Shooting Wildlife outside of traps?

[Cougartail]

In the latest newsletter of the WSTA it states that it is illegal for WCOs to shoot wildlife outside of a trap. Is the WSTA actively trying to change this?

[Cougartail]

I guess what I'm really asking is will the State allow NWO to shoot coyotes under their permit? Unless you get a special permit there is no effective way to handle complaints.

[Trapper John]

Where did you read that (what page) so everyone know what you are talking about?

[Cougartail]

Page 11, right column, 2/3 of the way down. In the Summer 2020 "The Fur Shed" Article. " Why should I be a member of WSTA".

[Humptulips]

I think what you are looking at must be the 2019 edition. Since that time I received verbal communication that it was OK, overturning a lower ranking employee. That employee no longer works for the Department. I have not been able to get anything in writing. It is difficult to reach certain individuals in the Department without being able to go into the office but I will keep trying.

[Cougartail]

Thanks!

[Cougartail]

So, anything in writing about using a firearm for coyotes on a WCO job?

[Humptulips]

I have been unable to get anything.

[Cougartail]

I have been unable to get anything.

Let me know if you do. Thanks.

[Mt.Beaver]

Coyotes season is open all year around if you have a hunting license-big game or small. You can't discharge a firearm in the city limits in most places. Otherwise if you can legally discharge a firearm in that location you can shoot a coyote. Am I missing something here

[Cougartail]

It was forbidden for WCO to shoot coyote for people for pay. Trapping only for pay.

This is what I was told at a WCO class 5 years ago and it was stated in their handout?

[huntingfool7]

So, anything in writing about using a firearm for coyotes on a WCO job?

No good reason to limit this to coyotes.

[Humptulips]

Coyotes season is open all year around if you have a hunting license-big game or small. You can't discharge a firearm in the city limits in most places. Otherwise if you can legally discharge a firearm in that location you can shoot a coyote. Am I missing something here

As has been stated it is not about shooting a coyote or whatever. The problem is charging for the service of shooting a nuisance but otherwise legal animal to shoot.
I have conflicting statements from agency staff but nothing in writing. The language in the WAC is ambiguous but it does say you can kill animals, just not specifically how. It seems like something that could be cleared up without a change in the law but I haven't been able to get anything in writing.