Big game hunting seasons and regulations
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife supports big game hunting opportunities throughout the state.
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2024-25 Big game hunting seasons and rules pamphlet
Rules and requirements for hunting deer, elk, black bear, cougar, mountain goat, moose, bighorn sheep, and turkey.
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Harvest reporting
Mandatory hunter harvest reporting helps WDFW better manage game species and set permit levels for upcoming seasons.
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Big Game Hunting Pamphlet Cover Photo Contest
We’re looking for beautiful Washington landscape photos with a hunting element for this year’s Big Game Hunting Rules and Regulations pamphlet! Send us your photos for a chance to win!
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Official hunting hours for game animals and forest grouse
Legal times licensed hunters are allowed to hunt game animals and forest grouse.
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Hunter orange requirements
State rules require hunters to wear fluorescent hunter orange clothing under specific conditions.
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Cougar hunting area openings and closures
See which GMUs are open or closed to cougar hunting.
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Bear identification test
Hunters must be able to distinguish black bears from endangered grizzly bears. Take the online identification test.
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Game harvest waste requirements
Hunters may not allow game animals or game birds they have taken to recklessly be wasted.