HUNTING &TRAPPING IN VIRGINIA - July 2020-June 2021 - Virginia Department of Wildlife ...
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HUNTING &TRAPPING IN VIRGINIA July 2020-June 2021 Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources www.virginiawildlife.gov www.gooutdoorsvirginia.com
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HUNTING
&TRAPPING
IN VIRGINIA
July 2020-June 2021
Meghan Marchetti / DWR
GENERAL�����������������������������������������������4
Commonwealth of Virginia
Ralph S. Northam, Governor
Secretary of Natural Resources INFORMATION
Matthew J. Strickler
Department of Wildlife Resources BEAR HUNTING�������������������������������������26
Ryan J. Brown, Executive Director
REGULATIONS
Members of the Board
John W. Daniel II, Chair, Richmond
Brian Vincent, Vice-chair, Farmville DEER HUNTING�������������������������������������30
Frank Adams, King William
Leon Boyd, Vansant
REGULATIONS
Catherine H. Claiborne, Richmond
Douglas Dear, Syria
Mamie A. Parker, Ph.D., Dulles
TURKEY HUNTING����������������������������������42
Tom Sadler, Verona
Karen Terwilliger, Locustville
REGULATIONS
G. K Washington, Dillwyn
Mission Statement
SMALL GAME HUNTING�������������������������44
Conserve and manage wildlife populations and habitat REGULATIONS
for the benefit of present and future generations.
Connect people to Virginia’s outdoors through boating,
education, fishing, hunting, trapping, wildlife viewing FURBEARER HUNTING & TRAPPING��������46
and other wildlife-related activities. Protect people and
property by promoting safe outdoor experiences and REGULATIONS
managing human-wildlife conflicts.
The Department of Wildlife Resources shall afford to all
persons an equal access to Department programs and
PUBLIC HUNTING LANDS�����������������������52
facilities without regard to race, color, religion, disability,
national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, age,
REGULATIONS
political affiliation, or veteran’s status. If you believe that
you have been discriminated against in any program,
activity, or facility, please write to: Virginia Department
of Wildlife Resources, Attn: Executive Director’s Office, This booklet is for general information and contains information regarding programs, poli-
7870 Villa Park Dr, Suite 400, P.O. Box 90778, Henrico, cies, regulations, rules, and fees of the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR)
VA 23228. current at the time of printing. Information may change after printing and any changes
will supersede the information in this publication. DWR’s programs, policies, regulations,
On the Cover: rules, or fees can be found at www.virginiawildlife.gov. Specific laws are found in the Code
Black bear, photo © Rue Wildlife Photos of Virginia (http://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode) or the Wildlife Resources Department Regulation
Manual (http://law.lis.virginia.gov/admincode/title4/agency15). For answers to specific questions
about hunting and fishing, contact the Department of Wildlife Resources office nearest you.
The sale of advertising paid a large portion of the cost of this publication. The Department of Wildlife
Resources neither endorses the products or services offered in the advertising, nor accepts any
liability from the use of such products or services.
DIRECTOR’S
MESSAGE
You may notice in this edition of the Hunting and Trapping in
Virginia Digest that our agency’s name and logo have changed.
While we have been known for many years as the Virginia De-
partment of Game and Inland Fisheries (DGIF), effective July 1,
2020, we became the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources
(DWR). While this change will help us be more recognizable to
all Virginians, we want to assure you that absolutely nothing has
changed with respect to our commitment to Virginia’s sportsmen
and sportswomen and the species that we appreciate and pursue.
Over the last 104 years, the agency’s full scope of responsi-
bilities has changed, as has Virginia’s public. While we began as Williamstown, MA | Birmingham, AL
purely a game management agency, today we are a comprehensive
wildlife management agency, providing services to all Virginians
and promoting all of our wildlife and its habitats. All of these
About This Guide
efforts have been achieved through the contributions of our hunters, anglers, and trappers for
the benefit of all.
We remain firm in our commitment to those who have historically made our work possible.
Additionally, we also want to welcome and enhance relationships with other wildlife enthusiasts
to further enhance our efforts. This best lays a groundwork for the future of the management of
all of our wildlife and habitats, and will bring to the table other interests to add to the support This high-quality guide is offered to you
that you have historically provided. We will remain the stewards of Virginia’s game populations by the Virginia Department of Wildlife
and make sure that hunters, anglers, and trappers are able to enjoy excellent sporting oppor- Resources through its unique partnership
tunities across the Commonwealth. We’re also committed, as are many of you, to continuing with J.F. Griffin Publishing, LLC.
our mission to educate and encourage new generations of sportsmen and sportswomen to
participate in hunting, fishing, boating, and recreational shooting opportunities that we have The revenue generated through ad sales
been so fortunate to enjoy. significantly lowers production costs and
It may take a while to get used to our new name and the DWR acronym, but we think it will generates savings. These savings translate
be well worth it in the long term to better reach all of Virginia’s current and future wildlife into additional funds for other important
enthusiasts and to ensure full and continued support for the species that we honor and enjoy. agency programs.
Thank you for all of your support for this agency and of our wildlife; we could not do what we
If you have any feedback or are inter-
do without each of you!
ested in advertising, please contact us at
Ryan Brown, Executive Director, DWR 413.884.1001 or at www.JFGriffin.com
Graphic Design:
Jon Gulley, Dane Fay, John Corey,
Evelyn Haddad, Chris Sobolowski
VIRGINIA’S WILDLIFE
RESTORATION PROGRAM
AND YOU
Hunters and trappers create many opportunities for Virginians to enjoy excep-
tional hunting, trapping, and wildlife watching. Through the Federal Assistance
in Wildlife & Sport Fish Restoration program, you help the Virginia Department of
Wildlife Resources make wildlife-oriented outdoor recreation even better each
time you buy a firearm, ammunition, or a hunting or trapping license.
When you buy hunting-related equipment, a portion of the excise tax levied on
the manufacturer goes to the Federal Assistance in Wildlife Restoration pro-
gram. Virginia currently receives approximately $12 million each year from this
program, which funds a large portion of the Department’s habitat management
and wildlife population research projects.
This guide is also
available online at
Meghan Marchetti / DWR
2 2020–2021 VIRGINIA HUNTING & TRAPPING REGULATIONS WWW.VIRGINIAWILDLIFE.GOV
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CONTACT
INFORMATION
Headquarters Regional Offices
7870 Villa Park Drive, Suite 400 Region 1 Region 4
Henrico, VA 23228 3801 John Tyler Memorial Hwy. P.O. Box 996, 517 Lee Highway
(804) 367-1000; (804) 367-1278 V/TDD Charles City, VA 23030 Verona, VA 24482
(804) 829-6580 (540) 248-9360
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 90778 Region 2 1320 Belman Road
Henrico, VA 23228-0778 1132 Thomas Jefferson Road Fredericksburg, VA 22401
Forest, VA 24551-9223 (540) 899-4169
Boating Registration/ (434) 525-7522
License Fees
(804) 367-1000 Region 3
1796 Highway Sixteen
Note: The Headquarters Office is the only Marion, VA 24354
Department location where visitors may title/ (276) 783-4860
register a boat. These services are not available
at the Regional Offices.
Additional Contacts
Report Wildlife Violations Only Virginia Department of Forestry U. S. Forest Service Supervisor
(800) 237-5712 or wildcrime@dwr.virginia.gov Headquarters: (434) 977-6555 George Washington and
State Forest: (804) 492-4121 www.dof.virginia. Jefferson Forest
Boating Registration/License Fees gov/stateforest/recreation/hunting.htm 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.gooutdoorsvirginia.com USDA Wildlife Services
(804) 739-7739
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4 2020–2021 VIRGINIA HUNTING & TRAPPING REGULATIONS WWW.VIRGINIAWILDLIFE.GOV
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WHAT’S NEW
FOR 2020-2021
Lynda Richar
dson / DWR
Lynda Richardson / DWR
Department Name Change • Whole deer carcasses, and parts containing Penalty for Hunting, Trapping,
• As a result of legislation which passed the brain or spinal cord tissue, originating from and Fishing Convictions
General Assembly and was approved by the DMA2 may be transported anywhere within • In addition to previously prescribed penalties,
Governor, the Department of Game and Inland both DMA1 and DMA2 (see pages 39-40). individuals convicted of violating laws associ-
Fisheries will become known as the Depart- • All deer killed in Culpeper, Madison, and ated with hunting, trapping, and/or fishing may
ment of Wildlife Resources beginning July 1, Shenandoah counties on November 14, 2020 also be prohibited by the court from hunting,
2020 (see Director’s Message page 2). must be brought to a designated CWD sample trapping, and/or fishing in Virginia for a period
station to be tested for CWD (see page 39). of one to five years.
Chronic Wasting Disease • Feeding of deer is now prohibited year round • Individuals who are found to be hunting, trap-
• Chronic wasting disease (CWD) has been in Prince William County (see page 19). ping or fishing while they are prohibited to do
found in Clarke and Fauquier counties. so may receive an additional one to five years
• Disease Management Area 2 (DMA2) has been Senior Combo Lifetime License to their prohibition.
expanded to include Fauquier, Loudoun, Page, • Virginia residents 80 years of age and older
and Rappahannock counties, in addition to may purchase a Senior Combination Lifetime Quota Hunts
Culpeper, Madison, and Orange counties (see License which includes a hunting license, bear • New quota hunts for archery deer, spring tur-
page 39). license, and deer/turkey license. All other keys, and dove have been added for Land’s
• Whole deer carcasses, and parts containing required licenses, permits, and stamps must End WMA in King George County (see pages
brain or spinal cord tissue, originating from be purchased separately (see page 13). 62-64).
a Disease Management Area (DMA) cannot
be transported to any county not designated Guaranteed Hunts Prohibited
as a DMA (see pages 39-40). • It is unlawful to offer for sale, sell, offer to
• Whole deer carcasses, and parts containing purchase, or purchase a hunt guaranteeing
brain or spinal cord tissue, originating from the killing of a deer, bear, or wild turkey (see
DMA1 may be transported only within DMA1 page 18).
(see pages 39-40).
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6 2020–2021 VIRGINIA HUNTING & TRAPPING REGULATIONS WWW.VIRGINIAWILDLIFE.GOV
HUNTER
EDUCATION
Mandatory Hunter • You are exempt from the requirement to education while hunting unsupervised with
purchase a license. an apprentice license.
Education • You are under the age of 12. However, you
Hunter Skills
may not hunt unless accompanied and di-
rectly supervised by a licensed adult.
Weekends
Hunter Education courses provide instruction • You are hunting with an apprentice license.
in hunter safety, principles of conservation, In that case you must be accompanied and
and sportsmanship. There are two options for directly supervised by an adult over the age
completing Hunter Education–Classroom with of 18 who has, on his person, a valid Virginia Virginia Hunter Skills Weekends are offered
self study and Full Online Courses. hunting license. “Accompanied and directly each year near Appomattox, VA through a
supervised” means the adult maintains close partnership program between the Virginia
Classroom Course visual and verbal contact with, provides ad- Hunter Education Association, the Virginia
Section 1 – Self-study. equate direction to, and can immediately Department of Wildlife Resources, and Holiday
Each student is required to study course materi- assume control of the firearm from the ap- Lake 4-H Educational Center. These affordable
al prior to the classroom session. Students must prentice hunter. When buying a hunting li- educational programs are open to ages 11–90+
read the Today’s Hunter Student Manual and cense, the apprentice hunting license cannot (children under 18 must attend with a parent).
complete the review exercises at the back of the be used as proof of previously purchasing a A variety of instructional courses provide skill
book. The review exercises must be presented hunting license. development for new and seasoned hunters
to the course instructor, or the student will not If you purchase an apprentice hunting alike. They include firearms, archery, survival,
be certified. Student manuals may be obtained license and then complete hunter education, game cooking, tree stand safety, and a variety
for free at DWR headquarters or at any DWR you may use the apprentice license as a basic of hunting techniques. Completion of a Hunter
regional office or may be purchased by calling license to hunt until it expires. You will not Education course is preferred but not required.
1-800-830-2268. A free download of the manual need supervision unless otherwise required For more information on registration fees and
is available at www.virginiawildlife.gov/hunt- by law to be supervised, such as in the case dates visit www.holidaylake4h.com, or call
ing/education. of hunting on a youth/apprentice hunting Holiday Lake at (434) 248-5444.
weekend. You must carry proof of hunter
Section 2 – Classroom portion.
Students will focus on safety and ethics. A writ-
ten test will be given at the end of the class. Test
Q: How do I get a replacement Hunter Education card?
questions will cover material from the class-
room portion and from the self-study material. A: Go to www.ilostmycard.com or call 800-830-2268.
Courses are offered free of charge throughout
the Commonwealth. For more information,
go to the Hunter Education page on the DWR
website at www.virginiawildlife.gov/hunting/
education or call the Hunter Education Office
at (804) 367-2901 or (804) 367-1147.
Full Online Course
Hunters age 12 and over may also take hunter
education completely online. There is a fee asso-
ciated with this course. For more information, go
to www.virginiawildlife.gov/hunting/education.
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-
plete hunter education but you do not have to
carry your card if accompanied and properly
supervised by a licensed adult.)
• You are at least 16 years of age and you are
hunting with your first hunting license.
Virginia accepts and recognizes all states’ and
countries’ hunting licenses and official hunter
education credentials for the purpose of com-
plying with mandatory hunter education re-
quirements. These may be in the form of an
identification card or certificate.
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WWW.VIRGINIAWILDLIFE.GOV 7
HUNTING LICENSE
INFORMATION
Which Licenses
Every person who is required to have a license must carry such license and shall show the license
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. We recommend the electronic carrying of licenses through hunting license is required, unless you are license
the use of our App, see page 6. Electronic carry does not require a signature. exempt. Other licenses, permits, or stamps may
also be required depending on species hunted and
location of hunt. Before purchasing a hunting
Residency license or permit, make sure you understand what
children, or the landowner’s parents, resident qualifies as a Virginia residency, that you really
Qualifications or nonresident, do not need a license to hunt, need a license or permit based on the exemptions,
trap or fish (on inland waters) within the and you have met the hunter safety requirements.
boundaries of their own lands.
• Persons who have been a bona fide resident • Tenants, on the land they rent and occupy, To Hunt Small Game
of the city, county, or state for six consecutive are not required to have a license, but must A hunting license is required. A National For-
months immediately preceding the date of have the written permission of the land- est Permit or State Forest Use Permit may also
purchasing a license. owner. Persons who lease property and do be required.
• Persons who have been domiciliary residents not permanently reside there are not exempt
of the state for at least two months upon from license requirements. To Hunt Dove, Woodcock,
approval of a completed affidavit to be fur- • Residents, 65 years of age and over, do not Snipe, Gallinules, or Rails
nished by the Department. need a license to hunt or trap on private A hunting license and HIP authoriza-
• Legal voters in Virginia. property in their county or city of residence. tion are required. Register for HIP online at
• Any member of the armed forces of the • Resident hunters under the age of 12 are not www.gooutdoorsvirginia.com or call (888) 788-
United States, or a member of the immedi- required to have a hunting license or hunter 9772. A National Forest Permit or State Forest
ate family of such a member as defined in education. Nonresident hunters under the age of Use Permit may also be required.
§ 2.2-3101, upon execution of a certificate 12 need a hunting license but do not need hunter
of residence if the member (i) resides in the education to purchase one. All hunters under To Hunt Bear, Deer, or Turkey
Commonwealth, (ii) is on active duty, and (iii) the age of 12 may not hunt unless accompanied A bear license and/or a deer/turkey license is
is stationed at a military installation within, and directly supervised by a licensed adult. required in addition to a hunting license. (These
or in a ship based in, the Commonwealth. • Residents under the age of 16 are not required licenses are valid from July 1–June 30 only.) A
• Students (including nonresident students to have a license to trap when accompanied National Forest Permit, State Forest Use Permit,
boarding on campus) residing in Virginia by any person 18 years of age or older who or Bonus Deer Permits may also be required.
who are enrolled in bona fide Virginia schools. possesses a valid Virginia trapping license.
• Any unnaturalized person who owns real • Any person who is not hunting, but is aiding To Hunt With Archery Tackle
estate in the county or city and who has a disabled person to hunt when such disabled An archery license is required in addition to a
actually resided there not less than five years person possesses a valid Virginia Disabled hunting license when using archery tackle during
preceding the date of the application for the Resident Lifetime hunting license or a Vir- a designated archery season for bear, deer, turkey
license in the county or city. ginia Resident Disabled Veteran Lifetime and bobcat. A bear license, deer/turkey license,
license is not required to have a license. National Forest Permit, State Forest Use Permit,
License • Any Indian who “habitually” resides on or Bonus Deer Permits may also be required.
an Indian reservation or a member of the
To Hunt With a Muzzleloader
Exemptions Virginia-recognized tribes who resides
in the Commonwealth is not required to A muzzleloading license is required in addition
have a hunting or trapping license; however, to the hunting license if hunting with a muzzle-
All persons, except those listed below, must such Indian must have on his person an loading firearm during a designated muzzle-
purchase the proper licenses before hunting or identification card or paper signed by the loader deer or bear season. A bear license, deer/
trapping. Where exempt, the exemption means chief of his tribe, a valid tribal identifica- turkey license, National Forest Permit, State
the individual is exempt from the basic hunting tion card, written confirmation through a Forest Use Permit, or Bonus Deer Permits may
license; bear license, deer/turkey license, archery central tribal registry, or certification from also be required.
license; muzzleloading license; trapping license; a tribal office.
and Virginia Migratory Waterfowl Conservation • Stockholders owning 50 percent or more of the If hunting with archery tackle or muzzleloading
Stamp. All seasons, bag limits, and checking stock of any domestic corporation owning land rifle during any firearms deer season, you do
requirements apply. in Virginia, his or her spouse and children and not need an archery or muzzleloading license.
minor grandchildren, resident or nonresident,
• Resident or nonresident landowners, their do not need a license to hunt, trap and fish To Trap
spouses, their children and grandchildren within the boundaries of lands and inland • A trapping license is required to trap. A Na-
and the spouses of such children and grand- waters owned by the domestic corporation. tional Forest Permit or State Forest Use Permit
may also be required
To Hunt Waterfowl
Q: If you buy the apprentice license do you still need to buy a Bear • A hunting license, Federal Duck Stamp, Virginia
License or Deer/Turkey License, etc? Migratory Waterfowl Conservation Stamp and
HIP authorization are required. Register for HIP
A: Yes, the apprentice license is in place of the basic hunting license. Any ad- online at www.gooutdoorsvirginia.com or call
ditional licenses, stamps, or permits would still be required. (888) 788-9772. A National Forest Permit or
State Forest Use Permit may also be required.
8 2020–2021 VIRGINIA HUNTING & TRAPPING REGULATIONS WWW.VIRGINIAWILDLIFE.GOVApprentice Where to Get
However, if you purchase an apprentice
hunting license and then complete hunter
Hunting License a License
education, you may use the apprentice license
as a basic license to hunt until it expires. You
The apprentice hunting license is a one-time will not need supervision unless otherwise
purchase and serves as a first-time Virginia required by law to be supervised, such as in the Online:
resident or nonresident hunting license and is case of hunting on a youth/apprentice hunt- www.gooutdoorsvirginia.com
good for two years. Previous Virginia hunting ing weekend. You must carry proof of hunter • Create Your Customer Account: The Go-
license holders are not eligible to purchase an education while hunting unsupervised with Outdoors Virginia site allows you to create a
apprentice license. Apprentice license holders an apprentice license. unique customer account to access licenses
have two years to take an approved Hunter and products that apply to you based on age
Replacement
Safety course. and residency.
The apprentice license holder must be ac- • Existing Customers: Log in using your date
Licenses
companied and directly supervised by an adult of birth and either your DWR Customer ID
over the age of 18 who has, on his person, a valid or your previous year’s DWR license number
Virginia hunting license. “Accompanied and If you purchased a license from a retail li- and license year.
directly supervised” means the adult maintains cense agent, online, or by phone you can visit
close visual and verbal contact with, provides www.gooutdoorsvirginia.com, select “Man- Select the license(s) you want, pay with your
adequate direction to, and can immediately as- age Your Account” and reprint your license credit card and print your license if needed.
sume control of the firearm from the apprentice anytime. You can also visit any retail license
hunter. When buying a hunting license, the ap- agent that sells hunt/fish licenses or call the In Person:
prentice hunting license cannot be used as proof Headquarters office at (804) 367-1000 during Sold by some clerks of the Circuit Court, at
of previously purchasing a hunting license. normal business hours. license agents across Virginia, and DWR head-
quarters. Not sold at DWR regional offices.
To find a license agent visit: https://li-
cense.gooutdoorsvirginia.com/Licensing/Lo-
cateAgent.aspx
Q: If you turn 16 after you purchase a junior license is it still good or do By Phone/Mobile Phone:
you need to purchase another license for 16 and older? (804) 367-1000 during regular business hours,
A: Your license is good until it expires. or use your GoOutdoors Virginia mobile app.
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9LICENSE
FEES
License Fees (Issuance fee is included in all prices.)
Resident and nonresident licenses are valid for one year from the date of purchase except the bear license, deer/turkey license, and the
Virginia migratory waterfowl conservation stamp (which are valid July 1-June 30 only), the apprentice hunting license (valid for 2 years
from date of purchase), and lifetime licenses. The bear license and deer/turkey license that are part of a package (e.g. Sportsman’s License
or combo licenses) are also only valid July 1–June 30. For information on Hunter Education requirements, see page 7 in this digest or go to
www.virginiawildlife.gov/hunting/education. It is unlawful to alter, change, borrow, or lend a hunting license or permit.
For Legacy, Lifetime, and Veterans Lifetime Licenses and information please see page 13.
Resident Hunting Licenses
LICENSE FEE One or more of the following may be required
in addition to a resident hunting license.
Resident Sportsman’s License (age 16 and older) $100.00
LICENSE FEE
The Sportsman’s License isn’t all inclusive but offers a hunting license, Resident Bear License $21.00
bear license, deer/turkey license, archery license, muzzleloading license,
freshwater fishing license, and trout license. Other licenses/stamps may Resident Junior Bear License (ages 12-15) $6.50
be required (waterfowl stamps, National Forest stamp, etc.). Purchaser Resident Deer/Turkey License (age 16 and older) $23.00
should also ensure that the bear and deer/turkey license tags are valid for
intended hunting season. Not required for holders of Service-Connected Totally and Permanently
Disabled Resident Veteran Lifetime License. Valid July 1 through June
Resident Junior Hunting License* 30 only.
$8.50
(age 12 to 15; optional for under 12 years old)
Resident Junior Deer/Turkey License (age 12 to 15) $8.50
Resident Youth Combination Hunting License (age 12 to 15) $16.00 Valid July 1 through June 30.
Includes hunting license, bear license, deer/turkey license, archery Resident Archery License $18.00
license, and muzzleloading license. Resident Muzzleloading License $18.00
Resident Hunting License* (age 16 and older)
1-year license $23.00
2-year license $44.00
Nonresident Hunting Licenses
LICENSE FEE
3-year license $65.00
Nonresident Junior Hunting License* (under age 12) $13.00
4-year license $86.00
Nonresident Junior Hunting License* (age 12 to 15) $16.00
Resident County or City Hunting License* (age 16 and older) $16.00
Nonresident Youth Combination Hunting License
$31.00
For county or city of residence only. (under age 16)
Includes hunting license, bear license, deer/turkey license, archery
Resident Apprentice Hunting License* $11.00
license, and muzzleloading license.
Valid for 2 years from date of purchase. Nonresident Hunting License* (age 16 and older) $111.00
Resident Senior Citizen Hunting License* (age 65 and over) $9.00 Nonresident 3-Day Hunt License* (age 16 and older) $60.00
Resident Annual Hunting License for 70 Percent or Greater Service-Con- Must be 3 consecutive days.
nected Partially Disabled Veterans
Nonresident Apprentice Hunting License* $21.00
Resident Veterans rated 70% or greater service-connected by the U.S.
Valid for 2 years from date of purchase.
Dept. of Veterans Affairs Administrative Office may apply for a discount-
ed annual hunting license. Please note this license does not include bear, Nonresident Annual Hunting License for 70% or Greater Service-Connect-
deer/turkey, archery, muzzleloading or other applicable licenses, stamp, ed Partially Disabled Veterans and Service-Connected Totally and Perma-
and/or permits. Please visit www.virginiawildlife.gov for application, nently Disabled Veterans
instructions, and prices. Applications may be mailed or brought into our
Henrico office location only. Nonresident Veterans rated 70% or greater or as Total and Permanent
Service-Connected by the U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs Administrative
Resident Fox Hunting License $23.00 Office may apply for a discounted annual hunting license by application
only. Please note this license does not include bear, deer/turkey, archery,
To hunt foxes on horseback with hounds without firearms. Not required muzzleloading or other applicable licenses, stamp, and/or permits.
of an individual holding a basic license to hunt.
Special Annual Basic Freshwater Fishing & Hunting Licenses for Partially
* Annual bear license, deer/turkey license and all applicable licenses, Disabled Veterans or Special Annual Basic Freshwater Fishing & Hunting
stamps, or permits are required in addition to this license. License for Nonresident Totally and Permanently
Please visit www.virginiawildlife.gov for applications listed above, instruc-
tions, and prices. Applications may be mailed or brought into our Henrico
office location only.
10 2020–2021 VIRGINIA HUNTING & TRAPPING REGULATIONS WWW.VIRGINIAWILDLIFE.GOVBag a Deal!
Only $10.00 (6 issues)
New Renewal
Name
Address
City
VIRGINIA DEER HUNTERS State Zip
S C H O L A RS HI P P RO GRA M Return form with check payable to: Treasurer of Virginia
Send to: Virginia Wildlife, P.O. Box 90778, Henrico, VA 23228
One $2,500 Scholarship Sorry, no foreign delivery J20H
Five $1,000 Scholarships
For the Study of Coming September 1
• Forestry • Conservation and White-Tailed Deer Management
• Conservation Law and Law Enforcement
• VDWR Internships Only
All accredited Community College, Undergraduate,
Graduate and Certificate Programs Eligible
$15.95
If you wish to donate to the scholarship fund or Order at
For details and application visit us on
www.shopdwr.com
www.virginiadeerhunters.org
Deadline to Apply: May 29, 2021
11HUNTING LICENSE
FEES
LICENSE FEE Trapping Licenses
Nonresident Fox Hunting License $111.00 One or more of the following is required to trap. Other licenses or permits
may also be required.
To hunt foxes on horseback with hounds without firearms. Not required
of an individual holding a general license to hunt. LICENSE FEE
Nonresident Foxhound Training Preserve License $18.00 County or City Resident Trapping License $21.00
To hunt within the boundaries of a licensed foxhound training preserve, in
For county or city of residence.
lieu of other required licenses.
Nonresident Hunting Preserve License $23.00 Resident Trapping License
To hunt within the boundaries of a licensed shooting preserve, in lieu of 1-year license $46.00
other required licenses.
2-year license $90.00
* Annual bear license, deer/turkey license and all applicable licenses,
stamps, or permits are required in addition to this license.
3-year license $134.00
One or more of the following may be required 4-year license $178.00
in addition to a nonresident hunting license.
Resident Junior Trapping License (under age 16) $11.00
LICENSE FEE
Nonresident Bear License $151.00 Resident Senior Citizen Trapping License (age 65 and over) $9.00
Nonresident Trapping License $206.00
Nonresident Deer/Turkey License
Valid July 1 through June 30.
Age 16 and older $86.00
Miscellaneous Licenses, Permits, and Stamps
Age 12 to 15 $16.00 One or more of the following may be required in addition to a hunting license.
Under age 12 $13.00 PERMITS FEE
Resident Bonus Deer Permit (6 antlerless tags) $18.00
Nonresident Archery License $31.00
See page 30 for more information.
Nonresident Muzzleloading License $31.00
Nonresident Bonus Deer Permit (6 antlerless tags) $31.00
See page 30 for more information.
National Forest Permit $4.00
FEDERAL ELECTRONIC
To hunt and trap within National Forest. Not required of residents under
the age of 16 to trap or residents who have an annual senior citizen
hunting license ($9.00). For fishing in the National Forest this permit is
OR “E-STAMP” DUCK required in addition to other fishing licenses (exceptions: residents under
16 and over 65, nonresidents under 16).
STAMP PROGRAM Virginia State Forest Use Permit (age 16 or older) $16.00
A Federal Duck Stamp is required for all persons 16 Allows hunting, trapping, fishing, mountain biking, and horse riding. No
years and older in order to hunt waterfowl. A convenient motorized vehicles on gated roads/trails (open or closed). Sold in coopera-
online option is available whereby hunters can obtain an tion with the Virginia Department of Forestry.
E-stamp for $27.50. The E-stamp is valid immediately Public Access Lands for Sportsmen (PALS) $18.00
following the purchase and for up to 45 days. The ac-
tual Federal Duck Stamp will be mailed to the customer See page 55 for more information.
within 45 days and must be signed and carried thereaf- $4.00
ter while hunting waterfowl. Waterfowl hunters can still per day
purchase their Federal Duck Stamp at some U.S. Post Access Permit (see page 52 for permit requirements)
/ $23.00
Offices at a cost of $25.00. per year
To obtain the E-stamp Daily group rates are available. For more information go to:
Federal Duck stamp www.virginiawildlife.gov/access-permit
go to the Department’s
website (www.goout- STAMPS FEE
doorsvirginia.com) and
click on hunting and Federal Migratory Duck E-Stamp $27.50
fishing licenses or visit To take migratory waterfowl; required of persons 16 years of age and over
one of over 800 license in addition to hunting license. Valid July 1 through June 30. See left.
agents throughout the
Commonwealth. Virginia Migratory Waterfowl Conservation Stamp $10.00
2020-2021 Federal Duck Stamp
Artwork by Eddie LeRoy Required of persons 16 years of age and older, unless license exempt.
©All rights reserved by USFWS Valid July 1 through June 30.
12 2020–2021 VIRGINIA HUNTING & TRAPPING REGULATIONS WWW.VIRGINIAWILDLIFE.GOVGENERAL
INFORMATION
LIFETIME AND SPECIAL ANNUAL LICENSES
Legacy Lifetime expire on their 12th birthday, and is transferable when
they complete and submit the Youth Hunter Education
• Available to Virginia residents and non-residents under Compliance form and a copy of their Hunter Safety or
the age of 2 years upon date of application receipt to equivalent completed certificate.
Department of Wildlife Resources.
• The legacy hunting lifetime license is valid until the indi-
Senior Combo Lifetime
vidual’s 12th birthday at which time they must complete • Available to Virginia residents 80 years of age and older
an approved hunter education course or equivalent,
• All other applicable licenses, stamps, and permits
then transfer the legacy to a regular hunting lifetime li-
(except the bear license and deer/turkey license) are
cense at no additional charge.
required in addition to this license
Lifetime Veteran Total and Permanent
• Virginia resident and non-resident lifetime licenses Service-Connected Lifetime
available.
• Virginia residents who are rated as total and permanent-
• Certain Virginia residents may purchase their lifetime ly service-connected disabled by the U.S. Veterans Ad-
licenses online through www.gooutdoorsvirginia.com ministration office may apply for this lifetime license(s).
provided their Virginia residency status can be verified
through Virginia DMV. • The Veteran lifetime hunting license includes small
game state hunting, bear, deer/turkey, archery, muzzle-
• The lifetime hunting license equals the state hunting li- loading. All other applicable licenses, stamps, or per-
censes; all other applicable licenses, stamps, or permits mits are required in addition to this license.
are required in addition to this license.
Please visit www.virginiawildlife.gov/forms for applications,
• Resident Junior Lifetime Hunting license is available to prices, and further instructions when applying for a life-
Virginia residents under the age of 12. This license will time license.
Hunting Hours days (on private lands and on public lands • Hats may have a bill or brim color or design
as permitted by the landowner) subject to other than solid blaze color. Hats shall not
(See page 68 for sunrise-sunset table) geographical limitations established by be in “camo” style, since the latter is designed
the Director of the Department and except to prevent visibility. A logo, which does not
• One-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour within 200 yards of a house of worship or detract from visibility, may be worn on a
after sunset for nonmigratory birds and game any accessory structure thereof. blaze colored hat.
animals except during spring turkey season. • Hunting is permitted on licensed hunting • Hunters using an enclosed ground blind
• One-half hour before sunrise until 12 noon (shooting) preserves. (pop-up, chair, box, etc.) that conceals them
during spring gobbler season, except the last • Raccoons may be hunted on Sunday. from view shall display at least 100 square
13 days when the hunting hours are 1/2 hour inches of solid blaze colored material, visible
before sunrise until sunset. Other than these exceptions and other allow- from 360 degrees attached to or immediately
• One-half hour before sunrise to sunset for ances that had been made specifically by law in above the blind. This blaze color is in addition
Youth/Apprentice Spring Turkey Hunting the past, it will continue to be unlawful to hunt to any worn on the hunter’s person.
Weekend. or kill any wild bird or wild animal, including
• Hours for bear hound training season are from any nuisance species, with a gun, firearm, or During the muzzleloader seasons for hunt-
4:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m daily, including Sundays. other weapon on Sundays. It will also continue ing deer with a muzzleloading firearm, every
• Bobcats, foxes, raccoons, and opossums may to be unlawful to hunt or kill any deer or bear muzzleloader deer hunter and every person
be hunted by day or night during autho- with a gun, firearm, or other weapon with the accompanying a muzzleloader deer hunter shall
rized seasons. aid or assistance of dogs on Sundays. wear solid blaze colors as specified above except
• Nuisance species may be taken day or night. when they are physically located in a tree stand
Blaze Color or other stationary hunting location.
Sunday Hunting Exceptions
Requirements • Blaze colored clothing is not required of
Hunting is allowed on Sundays during the waterfowl hunters, dove hunters, individuals
regular hunting seasons under the following When hunting any species during a firearms participating in hunting dog field trials, and
circumstances: deer season and on youth/apprentice deer hunt- fox hunters on horseback without firearms.
• Any landowner or member of his family or ing weekend: • Hunters hunting with archery tackle during
any person with written permission from • Every hunter (see exceptions below), or per- an open firearms deer season in areas where
the landowner may hunt on the landowner’s sons accompanying a hunter, shall wear a the discharge of firearms is prohibited by
property on Sunday, except within 200 yards solid blaze colored (blaze orange or blaze state law or local ordinance are exempt from
of a place of worship or any accessory struc- pink) hat or solid blaze colored upper body the blaze color requirement.
ture thereof. clothing that is visible from 360 degrees or • Other than muzzleloader deer hunters,
• Hunting for waterfowl (ducks, coot, geese, display at least 100 square inches of solid blaze colored clothing is not required of any
brant, and swan) and rails (including gal- blaze colored material at shoulder level with- hunters hunting during the muzzleloader
linules and moorhens) is allowed on Sun- in body reach and visible from 360 degrees. deer seasons.
WWW.VIRGINIAWILDLIFE.GOV2020–2021 VIRGINIA HUNTING & TRAPPING REGULATIONS 13GENERAL
INFORMATION
Prohibited Lands
Definitions sers) and webless species (coots, doves, gal-
linules, moorhens, rails, snipe, and woodcock). Prohibited lands are any parcels of property,
public or private, where established rules and
Archery Tackle Nuisance Species regulations for public access or explicit permis-
As used in this digest, archery tackle includes The following animals: house mouse, Norway rat, sion (verbal or written) have not been granted
longbow, recurve bow, compound bow, sling- black rat, coyote, groundhog, nutria, feral hog, to hunt upon or enter the property.
bow, and crossbow. European starling, English sparrow, mute swan,
and pigeon (rock dove) are designated as nuisance Route 29 Line/Amherst County
Arrowgun species and may be taken at any time by use of a The Route 29 “line” in Amherst County is de-
A pneumatic-powered air gun that fires an arrow. firearm or other weapon (unless prohibited by fined as Business U.S. 29 from the James River
Explosive propellant arrowguns may not be used local ordinances, see page 21) and on some to its intersection with U.S. 29 just south of the
for hunting in Virginia. public lands during certain time periods (see town of Amherst continuing north on U.S. 29
National Forest-Wildlife Department Regula- to the Tye River.
Bait tions page 55).
Bait shall mean any food, grain, or other con- Hunting Weapon
sumable substance that could serve as a lure or Other Wildlife Is any weapon allowable for hunting as defined
attractant; however, crops grown for normal or It is unlawful to take, possess, transport, release, in 29.1-519 of the Code of Virginia.
accepted agriculture or wildlife management or sell all other wildlife species not classified as
purposes, including food plots, shall not be game, furbearer, or nuisance, unless otherwise
considered as bait. specifically permitted by law or regulation.
East of the
Blaze Colors FR
ED
ER
ICK
CLA
RKE
Blue Ridge
The term “blaze colored” in reference to cloth- DO
AH
R R EN
LOUDOUN
ARLINGTON
East & West of the Blue Ridge WA FA PR FAIR
ing or other items required for specific safe SH
EN
AN
NN
OC
K
UQ
UI
ER
IN
CE
W
ILL
FAX
hunting practices shall be one of two colors:
HA IA
PPA M
RO PAGE RA
CKIN
GH M CULPEPER
1) solid blaze orange means a safety orange or
STAF
AM AD FO RD
ISO
LAND N KING
HIGH
GEORGE
fluorescent orange hue, or 2) solid blaze pink
GREENE IA
ORANGE WES
AUGUSTA SYLVAN TMO
SPOT RELA
ND
ALBEMARLE RIC
means a safety pink or fluorescent pink hue. CAROLINE NORTHUMBERLAND
BATH ES HM
West of the
LOUISA SE ON
KIN X D
GE
K
NA G
Blue Ridge
AC
N HAN KIN LA
Y
NE
ID
FLUVA AN NC
AN
M
LSO GOO OVE GW
BR
D AS
CO
MID
GH
N CHLA R ILL QU TE
CK
AC
IAM EE DL R
Dismal Swamp Line
ND
LE
RO
N ES
EX
AL
ND
RT AMHERST BUCKINGHAM POWHATAN NEW
HE
LA
GL
U
MA
NR
KENT
TO
ER
OU
N
Beginning at a point on Rt. 10 where it intersects
THE
IC
TE
TO
CH
MB
O
CITA
CE
CRAIG
JAMY
APPO RL
BO
MP
CIT
Y ES
WS
MATT
ST
AMELIA CHESTERFIELD
CU
OX YO
HA
ES
ER
R K NEWPORT
BUC RO
RT
CE
the Isle of Wight County line, then along this GILES
HAN AN BEDFORD NEWS
PREINORGE
PRINCE
NO
AN MON OK
DIC TGO
MER
E CAMPBELL EDWARD NOTTOWAY G SURRY HAMPTON
KEN BLAND Y DINWIDDIE PORTSMOUTH
SO TAZEWELL PU
highway to its intersection with the corporate WISE
N
RUSSELL
LAS
KI FRANKLIN
CHARLOTTE
LUNENBURG SUSSEX
ISLE OF
WIGHT
NORFOLK
IA
VIREAC
WYTHE FLOYD N
limits of Suffolk, then through Suffolk to its
B
TO
AN
ICK
GIN H
SMYTH MP
HALIFAX
LV
HA
SW
IA
CARROLL AKE
SY MECKLENBURG UT SUFFOLK CHESAPE
UN
SCOTT SO
intersection with Rt. 642 (White Marsh Road) LEE WASHINGTON
TT
GRAYSON
BR
PATRICK HENRY GREENSVILLE
PI
and then along this highway in a southwest
direction to Rt. 604 (Desert Road), and then
southerly along this highway to the North Caro-
lina state line.
Drone
An unmanned aerial vehicle, aircraft, or similar
device, guided by remote control or onboard
computers.
Furbearer Species
Furbearer means beaver, bobcat, fisher, fox,
mink, muskrat, opossum, otter, raccoon, skunk,
VIRGINIA WILDLIFE Line in coop-
eration with the
and weasel. CRIME LINE Virginia Depart-
ment of Wildlife
Game Animal Since its inception in October 1986, the Resources. You
Game animal means bear, bobcat, deer, elk, fox, Virginia Wildlife Crime Line has become can help sup-
rabbit, raccoon, and squirrel. a valuable tool in the enforcement of port this effort
the Commonwealth’s game, fish, and by sending a tax-deductible donation
Hunting and Trapping boat laws. As awareness of this program to: Virginia Wildlife Crime Line, P.O. Box
The act of or the attempted act of taking, hunt- increases, so do the number of calls 90778, Henrico, VA 23228-0778.
ing, trapping, pursuing, chasing, shooting, snar- to report violations. The program has
ing, or netting birds or animals, and assisting generated thousands of reported wildlife Report a Wildlife Crime
any person who is doing the same, regardless crime tips that have resulted in over a If you know someone who kills wildlife out
of whether birds or animals are actually taken. thousand arrests and over $80,000 in of season or over the game limit, help the
approved rewards. Reward payments Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources.
Nonmigratory Game Birds are approved and funded through the Vir-
Nonmigratory game bird means grouse, pheas- catch the individual and stop others from
ginia Sportsman Reward Fund, Inc. Their following that path. If you observe a viola-
ant, bobwhite quail, and turkey. mission is to promote the enforcement tion, call the toll-free Virginia Wildlife Crime
of hunting, fishing, and boating laws in Line number at (800) 237-5712 or e-mail
Migratory Game Birds
Virginia by supporting the Wildlife Crime wildcrime@dwr.virginia.gov.
Migratory game birds means species of water-
fowl (ducks, geese, brant, swans and mergan-
14 2020–2021 VIRGINIA HUNTING & TRAPPING REGULATIONS WWW.VIRGINIAWILDLIFE.GOVHunting With Dogs any archery, muzzleloader, or firearm sea- • It is unlawful to chase with dogs or hunt
son for these species, or within 24 hours of with dogs or to attempt to chase or hunt with
the end of such season, provided that those dogs any wild animal from a baited site or to
• The hunting of deer or bear with a gun, who are involved in the retrieval effort have train dogs on any wild animal from a baited
firearm, or other weapon with the aid or permission to hunt on or to access the land site. Furthermore, it shall be unlawful to
assistance of dogs on Sunday is prohibited. being searched. Licensed hunters engaged place, distribute, or maintain bait or salt for
• Dogs may be used to pursue wild birds and in such tracking may possess any weapon any wild animal for the purpose of chasing
animals during hunting seasons where permitted for hunting and may use such with dogs, hunting with dogs, or training of
not prohibited. weapon to humanely kill the wounded bear, dogs. When hunting or training with dogs,
• Section 18.2-136 of the Code of Virginia de- deer, or turkey being tracked, including after a baited site will be considered to be baited
criminalizes trespass in certain instances legal hunting hours. Such weapon shall not for 30 days following the complete removal
related to dog retrieval. That section provides: be used to hunt, wound, or kill any animal of all such bait or salt.
“Fox hunters and coon hunters, when the other than the animal being tracked, except • It is unlawful to intentionally cripple or
chase begins on other lands, may follow their in self-defense. otherwise harm any game animal for the
dogs on prohibited lands, and hunters of all • It is unlawful to use dogs when hunting any intent of continuing a hunt, or chase, or for
other game, when the chase begins on other species with archery tackle during any ar- the purpose of training dogs. Upon treeing,
lands, may go upon prohibited lands to re- chery season, except bear hounds may be baying, or otherwise containing an animal in
trieve their dogs, falcons, hawks, or owls, but used during the youth/apprentice bear hunt- a manner that offers the animal no avenue of
may not carry firearms or bow and arrows on ing weekend. escape, the person or the hunting party shall
their person or hunt any game while thereon.
The use of vehicles to retrieve dogs, falcons,
hawks, or owls on prohibited lands shall be
allowed only with the permission of the land- TRAINING DOGS ON MILITARY BASES
owner or his agent. Any person who goes on
prohibited lands to retrieve his dogs, falcons, For training dogs on military bases contact the appropriate base:
hawks, or owls pursuant to this section and
who willfully refuses to identify himself when Fort A.P. Hill Game Check Station������������������������������������������� (804) 633-8984
requested by the landowner or his agent to do Fort Belvoir Outdoor Recreation�������������������������������������������� (703) 805-3969
so is guilty of a Class 4 misdemeanor.” Ft. Pickett Game Check Station���������������������������������������������� (434) 292-2618
• Tracking dogs maintained and controlled Quantico Game Check Station������������������������������������������������(703) 784-5523
on a lead may be used to find a wounded or
dead bear, deer, or turkey statewide during
15GENERAL HUNTING
INFORMATION
Hunting On
either harvest the animal if within a legal • You may train dogs on National Forest or
take season and by using lawful methods Department-owned lands only during au-
Private Property
of take or terminate the chase by retrieving thorized training seasons that specifically
the dogs and allowing the animal freedom permit these activities.
to escape for the remainder of the same • You may train dogs on quail on the Amelia
calendar day. Wildlife Management Area (WMA), Cavalier Trespass violations, posting property, and ac-
• It is unlawful to dislodge an animal from a WMA, Chickahominy WMA, Dick Cross cess issues are all concerns that affect a land-
tree for the intent of continuing a hunt, or WMA, Mattaponi WMA, and White Oak owner’s decision to allow hunting.
chase, or for the purpose of training dogs. WMA, and on designated portions of the Hunters are reminded that it is unlawful to
Chester F. Phelps WMA from September 1 hunt on private property without the permis-
Training Dogs to the day prior to the opening date of the
quail hunting season, both dates inclusive.
sion of the landowner, and hunters must have
the permission of the landowner to track or
No weapons other than starter pistols may retrieve wounded game on private property.
The training of dogs on live wild animals is be in possession, and pen-raised birds may
considered hunting and you must have a valid not be released. On Posted Property
hunting license while training; it is unlawful • Pen-raised quail may be released at any time It is unlawful to hunt without written permis-
during the closed season except as noted below. on private land with landowner permission. sion of the landowner and is punishable by a
However, birds can only be shot during the fine of up to $2500 and/or 12 months in jail.
• You may train dogs during daylight hours regular quail season. Regular bag limits apply.
on squirrels and nonmigratory game birds • You may train dogs during daylight hours on On Unposted Property
on private lands and on rabbits from 1/2 rabbits and nonmigratory game birds on the It is unlawful to hunt any unposted property
hour before sunrise until midnight on private Weston WMA from September 1 through without permission of the landowner and is
lands. Participants shall have no weapons March 31, both dates inclusive. Participants punishable by a fine of up to $500.
other than starter pistols in their possession in this dog training season shall have no
and no wild animals shall be taken. Weapons weapons other than starter pistols in their A landowner may post their property
may be in possession when training dogs on possession, shall not release pen-raised birds, by any of the following methods:
captive raised and properly marked mallards and must comply with all regulations and • Using aluminum or purple color paint, paint
and pigeons so that they may be immediately laws pertaining to hunting. No game shall a vertical line at least 2 inches in width and
shot or recovered. be taken. at least 8 inches in length, no less than 3 feet
and not more than 6 feet from the ground
or normal water surface and visible when
approaching their property.
LANDOWNERS WANTED
• Placing signs that specifically prohibit hunt-
ing, fishing, or trespassing on their property.
Quail Management Assistance Program
www.virginiawildlife.gov/quail/get-involved/qmap Landowner Liability
For landowners, finding responsible hunters can
provide many benefits for both the landowner
and sportsmen allowed access to the property.
Q: Is it true that I must wear a blaze color during the muzzleloading There are benefits of having responsible hunters
seasons for deer when hunting with a muzzleloading rifle? included as an important part of the landowner’s
wildlife management plan, especially if they
A: Yes, you and anyone accompanying you. It must be worn to and from your are absentee or do not hunt themselves. There
stand or while moving. Once you get to your stand you may remove the blaze are many in-kind benefits of such relationships
colored clothing. including road maintenance, habitat improve-
ment, security, and safety. Hunt clubs are also
helpful, and lease fees can offset property taxes.
Information on locating responsible hunters can
be found by contacting local civic groups like
Ruritans, or 4-H Clubs, sporting goods shops,
and area landowner contacts that participate in
Tree Farm or Stewardship Programs. Members
of sportsmen’s conservation organizations that
Report Your Lost are dedicated, reputable partners with DWR pro-
Hunting Dog mote safety, ethical practices, habitat improve-
ment, and scientific management of wildlife.
The VHDA missing dog site allows
Liability
owners of missing Virginia hunting Concern about legal liability for recreationists
dogs to record facts, photos, and the exact last sighting location of their prevents some landowners from permitting
missing dogs and print a poster to use locally. Uniquely, it notifies via email hunting on their property. However, the Virginia
General Assembly has addressed this concern
Virginia’s licensed shelters statewide that the dog is being sought. in Virginia Code Section 29.1-509. Amended in
1982, this law exempts landowners who provide
www.vahda.org/missingdogfacts.htm recreational opportunities to the public from
liability for injury or damages, provided:
16 2020–2021 VIRGINIA HUNTING & TRAPPING REGULATIONS WWW.VIRGINIAWILDLIFE.GOVYou can also read
