Woods & Waters: New season dates to affect W.Va.’s hunters

When I started reading about the "newly" proposed / approved archery dates, over a month ago, in the local news paper, I posted an article verifying it as well as my opinion on the matter. As my opinions haven't changed, I did happen across another article that gives more insight on the changes along with a few reminders and alterations to other fall hunting seasons.

New season dates to affect W.Va.’s hunters

May 22, 2011 by John McCoy

When West Virginia’s wildlife officials change a hunting regulation, they expect two years to pass before hunters grow accustomed to the change.

With that in mind, perhaps this is a good time to preview some significant changes in store for fall 2011. It’s not exactly two years’ notice, but four months is better than nothing.

The most significant change – the one sure to affect more hunters than any of the others – occurs Oct. 1, the new opening date for the archery deer season.

What’s interesting about this change is that it didn’t originate with the Division of Natural Resources.

DNR biologists usually propose season dates and bag limits, and the seven-man Natural Resources Commission votes to accept, reject or change them. In this case, however, commission members took matters into their own hands.

One or two commissioners decided that the bow season should start earlier. After a brief discussion, the issue came up for a vote and the motion carried. Just like that, West Virginia’s got a deer season that begins two weeks sooner than usual.

DNR officials didn’t seem mind the change, though. Every biologist I’ve talked to has said it wouldn’t significantly affect the deer herd.

Interestingly, the Oct. 1 opener will apply only to deer. The bear archery season will open as usual on Oct. 15. To continue reading, click here...