Big News for Hunters: MOV Drone Workz Will Now Offer Legal Thermal Drone Recovery in West Virginia FOR 2025 Hunting Season
Ohio Buck In Tall Corn During a Heard Analysis
For years, MOV Drone Workz has proudly served hunters in Ohio, helping locate mortally wounded deer and other game using thermal drones. Unfortunately, we’ve had to turn away many requests from West Virginia because of strict state regulations that prohibited drone-assisted recovery. That changes June 30, 2025, when a new law finally allows hunters in West Virginia to legally use drones to locate downed game.
West Virginia’s New Drone Recovery Law: What It Means
On June 30, 2025, House Bill 2043 goes into effect, officially permitting licensed drone operators to assist in recovering mortally wounded deer, bear, turkey, and other big game in West Virginia. Under the new rules:
A valid West Virginia hunting license is required.
Drone operators must also have a WV outfitter/guide license if they are providing services for hire.
If operating on property other than your own, you must have an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
MOV Drone Workz will meet all these requirements, so you can rest assured that your recovery mission will be fully legal and professional.
When Services Begin
Our thermal drone recovery services will be available starting with the first hunting seasons that open after the law takes effect — beginning with West Virginia’s early bear seasons in select counties in late summer 2025. From there, we’ll be ready to assist for all eligible deer, bear, and turkey seasons.
Ohio vs. West Virginia: A Tale of Two States
In Ohio, the law has long allowed hunters to use drones after legally taking a shot to aid in recovery — without all the extra red tape. No guide licenses. No extra bonds. Just common-sense support for ethical game recovery.
In West Virginia, hunters and recovery operators face a much higher hurdle, with multiple licenses, bonds, and permits required. While these regulations may feel like just one more way the state finds to tax and regulate its citizens, MOV Drone Workz is committed to navigating this complexity so you don’t have to.
Land Mapping
Pre-Season Mapping: Plan Your Hunt Like Never Before
Before the season even begins, MOV Drone Workz can help you prepare:
Map your hunting retreat or lease land with precision down to 1 cm accuracy.
Create 3D models for the extreme hunter who loves high-tech tools.
Draw plots, annotate, measure vegetation volumes, and more — all with strategic mapping that gives you the edge.
Early Bird Specials
Free quotes available now — get your property mapped before the season starts.
Ask about early bird discounts for hunters who book drone recovery or mapping services before the fall rush!
Book Now and Be Ready
MOV Drone Workz will proudly offer legal thermal drone recovery services in West Virginia starting with the 2025 bear season. Don’t wait until you’ve lost a trophy — plan ahead for peace of mind.
👉 Call 740-434-7699 for a free quote or more information.
