Licenses & Permits
Whether fishing, hunting, or just getting outside for the weekend, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife helps thousands make the most of this amazing state every year. Find the hunting and fishing license that fits your adventure, see what you need to access state-managed lands and water access sites, and learn about the necessary permits for construction projects that may affect wildlife or habitats.
In this section
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Learn about the types, costs, and requirements of fishing and shellfishing licenses offered by WDFW.
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Learn about the types of hunting licenses offered in Washington, and what you need before you head into the field.
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WDFW issues permits and licenses for a number of projects around Washington.
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Buy a Discover Pass online for access to WDFW, DNR, and state park lands in Washington, and learn about WDFW's Vehicle Access Pass.
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Personalized license plates and wildlife license plates fund conservation efforts throughout Washington.
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Search for authorized WDFW license sales locations near you.
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Requirements and license fees for commercial fishing and shellfishing, guiding and charter operations, and other fish- and wildlife-related activities.
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To prevent deer and elk killed on Washington roads from going to waste, WDFW allows people to legally salvage carcasses with a free, printable permit.
License news & important dates
Beginning April 20, hunters may submit special hunt permit applications for 2026 deer, elk, mountain goat, moose, bighorn sheep, and fall turkey seasons. The submission period is open through May 20.
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Electronic catch record cards (eCRCs) are now available through the MyWDFW and Fish Washington® mobile applications. Anglers can use eCRCs to record and report salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, and halibut catch. Electronic reporting for recreational Puget Sound Dungeness crab begins summer 2026.
Conservation starts here
Recreational digging for razor clams on the Washington Coast can be enjoyed by adults, children, and senior citizens alike.
The MyWDFW app is a comprehensive mobile licensing tool for both hunters and anglers. Visit our webpage for instructional videos that walk you step-by-step through reporting a salmon catch or crab harvest or e-tagging your big game or turkey!
Looking for an easy way to help wildlife in Washington? Personalized plates and any of our six specialized license plates support wildlife conservation, viewing, and management in the state.