Hunting in Virginia: 3 Animals to Hunt Year-Round

Virginia has a few animals that can be hunted year-round in the state, although it is best to check the most current regulations before planning a hunt. Wildlife management goals are always subject to change and are published on the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries website.

Here are three species that are considered year-round game animals in Virginia.

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1. Groundhogs
Groundhogs can be hunted on national forestlands and DGIF lands from early September until mid-March and during the spring turkey season. The season is considered open year-round on private lands. Groundhogs can be found in a variety of forested and grassland areas in abundance throughout Virginia.

2. Coyotes
Hunters may take coyotes year-round as part of a continuous season in Virginia. While the animal is considered fair game, hunters should keep in mind they are not permitted to hunt coyote with dogs. Some counties have their own bounty system, and hunters should check with the county administrators to find out information regarding the system.

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3. Feral Hogs
Feral hogs, also dubbed feral swine, are one of the state's most invasive species. Virginia is one of many states in the country with lax regulations on hunting swine in an effort control the invasive species' growing population. Virginia's DGIF calls them "four-legged ecological disasters." For that reason, hunting is permitted. While the state's population is currently considered low, hunting opportunities exist. The most common way to hunt feral hogs is on private land, but the state does not release information regarding where the species is located. It is expected state regulations will change as the state's feral hog population changes.

Additional Regulations
While the aforementioned animals are considered on continuous open season throughout the state, hunters still must comply with state hunting regulations. It is unlawful for hunters to use bait and dogs combined. Dogs are not permitted to chase from a baited site, regardless of the species being hunted and when they are being hunted. Hunters also are required to hold a current state hunting license when hunting any of these species. In some cases, depending on where you are hunting, a national forest permit or state forest use permit may also be required.

This article is for information only. Please check current regulations before hunting.

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