Hunting

Hunting remains a vital way of life for many residents and non-residents in Washington and contributes to statewide conservation efforts. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife maintains opportunities for seasoned and first-time hunters alike. Learn about the steps every hunter must take before heading afield, and how to report your harvest after a successful hunt.

In this section

Hunting seasons and regulations

Whether deer, elk, waterfowl, or upland game, the hunt of a lifetime can be found in Washington.

Hunting education and requirements

WDFW provides a variety of courses and clinics to help hunters conduct safe, ethical hunts in the state.

Managing game populations

WDFW is tasked with responsibly preserving, protecting, and perpetuating wildlife in the state, while maximizing hunting opportunities for all residents.

Special hunt permits and raffles

Special hunt permits, big-game auctions and raffle permit hunts offer a chance to participate in a coveted hunt while directly supporting conservation and management in Washington.

Places to go hunting

Hunting is allowed on many lands throughout Washington, but it's important to know the rules and regulations before you go.

Buy a license

Report your harvest

Report a violation

Hunting news & important dates

Late archery and muzzleloader deer seasons open

The following includes summaries for late archery and muzzleloader deer seasons in Washington. For more information, see the Big Game Hunting Seasons and Regulations pamphlet.

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A dog watches its master put out waterfowl decoys

Let's go waterfowl hunting

It's duck and goose season! Washington offers a wide variety of waterfowl hunting options, no matter what area you are in. Here is where to hunt waterfowl, some tips on technique and what you will need.

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More news

November 10

Cleman Mountain section of Wenas Wildlife Area closing until May 1 to protect wintering elk and private property

October 12

Forest Restoration work could impact hunting in Weatherly Unit of Asotin Creek Wildlife Area

October 01

WDFW lifts fire restrictions, including target shooting ban, on most department-managed lands

September 24

WDFW opens pheasant season at Woodland Bottoms this Saturday

Conservation starts here

A perfect match: grouse hunting and science

you can help us monitor populations by leaving one wing and the tail from each grouse in collection barrels around the state.

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All about Washington pheasant

Find out where to go and what you need to take part in the WDFW pheasant programs statewide..

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Target shooting rule update

The department is in the process to update target shooting rules on WDFW-managed lands to protect public safety, prevent fires, and conserve wildlife habitat.

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