Master Hunter Permit Program | Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife

The 2012 Master Hunter Permit Program
application period is January 1 – February 15, 2012.

Beginning January 1 and continuing through February 15, 2012, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) will be accepting enrollment applications for its Master Hunter Permit program.

To qualify for the program, applicants must demonstrate a high level of skill and be committed to lawful and ethical hunting practices, said Sergeant Carl Klein, manager of the WDFW Hunter Education Division. WDFW uses master hunters to participate in controlled hunts to remove problem animals that damage property or threaten public safety, especially where special skills are required and sensitive issues may exist. Master Hunters also engage in volunteer projects to address critical issues facing hunting and wildlife such as access to private lands, habitat enhancement, and landowner relations.

Hunters enrolling in the program must: pay a non-refundable $50 application fee via a check or money order made out to WDFW Master Hunter program, pass a criminal background check, take a Crime Observation and Reporting Training (CORT) class, sign a Master Hunter Code of Ethics form, submit at least one notarized shooting proficiency form, provide at least 20 hours of volunteer service, and pass an extensive written exam based upon the program’s curriculum---all by November 15, 2012.

Entry into the Master Hunter Permit program will be denied for applicants who have within the last ten years: paid the required fine or been convicted of a Chapter 77.15 RCW offense, or paid the required fine or been convicted of criminal trespass, reckless endangerment, criminal conspiracy, or making a false statement to law enforcement while hunting, fishing, or engaged in any activity regulated by WDFW. Entry will also be denied to those who are prohibited from possessing firearms under RCW 9.41.040 (unless rights have been restored); or who have current hunting or fishing license revocations or a current suspension of hunting or fishing license privileges in Washington or in another state.

Sergeant Klein encourages hunters who enroll in the program to study the materials thoroughly to prepare for the 100 question test, because applicants are allowed only one chance to re-take the exam. Those that successfully complete the enrollment process will receive a master hunter patch and identification card, and will be eligible to participate in depredation hunts.

For more information about the Master Hunter Permit program call Tracy Loveless at (360) 902-8412, Mike Kuttel at (360) 902-8413, or Sergeant Carl Klein at (360) 902-2426.

The Master Hunter Permit Program is designed to promote responsible hunting. In addition to training, the program emphasizes safe, lawful and ethical hunting priorities while upholding the highest standards. The program offers an opportunity for conscientious, committed hunters who care about the future of hunting to assume a leadership role among their peers. Through their knowledge and conduct in the field, Master Hunters play a key role in improving relationships with landowners, thus ensuring continued hunter access to private lands.

Benefits
Individuals who successfully complete the Master Hunter Permit Program receive a patch as recognition of their accomplishments. A personalized Master Hunter permit with the person's name, Master Hunter number, issue date, and renewal date will also be provided. Master Hunters are eligible to participate in special hunts aimed at reducing property damage and/or public safety problems posed by wildlife. Special hunt opportunities vary from year to year, and may include elk, deer, bear, turkey and goose hunts in designated areas throughout Washington.

Training and certification
Those enrolling in the Master Hunter Permit Program should be motivated by a genuine desire to learn and model a high level of hunting knowledge and skill. Training is offered through independent study, offering maximum flexibility for candidates.

All program requirements must be completed by November 15, of the year the application is received.

How to enroll
To enroll in the Master Hunter Permit Program, download and fill out the Master Hunter Permit Application form. Mail the completed application, with the $50 application fee payable by check to: WDFW Master Hunter, to the address listed on the application form.

Cost
Beginning October 16, 2009, the fee for a Master Hunter permit application will be $50.00, payable by check or money order to: WDFW Master Hunter. The fee includes independent study materials in CD format and printed documents.

Effective October 16, 2009, the cost to renew a Master Hunter permit for an additional five year period will be $25.00, payable by check or money order to: WDFW Master Hunter. This non-refundable fee will apply to any certified Master Hunter with a renewal anniversary date of October 16, 2009, or later.

More Information
For more information about the Master Hunter Permit Program, contact the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Hunter Education staff in Olympia at (360) 902-8412 or tracy.loveless@dfw.wa.gov

Lost Permits
If you have lost your Master Hunter permit, contact WDFW at (360) 902-8412. You may request a duplicate permit but will be charged a $5.00 fee. Checks MUST be written to: WDFW Master Hunter.

Update your contact information
Please remember to update your contact information including phone, mailing address, and e-mail address. Notify WDFW at (360) 902-8412, tracy.loveless@dfw.wa.gov

Contacting the WDFW Master Hunter Permit Program
Mailing Address:
WDFW
Master Hunter Permit Section
Enforcement Program
600 Capitol Way North
Olympia, WA 98501-1091