found to be defective and recalled. To find out if your stand has
The apprentice license holder must be accom- been recalled, check the Consumer Product Safety Commission website at
panied and directly supervised by an adult over www.CPSC.gov.
18 who has on his or her person a valid Virginia Additional Information on safety harnesses:
www.HuntFishVA.com/hunting/education.
Continued on page 14
13HUNTING LICENSE
INFORMATION
hunting license. “Accompanied and directly su- request a replacement at any retail license agent. season. To obtain a new number, migratory game
pervised” occurs when a person over 18 maintains If you purchased a license online, by phone, bird hunters can register online at www.vahip.
a close visual and verbal contact with, provides ad- or from the Richmond office you will need to com or call (888) 788-9772 starting July 1.
equate direction to, and can immediately assume request a replacement by calling toll-free 1- 866-
Where to Get
control of the firearm from the apprentice hunter. 721-6911 during regular business hours.
If you purchase an apprentice hunting license
Migratory Game a License
and then complete hunter education, you may
then use the apprentice license as a basic hunt-
ing license to hunt without supervision until it
expires unless otherwise required by law to be Bird Hunters Online:
Get HIP!
supervised as in the case of hunting on a youth/ www.HuntFishVA.com. Select the license(s)
apprentice hunting day where, by Department you want, pay with your VISA or MasterCard,
regulation, apprentice hunters must be super- and print your license(s) after you pay.
vised by a licensed or an exempt licensed adult. All hunters (whether licensed or exempt from be-
If hunting unsupervised you must carry proof ing licensed) who plan to hunt doves, waterfowl, In Person:
of hunter education. rails, woodcock, snipe, coots, gallinules, or moor- Sold by some clerks of the Circuit Court and
The apprentice license does not qualify the hens in Virginia must be registered with the Vir- hundreds of license agents around the state.
holder to purchase a regular hunting license, ginia Harvest Information Program (HIP). HIP is
nor exempt the holder from compliance with required each year and a NEW REGISTRATION By Phone:
Department regulations. NUMBER is needed for the 2014–2015 hunting (866) 721-6911 during regular business hours.
A bear license, deer/turkey license and all
applicable licenses, stamps, or permits are
required in addition to the apprentice license
if you choose to hunt those species.
Replacement
Licenses Q: If you turn 16 after you purchase a junior license is it still good or do
you need to purchase another license for 16 and older?
If you purchased a license from a retail license A: Your license is good until it expires.
agent, such as a sporting goods store, you can
new magazine sub ad_Layout 1 5/14/15 3:10 PM Page 1
Subscribe to
Virginia
Wildlife
annual subscriptions–$12.95
n New n Renewal
Name
Address
City
State Zip
Make check payable to Treasurer of Virginia.
Send to Virginia Wildlife, P.O. Box 90778, Henrico,VA 23228
or call 1-800-710-9369 and mention code J15HF
Sorry, no foreign delivery
14Hunters and Trappers
SHARE A LIFETIME If you use a boat—remember to
OF MEMORIES! boat smart!
Give a Legacy Lifetime Hunting License Wear Your Life Jacket
• Issued only to an individual who is younger than two years of age
and is valid for the lifetime of the license holder regardless of any Safety Tips
change in that person’s status as a resident or nonresident. 4 Check the weather before leaving.
• Legacy hunting license is valid until the individual’s 12th birth- 4 Wear a life jacket, vest or float coat.
day. Upon proof of completion of a hunter education course or
4 Anchor from the bow, never from the stern.
equivalent, this license is transferable to a lifetime hunting license
at no additional charge. 4 Properly load your boat.
• The Legacy hunting or fishing license is available by application 4 Leave the alcohol at home.
through the Richmond office or via a mail-in application. Applica- 4 Stay with your boat if it should
tion available online. Cost is $125 for resident children and $250
capsize.
for nonresident children.
4 Guard against hypothermia.
Can be purchased in person at the Richmond office or
via a mail-in application. Application available online. 4 Remain seated and keep weight
evenly distributed.
Don’t forget: Boating Safety
Classes are Required
www.dgif.virginia.gov/boating/education/
requirement/
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15HUNTING LICENSE
FEES
License Fees
(Issuance fee is included in the price.)
Resident Hunting Licenses
Licenses are valid for one year from the date of purchase except the bear license, deer/turkey license (valid July 1-June 30 only), the Virginia migratory waterfowl
conservation stamp, the apprentice hunting license, and lifetime licenses.
LICENSE FEE LICENSE FEE
Resident Sportsman’s License (age 16 and older) $133.00 Resident Lifetime Hunting License
Includes hunting license, bear license, deer/turkey license, archery li- Annual bear license, deer/turkey license and all applicable licenses,
cense, muzzleloading license, freshwater fishing license, and trout license. stamps, or permits are required in addition to this license. Can be
purchased in person at the Richmond office or via a mail-in application.
Resident Hunting License (age 16 and older) Application available online.
1-year license $23.00 Age 12-44
$260.00
(hunter education course required under age 16)
2-year license $44.00
Age 45-50 $210.00
3-year license $65.00 Age 51-55 $160.00
4-year license $86.00 Age 56-60 $110.00
Resident County or City Hunting License (age 16 and older) $16.00 Age 61-64 $60.00
For county or city of residence only. Age 65 and over $20.00
Resident Apprentice Hunting License $11.00 Totally and Permanently Disabled Resident Special Hunting
$15.00
Lifetime License
Annual bear license, deer/turkey license and all applicable licenses,
Annual bear license, deer/turkey license and all applicable licenses,
stamps, or permits are required in addition to this license. See page 13
stamps, or permits are required in addition to this hunting license. Can be
for details. Valid for 2 years from date of purchase.
purchased in person at the Richmond office or via a mail-in application.
Resident Senior Citizen Hunting License (age 65 and over) $9.00 Application available online.
Service-Connected Totally and Permanently Disabled
Annual bear license, deer/turkey license and all applicable licenses, no charge
Veteran Resident Lifetime Hunting License
stamps or permits are required in addition to this license.
For qualified resident disabled veterans. Includes hunting license, bear
Resident Annual Hunting License for 70 Percent Partially license, deer/turkey license, archery license, muzzleloading license. All
$12.00
Disabled Veterans other applicable licenses, stamps, or permits are required in addition to
this license. Can be purchased in person at the Richmond office or via a
Resident veterans rated and certified by the U.S. Department of Veterans mail-in application. Application available online. A license for freshwater
Affairs as having at least 70 percent service-connected disability upon fishing is also available.
certification. Annual bear license, deer/turkey license and all applicable
licenses, stamps, or permits are required in addition to this license. Can Resident Fox Hunting License $23.00
be purchased in person at the Richmond office or via a mail-in application.
To hunt foxes on horseback with hounds without firearms. Not required
Application available online.
of an individual holding a basic license to hunt.
Resident Junior Hunting License
$8.50
(age 12 to 15; optional for under 12 years old)
One or more of the following may be required
Resident Youth Combination Hunting License (age 12 to 15) $16.00
in addition to a resident hunting license.
Includes hunting license, bear license, deer/turkey license, archery LICENSE FEE
license, and muzzleloading license.
Resident Bear License $21.00
Resident Junior Lifetime Hunting License (under age 12) $255.00
Resident Deer/Turkey License (age 16 and older) $23.00
No annual bear license, or deer/turkey license required until age 12. Not required if senior citizen’s lifetime license was purchased before
National forest permit, state forest use permit, and bonus deer permits, if July 1, 1988. Not required for holders of Service-Connected Totally and
applicable, are required in addition to this license. Upon proof of comple- Permanently Disabled Resident Veteran Lifetime License. Valid July 1
tion of a hunter education course or equivalent, the license is transfer- through June 30 only.
able to a lifetime hunting license at no additional fee. Can be purchased
in person at the Richmond office or via a mail-in application. Application Resident Junior Deer/Turkey License (age 12 to 15) $8.50
available online.
Valid July 1 through June 30.
Resident Legacy Lifetime Hunting License $125.00
Resident Archery License $18.00
Must be purchased before age 2. See page 15 for details. Can be
Includes longbow, recurve bow, compound bow, and crossbow.
purchased in person at the Richmond office or via a mail-in application.
Application available online. Resident Muzzleloading License $18.00
License-exempt hunters must still check bear, bobcat, deer, elk, or turkey (see page 29).
16 2015–2016 VIRGINA HUNTING & TRAPPING REGULATIONS WWW.DGIF.VIRGINIA.GOVNonresident Hunting Licenses
Licenses are valid for one year from the date of purchase except the bear license, deer/turkey license (valid July 1-June 30 only), the Virginia migratory waterfowl
conservation stamp, the apprentice hunting license, and lifetime licenses.
LICENSE FEE LICENSE FEE
Nonresident Hunting License (age 16 and older) $111.00 Nonresident Lifetime Hunting License $555.00
Nonresident 3-Day Hunt License (age 16 and older) $60.00 Annual bear license, deer/turkey license and all applicable licenses,
stamps or permits are required in addition to this license. Can be
Must be 3 consecutive days including Sundays where Sunday hunting is purchased in person at the Richmond office or via a mail-in application.
allowed. Application available online.
Nonresident Apprentice Hunting License $21.00 Nonresident Fox Hunting License $111.00
Annual nonresident bear license, deer/turkey license and all applicable To hunt foxes on horseback with hounds without firearms. Not required
licenses, stamps, or permits may be required in addition to this license. of an individual holding a general license to hunt.
See page 13 for details. Valid for 2 years from date of purchase.
Nonresident Foxhound Training Preserve license $18.00
Nonresident Annual Hunting License for 70 Percent Partially
$56.00
Disabled Veterans To hunt within the boundaries of a licensed foxhound training preserve, in
lieu of other required licenses.
Nonresident veterans rated and certified by the U.S. Department
of Veterans Affairs as having at least 70 percent service-connected Nonresident Hunting (Shooting) Preserve license $23.00
disability. Annual bear license, deer/turkey license and all applicable
licenses, stamps or permits are required in addition to this license. Can be To hunt within the boundaries of a licensed shooting preserve, in lieu of
purchased in person at the Richmond office or via a mail-in application. other required licenses.
Application available online.
Service-Connected Totally and Permanently Disabled
$28.50
Nonresident Veteran Annual Hunting License
For nonresident veterans rated and certified by the U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs as having a total and permanent disability that is service One or more of the following may be required
connected. Annual bear license, deer/turkey license and all applicable in addition to a resident hunting license.
licenses, stamps, or permits are required in addition to this hunting li- LICENSE FEE
cense. Can be purchased in person at the Richmond office or via a mail-in
application. Application available online. Nonresident Bear License $151.00
Nonresident Junior Hunting License (under age 12) $13.00 Nonresident Deer/Turkey License
Valid July 1 through June 30.
Nonresident Junior Hunting License (age 12 to 15) $16.00
Age 16 and older $86.00
Nonresident Youth Combination Hunting License
$31.00
(under age 16) Age 12 to 15 $16.00
Includes hunting license, bear license, deer/turkey license, archery Under age 12 $13.00
license, and muzzleloading license.
Nonresident Archery License $31.00
Nonresident Legacy Hunting License $250.00
Includes longbow, recurve bow, compound bow, and
Must be purchased before age 2. See page 15 for details. Can be crossbow.
purchased in person at the Richmond office or via a mail-in application.
Application available online. Nonresident Muzzleloading License $31.00
WWW.DGIF.VIRGINIA.GOV2015–2016 VIRGINA HUNTING & TRAPPING REGULATIONS 17HUNTING LICENSE
FEES
License Fees
(Issuance fee is included in the price.)
Trapping Licenses Miscellaneous Licenses, Permits, and Stamps
One or more of the following is required to trap. Other licenses or permits One or more of the following may be required in addition to a hunting license.
may also be required.
LICENSE FEE PERMITS FEE
County or City Resident Trapping License $21.00 Resident Bonus Deer Permit (6 antlerless tags) $18.00
See page 34 for more information.
For county or city of residence.
Nonresident Bonus Deer Permit (6 antlerless tags) $31.00
Resident Trapping License See page 34 for more information.
1-year license $46.00 National Forest Permit $4.00
To hunt and trap within National Forest. Not required of residents under
2-year license $90.00
the age of 16 to trap, residents who have an annual senior citizen hunting
3-year license $134.00 license ($9.00) or a lifetime license issued before 7/1/88.
Virginia State Forest Use Permit (age 16 or older) $16.00
4-year license $178.00
Allows hunting, trapping, fishing, mountain biking, and horse riding. No
Resident Junior Trapping License (under age 16) $11.00 motorized vehicles on gated roads/trails (open or closed). Sold in coopera-
tion with the Virginia Department of Forestry.
Resident Senior Citizen Trapping License (age 65 and over) $9.00 Public Access Lands for Sportsmen (PALS) $18.00
Resident Senior Citizen Lifetime Trapping License See page 57 for more information.
$20.00
(age 65 or over) $4.00
per day
Can be purchased in person at the Richmond office or via a mail-in Access Permit (see page 54 for more information)
/ $23.00
application. Application available online.
per year
Service-Connected Permanently and Totally Disabled Daily group rates are available. For more information go to:
$15.00
Veteran Resident Lifetime Trapping License www.HuntFishVA.com/access-permit/
Can be purchased in person at the Richmond office or via a mail-in
application. Application available online. STAMPS FEE
Federal Migratory Duck E-Stamp $27.50
Totally and Permanently Disabled Resident Special Lifetime
$15.00 To take migratory waterfowl; required of persons 16 years of age and
Trapping License
over in addition to hunting license. Valid July 1 through June 30.
Can be purchased in person at the Richmond office or via a mail-in
Virginia Migratory Waterfowl Conservation Stamp $10.00
application. Application available online.
Required of persons 16 years of age and older, unless license exempt.
Nonresident Trapping License $206.00 Valid July 1 through June 30.
FEDERAL ELECTRONIC OR “E-STAMP”
DUCK STAMP PROGRAM
A Federal Duck Stamp is required for all persons 16 years
and older in order to hunt waterfowl. Waterfowl hunters
can still purchase their Federal Duck Stamp at U.S. Post
Offices at a cost of $25.00, but a new program provides
a convenient online option whereby hunters can obtain
an E-stamp for $27.50. The E-stamp is valid immediately
following the purchase and for up to 45 days. The actual
Federal Duck Stamp will be mailed to the customer within 45
days and must be carried thereafter while hunting waterfowl.
To obtain the E-stamp Federal Duck stamp go to the Depart-
ment’s website (www.HuntFishVA.com/licenses) and click on
hunting and fishing licenses or visit one of over 800 license
agents throughout the Commonwealth.
2015 Federal Duck Stamp artwork, by Jennifer Miller
©All rights reserved by USFWS Headquarters
18 2015–2016 VIRGINA HUNTING & TRAPPING REGULATIONS WWW.DGIF.VIRGINIA.GOVYou can also read
