WV HB2043

Authorizes hunters who believe they have mortally wounded a deer, elk, turkey, wild boar, or bear to use leashed dogs and/or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs/drones) to track and locate the animal

Hunters may employ dog handlers and licensed UAV operators to assist with tracking, but the hunter must accompany the handler and only the hunter may kill the wounded animal (unless physically unable, in which case the handler may be designated)

Only one leashed dog per handler is permitted, and the dog must remain under physical control at all times; the recovered animal counts toward the original hunter's bag limit

Dog handlers and UAV operators providing tracking services for profit must be licensed as outfitters or guides; UAV operators on property they don't own or lease must hold FAA Part 107 certification

Effective June 30, 2025 (90 days from passage on April 1, 2025)