Upcoming Events: Hunting

While this is a series, participants can pick and choose classes that fit their need/interest and are not required to attend every session.

This comprehensive virtual series offers aspiring hunters a structured roadmap from foundational basics to advanced field proficiency, ensuring total preparation for the Virginia deer season. Each interactive session features a panel of seasoned experts with dedicated time for Q&A to provide personalized insights. To reinforce your learning, the program includes supplemental hands-on clinics held throughout the state and culminates in exclusive, expert-supervised mentored hunt opportunities.

Virtual classes will be conducted every Wednesday from May 20th through September 30th, between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Participants are required to register for each session individually to receive a unique access link, which will be distributed via a Microsoft Teams invitation no later than 6:00 PM on the day of the scheduled class. Please ensure your contact information is accurate during registration. The weekly agenda is available on the registration page.

Interested in hunting but not sure where to start? Join our Becoming a Virginia Hunter – Small Game Virtual Series, a free educational program designed to help new hunters build the knowledge and confidence needed for a successful small game hunting experience. Whether you're completely new to hunting or looking to sharpen your skills, this series will guide you through every stage of the hunting journey—from preparation and planning to field care and meal preparation.

This comprehensive virtual series offers aspiring hunters a structured roadmap from foundational basics to advanced field proficiency, ensuring total preparation for the Virginia Small Game seasons. Each interactive session features a panel of seasoned experts with dedicated time for Q&A to provide personalized insights. To reinforce your learning, the program includes supplemental hands-on clinics held throughout the state and culminates in exclusive, expert-supervised mentored hunt opportunities.

Schedule and Access:

Virtual classes will be conducted every Thursday from July 30 through Oct 1, between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Participants are required to register for each session individually to receive a unique access link for that session, which will be distributed via a Microsoft Teams invitation no later than 6:00 PM on the day of the scheduled class. Please ensure your contact information is accurate during registration.

What You'll Learn:

✔ Hunting laws and ethical practices
✔ Where and how to access hunting opportunities
✔ Small game biology and behavior
✔ Firearm safety and equipment selection
✔ Hunting techniques and strategies
✔ Proper game care and food preparation
✔ Connections to experienced hunting mentors

Who Should Attend?

• New hunters
• Adults interested in learning to hunt
• Families exploring outdoor recreation
• Anyone interested in Virginia's hunting traditions and conservation efforts

Come learn the basics of hunting with a compound bow. You will learn proper hold, stance, bow set-up, and some hunting techniques as well as have archery range time. DWR will provide all equipment and tackle, but feel free to bring your own compound bow and tackle. Bring your own lunch and snacks for the day (no alcoholic drinks).

Independence Outdoors is a 501(c)(3) charity providing mentoring, skills development, conservation and training for hunting, tree-stand safety, outdoor skills, and game harvesting. Our focus is reaching those new to hunting, veterans, and women interested in the sport of hunting.

Beginning in 2026, the VOW Program will be hosting an annual Women's Mentored Hunting Virtual Series covering all topics related to hunting in Virginia. Virtual classes will be held every other week beginning on March 30th and concluding on August 31st. This series will cover hunting in general, and will not focus on any specific species, but instead is designed for beginners and women interested in hunting and need the basic information and resources to get started. Throughout the series, there will also be scheduled in-person opportunities and additional events/workshops throughout the state to promote a sense of community.

The Virginia Outdoor Women (VOW) program's goal is to help women feel comfortable and confident in the outdoors - no matter their experience level. DWR is committed to developing a community of women who enjoy the outdoors, value the importance of conservation and outdoor recreation, and want to have opportunities for personal growth, independence, and empowerment.

Please NOTE: All virtual VOW courses do not qualify for any of the VOW Certificates. By registering for this event, you are automatically registered for ALL classes. Separate registration is not required.

Classes will generally be 45 minutes of instruction/presentation, followed by a 15-minute Q&A session. Please see the registration page for class schedule and agenda.

While this is a series, participants can pick and choose classes that fit their need/interest and are not required to attend every session.

This comprehensive virtual series offers aspiring hunters a structured roadmap from foundational basics to advanced field proficiency, ensuring total preparation for the Virginia deer season. Each interactive session features a panel of seasoned experts with dedicated time for Q&A to provide personalized insights. To reinforce your learning, the program includes supplemental hands-on clinics held throughout the state and culminates in exclusive, expert-supervised mentored hunt opportunities.

Virtual classes will be conducted every Wednesday from May 20th through September 30th, between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Participants are required to register for each session individually to receive a unique access link, which will be distributed via a Microsoft Teams invitation no later than 6:00 PM on the day of the scheduled class. Please ensure your contact information is accurate during registration. The weekly agenda is available on the registration page.

Join us in this virtual squirrel hunting workshop and learn the basics of squirrel hunting. Topics of discussion will include: 1) Squirrel biology and habitat; 2) Hunting techniques; 3) Hunting seasons, laws, and license requirements; 4) Choosing the right equipment; 5) Care and cleaning/cooking; 6) Firearm safety; and 7) Finding places to hunt.

Interested in hunting but not sure where to start? Join our Becoming a Virginia Hunter – Small Game Virtual Series, a free educational program designed to help new hunters build the knowledge and confidence needed for a successful small game hunting experience. Whether you're completely new to hunting or looking to sharpen your skills, this series will guide you through every stage of the hunting journey—from preparation and planning to field care and meal preparation.

This comprehensive virtual series offers aspiring hunters a structured roadmap from foundational basics to advanced field proficiency, ensuring total preparation for the Virginia Small Game seasons. Each interactive session features a panel of seasoned experts with dedicated time for Q&A to provide personalized insights. To reinforce your learning, the program includes supplemental hands-on clinics held throughout the state and culminates in exclusive, expert-supervised mentored hunt opportunities.

Schedule and Access:

Virtual classes will be conducted every Thursday from July 30 through Oct 1, between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Participants are required to register for each session individually to receive a unique access link for that session, which will be distributed via a Microsoft Teams invitation no later than 6:00 PM on the day of the scheduled class. Please ensure your contact information is accurate during registration.

What You'll Learn:

✔ Hunting laws and ethical practices
✔ Where and how to access hunting opportunities
✔ Small game biology and behavior
✔ Firearm safety and equipment selection
✔ Hunting techniques and strategies
✔ Proper game care and food preparation
✔ Connections to experienced hunting mentors

Who Should Attend?

• New hunters
• Adults interested in learning to hunt
• Families exploring outdoor recreation
• Anyone interested in Virginia's hunting traditions and conservation efforts

While this is a series, participants can pick and choose classes that fit their need/interest and are not required to attend every session.

This comprehensive virtual series offers aspiring hunters a structured roadmap from foundational basics to advanced field proficiency, ensuring total preparation for the Virginia deer season. Each interactive session features a panel of seasoned experts with dedicated time for Q&A to provide personalized insights. To reinforce your learning, the program includes supplemental hands-on clinics held throughout the state and culminates in exclusive, expert-supervised mentored hunt opportunities.

Virtual classes will be conducted every Wednesday from May 20th through September 30th, between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Participants are required to register for each session individually to receive a unique access link, which will be distributed via a Microsoft Teams invitation no later than 6:00 PM on the day of the scheduled class. Please ensure your contact information is accurate during registration. The weekly agenda is available on the registration page.

Interested in hunting but not sure where to start? Join our Becoming a Virginia Hunter – Small Game Virtual Series, a free educational program designed to help new hunters build the knowledge and confidence needed for a successful small game hunting experience. Whether you're completely new to hunting or looking to sharpen your skills, this series will guide you through every stage of the hunting journey—from preparation and planning to field care and meal preparation.

This comprehensive virtual series offers aspiring hunters a structured roadmap from foundational basics to advanced field proficiency, ensuring total preparation for the Virginia Small Game seasons. Each interactive session features a panel of seasoned experts with dedicated time for Q&A to provide personalized insights. To reinforce your learning, the program includes supplemental hands-on clinics held throughout the state and culminates in exclusive, expert-supervised mentored hunt opportunities.

Schedule and Access:

Virtual classes will be conducted every Thursday from July 30 through Oct 1, between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Participants are required to register for each session individually to receive a unique access link for that session, which will be distributed via a Microsoft Teams invitation no later than 6:00 PM on the day of the scheduled class. Please ensure your contact information is accurate during registration.

What You'll Learn:

✔ Hunting laws and ethical practices
✔ Where and how to access hunting opportunities
✔ Small game biology and behavior
✔ Firearm safety and equipment selection
✔ Hunting techniques and strategies
✔ Proper game care and food preparation
✔ Connections to experienced hunting mentors

Who Should Attend?

• New hunters
• Adults interested in learning to hunt
• Families exploring outdoor recreation
• Anyone interested in Virginia's hunting traditions and conservation efforts

This 4-hour, hands-on workshop will teach you the skills you need to successfully “blood-trail” and track a wounded deer. Participants under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian present.

You shot at a deer! If all went as planned, you will watch your deer topple over after a short distance. But what happens when your hit is not immediately fatal? What you do next will have a huge impact on whether or not you recover the deer. After a good double-lung hit, tracking a deer is typically simple. After a less-conclusive shot, you’ll need the skills of “blood-trailing” and tracking a wounded deer to greatly increase your odds of recovering your deer.

During this workshop, we will be in the woods following simulated “blood-trails”. Some parts of the woods might have thick vegetation to go through, so please dress appropriately. Suggested items to bring: a compass, snack, water, sunscreen, and insect spray.

No firearms or live ammunition.

While this is a series, participants can pick and choose classes that fit their need/interest and are not required to attend every session.

This comprehensive virtual series offers aspiring hunters a structured roadmap from foundational basics to advanced field proficiency, ensuring total preparation for the Virginia deer season. Each interactive session features a panel of seasoned experts with dedicated time for Q&A to provide personalized insights. To reinforce your learning, the program includes supplemental hands-on clinics held throughout the state and culminates in exclusive, expert-supervised mentored hunt opportunities.

Virtual classes will be conducted every Wednesday from May 20th through September 30th, between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Participants are required to register for each session individually to receive a unique access link, which will be distributed via a Microsoft Teams invitation no later than 6:00 PM on the day of the scheduled class. Please ensure your contact information is accurate during registration. The weekly agenda is available on the registration page.

Interested in hunting but not sure where to start? Join our Becoming a Virginia Hunter – Small Game Virtual Series, a free educational program designed to help new hunters build the knowledge and confidence needed for a successful small game hunting experience. Whether you're completely new to hunting or looking to sharpen your skills, this series will guide you through every stage of the hunting journey—from preparation and planning to field care and meal preparation.

This comprehensive virtual series offers aspiring hunters a structured roadmap from foundational basics to advanced field proficiency, ensuring total preparation for the Virginia Small Game seasons. Each interactive session features a panel of seasoned experts with dedicated time for Q&A to provide personalized insights. To reinforce your learning, the program includes supplemental hands-on clinics held throughout the state and culminates in exclusive, expert-supervised mentored hunt opportunities.

Schedule and Access:

Virtual classes will be conducted every Thursday from July 30 through Oct 1, between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Participants are required to register for each session individually to receive a unique access link for that session, which will be distributed via a Microsoft Teams invitation no later than 6:00 PM on the day of the scheduled class. Please ensure your contact information is accurate during registration.

What You'll Learn:

✔ Hunting laws and ethical practices
✔ Where and how to access hunting opportunities
✔ Small game biology and behavior
✔ Firearm safety and equipment selection
✔ Hunting techniques and strategies
✔ Proper game care and food preparation
✔ Connections to experienced hunting mentors

Who Should Attend?

• New hunters
• Adults interested in learning to hunt
• Families exploring outdoor recreation
• Anyone interested in Virginia's hunting traditions and conservation efforts

While this is a series, participants can pick and choose classes that fit their need/interest and are not required to attend every session.

This comprehensive virtual series offers aspiring hunters a structured roadmap from foundational basics to advanced field proficiency, ensuring total preparation for the Virginia deer season. Each interactive session features a panel of seasoned experts with dedicated time for Q&A to provide personalized insights. To reinforce your learning, the program includes supplemental hands-on clinics held throughout the state and culminates in exclusive, expert-supervised mentored hunt opportunities.

Virtual classes will be conducted every Wednesday from May 20th through September 30th, between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Participants are required to register for each session individually to receive a unique access link, which will be distributed via a Microsoft Teams invitation no later than 6:00 PM on the day of the scheduled class. Please ensure your contact information is accurate during registration. The weekly agenda is available on the registration page.

Interested in hunting but not sure where to start? Join our Becoming a Virginia Hunter – Small Game Virtual Series, a free educational program designed to help new hunters build the knowledge and confidence needed for a successful small game hunting experience. Whether you're completely new to hunting or looking to sharpen your skills, this series will guide you through every stage of the hunting journey—from preparation and planning to field care and meal preparation.

This comprehensive virtual series offers aspiring hunters a structured roadmap from foundational basics to advanced field proficiency, ensuring total preparation for the Virginia Small Game seasons. Each interactive session features a panel of seasoned experts with dedicated time for Q&A to provide personalized insights. To reinforce your learning, the program includes supplemental hands-on clinics held throughout the state and culminates in exclusive, expert-supervised mentored hunt opportunities.

Schedule and Access:

Virtual classes will be conducted every Thursday from July 30 through Oct 1, between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Participants are required to register for each session individually to receive a unique access link for that session, which will be distributed via a Microsoft Teams invitation no later than 6:00 PM on the day of the scheduled class. Please ensure your contact information is accurate during registration.

What You'll Learn:

✔ Hunting laws and ethical practices
✔ Where and how to access hunting opportunities
✔ Small game biology and behavior
✔ Firearm safety and equipment selection
✔ Hunting techniques and strategies
✔ Proper game care and food preparation
✔ Connections to experienced hunting mentors

Who Should Attend?

• New hunters
• Adults interested in learning to hunt
• Families exploring outdoor recreation
• Anyone interested in Virginia's hunting traditions and conservation efforts

While this is a series, participants can pick and choose classes that fit their need/interest and are not required to attend every session.

This comprehensive virtual series offers aspiring hunters a structured roadmap from foundational basics to advanced field proficiency, ensuring total preparation for the Virginia deer season. Each interactive session features a panel of seasoned experts with dedicated time for Q&A to provide personalized insights. To reinforce your learning, the program includes supplemental hands-on clinics held throughout the state and culminates in exclusive, expert-supervised mentored hunt opportunities.

Virtual classes will be conducted every Wednesday from May 20th through September 30th, between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Participants are required to register for each session individually to receive a unique access link, which will be distributed via a Microsoft Teams invitation no later than 6:00 PM on the day of the scheduled class. Please ensure your contact information is accurate during registration. The weekly agenda is available on the registration page.

Interested in hunting but not sure where to start? Join our Becoming a Virginia Hunter – Small Game Virtual Series, a free educational program designed to help new hunters build the knowledge and confidence needed for a successful small game hunting experience. Whether you're completely new to hunting or looking to sharpen your skills, this series will guide you through every stage of the hunting journey—from preparation and planning to field care and meal preparation.

This comprehensive virtual series offers aspiring hunters a structured roadmap from foundational basics to advanced field proficiency, ensuring total preparation for the Virginia Small Game seasons. Each interactive session features a panel of seasoned experts with dedicated time for Q&A to provide personalized insights. To reinforce your learning, the program includes supplemental hands-on clinics held throughout the state and culminates in exclusive, expert-supervised mentored hunt opportunities.

Schedule and Access:

Virtual classes will be conducted every Thursday from July 30 through Oct 1, between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Participants are required to register for each session individually to receive a unique access link for that session, which will be distributed via a Microsoft Teams invitation no later than 6:00 PM on the day of the scheduled class. Please ensure your contact information is accurate during registration.

What You'll Learn:

✔ Hunting laws and ethical practices
✔ Where and how to access hunting opportunities
✔ Small game biology and behavior
✔ Firearm safety and equipment selection
✔ Hunting techniques and strategies
✔ Proper game care and food preparation
✔ Connections to experienced hunting mentors

Who Should Attend?

• New hunters
• Adults interested in learning to hunt
• Families exploring outdoor recreation
• Anyone interested in Virginia's hunting traditions and conservation efforts

Join us and learn basic deer hunting skills. We will discuss deer biology and habits, scouting and hunting techniques, game laws, tree stand and firearm safety, as well as what to do after you harvest an animal. Our afternoon session will be mostly outdoors, so dress appropriately for the forecasted weather.

A small number of our class will be randomly selected to have the opportunity to participate in a mentored deer hunt at the Radford Arsenal and Matthews State Forest in December. Participants must be 18 years of age or older to be considered for the mentored hunts. Range days will be held prior to the hunt to prepare those selected for the mentored hunt. Firearms, ammunition, eye and ear protection will be provided. Additional mentored hunting opportunities will be available for those not selected for the Radford Arsenal and Matthews State Forest Hunts.