Wearing Hunter Orange Saves Lives

Hunter orange is an extremely bright color not found in nature. The use of hunter orange (also known as blaze orange, fluorescent hunter orange, or international orange) saves lives. Most states require hunter orange clothing for hunting big game and/or upland birds. Waterfowl hunters, turkey hunters, and bowhunters are usually not required to wear hunter orange.

Almost all states that require hunter orange have reported a big drop in hunting-related firearm incidents. Also, many of these states have reported an increase in deer hunter success since requiring hunter orange. Hunters wearing hunter orange can see each other quite easily. As a result, hunters often will “move” more deer by spreading out over a larger hunting area.

Florescent hunter pink is also approved for use in seasons that require the use of hunter orange in Washington state.

Hunter Orange Requirements

Be safe…be seen! A minimum of 400 square inches of hunter orange and/or hunter pink is required in Washington. All required hunter orange and/or hunter pink clothing must be worn above the waist. A hat only contains about 100–150 square inches of material, so you cannot wear only a hat. A vest will usually contain from 500–800 square inches of material. A jacket or shirt will usually have more than 1,000 square inches of material. Camouflage hunter orange and/or hunter pink is legal in Washington.