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Welcome to the Washington Hunting Wiki.

Washington State offers a wide variety of terrain and animals to hunters. There are rainforests, rugged mountainous regions, interior high desert, or even coastal areas along the Pacific Ocean, Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands. During the hunting seasons you can find opportunities from Roosevelt and Rocky Mountain elk hunts, high mountain mule deer hunts, offshore duck hunts, high desert coyote hunting, to black bear hunting in forested regions.

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife manages the state hunting opportunities, regulations and enforcement. Their official website is located at wdfw.wa.gov.

This wiki is intended to offer some basic hunting information and references for Washington state hunters. It is not a complete guide or comprehensive compilation of hunting information. This space is a living, user contributed source of information. If you see an area or areas to improve on or something which is incorrect; you are empowered to make the necessary changes.

Contents

Washington Large Game Animals


Deer can be found all over the state. Mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) are generally found east of the Cascade Mountain crest and often live in the high mountainous regions during the summer months. Blacktail deer (Odocoileus hemionus columbianus) can usually be found west of the Cascade crest in any forested area which will give them cover; including near well populated regions. Whitetail deer (Odocoileus virginianus) are usually found east of the Cascade Mountains. There are three seasons for deer hunting in Washington state which correspond to the legal methods of hunting them: Archery, Muzzleloader, and Modern Firearm. Hunters can choose their weapon of choice and purchase one over the counter tag for deer and hunt the corresponding season. There is an exception to choosing only one tag. This is the multi-season tag which permits hunters to take advantags of all three seasons if they win the draw and purchase this tag.

Mountain Goats (Oreamnos americanus) are found in small pockets among some of the more rugged terrain in the Cascade Range and Olympic Mountains where they will find safety in their small numbers. People can often approach very close to these animals and their young. It is best not to disturb them in their natural habitat and to view them from a distance unless actively hunting them. Obtaining permission and tags for hunting these animals is by draw or raffle only.

There is a healthy population of black bears (Ursus americanus) in Washington. They are distributed across the state and hunting opportunites include spring bear hunts by draw each year in addition to the general fall season which begins in August. Sows with cubs should not be shot. The last published estimation of the black bear population on the web states that there are approximately 25,000 bears in Washington State. Hunting bears with bait is illegal in Washington. Using hounds to hunt cougars and bears is illegal except for special opportunities closely regulated by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. Black bears can be hunted with over the counter tags. Some black bear references are here in A Few Facts About Cougars and Bears Washington State

It almost seems that most hunters happen upon a cougar (Puma concolor) during the hunting season instead of actively seeking them out, but there is no factual data to support this idea. There are plenty of hunters which actively hunt these elusive cats instead of accidentally encountering them. Cougars are carnivores and they often prey on deer and other large game including elk and mountain goats. Where there is food there might be cougar. Using hounds to hunt cougars and bears is illegal except for special opportunities closely regulated by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. Cougars can be hunted with over the counter tags.

According to studies there are approximately 1000 or so moose (Alces alces) living in Washington of the Shiras species. Generally they are more often seen in the northeastern parts of the state. There are moose as far west as Lake Chelan and sightings as far south as Wenatchee. There are indicators that the moose population in Washington state are on the rise. With the re-introduction of wolves in Washington there will likely be a negative impact on the moose population. Moose are hunted by special permit or raffle only. Moose often like to thrive near wetlands such as lakes or marshes. Moose can be hunted by draw or raffle only. More moose information here.

A large Roosevelt Elk (canadensis roosevelti) population (5,000+) lives in Olympic National Park region of Washington. These magnificent and the largest of the elk subspecies are named after President Theodore Roosevelt. In Washington there are also large herds of Rocky Mountain Elk (canadensis nelsoni) which usually reside east of the Cascade Mountain crest. These Rocky Mountain Elk were descendents from Yellowstone animals from the early 1900s which were transplanted to Washington state. Elk can be hunted with over the counter tags.

There are plenty of good references to Washington's game animals, their eating habits, lifestyle and habitat at the Living With Wildlife Page. You may find some of this information useful in your hunting endeavors.

Washington Small Game

  • Coyote
  • Bobcat


Coyotes (Canis latrans) can be found all across the state and there is a year round season on these animals. When hunting these predators pay attention to your own movement (don't let them see you move), wind direction, and scent. These animals are smart and seem to learn fast after being shot at. A good time of year to hunt coyotes is in the winter. Their pelts are of higher quality and they are more receptive to calling during the breeding season; which occurs in mid to late winter. Coyotes are crafty animals and will survive on almost any forage they can find.

Bobcats (Lynx rufus) can be found in many forested areas as well as high desert and are also an elusive feline. As with any predator you should pay attention to scent, wind direction, your own movement and sound when seeking them out. These felines are usually solitary until the breeding season is under way. A large male bobcat would be 30 lbs or more.

Washington Waterfowl & Upland Birds

  • Snow Geese
  • Canadian Geese
  • Ducks
  • Brant
  • Pheasant
  • Grouse
  • Chukar
  • Quail
  • Turkey
  • Gray Partridge/Hun
  • Crow
  • Dove

Pheasant Hunting Information

These links will contain information about pheasant hunting in Washington and also have a PDF file format pamphlet which will contain maps to the pheasant release sites and other general information.
Western Washington Pheasant Release Program
Eastern Washington Pheasant Enhancement Program


Waterfowl Hunting

There are plenty of hunting opportunities for waterfowl across Washington State. Here are a few ideas..

  • Coastal areas along the northern Puget Sound trending south along Interstate 5 to where it meets the Columbia River is sometimes referred to as the Puget Trough. This region is home to areas such as Skagit Flats and Skagit Wildlife Area, Fir Island, and Samish Flats.
  • The Sequim and the Dungeness Spit area offers a variety of waterfowl and other wildlife.


Access to watercraft can open up a lot of opportunities for waterfowl hunting. Make sure you are aware of the regulations when hunting from watercraft. It is unlawful to hunt wildlife from a vehicle (except authorized disabled hunters) or from a boat propelled by a motor, unless the boats motor is shut off and progress due to the motor has stopped. It is also illegal to use a vehicle (including ATVs), aircraft, or boat to pursue, concentrate or harass wild animals or wild birds.

Waterfowl can be found in small puddles, creeks, rivers, lakes, streams or fields all over Washington State. Sometimes having access to private property can deliver good hunting opportunities. Especially in the more populated areas. The WaterFowl Identification Gallery from Ducks Unlimited is a good source of information for identifying these birds.

Adults who want to hunt waterfowl in Washington State you will need to purchase the Federal Duck Stamp, the Migratory Bird Validation, and a small game license. Sea Duck, Brant, and Snow Goose hunters will be required to obtain written permission to hunt these species from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. When hunting waterfowl it is required to use non toxic shot. Be aware of the official hunting hours published in the annual Migratory Waterfowl and Upland Game Season Pamphlet when waterfowl hunting. The use of electronic calls and decoys on waterfowl, deer or turkey is illegal in Washington state per WAC 232-12-257.


Grouse

The distinct sound of this bird can be heard in almost any forest in the state. Be aware that Sharp-Tailed and Sage grouse are protected species.

Wildlife Refuges and Wildlife Areas of Washington State

Wildlife Refuges of Washington Referenced From: US Fish and Wildlife Service Refuge List by State

Wildife Areas of Washington Reference from: WDFW Wildlife Areas and Access Points Page
A useful web page for finding all the wildlife areas in the state as well as where to find specific species during certain parts of the year.

Washington Hunting Methods

Archery Reference: WAC 232-12-054

  • (a) It is illegal to hunt big game animals with a bow that has less than 40 pounds of pull measured at 28 inches or less draw length. It is illegal to hunt big game animals with any arrow, including broadhead, measuring less than 20 inches in length, weighing less than 6 grains per pound of draw weight with a minimum arrow weight of 300 grains, and having sharp broadhead blade or blades less than seven-eighths inches wide. It is unlawful to hunt with a broadhead blade unless the broadhead is unbarbed and completely closed to the back end of the blade or blades by a smooth, unbroken surface starting at maximum blade width forming a smooth line toward the feather end of the shaft and such line does not angle toward the point. Retractable styled broadheads are illegal.
  • (b) It is illegal to carry or have in possession any firearm while in the field archery hunting, during the archery season specified for that area.
  • (c) It is illegal to shoot at wildlife with an arrow from a vehicle or from, across, or along the maintained portion of a public highway.
  • (d) It is illegal to use any device secured to or supported by the bow for the purpose of maintaining the bow at full draw or in a firing position, except for hunters with disabilities with archery special use permits in compliance with WAC 232-12-054.
  • (e) It is illegal to have any electrical equipment or device(s) attached to the bow or arrow while hunting.
  • (f) It is unlawful to hunt wildlife with a crossbow, except for hunters with disabilities with archery special use permits in compliance with WAC 232-12-054.
  • (g) It is unlawful to hunt wildlife with any bow or crossbow equipped with a scope. Except hunters with disabilities who meet the definition of being visually impaired in WAC 232-12-828 may receive a special use permit that would allow the use of scopes or other visual aids. Contact the Department’s ADA coordinator for further information.

Modern Firearm Reference: WAC 232-12-047

  • Rifles — Elk, deer, and bear may be hunted with a minimum of 24 caliber (6mm) centerfire rifle. Cougar may be hunted with 22 caliber centerfire rifle. Rimfire rifles are not legal.
  • Handguns - must have minimum barrel length of 4 inches per manufacturers specification, and fire a minimum 24 caliber centerfire cartridge.
  • Shotguns — Deer, bear, and cougar may be hunted with 20 gauge to 10 gauge shotguns shooting slugs or #1 or larger buckshot. Other big gamemay be hunted with a 10 or 12 gauge shotgun using slugs.

Muzzleloader Reference: WAC 232-12-051

  • (a) It is illegal to carry or possess any firearm during muzzleloading seasons which does not meet the following specification for muzzleloader: Is loaded from the muzzle and uses black powder or a black powder substitute as recommended by the manufacturer for use in muzzleloading firearms. Has a single or double barrel of at least 20 inches, rifled or smoothbore. Ignition is to be wheellock, match-lock, flintlock, or percussion using original style percussion caps that fit on the nipple and are exposed to the elements. Shot shell and 209 primers are not legal. Sights must be open, peep, or of other open sight design. Telescopic sights or sights containing glass are prohibited. Except hunters with disabilities who meet the definition of being visually impaired in WAC 232-12-828 may receive a special use permit that would allow the use of scopes or other visual aids. Contact the Department’s ADA coordinator for further information. Fiber optic sights are legal. It is unlawful to have any electrical device or equipment attached to a muzzleloading firearm while hunting.
  • (b) A muzzleloading firearm used for deer must fire a single, non-jacketed lead projectile of nominal 40 caliber or larger except that buckshot size #1 or larger, may be used in a smoothbore of 60 caliber or larger. Lead bullets with polymer tips are legal.
  • (c) A muzzleloading firearm used for all other big game must fire a single, non-jacketed lead projectile of nominal 50 caliber or larger, or fire a single, non-jacketed lead projectile of at least 170 grains. Lead bullets with polymer tips are legal.
  • (d) Muzzleloader hunters can carry a handgun designed to be charged with black powder only. It is NOT legal for hunting or dispatching big game.
  • (e) Muzzleloader hunters may lawfully hunt game birds with a muzzleloader shotgun.
  • (f) Only one barrel of a double barrel muzzleloader may be loaded with powder or bullet or capped at any one time while hunting in a muzzleloading season. Muzzle-loaders hunting in a firearm restriction area, outside of a muzzleloader season, may have both barrels charged.
  • (g) In-line Muzzleloader: In-line muzzleloaders are legal only if ignition uses original style

Maps and Game Harvest Information

Washington State Hunters Education


  • Washington State law requires all individuals born after 1 January 1972 to show proof of basic hunter education training before purchasing a hunting license. There are no exceptions to the law.
  • There is no minimum age required to enroll in hunter education, but instructors may require a parent or guardian to attend all classes if students are under 12 years of age.
  • Individuals who have a previous Washington hunting license or a valid Washington hunter education training certificate need only show these documents to a license vendor in order to purchase a new, hunting license.
  • Non-resident hunters born after January 1, 1972 are also required to prove successful completion of hunter education training before purchasing a hunting license.
  • Individuals may apply for a director-authorized, once in a lifetime, one-license-year deferral of hunter education training. To qualify, the applicant for deferral and his or her accompanying, licensed hunter must comply with the specifc requirements outlined in WAC 232-12-228


Hunting Regulations

Washington Hunting Clubs or Organizations

Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Regional Areas

WDFW Regional Areas and Map

Olympia Office (Main Office) (360) 902-2200 FAX (360) 902-2156, TDD (360) 902-2207

Visitors: Natural Resources Building 1111 Washington St. SE Olympia, WA 98501 Building Office hours: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Mailing Address: 600 Capitol Way N. Olympia, WA USA 98501-1091


WDFW Region 1 PageWDFW Region 2 PageWDFW Region 3 PageWDFW Region 4 PageWDFW Region 5 PageWDFW Region 6 Page
WDFW Regional AreasAbout this image


Eastern Washington - Region 1 Office Open 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding legal holidays. 2315 North Discovery Place Spokane Valley, WA 99216-1566 Telephone (509) 892-1001 Fax (509) 921-2440

North Central Washington - Region 2 Office Open 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding legal holidays. 1550 Alder Street NW Ephrata, Washington 98823-9699 Telephone (509) 754-4624 Fax (509) 754-5257

South Central Washington - Region 3 Office Open 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding legal holidays. 1701 South 24th Avenue Yakima, Washington 98902-5720 Telephone (509) 575-2740 Fax (509) 575-2474

North Puget Sound - Region 4 Office Open 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding legal holidays. 16018 Mill Creek Boulevard Mill Creek, Washington 98012-1541 Telephone (425) 775-1311 Fax (425) 338-1066

Southwest Washington - Region 5 Office Open 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding legal holidays. 2108 Grand Boulevard Vancouver, Washington 98661 Telephone (360) 696-6211 Fax (360) 906-6776

Coastal Washington - Region 6 Office Open 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding legal holidays. 48 Devonshire Road Montesano, Washington 98563 Telephone (360) 249-4628 Fax (360) 664-0689

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