Hunting
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
Whether deer, elk, waterfowl, or upland game, the hunt of a lifetime can be found in Washington.
WDFW provides a variety of courses and clinics to help hunters conduct safe, ethical hunts in the state.
WDFW is tasked with responsibly preserving, protecting, and perpetuating wildlife in the state, while maximizing hunting opportunities for all residents.
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.
Hunting is allowed on many lands throughout Washington, but it's important to know the rules and regulations before you go.
Hunting news & important dates
One black-tail deer tooth tells quite a story — let’s learn it together
Was that big-bodied 3-point buck you harvested last year three or four years old? What about that gray-faced 5-point buck your daughter tagged a few years back?
Deer modern firearm is now open
Check out these summaries for modern firearm, archery, and muzzleloader deer seasons in Washington. For more information, see the Big Game Hunting Seasons and Regulations pamphlet.
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.
All about Washington pheasant
Find out where to go and what you need to take part in the WDFW pheasant programs statewide..
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.