Big game hunting seasons and regulations
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife supports big game hunting opportunities throughout the state.
-
2023-24 Big game hunting seasons and rules pamphlet
Rules and requirements for hunting deer, elk, black bear, cougar, mountain goat, moose, bighorn sheep, and turkey.
-
Harvest reporting
Mandatory hunter harvest reporting helps WDFW better manage game species and set permit levels for upcoming seasons.
-
Big Game Hunting Pamphlet Cover Photo Contest
We’re looking for beautiful Washington landscape photos with a hunting element for this year’s Big Game Hunting Rules and Regulations pamphlet! Send us your photos for a chance to win!
-
Official hunting hours for game animals and forest grouse
Legal times licensed hunters are allowed to hunt game animals and forest grouse.
-
How are big game hunting seasons set?
Learn about the process of ensuring as much hunting opportunity as possible is offered each year.
-
Hunter orange requirements
State rules require hunters to wear fluorescent hunter orange clothing under specific conditions.
-
Cougar hunting area openings and closures
See which GMUs are open or closed to cougar hunting.
-
Bear identification test
Hunters must be able to distinguish black bears from endangered grizzly bears. Take the online identification test.
-
Game harvest waste requirements
Hunters may not allow game animals or game birds they have taken to recklessly be wasted.