Getting Started: A Beginner's Guide to Hunting in Virginia

Interested in hunting in Virginia but don’t know where to start? This guide covers the essentials — from getting your license to finding your first hunting spot.

Step 1: Hunter Education

Virginia requires all first-time hunters to complete a hunter education course before purchasing a license. You have two options:

  • In-person course: Free, offered by volunteer instructors across the state. Includes classroom instruction and a field day with live-fire exercises.
  • Online course: Complete the classroom portion online, then attend a shorter field day. Costs around $30.

The course covers firearm safety, wildlife management, ethics, and basic hunting skills. It’s a lifetime certification — you only need to do it once.

Step 2: Buy a License

Purchase your hunting license through Go Outdoors Virginia, the state’s online licensing portal. You’ll need:

  • Basic Hunting License: Required for all hunters. Resident pricing is around $23.
  • Big Game License: Additional license required for deer, bear, turkey, and elk. Around $18.
  • National Forest Permit: Required if hunting on USFS land. Around $4.
  • HIP Permit: Free, required for migratory bird (waterfowl, dove) hunters.

Non-resident licenses are more expensive but still reasonable compared to western states.

Step 3: Choose Your Game

For beginners, we recommend starting with:

  1. Squirrel hunting — Low pressure, teaches woodsmanship, long season
  2. Deer hunting (firearms) — Virginia’s most popular game, opening weekend is an event
  3. Turkey hunting — Exciting and challenging, great introduction to calling

Step 4: Find a Place to Hunt

If you don’t have access to private land, Virginia’s public lands are your best friend:

  • Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs): Over 40 WMAs totaling 200,000+ acres
  • National Forests: 1.6 million acres across western Virginia
  • Department-managed lands: Additional properties open to hunting by permit

Use the VDGIF Public Land Map to find areas near you.

Step 5: Gear Basics

You don’t need to spend a fortune to start hunting:

  • Firearm: A 12-gauge shotgun is the most versatile choice for beginners. Works for deer, turkey, squirrel, and waterfowl.
  • Clothing: Blaze orange is required during firearms deer season. Camo for turkey and waterfowl.
  • Boots: Waterproof boots with good ankle support. You’ll be walking.
  • Pack: A basic daypack with water, snacks, knife, and first aid kit.

Join the Community

Virginia has an active hunting community. Consider:

  • Joining a local hunting club
  • Attending VDGIF-sponsored learn-to-hunt events
  • Connecting with other hunters through state forums and social media groups

The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources actively promotes hunter recruitment and has programs designed specifically for beginners and mentored hunts.