This is a copy of my post in the Deer Hunting forum:

Just downloaded the new WV regs and found out that they've established a new primitive weapons season in January, the Mountaineer Heritage Season. January 10-13, one either-sex deer and one bear may be taken with either sidelock muzzleloader or stick bow, no in-line, crossbows, or compounds allowed. In the four archery-only counties, only recurve and longbows will be legal. Might be pretty tough sledding by then, as on public land at least, game gets pretty hard to find that late, but the extra hunting time is welcome regardless.

Being an official geezer, I also pick up three extra days for antlerless deer, one in October and two days after Christmas when only seniors and juniors are allowed. The deer taken then don't require a doe tag and don't count against your bag limit.

Regardless of how taken or when, the season limit of three antlered deer remains in force, as do Mature Buck regs in special areas, and blaze orange requirements.

Rules vary widely by county, so download the regs and check for changes. The CWD areas have been expanded somewhat too.

Glad I acquired that TC Renegade .54 on a whim now for certain.

Good luck this coming season, Pappy!

Thanks. Pappy needs all the luck, and time he can muster!

!

Nice to see them opening more opportunities, but bear in January? Aren't they usually denned up by then?

Presumeably, but probably depends on the weather somewhat. It can be a good bit warmer in the South end of the state. Never seen one here, but they're around. All I've seen have been in VA; roadkill, on Skyline Drive, and one just outside Middleburg crossing RT. 50 (he looked both ways and waited for traffic to clear).

One carried off my neighbor's rabbit cage some years ago, and others have been seen in the hayfield across the road. Just haven't been lucky yet. I always bought a tag in the past, but old guys don't need them (NOT much compensation for being old, by the way). I'm not certain I really want a bear, but I'll decide if and when I get the chance. I am sure I don't want a smallish one.

My fear is that weather will futz up the late season like it's done in the past, but that's the luck of the draw.

Wished I could get another quart or so of bear oil! I was down to 1/2 quart and my jar didnt survive the shop move for some reason. Well at least I can’t find what I did with it. My favorite all around lube for all things muzzleloader. Heck, I’d be happy with a pint!!!

Never had a bear. Do they require regular oiling? How do you get them to hold still?

Easiest done during hibernation. Annual thing!