The unparalleled views of Washington have become world-famous because of their outstanding beauty. One of the best ways to enjoy the view is to get outside and hunt! Of course, all hunters in the state of Washington must follow the rules and regulations established by The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW). Anyone who intends to partake in the hunt, regardless of age, must be properly licensed with the proper tags, permits, or stamps. Anyone under the age of 16 is eligible for reduced licensing fees. 

In order to be licensed, anyone born after January 1, 1972, must show proof they have properly completed a hunter education course. The WDFW allows a one-year, once-in-a-lifetime deferral of hunter education training. Despite this, the educational courses are highly beneficial as there are many regulations all hunters must obey. While hunting, Washington hunters must follow a hunter’s code of conduct. For example, one rule is to wear the mandatory hunter orange or pink apparel for all hunters. Other important rules include the harvest report and trapping regulations. 

To properly manage game populations, The WDFW tracks the harvest of game species, organizes management plans for each species, and tracks statewide populations. The chance to participate in the special hunts directly benefitting these efforts is available through permits and raffles. Seasons and bag limits vary between game animals and change annually. Therefore, all hunters, regardless of experience, should always know the current seasons and regulations before setting out for the hunt.