We’ve redesigned the hunting regulations book, now known as the Virginia Hunting, Trapping, and Migratory Game Bird Seasons book, to make it easier to use.
The new layout focuses on the information hunters and trappers use most often—season dates and bag limits—making it quicker to find what’s in season and where to plan a day in the field.
The season information for hunting, trapping, and migratory game birds has been combined into a single publication for greater convenience.
This effort allows DWR to reduce printing costs, minimize paper waste, and simplify the printed guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the complete hunting and trapping regulations?
The complete regulations are available on the DWR website and GoOutdoorsVA app. The online regulations contain the full text of all rules and requirements and are the official source for regulatory information. It is the responsibility of hunters and trappers to know and abide by all rules stated in the full text of regulations on the DWR website.
What's the difference between the print guide and online regulations found on the DWR website?
The Hunting, Trapping, and Migratory Game Bird Seasons book is a simplified reference designed primarily around season dates. The regulations available on the DWR website and in the GoOutdoorsVA app contain all applicable rules, restrictions, and requirements for hunting and trapping. By directing users to the complete regulations on the website, DWR is able to:
- Provide information more quickly.
- Keep regulations as current as possible.
- Reduce printing and mailing costs.
- Decrease paper waste.
Will you be producing a separate Migratory Game Bird Seasons book?
No. The season information for hunting and trapping big game, small game, furbearers, and migratory game birds has been combined into a single guide for greater convenience.
Can I rely only on the printed guide?
The printed Hunting, Trapping, and Migratory Game Bird Seasons book is intended as a quick reference for season dates and bag limits. Hunters and trappers are responsible for knowing and following all regulations published in the complete online regulations before participating in hunting or trapping activities.
Will the online regulations found on the DWR website be updated if changes occur?
Yes. The online regulations are the most up-to-date source of hunting and trapping information and can be updated more quickly than printed materials when necessary.
I prefer a printed copy. What should I do?
The printed Virginia Hunting, Trapping, and Migratory Game Bird Seasons book remains available as a convenient reference for season dates and bag limits. To reduce printing costs and paper waste, DWR has reduced the total number of printed guides distributed across the Commonwealth.
Distribution of the printed guides to select license agents is anticipated to begin August 1, with copies being available for purchase from the GoOutdoors e-store shortly after. The e-store price will be set to cover shipping directly to your address.
In the meantime, users are also welcome to print their own copy of the Hunting, Trapping, and Migratory Game Bird Seasons book, which is available for download in PDF format on the DWR website.
For complete regulations and the most current information, please consult the online regulations on the DWR website or GoOutdoorsVA app before your hunting or trapping activities.