Post by: Kain on December 01, 2010, 09:08:41 AM
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N K to enforcement-web
show details Nov 22 (9 days ago)
Many units modern firearms seasons are over or will be this week. Can I start night hunting for coyotes, bobcats and raccoons? The regs on this are confusing.
Thank you for your time.
--
Naithan Kain
Quote
Hello and thank you for contacting the Washington State Department of Fish & Wildlife, Enforcement Program.
Per page 66 of the big game hunting pamphlet, as long as you are hunting outside the months of September, October, or November and you are not in an area open to any center fire rifle deer/elk season, you are fine for bobcat/raccoon, but not coyote. Although the pamphlet mentions that you can, the WAC does not support it. Additionally, you can find this regulation under WAC 232-12-289 http://apps.leg.wa.gov/wac/default.aspx?cite=232-12-289 (http://apps.leg.wa.gov/wac/default.aspx?cite=232-12-289)
Thank you,
Sean Carrell
WDFW, Enforcement Program
360-902-2936
FAX: 360-902-2155
Quote
N K to Enforcement
show details Nov 23 (8 days ago)
I looked at the WAC you provided and it only applies to "OFFICIAL HUNTING HOURS FOR GAME ANIMALS AND FOREST GROUSE*". It makes an exception for bobcats and raccoons but not for coyotes because they are not "game" animals. According to WAC 232-12-007 coyotes are not game animals so the legal hunting hours would not apply to them. http://apps.leg.wa.gov/wac/default.aspx?cite=232-12-007 (http://apps.leg.wa.gov/wac/default.aspx?cite=232-12-007)
http://wdfw.wa.gov/living/coyotes.html#legal (http://wdfw.wa.gov/living/coyotes.html#legal)
"Legal Status
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife does not classify coyotes as game animals, but a state license is required to hunt or trap them (RCW 77.32.010). The owner, the owner's immediate family, employee, or a tenant of real property may kill or trap a coyote on that property if it is damaging crops or domestic animals (RCW 77.36.030). A license is not required in such cases. Check with your county and/or local jurisdiction for local restrictions. Except for bona fide public or private zoological parks, persons and entities are prohibited from importing a coyote into Washington State without a permit from the Department of Agriculture and written permission from the Department of Health. Persons and entities are also prohibited from acquiring, selling, bartering, exchanging, giving, purchasing, or trapping a coyote for a pet or export (WAC 246-100-191)."
Just to clarify: I have to wait until Dec 1st to start night hunting bobcats, raccoons and coyote even though there is no center fire rifle deer or elk season open? If I wanted to hunt the Battleground unit at night I would be fine as long as there is no modern firearms season open because that unit is never open to center fire rifle seasons. True?
Thanks for you time,
Naithan Kain
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Hey Lori -
Nathain is pretty articulate regarding this inquiry, but I'm not sure if his assumption is correct. Maybe so. What do you think?
Thank you,
Sean Carrell
WDFW, Enforcement Program
360-902-2936
FAX: 360-902-2155
Quote
Preuss, Lori (DFW) to Enforcement, me
show details 8:37 AM (28 minutes ago)
Hi, Naithan. It is illegal to hunt coyote at night, but WDFW’s laws and rules about this are conflicting. Coyote are included in the definition of “wildlife” in RCW 77.08.010(63). However they are not defined as “game animals” in WAC 232-12-007. To further confused the issue, they are included in WAC 232-28-342, which sets the seasons for small game. This WAC does not allow night hunting of coyote.
We will fix this discrepancy. In the meantime, to be safe, you shouldn’t hunt coyote at night.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Post by: WAcoyotehunter on December 01, 2010, 09:34:05 AM
Post by: Bob33 on December 01, 2010, 09:35:17 AM
Post by: dirty24d on December 01, 2010, 09:35:41 AM
Post by: Big10gauge on December 01, 2010, 09:48:33 AM
I am not reading that in the WAC 232-28-342 does not allow hunting of coyote at night. Am I missing that?
All I can see is this
It is unlawful to hunt any wildlife at night or wild animals with dogs (hounds) during the months of September, October, or November in any area open to a modern firearm deer or elk season. The use of hounds to hunt black bear, cougar (EXCEPT by public safety cougar removal permit (WAC 232-12-243) or a commission authorized hound permit (WAC 232-28-285)), coyote, and bobcat is prohibited year round.
Also maybe she means that they will fix the discrepancy to allow night hunting? :dunno:
Post by: whacker1 on December 01, 2010, 09:50:08 AM
Not sure if you have responded to Lori. But I would respond with "ask for clarification" on their intent to "fix" the discrepancy. People have been hunting Coyotes at night for years, and if they intend to do away with it we need to know now. I disagree with Lori's interpretation.
just my two cents on the moving forward.
frustrating that they can't come out and make the statement.
Post by: Kain on December 01, 2010, 10:00:32 AM
Kain,
Not sure if you have responded to Lori. But I would respond with "ask for clarification" on their intent to "fix" the discrepancy. People have been hunting Coyotes at night for years, and if they intend to do away with it we need to know now. I disagree with Lori's interpretation.
just my two cents on the moving forward.
frustrating that they can't come out and make the statement.
I have not responded yet. I am trying to calm down a little first. I will send a polite letter asking for clarification on which direction the clarifications are going. I know a few of you have letters from WDFW officers regarding night hunting coyotes, can you post a copy here.
Post by: Kain on December 01, 2010, 10:10:45 AM
Quote
Lori,
Thank you for the response. I read WAC 232-28-342 and I am not seeing where it prohibits night hunting for coyotes. Can you please clarify which part you are referring to. Could you also clarify on what you mean fixing the discrepancy. Is that to continue to allow coyote hunting at night or to make it illegal?
Thanks again for the response.
Naithan Kain
Post by: Machias on December 01, 2010, 10:19:20 AM
As per page 56 of the big game pamphlet, coyote may be hunted at night EXCEPT that it is unlawful to hunt any wildlife at night during the months of September, October, or November in any area open to a centerfire rifle deer or elk season.
Thank you,
Sean Carrell
WDFW, Enforcement Program
360-902-2936
FAX: 360-902-2155
Post by: bobcat on December 01, 2010, 10:47:19 AM
Post by: Skycruiser on December 01, 2010, 10:52:03 AM
"We have not yet formulated any changes to our nighttime hunting rule, and we may not change anything at all. If we do, you will see it on the Internet at our Website on June 23rd, and you will be able to testify at the Fish and Wildlife Commission meeting in August if you want to. Again, we haven’t done anything at this point, and we may decide to scrap any changes. I’ll keep you updated."
Subsequently she sent me an email saying that they had decided to forgo any changes in the night hunting rules for this year. Regrettably, I deleted it.
These people are literally OUT OF CONTROL.
Post by: Kain on December 01, 2010, 10:54:35 AM
Here's part of an email from Lori Preuss on April 6th:
"We have not yet formulated any changes to our nighttime hunting rule, and we may not change anything at all. If we do, you will see it on the Internet at our Website on June 23rd, and you will be able to testify at the Fish and Wildlife Commission meeting in August if you want to. Again, we haven’t done anything at this point, and we may decide to scrap any changes. I’ll keep you updated."
Subsequently she sent me an email saying that they had decided to forgo any changes in the night hunting rules for this year. Regrettably, I deleted it.
These people are literally OUT OF CONTROL.
I have a copy of it. They had no support for it so now they are trying to back door a ban.
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Hello. I told all of you months ago that I would be drafting proposed changes to our night-hunting rule and would send you the draft for review. After much discussion between the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) Enforcement Program and WDFW’s Wildlife Program, we have decided to hold off on making changes, if any, to this rule until early 2012. That is when the Wildlife Program will be considering amendments to many of the hunting rules as part of their 3-year cycle. To see the proposed hunting rule changes in early 2012, or to check the status of current rules in development at any given time, go to the “Current Rule Making Activity” page of WDFW’s website at http://wdfw.wa.gov/about/regulations/development.html. (http://wdfw.wa.gov/about/regulations/development.html.)
Lori Preuss, WSBA #33045
WDFW Criminal Justice Liaison &
Administrative Regulations Coordinator
Lori.preuss@dfw.wa.gov
360.902.2930
Fax 360.902.2155
Post by: Kain on December 01, 2010, 11:03:45 AM
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Preuss, Lori (DFW) to me, Enforcement
show details 10:56 AM (4 minutes ago)
Hi, Naithan. In WAC 232-28-342, there are “Exceptions” to the official hunting hours for game animals and forest grouse. It says, “Bobcat and raccoon are exempt from hunting hour restrictions during established bobcat and raccoon seasons…” It doesn’t mention coyote, and that’s how we know you can’t night-hunt coyote.
I would like to change the WAC to allow night-hunting of coyote. However, the governor just ordered all state agencies to stop rule-making, except in very specific circumstances where rules are necessary to prevent immediate threat to wildlife, to generate revenue, etc. Her moratorium on rule-making covers all of 2011. So, if and when we change the rule, whether it is to allow night-hunting of coyote or not, it won’t happen until 2012.
I hope this helps.
Post by: JackOfAllTrades on December 01, 2010, 11:22:54 AM
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frustrating that they can't come out and make the statement.
They can't make a statement because the WAC's are conflicting. Its not like anyone within WDFW can override them. The WAC's are enforced as law.
This issue should be brought up to the state Attorney General's office for clarity, and have the conflicting WAC's modified per the original intent of the laws as they were written. You could also bring this issue to your local legislative representative. The no night hunting of yotes during modern firearm deer and elk seasons was both to aid in safety of hunters in the field and discourage deer and elk hunters from being able to shoot big game beyond the posted daylight shooting hours.
-Steve
Post by: Machias on December 01, 2010, 11:23:35 AM
That's not directed at you Steve.
I have an e-mail from Sean Carroll that says yote hunting at night is legal, I will carry it with me while I continue to night hunt for yotes. I'll also show it in court if I ever have to.
Post by: Kain on December 01, 2010, 11:27:44 AM
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Lori,
I still dont see where WAC 232-28-342 say anything about hunting hours. I guess I dont understand why you are including coyote as a game animal. That would be a change in the rules that you said you are order not to do. WAC 232-12-007 does NOT classify coyote as "game" animals therefore an exception in WAC 232-12-289 to include coyote is not necessary for rules governing hunting hours for game animals. You would actually have to make a rule change to include them as a game animal not just to leave them as it is, unclassified wildlife. I dont know if this is a personal opinion or the opinion of the WDFW but even if you are going to tell me that night hunting coyotes is illegal because there is not exception made in WAC 232-12-289 what happens on Feb 1st? The legal hunting hours only govern game animals from Sept 1st-Jan 31st. Coyote season is year round so on Feb 1st there are no law saying coyote hunting is illegal at night. Correct?
Thanks for the fast response
Naithan Kain
Post by: bobcat on December 01, 2010, 11:30:02 AM
Post by: grundy53 on December 01, 2010, 11:32:39 AM
In the 2010 big game pamphlet the rule is on page 66. I would go by that. Keep it with you while hunting, if a warden questions what you are doing, show him the rule on page 66 that says::yeah: :yeah:
Post by: bobcat on December 01, 2010, 11:35:09 AM
Post by: demontang on December 01, 2010, 12:08:35 PM
Bobcat, raccoon, and coyote may be hunted at night during established bobcat and racoon seasons, EXCEPT that it is unlawful to hunt any wildlife at night or wild animals with dogs(hounds) during the months of september, october, or november in any area open to a centerfire rifle deer or elk season. the use of hounds to hunt black bear, cougar, bobcat, or coyote is prohibited year round except durion commission authorized hunts.
So they need to get there story straight. I clearly said coyotes in that and doesnt say its illegal.
Post by: Kain on December 01, 2010, 12:15:18 PM
So In my hunting regs on page 66 under night hunting and hound hunting during deer and elk hunting seasons it states:
Bobcat, raccoon, and coyote may be hunted at night during established bobcat and racoon seasons, EXCEPT that it is unlawful to hunt any wildlife at night or wild animals with dogs(hounds) during the months of september, october, or november in any area open to a centerfire rifle deer or elk season. the use of hounds to hunt black bear, cougar, bobcat, or coyote is prohibited year round except durion commission authorized hunts.
So they need to get there story straight. I clearly said coyotes in that and doesnt say its illegal.
It says its legal to hunt them at night but then they tell you its illegal and the next breath she says they cant make any rule changes. :chuckle: All this and all I wanted to know was whether I had to wait until Dec 1st to start night hunting.
Post by: bobcat on December 01, 2010, 12:18:19 PM
Post by: Kain on December 01, 2010, 12:21:49 PM
I think you would have been better off to have never asked the question. The regulations clearly state that night hunting for coyotes is legal. There's no way anybody can argue otherwise, from the rule on page 66 that says "COYOTE MAY BE HUNTED AT NIGHT."
Yes but it also say that you cannot hunt them at night during Sept Oct and Nov in areas that are open to center fire rifle deer and elk. My question was now that those season are closed do I still have to wait until Dec 1st. I wasnt asking if it was legal to hunt at night, just when I could start. You cant blame me for wanting to clarify the regs...can you?
Post by: bobcat on December 01, 2010, 12:25:30 PM
Post by: bobcat on December 01, 2010, 12:30:59 PM
Post by: JackOfAllTrades on December 01, 2010, 12:39:35 PM
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My question was now that those season are closed do I still have to wait until Dec 1st.
I think that's pretty much in black and white.. Yes you can hunt there if the area is not open to modern firearm hunting of big game.
You need to take into account, permit hunters for the area you're planning on hunting yotes at night. If it is open in any way to a person with a legal modern firearm tag for deer or elk, then you need to wait. That may include tribal hunters with rights to public land too. :dunno:
-Steve
Post by: Curly on December 01, 2010, 12:43:34 PM
Post by: bobcat on December 01, 2010, 12:44:32 PM
Post by: Kain on December 01, 2010, 12:53:20 PM
QuoteMy question was now that those season are closed do I still have to wait until Dec 1st.
I think that's pretty much in black and white.. Yes you can hunt there if the area is not open to modern firearm hunting of big game.
You need to take into account, permit hunters for the area you're planning on hunting yotes at night. If it is open in any way to a person with a legal modern firearm tag for deer or elk, then you need to wait. That may include tribal hunters with rights to public land too. :dunno:
-Steve
There have been many discussions where there is confusion on when we can start night/hound hunting so I dont know if its that black and white. Some say you can start as soon as rifle season is over others say you have to wait until Dec. Thats all I was trying to get clarification on. As far special permits and tribal hunters that is a whole other confusing matter. Maybe we should just delete this thread so the rest of you can pretend you never heard anything like this and keep on hunting according to the regs as written. :dunno:
Post by: Special T on December 01, 2010, 01:38:55 PM
Post by: Kain on December 01, 2010, 01:48:20 PM
Post by: bearmanric on December 01, 2010, 01:54:12 PM
Post by: Curly on December 01, 2010, 02:20:34 PM
Post by: whacker1 on December 01, 2010, 04:50:58 PM
Kain,
Print the entire dialogue and forward to Representative Ed Orcutt from the Longview area.. Let him in on the rule making that Lori is putting forth without actually going through the Rule Making process. The legislature slapped Mike Kreidler, Insurance Commissioner's, hands for the same sort of activity about 5 years ago. They called it Rule Making without going through the process......It is a political no no for appointed positions. Happens with Department of Revenue, Labor and Industries, Insurance Commissioner and others
Ed Orcutt may be one of your legislators as he represents most of Clark and Cowlitz counties and is passionate about the outdoors. He has gone toe to toe with WDFW on prior occassions specific to the falsified information provided by WDFW on the winter kill of the St Helens Elk Herd about 4 years ago. (wdfw quit counting bodies when they reached the number that proved their estimates to be accurate, when in reality the number was much greater).
Again, let Ed know that he needs to be gentle as she is in a position to work against sporstsmen and women, but something needs to be done. Can't let people put their own agenda in front of printed materials. This has BS written all over it.
Post by: Kain on December 01, 2010, 05:09:19 PM
This could potentially effect all of us so I dont want to get them all riled up and on the defensive or go over their heads because I have a slanted opinion of the department as a whole. Any advice is welcome though and I will keep you all posted on what happens.
Post by: VarmintVentilator on December 01, 2010, 05:31:42 PM
Post by: Special T on December 01, 2010, 05:35:12 PM
Post by: whacker1 on December 01, 2010, 05:42:59 PM
Thanks for bringing us into the loop. I assume the worst with WA State government agencies as I ran into some other issues with Dept of Commerce and L & I today. Doesn't directly affect me, but must shake my head wondering what is going through these people's heads.
Post by: 7mag. on December 01, 2010, 05:45:16 PM
Post by: ICEMAN on December 01, 2010, 05:47:54 PM
Post by: saylean on December 01, 2010, 05:52:35 PM
I had a warden tell me this year that scents (Bear bombs) were not baiting, but shooting a bear over a gutpile of a legally killed animal was. :dunno: :chuckle:
I would hunt the dogs, as it is stated in the regs. Piss on what she says.
Post by: Gamblin Guy on December 01, 2010, 06:05:06 PM
You might want to send this guy a copy of your emails.
Deputy Chief Mike Cenci, Field Operations
Mike.Cenci@dfw.wa.gov
Post by: Special T on December 01, 2010, 06:18:02 PM
Post by: Ridgeratt on December 01, 2010, 06:27:24 PM
Post by: Kain on December 01, 2010, 06:29:46 PM
Post by: BlackRidge on December 01, 2010, 06:32:34 PM
All over coyotes.... :dunno:
Post by: Kain on December 01, 2010, 06:36:08 PM
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We will fix this discrepancy. In the meantime, to be safe, you shouldn’t hunt coyote at night.
You believe that? Will I be breaking the law or not? >:( It would be funny if it wasnt so sad.
Post by: Machias on December 01, 2010, 06:59:14 PM
Legal Status
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife does not classify coyotes as game animals, but a state license is required to hunt or trap them (RCW 77.32.010).
Post by: Kain on December 01, 2010, 07:01:48 PM
Post by: Machias on December 01, 2010, 07:06:42 PM
Post by: BlackRidge on December 02, 2010, 08:19:07 AM
Lori didn't even sound sure, so until they have this worked out internally and make it official, no dice wdfw.
Post by: Special T on December 02, 2010, 09:10:14 AM
Post by: wastickslinger on December 02, 2010, 09:54:57 AM
Post by: Kain on December 02, 2010, 01:01:30 PM
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On Thu, Dec 2, 2010 at 10:34 AM, Preuss, Lori (DFW) <Lori.Preuss@dfw.wa.gov> wrote:
Hi, Naithan. I believe our Wildlife Program is going to issue an emergency rule to clarify that you can hunt coyote at night during established bobcat and raccoon seasons, with the exception of the months of September, October, and November in any area open to a centerfire rifle deer or elk season. The Governor’s rules moratorium does not kick in until 2011, and it exempts emergency rules, which is why we have the authority to do this. You might want to check our Website’s rule-making pages at http://wdfw.wa.gov/about/regulations/ (http://wdfw.wa.gov/about/regulations/) starting tomorrow, to see if the emergency rule has been implemented.
Post by: Curly on December 02, 2010, 01:08:35 PM
Post by: bobcat on December 02, 2010, 01:11:34 PM
I bet they read this thread. And I agree, it's stupid to make a new rule that doesn't change anything. :rolleyes:
Post by: bobcat on December 02, 2010, 01:13:49 PM
Post by: Kain on December 02, 2010, 01:18:51 PM
I still don't get what it has to do with bobcat/raccoon season ??? What about AFTER bobcat/raccoon season is over? Can you no longer hunt coyotes at night?
You could before maybe they are going to mess with that now. Machias posted an email earlier in this thread where he was told night hunting was legal year round for coyote except where prohibited.
Post by: tlbradford on December 02, 2010, 02:20:29 PM
I still don't get what it has to do with bobcat/raccoon season ??? What about AFTER bobcat/raccoon season is over? Can you no longer hunt coyotes at night?
You could before maybe they are try to mess with that now. Machias posted an email earlier in this thread where he was told night hunting was legal year round for coyote except where prohibited.
That is exactly right. Since coyotes are not classified as a "game" species, they only let you know when it is prohibited to hunt them. Everything else is fair game.
Post by: bobcat on December 02, 2010, 02:26:17 PM
Post by: tlbradford on December 02, 2010, 02:35:47 PM
Post by: Special T on December 02, 2010, 02:42:08 PM
Post by: Kain on December 02, 2010, 03:06:59 PM
Not slow, they just phrase everything in a crappy way. Kind of like how they describe an antler point for an elk.
So crappy that even the Criminal Justice Liaison/Rules Coordinator has a hard time with them. To give her credit she did come around to the correct interpretation. Hopefully this doesnt happen again though. What a mess.
Post by: Machias on December 02, 2010, 03:23:39 PM
Post by: stumprat on December 02, 2010, 03:39:22 PM
Post by: spikehunter on December 02, 2010, 03:46:16 PM
Post by: stumprat on December 02, 2010, 10:17:32 PM
http://wwpha.com/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=0&func=view&catid=15&id=1163 (http://wwpha.com/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=0&func=view&catid=15&id=1163)
The update for this post is on page 2 of the thread.
Post by: mjbskwim on December 02, 2010, 10:44:55 PM
And I'm not a lawyer.
BUT,one thing I do know is that if there is a contradiction in the own rules,they will have a very hard time convicting anyone of anything.
So if everything else you are doing while night hunting is legal,they can't really do too much.
No? :dunno:
Post by: Kain on December 02, 2010, 11:07:31 PM
Post by: mjbskwim on December 02, 2010, 11:18:50 PM
Seems they would have to issue an official update and post it at stores and their web page
Just don't see how they can do much in court.
Oh take your least favorite rifle to test this.
Post by: Kain on December 02, 2010, 11:31:54 PM
http://wdfw.wa.gov/publications/00766/wdfw00766.pdf (http://wdfw.wa.gov/publications/00766/wdfw00766.pdf)
There is also a little section on page 9 that is kind of scary also.
Quote
WAC Summary Information
This pamphlet is a summary of the hunting regulations and seasons adopted
by the Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission. This pamphlet does not
contain nor is it intended to contain all Department regulations. Regulations
specific to the hunting seasons described in this pamphlet are found in
Sections 232-28-248 through 232-28-516, and 232-12-001 through 232-12-
830, of the Washington Administrative Code.
So just going by the regs in the pamphlet they still might be able to mess with you.
Post by: Special T on December 03, 2010, 07:23:09 AM
Post by: BlackRidge on December 03, 2010, 07:29:04 AM
Thats like saying ok, heres the book of law(s)...... buuuut we kept some out of it, so if you want to check what those are, do ______
Post by: Kain on December 03, 2010, 07:32:24 AM
Post by: billythekidrock on December 03, 2010, 05:05:52 PM
Here is a link to an updated thread on this issue. From the W.W.P.H.A. website
http://wwpha.com/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=0&func=view&catid=15&id=1163 (http://wwpha.com/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=0&func=view&catid=15&id=1163)
The update for this post is on page 2 of the thread.
Great work Adna!
It goes to show how things can get twisted when the department is "overthinking" an issue.
All right guys.......get a light and get some dogs at night. Let the pic parade begin.
Post by: Bofire on December 03, 2010, 07:50:11 PM
duh
Carl
Post by: Jburke on December 04, 2010, 11:10:41 PM
So now what about outside of bobcat/raccoon season? (Sept 1 to Mar 15) It almost sounds like night hunting for coyotes is only legal during that season, but I don't think that's the case, correct?:yeah:
This is also my question. The way it's worded it looks like you CANNOT hunt at night outside of the bobcat/ racoon seasons. :twocents:
Post by: DaveR on December 14, 2010, 02:23:32 AM
You are right. I was just saying the scary parts is that they can make changes to regs after they are printed and make something illegal when it clearly says its OK in the regs. I doubt any officer is going to mess with you over it and will probably just inform you of the changes.
Don't count on it. Its up to us to know the laws. All the rule changes going on drives me buggy. I won't get into that now..lol, but with much of the fishing changes. I understand why as they are dealing with unknowns. This is different. I read all the posts. Kain I understand your frustration. I say go hunting if worrying about this doesn't take the fun out of it. Being right, and having to argue about it with a wdfw officer that isn't sure of the laws him, or herself is no fun. I say that with experience.
I need to stop now. >:( Thanks for sharing. :chuckle:
Post by: Kain on December 14, 2010, 10:46:40 AM
Post by: predatorpro on December 14, 2010, 04:15:53 PM
Post by: grundy53 on January 02, 2011, 10:29:02 AM
(Their reply)
That rule about hunting at night during bobcat and raccoon season refers strictly bobcats and raccoons as they have set established season. Coyotes are year round (unless using hounds). You just need to make sure there is not a modern firearm season open for deer or elk. Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Region 4 Customer Service
>>> <spoons5332@aol.com> 07/22/2008 2:05 PM >>>
(my email to them)
i was reading the hunting regulations and it states that it is legal to hunt Coyotes at night during bobcat and raccoon season. as long as there is no centerfire season open for deer or elk. I was wondering if it is only ok to hunt coyotes at night during bobcat and raccoon season. or can i hunt them at night during the winter/ summer too. as long as there is no modern rifle season open? i would apreciate any help you could give me on this. thank you.
Post by: CoryTDF on January 02, 2011, 10:53:25 AM
Post by: Kain on January 02, 2011, 11:40:16 AM
Guess who has two thumbs and is going spotlighting tonight?.............. 8) This guy!
Good luck, take pics.
Post by: cornhuskid on February 09, 2011, 07:16:14 AM
Yeah... I hate to bring this up, but I would also hate for anyone to get in trouble, so...
I was told by Lori Preuss at Fish and Game that night hunting is allowed ONLY from Sept 1 - March 31, and only when no other rifle season for big game was open. I am hoping that meant Elk and Deer, NOT Bear and Cougar! This all started when I asked about using a crossbow for non-game animals like Coyotes. See below...
Email 1 to her.
Lori,
I need to ask a question for a buddy of mine. He has his "crossbow exemption" card for deer hunting during archery, and wanted to know if using a crossbow was legal for him for Coyotes at night. Would it be legal for someone without the exemption?
(now if I can just figure out a way to mount that Night Vision scope on a crossbow...)
Thank you,
Reply 1.
If he has a special use permit, he can hunt with a crossbow in any season that allows archery equipment. If he doesn’t have a special use permit, he cannot hunt with a crossbow.
You know you can’t mount a night vision scope on a crossbow. :)
Lori
Email 2.
For Big Game, yes. I thought Coyotes were a non-game species? (which is why I asked about the use of them for Coyote hunting by non-handicapped hunters).
If I understand your first email correctly then, it is OK to hunt Coyotes (only) at night anytime of the year EXCEPT during the days and areas where a big game centerfire season is open.
THANK YOU for your time on this. I just want to be sure we are legal.
Jeff
Reply 2.
You’re only allowed to hunt coyote during established bobcat and raccoon seasons
Email 3.
Oh Boy, now I am confused! Is this for night hunting only, or day as well?
Reply 3.
That’s for night hunting. The season for coyote is open year-round for daytime hunting. I’m sorry to confuse you
Email 4.
That's OK, I am easilty confused!
So - if I am reading you correctly, night hunting for Coyote is legal (this year) from Sept 1st through March 15th, except for the months of Sept, Oct and Nov where big game centerfire seasons are in effect. It is totally legal at night during muzzleloader and archery, just not centerfire.
Thanks,
Reply 4.
Correct!
Email 5.
We are almost there...
Since Coyote is a non-game species, can I (a non-disabled hunter) use a crossbow either during the day or night to hunt them?
Reply 5.
No, you can’t use a crossbow. Even though coyote are non-game species, the general weapons rules still apply. Otherwise, we’d have folks using automatic rifles on coyote
Email 6.
Again, thank you so much. I am sure you typically don't have someone burning your day over Coyotes! I do have a question. Why no night hunting for a non-game species (Coyotes) from April - Aug? Is this a non-game rule or a night hunting rule?
Reply 6.
It’s a night hunting rule, and the reason for it is that we have lots of folks in the state who wander around in the wilderness from April through August. We don’t want any of them to get shot. September should probably also be included, for that reason, but it’s not. I’m not implying that coyote hunters have bad aim or are careless. It’s just difficult to see folks bedded down in the dark
Post by: yelp on February 09, 2011, 07:22:36 AM
>:(
Yeah... I hate to bring this up, but I would also hate for anyone to get in trouble, so...
I was told by Lori Preuss at Fish and Game that night hunting is allowed ONLY from Sept 1 - March 31, and only when no other rifle season for big game was open. I am hoping that meant Elk and Deer, NOT Bear and Cougar! This all started when I asked about using a crossbow for non-game animals like Coyotes. See below...
Email 1 to her.
Lori,
I need to ask a question for a buddy of mine. He has his "crossbow exemption" card for deer hunting during archery, and wanted to know if using a crossbow was legal for him for Coyotes at night. Would it be legal for someone without the exemption?
(now if I can just figure out a way to mount that Night Vision scope on a crossbow...)
Thank you,
Reply 1.
If he has a special use permit, he can hunt with a crossbow in any season that allows archery equipment. If he doesn’t have a special use permit, he cannot hunt with a crossbow.
You know you can’t mount a night vision scope on a crossbow. :)
Lori
Email 2.
For Big Game, yes. I thought Coyotes were a non-game species? (which is why I asked about the use of them for Coyote hunting by non-handicapped hunters).
If I understand your first email correctly then, it is OK to hunt Coyotes (only) at night anytime of the year EXCEPT during the days and areas where a big game centerfire season is open.
THANK YOU for your time on this. I just want to be sure we are legal.
Jeff
Reply 2.
You’re only allowed to hunt coyote during established bobcat and raccoon seasons
Email 3.
Oh Boy, now I am confused! Is this for night hunting only, or day as well?
Reply 3.
That’s for night hunting. The season for coyote is open year-round for daytime hunting. I’m sorry to confuse you
Email 4.
That's OK, I am easilty confused!
So - if I am reading you correctly, night hunting for Coyote is legal (this year) from Sept 1st through March 15th, except for the months of Sept, Oct and Nov where big game centerfire seasons are in effect. It is totally legal at night during muzzleloader and archery, just not centerfire.
Thanks,
Reply 4.
Correct!
Email 5.
We are almost there...
Since Coyote is a non-game species, can I (a non-disabled hunter) use a crossbow either during the day or night to hunt them?
Reply 5.
No, you can’t use a crossbow. Even though coyote are non-game species, the general weapons rules still apply. Otherwise, we’d have folks using automatic rifles on coyote
Email 6.
Again, thank you so much. I am sure you typically don't have someone burning your day over Coyotes! I do have a question. Why no night hunting for a non-game species (Coyotes) from April - Aug? Is this a non-game rule or a night hunting rule?
Reply 6.
It’s a night hunting rule, and the reason for it is that we have lots of folks in the state who wander around in the wilderness from April through August. We don’t want any of them to get shot. September should probably also be included, for that reason, but it’s not. I’m not implying that coyote hunters have bad aim or are careless. It’s just difficult to see folks bedded down in the dark
Welcome to the DEPT of RECREATION and Conservation! :bash: :bash:
Post by: shotguunar on February 09, 2011, 06:05:34 PM
Post by: billythekidrock on February 09, 2011, 06:42:54 PM
>:(
Yeah... I hate to bring this up, but I would also hate for anyone to get in trouble, so...
I was told by Lori Preuss at Fish and Game that night hunting is allowed ONLY from Sept 1 - March 31, and only when no other rifle season for big game was open. I am hoping that meant Elk and Deer, NOT Bear and Cougar! This all started when I asked about using a crossbow for non-game animals like Coyotes. See below...
Email 1 to her.
Lori,
I need to ask a question for a buddy of mine. He has his "crossbow exemption" card for deer hunting during archery, and wanted to know if using a crossbow was legal for him for Coyotes at night. Would it be legal for someone without the exemption?
(now if I can just figure out a way to mount that Night Vision scope on a crossbow...)
Thank you,
Reply 1.
If he has a special use permit, he can hunt with a crossbow in any season that allows archery equipment. If he doesn’t have a special use permit, he cannot hunt with a crossbow.
You know you can’t mount a night vision scope on a crossbow. :)
Lori
Email 2.
For Big Game, yes. I thought Coyotes were a non-game species? (which is why I asked about the use of them for Coyote hunting by non-handicapped hunters).
If I understand your first email correctly then, it is OK to hunt Coyotes (only) at night anytime of the year EXCEPT during the days and areas where a big game centerfire season is open.
THANK YOU for your time on this. I just want to be sure we are legal.
Jeff
Reply 2.
You’re only allowed to hunt coyote during established bobcat and raccoon seasons
Email 3.
Oh Boy, now I am confused! Is this for night hunting only, or day as well?
Reply 3.
That’s for night hunting. The season for coyote is open year-round for daytime hunting. I’m sorry to confuse you
Email 4.
That's OK, I am easilty confused!
So - if I am reading you correctly, night hunting for Coyote is legal (this year) from Sept 1st through March 15th, except for the months of Sept, Oct and Nov where big game centerfire seasons are in effect. It is totally legal at night during muzzleloader and archery, just not centerfire.
Thanks,
Reply 4.
Correct!
Email 5.
We are almost there...
Since Coyote is a non-game species, can I (a non-disabled hunter) use a crossbow either during the day or night to hunt them?
Reply 5.
No, you can’t use a crossbow. Even though coyote are non-game species, the general weapons rules still apply. Otherwise, we’d have folks using automatic rifles on coyote
Email 6.
Again, thank you so much. I am sure you typically don't have someone burning your day over Coyotes! I do have a question. Why no night hunting for a non-game species (Coyotes) from April - Aug? Is this a non-game rule or a night hunting rule?
Reply 6.
It’s a night hunting rule, and the reason for it is that we have lots of folks in the state who wander around in the wilderness from April through August. We don’t want any of them to get shot. September should probably also be included, for that reason, but it’s not. I’m not implying that coyote hunters have bad aim or are careless. It’s just difficult to see folks bedded down in the dark
Lori has a history of inaccurate and confusing emails.
Post by: billythekidrock on February 09, 2011, 06:55:12 PM
Email 6.
Again, thank you so much. I am sure you typically don't have someone burning your day over Coyotes! I do have a question. Why no night hunting for a non-game species (Coyotes) from April - Aug? Is this a non-game rule or a night hunting rule?
Reply 6.
It’s a night hunting rule, and the reason for it is that we have lots of folks in the state who wander around in the wilderness from April through August. We don’t want any of them to get shot. September should probably also be included, for that reason, but it’s not. I’m not implying that coyote hunters have bad aim or are careless. It’s just difficult to see folks bedded down in the dark
Her last response is very scary and it is that mentality that closes seasons.
Post by: CAMPMEAT on February 09, 2011, 07:00:48 PM
Post by: bobcat on February 09, 2011, 07:01:24 PM
Email 6.
Again, thank you so much. I am sure you typically don't have someone burning your day over Coyotes! I do have a question. Why no night hunting for a non-game species (Coyotes) from April - Aug? Is this a non-game rule or a night hunting rule?
Reply 6.
It’s a night hunting rule, and the reason for it is that we have lots of folks in the state who wander around in the wilderness from April through August. We don’t want any of them to get shot. September should probably also be included, for that reason, but it’s not. I’m not implying that coyote hunters have bad aim or are careless. It’s just difficult to see folks bedded down in the dark
Her last response is very scary and it is that mentality that closes seasons.
How many people are hunting coyotes in the "wilderness"? Maybe she didn't really mean for that word to be taken literally but it just shows how out of touch with reality she is. And if that's the case, why is September through March any different? I wrote two letters to Fish & Wildlife last night in regards to the proposed 2011 hunting seasons- I wish I would have thought to say something about how we need this night hunting rule clarified so there's no ambiguity. It's ridiculous when you get different answers as to what is legal when you ask different WDFW employess.
Post by: Special T on February 09, 2011, 07:04:07 PM
Post by: bobcat on February 09, 2011, 07:09:11 PM
Post by: ribka on February 09, 2011, 07:21:41 PM
No problem with night hunting but if spotlighting animals from your vehicle and shooting animals located on private property I will report you. I have confronted quite a few guys doing this and a good majority were drinking.( I could smeel the alcohol on their breath and in the vehicle) Spoke to a Gamie recently cannot use your vehicle to spotlight an animal and shoot it. Big fine will result.
Ok obviuosly to use a hand held light away from the road to hunt yotes. Can't use your vehicle to hunt. Apparently a lot of people do not know this
Post by: billythekidrock on February 09, 2011, 07:28:11 PM
Ok obviuosly to use a hand held light away from the road to hunt yotes. Can't use your vehicle to hunt. Apparently a lot of people do not know this
Probably because F&W have told peole that they can. One of my hunting partners was told by F&W that he could shoot from the top of his vehicle as long as he was pulled off to the side of the road. He had built a little stool on the rack and wanted to shine from up there.
Post by: Special T on February 09, 2011, 07:37:35 PM
Post by: Special T on February 09, 2011, 07:40:08 PM
Post by: ribka on February 09, 2011, 08:02:22 PM
But common sense can be of help. :twocents: Don't appreciate guys that are drinking and shooting towards my house or towards my neighbors' houses and lifestock at night with high powered rifles. :twocents:
Post by: ICEMAN on February 09, 2011, 08:19:00 PM
It is oh so apparent that those staffing the email service at wildlife are a bunch of morons. :bash:
Post by: grundy53 on February 09, 2011, 08:33:18 PM
Go hunt!:yeah: :yeah:
It is oh so apparent that those staffing the email service at wildlife are a bunch of morons. :bash:
Post by: cornhuskid on February 10, 2011, 09:06:24 AM
:)
Post by: Bob33 on February 10, 2011, 09:12:10 AM
I would advise against shooting from any portion of a vehicle, stopped or not. Most enforcement officers I've known would cite the shooter. I know of more than one hunter who was cited for simply leaning a loaded gun against a vehicle. Maybe it's different at night, but the regulations are pretty clear about not doing it.Ok obviuosly to use a hand held light away from the road to hunt yotes. Can't use your vehicle to hunt. Apparently a lot of people do not know this
Probably because F&W have told peole that they can. One of my hunting partners was told by F&W that he could shoot from the top of his vehicle as long as he was pulled off to the side of the road. He had built a little stool on the rack and wanted to shine from up there.
Post by: cornhuskid on February 10, 2011, 09:25:50 AM
Thank you in advance,
Jeff
Post by: dscubame on February 10, 2011, 04:10:41 PM
I do have a question... Can you spot from the vehicle ONLY (not shoot) with a red light taht is not attached to the truck?
Thank you in advance,
Jeff
If a gun is in the vehicle I believe it is illegal then.
Post by: billythekidrock on February 10, 2011, 04:18:34 PM
I would advise against shooting from any portion of a vehicle, stopped or not. Most enforcement officers I've known would cite the shooter. I know of more than one hunter who was cited for simply leaning a loaded gun against a vehicle. Maybe it's different at night, but the regulations are pretty clear about not doing it.Ok obviuosly to use a hand held light away from the road to hunt yotes. Can't use your vehicle to hunt. Apparently a lot of people do not know this
Probably because F&W have told peole that they can. One of my hunting partners was told by F&W that he could shoot from the top of his vehicle as long as he was pulled off to the side of the road. He had built a little stool on the rack and wanted to shine from up there.
I would (and did) advise against this as well, but he fully planned on doing it because he was told it was legal. Then the rig got stolen and the whole rack torched off.
Post by: 700xcr on February 10, 2011, 05:53:48 PM
That would be legal shooting from a vehicle off a well maintaned road with vehicle turned off if they had a disable hunter.Ok obviuosly to use a hand held light away from the road to hunt yotes. Can't use your vehicle to hunt. Apparently a lot of people do not know this
Probably because F&W have told peole that they can. One of my hunting partners was told by F&W that he could shoot from the top of his vehicle as long as he was pulled off to the side of the road. He had built a little stool on the rack and wanted to shine from up there.
Post by: cornhuskid on February 11, 2011, 03:10:42 AM
:chuckle:
Post by: TrailTreker85 on February 13, 2011, 09:56:30 PM
Post by: tommyjohnston on February 19, 2011, 07:05:12 AM
Bobcat and raccoon season is Sept 1- March 15. Sounds like yotes can be hunted between these months at night in my opinion......... Maybe Im beating a dead horse here but if the hunting regs aka bible says its ok then its ok right?
Post by: bearpaw on February 19, 2011, 07:15:54 AM
Post by: Jburke on February 19, 2011, 07:01:36 PM
So are they trying to say that on page 66 in the hunting regs is incorrect? "Night hunting and hound hunting during deer and elk hunting seasons. Bobcat, raccoon, and coyote may be hunted at night during established bobcat and raccoon seasons, EXCEPT that it is unlawful to hunt any wildlife at night or wild animals with dogs (hounds) during the months of September, October, or November in any area open to a centerfire rifle deer or elk season. The use of hounds to hunt black bear, cougar, bobcat, or coyote is prohibited year round except during commission authorized hunts."
Bobcat and raccoon season is Sept 1- March 15. Sounds like yotes can be hunted between these months at night in my opinion......... Maybe Im beating a dead horse here but if the hunting regs aka bible says its ok then its ok right?
Yes you can for the most part.
"EXCEPT that it is unlawful to hunt any wildlife at night or wild animals with dogs (hounds) during the months of September, October, or November in any area open to a centerfire rifle deer or elk season."
Post by: CAMPMEAT on February 19, 2011, 07:28:56 PM
Post by: bobcat on February 19, 2011, 08:42:59 PM
:beatdeadhorse:
:yeah: :chuckle:
It all depends who you talk to. The way I read it is it's only legal during bobcat/raccoon season.
Post by: Rooster1981 on February 19, 2011, 08:54:32 PM
If it isnt illegal now which I dont think it is, It will be soon. The WDFW already tried to make all night hunting illegal last summer and an out poor of hunter's emailed them and stopped it. So here['s the deal a game warden was shot and killed by yote hunters back east, and Washington being liberal as hell wanted to set an example and try to show good faith by supporting the fallen game warden. Well it didn't work so the first step was to outlaw hunting yotes with hounds, witch most if not all hound hunters don't hunt them with hounds in the first place. Next will be to end hunting yotes at night because most guys use something bigger than a rimfire 22.
Here is the email from the WDFW back to me
Hello. I told all of you months ago that I would be drafting proposed changes to our night-hunting rule and would send you the draft for review. After much discussion between the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) Enforcement Program and WDFW’s Wildlife Program, we have decided to hold off on making changes, if any, to this rule until early 2012. That is when the Wildlife Program will be considering amendments to many of the hunting rules as part of their 3-year cycle. To see the proposed hunting rule changes in early 2012, or to check the status of current rules in development at any given time, go to the “Current Rule Making Activity” page of WDFW’s website at http://wdfw.wa.gov/about/regulations/development.html. (http://wdfw.wa.gov/about/regulations/development.html.)
Lori Preuss, WSBA #33045
WDFW Criminal Justice Liaison &
Administrative Regulations Coordinator
Lori.preuss@dfw.wa.gov
360.902.2930
Fax 360.902.2155
Post by: tr122 on January 07, 2012, 10:08:08 PM
If you look on page 62 of the 2011-12 Big Game regs, it clearly states: "Coyote may be hunted at night year round, EXCEPT it is unlawful to hunt coyote at night during the months of September, October, or November in any area
open to a centerfire rifle deer or elk season."
So go shoot some coyotes one of these night, I know I will be!
Post by: bearpaw on January 07, 2012, 10:44:58 PM