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. 

hunter on mountain

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

hunter standing in mist
Multi-season tags available Aug. 18

Hunters who bought a multi-season permit application for elk earlier this year, but were not selected in the April drawing, may be one of the additional 115 people who will be selected for surplus elk multi-season tags

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elk in field
WDFW seeks public comments on 2021-2023 hunting season proposals

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is seeking comments on proposed alternatives for 2021-23 hunting seasons and has scheduled several meetings in August and September to discuss proposals with the public.

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More news

Conservation starts here

Take hunter education this August
Hunter education is a mandatory program designed to promote knowledge and skills to continue our proud hunting tradition.
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New growth 6 days after prescribed burn
Managing healthy forests
Through local partnerships and with support from the state legislature, WDFW uses different management tools to restore forests to historic conditions. This restoration decreases the risk of wildfire and improves wildlife habitat.
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Close up of target
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.
Learn more