Hunters, take note: the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) has rolled out the newest regulations for the 2024-26 big game hunting seasons, which means it's time to start planning your next excursion into the great outdoors. According to the WDFW, the latest documentation detailing do's and don'ts for hunting in Washington is now readily accessible online - and print copies are slated to hit shelves across the state in early May.
The updated rules, coming straight from the WDFW director Kelly Susewind himself, cover the gamut from season dates to what kind of firepower you can bring into the woods; however, crossbow enthusiasts over 65 will need to hang back, as Susewind has axed the proposal that aimed to permit this specific age group to use crossbows during archery seasons. One controversial inclusion approved by Susewind allows a limited harvest of harlequin ducks, which has bird lovers and hunters locked in debate, a mere 38 permits will be up for grabs in a drawing tentatively set for August this year.
Let's talk special permits - if you've got your eye on deer, elk, mountain goat, or even the elusive moose and bighorn sheep not to mention the fall turkeys, April 15 marks the opening day to toss your name into the hat for a special hunt permit, but don't dilly-dally as the door closes on May 15, as WDFW announced. These coveted slips of permission promise hunters a chance to stalk their prey during special seasons or in exclusive locations, touted for their potential to boost success rates and minimize the hassle of overcrowded hunting grounds.
You'll need to secure a license first if you're gunning for deer or elk, but mountain goat, moose, and bighorn sheep contenders can skip straight to the application process, you can snag these applications and the necessary licenses at any licensed dealer at the Natural Resources Building in Olympia, WDFW regional offices or by visiting the trusty WDFW licensing website. Once you've submitted, keep an eye on your inbox come June - that's when WDFW will deliver the news of who's in and who's out for the special hunts.
For any further queries, seasoned hunters and greenhorns alike can reach out to WDFW’s Wildlife program via phone or email, they're the go-to guys for the nitty-gritty on how to stay within the letter of the law while out in the wild. After all, the primary goal of the WDFW is to ensure that fish, wildlife, and ecosystems thrive for generations to come while balancing the scales for those who seek the thrill of the hunt or the fruits of the sea and stream, as stated by the department.
