OLYMPIA – Fall marks the beginning of hunting seasons for deer, elk, waterfowl, and upland game birds in many areas of Washington.
To help hunters have a successful hunting season, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) has released its annual Hunting Outlook, which provides hunting guidance and information for each district.
“Our district wildlife biologists are writing these popular reports to provide a detailed look at what field conditions should be like this year,” said Anis Aoude, WDFW game division manager. “These brochures have a lot of useful information that can help new and experienced hunters plan their season.”
Hunters can also use the Hunting Regulations Web Map, which allows them to find permits and general season hunts based on location, date, choice of weapon and more. Recent surveys indicate that 2022 should be another good hunting year.
Aoude asks that hunters pay special attention to the following items for the upcoming season:
- Wildfire Impacts: Some hunting opportunities may be affected by emergency land closures. Check the WDFW wildfire webpage before you head out.
- Black Bear Identification Test: Hunters who wish to hunt a bear in certain GMUs must first pass the bear identification test (through the WILD system) with a score of 80% or higher.
- Juvenile Pheasant Hunting Dates: On Saturday, September 17 and 18 across the state, Youth-Only Hunt Days provide a great opportunity for pheasant success.
- Waterfowl hunting day for youth, veterans and active military personnel: Saturday February 4th will provide an opportunity for youth, veterans and active duty military personnel to experience hunting at the end of the season with an expanded list of permitted species.
These and other hunting regulations are described in the WDFW Large Game Hunting brochure or the Bird and Small Game Hunting brochure.
WDFW works to preserve, protect and perpetuate fish, wildlife and ecosystems while providing sustainable recreational and commercial opportunities for fish and wildlife.