AFTER-THE-SHOT SUPPORT WEST VIRGINIA
West Virginia
drone deer recovery.
Thermal search support for lawful, responsible recovery in West Virginia—subject to all hunter and operator licensing requirements.
Responsible recovery support
Search the terrain with better information.
West Virginia terrain can turn a difficult track into a long night. A thermal drone can examine steep ground, timber, fields, and cover from above while limiting unnecessary foot traffic.
KRYX begins with a mission review covering the shot, last-known direction, timing, property access, airspace, weather, and the state requirements that apply to the hunter and drone operator.
KRYX is based in Western Pennsylvania near the West Virginia line for quick response into the northern part of the state. Primary nearby service areas include Hancock, Brooke, Ohio, Marshall, Monongalia, Preston, Marion, and Wetzel counties, with other West Virginia locations considered when scheduling and legal requirements allow.
Preserve the trail
Call with the shot time, exact location, observed reaction, sign, and last-known direction before adding more ground pressure.
Verify legal readiness
Required licenses, land access, current wildlife rules, airspace, and safe flight conditions must be confirmed.
Conduct a focused aerial search
Thermal and zoom sensors are used to inspect the most relevant terrain and potential travel path.
Support lawful ground recovery
Location information is provided in accordance with current West Virginia requirements and the mission conditions.
West Virginia recovery questions
What hunters should know.
Is drone deer recovery legal in West Virginia?
West Virginia law permits a UAV to locate mortally wounded deer and certain other game, but it treats the activity as hunting and applies specific licensing and authorization requirements.
Does the hunter need a license?
The hunter and participating operator must satisfy the applicable license and authorization requirements in West Virginia Code §20-2-5j, unless a lawful exemption applies.
Can a paid drone operator perform a recovery?
A UAV operator providing tracking services for profit must meet West Virginia's outfitter or guide licensing requirement. Part 107 is also required when the operator is not flying on property they own or lease.
What information should I have ready?
Provide the property location, shot time, last-known direction, observed sign, hunter-license status, and landowner permission when you call.
Start with the facts
Discuss a West Virginia recovery.
Call to review the location, hunt details, legal requirements, timing, and flight conditions.