Washington Hunting Guide 2025-2026 – Seasons, Tags & Game Management Units
Planning your next adventure in the great outdoors of Washington State? You’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the 2025-2026 game calendar, from permit requirements to specific wildlife areas where you can pursue your favorite species.
Whether you’re a seasoned sportsman familiar with the Pacific Northwest’s diverse terrain or a newcomer eager to explore Washington’s abundant opportunities, this resource will help you navigate the regulations and maximize your time afield. We’ve organized the information to make it easy to find exactly what you’re looking for, covering dates, licensing requirements, and zone-specific details for the upcoming season.
Before heading out, always double-check the latest regulations on the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website, as circumstances can change. Let’s dive into what the 2025-2026 schedule has in store for outdoor enthusiasts across the Evergreen State.
📅 Quick Highlights
Here’s a snapshot of the major opportunities available during the 2025-2026 license year:
Season Highlights:
- License Year: April 1, 2025 – March 31, 2026
- General Deer/Elk: Mid-October (Oct. 11-31 for most areas)
- Early Archery: September 1-26 for most species
- Spring Turkey: Youth season April 1-7, General April 15-May 31
- Waterfowl: Varies by species and management area
- Small Game: Generally September through March
Key Changes for 2025-2026:
- License fee increases effective July 1, 2025 (first increase since 2011)
- New Chronic Wasting Disease transport restrictions in Region 1
- Updated waterfowl bag limits for certain species
- Enhanced youth opportunities in select areas
Big Game Overview
Washington’s big game opportunities provide some of the most sought-after experiences in the Northwest. Here’s what’s available during the 2025-2026 license year:
Deer Seasons
| Season Type | Dates | Species/Areas | Legal Animals | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High Buck Wilderness | Sept. 15-25 | Alpine Lakes, Mount Baker, Glacier Peak, Pasayten, Olympic Peninsula, Henry Jackson Wilderness | 3-point minimum | Archery, muzzleloader, modern firearm overlap |
| Early Archery | Sept. 1-26 | Most GMUs statewide | Varies by area | Any deer or any buck depending on unit |
| Early Muzzleloader | Sept. 27-Oct. 5 | Most GMUs statewide | Varies by area | Alternative to modern firearm |
| Modern Firearm General | Oct. 11-31 (Black-tailed) Oct. 11-24 (White-tailed) Oct. 11-21 (Mule deer) | Varies by GMU | Any buck or 3-point minimum | Hunter orange required |
| Late General | Nov. 13-16 (Black-tailed) Nov. 8-19 (White-tailed) | Select GMUs | Any buck | Limited areas |
| Late Archery | Nov. 26-Dec. 15/31 | Select GMUs | Varies by area | Extended opportunities |
| Late Muzzleloader | Nov. 26-Dec. 15 | Select GMUs | Varies by area | Alternative weapon choice |
Elk Seasons
Elk opportunities in Washington require careful planning, as many of the best units operate under special permit systems. General seasons provide over-the-counter options in select areas.
Bear Seasons
Black bear opportunities run from late summer through fall, with special identification requirements. Spring bear seasons have been modified in recent years, so check current regulations carefully.
Special Permits
High-demand species like moose, mountain goat, and bighorn sheep require special permits through the drawing system. Applications typically open in early spring with draws conducted by late June.
Turkey Seasons
Wild turkey populations have expanded significantly across Washington, providing excellent opportunities for both spring and fall pursuits:
Spring Turkey
| Season | Dates | Areas | Bag Limit | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Youth Spring | April 1-7, 2025 | Statewide | 1 bearded turkey | Must be accompanied by adult 18+ |
| General Spring | April 15-May 31, 2025 | Most turkey areas | 1 bearded turkey | Peak gobbling activity |
Fall Turkey
Fall seasons provide opportunities to harvest birds of either sex, with dates varying by Game Management Unit. These seasons typically run from mid-September through mid-November, offering a different style of pursuit compared to spring gobbler action.
Turkey Tag Requirements:
- Valid small game license required
- Additional turkey tag ($21.75 residents, $61.22 non-residents)
- Youth tags significantly discounted ($0.50)
Furbearer Opportunities
Washington provides year-round opportunities for several furbearer species, making it attractive for trappers and predator enthusiasts:
Year-Round Species
- Coyote: No closed season, may be hunted day or night (restrictions during deer/elk seasons)
- Unclassified Wildlife: Includes various species with minimal restrictions
Seasonal Opportunities
| Species | Season Dates | Methods | Special Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bobcat | Sept. 1 – Mar. 15 | Hunting/Trapping | Small game license required |
| Raccoon | Sept. 1 – Mar. 15 | Hunting/Trapping | Night hunting restrictions during deer/elk seasons |
| Fox | Sept. 1 – Mar. 15 | Hunting/Trapping | Red and gray fox included |
| Cottontail/Snowshoe Hare | Sept. 1 – Mar. 15 | Hunting | Small game license |
Important Note: Night activity and hound use are restricted during modern firearm deer and elk seasons in October and November.
Small Game Opportunities
Small game provides accessible entry points for new participants and year-round engagement for experienced outdoors enthusiasts:
Upland Game Birds
| Species | Season Dates | Daily Bag | Possession | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ruffed Grouse | Sept. 1 – Jan. 15 | 4 | 12 | Forest grouse |
| Blue Grouse | Sept. 1 – Jan. 15 | 2 | 6 | Mountain species |
| Ring-necked Pheasant | Oct. 9 – Jan. 15 | 3 males | 9 | Select areas only |
| California Quail | Oct. 9 – Jan. 15 | 10 | 30 | Western Washington |
| Mountain Quail | Oct. 9 – Jan. 15 | 5 | 15 | Limited distribution |
Small Mammals
Various rabbit, squirrel, and other small mammal seasons provide additional opportunities throughout fall and winter months. Specific dates and bag limits vary by species and region.
Complete Waterfowl Calendar
Waterfowl seasons in Washington are complex due to federal frameworks and multiple management zones. Here are the key components:
Duck Seasons
General Framework: Duck seasons typically open in early October and run through late January, with specific dates varying by zone and species.
Recent Bag Limit Changes:
- Pintail: 3 daily
- Scoter: 3 daily
- Goldeneye: 3 daily
Goose Seasons
Washington is divided into multiple Goose Management Areas (GMAs) with varying regulations:
Eastern Washington GMAs:
- GMA 1: 6 white geese before Feb. 1, 10 after Feb. 1; 3 Canada/cackling geese
- GMA 2: 2 Canada/cackling geese (recent season date changes)
- GMAs 3, 4, 5: 3 Canada/cackling geese each
Western Washington: Separate management areas with distinct seasons and bag limits.
Special Seasons
- Teal Seasons: Early September opportunities
- Youth Waterfowl: Special youth-only dates
- Brant: Pacific County coastal opportunities
Required Permits:
- Migratory Bird Hunting & Conservation Stamp (Federal Duck Stamp)
- Washington Migratory Bird Permit
- HIP Registration
Other Available Game
Washington offers opportunities for several additional species that provide unique experiences:
Specialty Species
| Species | Season | Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mourning Dove | Sept. 1 – Oct. 30 | Small game license | Eastern Washington primary |
| Band-tailed Pigeon | Sept. 15 – Oct. 20 | Small game license | Coastal and Cascade areas |
| Crow | Oct. 1 – Jan. 31 | Small game license | Agricultural pest control |
| Bullfrog | July 1 – Sept. 30 | Fishing license | Select waters only |
Damage Control Hunts
Special damage control opportunities may be available throughout the year for elk, deer, and other species causing agricultural or property damage. These are typically permit-only situations with specific landowner cooperation.
Game Management Units & Wildlife Areas
Washington is divided into Game Management Units (GMUs) numbered in series based on geographic regions:
Regional Breakdown:
- 100 Series: Northeast Washington (Okanogan, Ferry, Stevens, Pend Oreille counties)
- 200 Series: Southeast Washington (Spokane, Lincoln, Adams, Whitman, Asotin, Garfield, Columbia counties)
- 300 Series: Central Washington (Yakima, Kittitas, Grant, Douglas, Chelan counties)
- 400-500 Series: Western Washington (Cascade slopes and Puget Sound region)
- 600 Series: Olympic Peninsula and coastal areas
Public Land Access:
Approximately 50% of Washington is publicly owned and accessible to hunters. Key agencies managing public lands include:
- Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW)
- Washington Department of Natural Resources (WDNR)
- U.S. Forest Service
- National Park Service (limited hunting areas)
- Bureau of Land Management
Digital Resources:
- WDFW Hunt Planner Webmap: Interactive tool for planning trips
- GoHunt maps and applications available online
- Mobile apps for offline map access in remote areas
For detailed GMU maps and boundaries, visit the WDFW website or consult the official regulation pamphlets. Unlike some states such as Colorado where unit boundaries are more straightforward, Washington’s complex terrain creates intricate management unit configurations.
Permits, Tags & License Details
The 2025-2026 license year brings the first fee increase since 2011, effective July 1, 2025. Here’s the complete breakdown:
Big Game Licenses (includes corresponding tags)
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident | Senior (70+) | Youth (<16) | Disabled |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Get Outdoors Package | $322.98 | N/A | $136.21 | N/A | $185.88 |
| Deer + Elk + Bear + Cougar | $163.39 | $1,321.62 | $58.19 | $76.86 | $76.86 |
| Deer + Elk | $116.85 | $1,020.06 | $41.71 | $56.13 | $56.13 |
| Deer Only | $61.70 | $599.07 | $22.63 | $29.82 | $29.82 |
| Elk Only | $69.29 | $685.60 | $25.21 | $29.82 | $29.82 |
Small Game & Additional Permits
| Item | Resident | Non-Resident | Youth | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small Game License | $55.13 | $252.47 | $24.77 | Required for upland birds, small mammals |
| Turkey Tag | $21.75 | $61.22 | $0.50 | Additional tags available |
| 3-Day Non-Resident | N/A | $93.08 | N/A | Short-term option |
Special Hunt Applications
- Standard Applications: $9.61 residents, $152.30 non-residents
- Quality Hunt Applications: $18.72 residents, $152.30 non-residents
- Multi-season Tag Applications: Same as standard applications
Military & Veteran Discounts
Qualified veterans and active military personnel may be eligible for reduced fees:
- 30% or greater service-connected disability
- Veterans 65+ with service-connected disability
- Current eligibility requirements available at wdfw.wa.gov/accessibility
Purchase Options
Where to Buy:
- Online: fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov (24/7 availability)
- Phone: 1-866-246-9453
- 600+ licensed vendors statewide
Important: Starting January 2025, WDFW will charge a 2.9% processing fee for credit card transactions made online or by phone. Internet and phone orders may take 7-10 business days for mail delivery.
Washington Game Calendar Quick FAQ
Q: Do I need hunter education to get a license in Washington?
A: Yes, hunter education is required for all license holders born after January 1, 1972. Washington accepts hunter education certificates from all states and provinces.
Q: Can I use my multi-season tag during any weapon season?
A: Multi-season tags allow you to participate in archery, muzzleloader, and modern firearm seasons for the same species, providing maximum flexibility.
Q: What’s the deal with Chronic Wasting Disease restrictions?
A: New transport rules apply to deer, elk, and moose harvested in Region 1 (100-series GMUs) or brought from out-of-state. Whole carcasses cannot be transported; only deboned meat, clean skull plates, finished taxidermy, and other specified parts are allowed.
Q: Are there any over-the-counter elk tags available?
A: Yes, general elk licenses are available over-the-counter and include elk tags for general seasons. However, many of the premium elk units require special permits through the drawing system.
Q: When do I need to wear hunter orange?
A: Hunter orange (or fluorescent pink) is required when participating in areas open to modern firearm deer or elk seasons. This includes archery and muzzleloader participants during overlapping periods.
Q: Can I hunt at night in Washington?
A: Night opportunities are limited and species-specific. Coyotes may be hunted at night year-round except during October-November modern firearm deer/elk seasons. Raccoon and bobcat night activities are also restricted during these periods.
Q: What if I don’t harvest anything – do I still need to report?
A: Yes, all license holders must submit a harvest report even if they didn’t participate or were unsuccessful. Failure to report results in a $10 administrative penalty and license suspension.
Planning Resources & Related Information
Essential Links:
- WDFW Hunt Planner: geodataservices.wdfw.wa.gov/hunt-planner/
- Current Regulations: wdfw.wa.gov/hunting/regulations
- License Portal: fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov
- Vendor Locations: wdfw.wa.gov/licensing/vendors/
Weather & Conditions:
- National Weather Service forecasts for planning
- Road condition reports for backcountry access
- Fire restriction updates during dry seasons
Land Access Resources:
- ONX Maps for property boundaries
- WDFW Wildlife Area maps and access information
- Forest Service Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUM)
- Private land access through programs like CROPS
Hunter Education & Skills:
Human Nature Hunting offers comprehensive hands-on training covering field dressing, skinning, butchering, tracking, scouting, and shooting skills. Scholarships are available for those interested in developing their outdoor abilities.
For those looking at opportunities in neighboring states, consider checking out information for Oregon or Idaho to expand your seasonal planning.
Conclusion
Washington’s 2025-2026 seasons offer incredible diversity for outdoor enthusiasts, from the coastal rainforests of the Olympic Peninsula to the shrub-steppe country of eastern Washington. The key to success lies in understanding the regulations, planning thoroughly, and respecting both the resource and fellow participants.
Remember that this guide provides an overview, but specific unit regulations, closure areas, and special conditions can affect your plans. Always consult the most current official regulations before heading afield. Consider purchasing your licenses early, especially for limited-draw opportunities, and don’t forget about harvest reporting requirements.
The Pacific Northwest’s outdoor traditions run deep, and participating in these carefully managed seasons helps support wildlife conservation while creating lasting memories. Whether you’re after a trophy bull elk in the Cascades, spring gobblers in the Palouse, or waterfowl along Puget Sound, Washington delivers world-class opportunities.
Stay safe, hunt ethically, and enjoy everything the Evergreen State has to offer during the 2025-2026 license year. Bookmark this page for easy reference throughout the season – we’ll continue updating information as it becomes available.
