Big Game Tags
West Virginia Big Game Tags
2026
Elk, moose, and black bear tag requirements in West Virginia - resident and nonresident fees, species availability, draw versus over-the-counter access, and official purchase links. West Virginia has a robust black bear population and offers excellent bear hunting. Elk were reintroduced and a very limited draw hunt has begun. Moose are not present.
Elk Available
Bear Available
Draw System
2026 Big Game Tag Quick Facts
Verified 2026
Elk Available?
Yes
Resident: $25
Bear Available?
Yes
See agency for fees
Moose Available?
No
No moose population
Draw Required?
Yes
Some/all tags via draw system
Species & Fees
West Virginia Big Game Species Overview
Elk
Resident Tag$25.00
Nonresident Tag$400.00
Draw RequiredYes (some units)
Black Bear
TypeDraw
Moose
Moose are not hunted in West Virginia. No established moose hunting season.
Elk by draw; bear included with hunting license
Step-by-Step
How to Get Your West Virginia Big Game Tag
Follow these steps to successfully obtain your West Virginia big game tag for the 2026 season.
1
Purchase Your Base Hunting License
A valid West Virginia hunting license is required before purchasing or applying for big game tags. Buy your license online at the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources website, at a licensed sporting goods store, or from an authorized license agent.
2
Apply for Your Draw Tag
West Virginia uses a draw system for some or all big game tags. Apply during the application window (typically January–April) through West Virginia Division of Natural Resources's online portal. Application fees are non-refundable if you don't draw. Check for preference/bonus point systems that may improve future odds.
Apply online →
3
Review Species-Specific Regulations
Study West Virginia Division of Natural Resources's current big game regulations for your target species: legal shooting hours, legal weapons, unit boundaries, antler restrictions, and transport requirements. Regulations are available on the agency website and at license dealers. West Virginia hunting license required. Elk by draw; bear hunting statewide.
4
Tag & Report Your Harvest
Upon harvesting your big game animal, immediately fill out and attach your tag before moving the animal. Many states require big game harvest to be reported within 24–48 hours through an online or phone reporting system. Keep your license and tag on your person at all times while hunting and during transport.
Requirements
West Virginia Big Game Tag Requirements
West Virginia hunting license required. Elk by draw; bear hunting statewide.
Important Notes
West Virginia-Specific Big Game Information
WV elk reintroduction is ongoing; very limited hunt tags. Bear season runs October–January.
Source: West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (wvdnr.gov).
Requirements verified 2026. Big game tag fees and draw deadlines change annually - always confirm directly with West Virginia Division of Natural Resources before applying or purchasing.