Deer season in Virginia generally runs from early November to late December. However the exact dates can vary depending on the county. Some counties have a split deer season with the first half running from early November to mid-December and the second half running from late December to early January. In other counties deer season is one continuous period.
The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries sets the dates for deer hunting season each year. Hunters are required to check the deer hunting regulations before heading out as the dates and regulations can change from year to year.
Deer hunting season is an exciting time for Virginia hunters. It’s a time to get out in the woods enjoy the scenery and hopefully fill your freezer with venison. But it’s also a time to be safe. Remember to follow all the rules and regulations and most importantly have a safe and enjoyable deer season.
When does deer season open in Virginia?
October 5 2019
When does deer season close in Virginia?
January 5 2020
How many deer may a person legally harvest in Virginia?
The bag limit for deer is six deer total with only two antlered deer per license year.
What are the legal hunting hours for deer in Virginia?
One-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset.
What caliber of rifle may be used to harvest deer in Virginia?
Any caliber.
What is the minimum length for a rifle barrel that may be used to harvest deer in Virginia?
22 inches.
Is it legal to use a handgun to harvest deer in Virginia?
Yes.
If a person is harvesting deer with a handgun what is the minimum barrel length that the handgun must have?
Five and one-half inches.
What is the minimum length for an arrow that may be used to harvest deer in Virginia?
20 inches.
How many deer may a person harvest with a bow in Virginia?
The bag limit for deer is six deer total with only two antlered deer per license year.
What is the minimum draw weight for a bow that may be used to harvest deer in Virginia?
40 pounds.
Is it legal to bait deer in Virginia?
No.
What is the maximum number of deer that may be possessed at one time in Virginia?
The possession limit for deer is 12 deer total with only four antlered deer per license year.
How must deer be transported in Virginia?
Deer must be tagged with a transportation tag as soon as they are harvested and they must be kept whole until they reach their final destination.
What is the final destination for deer that are harvested in Virginia?
The final destination for deer is the processor or the person’s residence.
