The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) has announced the opening of youth hunting seasons for squirrels and black bears in September.

Youth squirrel hunting season is scheduled for September 7-8, while the first split of the black bear season for youth hunters will take place September 14-15.

“Hunting in West Virginia is a time-honored tradition that has been passed down for generations and we want to encourage parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles to share their love for hunting and the outdoors with their family this fall,” WVDNR Director Brett McMillion said. “West Virginia has several seasons dedicated to taking a young person hunting, but don’t limit their exposure to these dates only. The more you take your kids into the woods and expose them to hunting, the more they’ll want to carry on these traditions.”

West Virginia offers various opportunities for youth hunters, with seasons for squirrels, black bears, white-tailed deer and waterfowl in the fall, and wild turkeys in the spring. Youth hunters must be at least 8 years old and under 18 years old. Youth ages 15-17 must comply with all licensing requirements. Children aged 8-14 must be accompanied by a licensed adult over 21. The adult cannot carry a weapon and must remain near the youth at all times to provide advice and assistance. West Virginia hunting licenses can be purchased online at WVhunt.com.

The WVDNR also reminds hunters that youth hunters must check big game harvests with their own WVDNR account. Accounts can be created online, and game checks may be completed through WVhunt.com.

For more information about youth hunting in West Virginia, refer to page 29 in the Hunting Regulations Summary or visit WVdnr.gov/youth-hunting.