State Announces 2025 Buck Firearms Season Dates, County Closures
Governor Patrick Morrisey and the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources announced the 2025 buck firearms season, which opened on November 24 and runs through December 7, with important rules and reporting requirements for hunters. The release also confirmed that Logan, McDowell, Mingo and Wyoming counties are closed to firearms deer hunting this season, a change that directly affects hunters and businesses in McDowell County.
The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources and Governor Patrick Morrisey issued a November 19 announcement setting the 2025 buck firearms season schedule and outlining safety and licensing rules. The season opened on November 24 and runs through December 7. Most counties in the state will be open to firearms deer hunting during that window, but Logan, McDowell, Mingo and Wyoming counties were designated as closed for this season.
The WVDNR release included several practical rules that hunters must follow. Hunters are required to wear blaze orange, harvests must be electronically checked at WVhunt.com, and hunters who wish to take a second buck must comply with deer stamp requirements. The agency also reminded the public about licensing and safety regulations as part of the season guidance.
For McDowell County residents the closure means firearms deer hunting is not permitted during the statewide buck firearms season. Local hunters who normally participate in the firearms season will need to adjust plans and consider other legal opportunities, such as archery or youth seasons if eligible and open. The closure may also have ripple effects for businesses that rely on hunting season traffic, including bait and supply stores, lodging and services that cater to hunters.
The WVDNR also announced the return of the Big Buck Photo Contest with entries due in early January 2026. The contest provides an avenue for hunters to share notable harvests and for communities to celebrate local wildlife and outdoor traditions despite the county level closures.
Hunters and residents are encouraged to review licensing, safety and reporting requirements on the WVDNR website and at WVhunt.com to ensure compliance. With the season underway and the closure in effect for McDowell County, community leaders and outdoor businesses will be watching for any changes or future announcements that could affect local hunting opportunities and the county economy.
