2025 Hunting Regulations - Season Setting Cougar

Rule-making status: Pending
Rule-making reference: #P2024-16A

Summary of proposed rule

For the 2025 hunting season, this rule project sets forth the harvest caps by Cougar Hunt Management Unit (previously PMUs), the mortality counts towards the cap (harvest and conflict) and information on the cougar hotline and website that will weekly update closures. 

Scope and rationale for proposed rule

To support conservation efforts and maximize hunting opportunities for the public, the department is undetaking this rule project.    

The department seeks to amend WACs 220-415-100 and 220-400-050.

Public comments

To submit comments on this proposal, please visit the 2025 Season Setting Cougar public engagement page.     

You may also submit a comment via email to 2025sscougar@publicinput.com  or by leaving a voicemail message at 855-925-2801 and entering project code 10654.

The comment period ends at 11:59 pm on March 24, 2025

Public hearing

Commission hearing scheduled: March 20-22, 2025 at 8am

Location: Hybrid – Kennewick (Tri-cities)
Three Rivers Convention Center,
7016 W Grandridge Blvd,
Kennewick, WA 99336

Information on how to register to testify at the public hearing is available at wdfw.wa.gov/about/commission.meetings, or contact the Commission office at 360-902-2267.

Assistance for additional accessibility and persons with disabilities contact:
833-885-1012, TTY (711), or CivilRightsTeam@dfw.wa.gov.