Who Can Hunt in Washington?

Washington’s hunting regulations often have changes from year to year. Check the current hunting pamphlet before going afield to be sure that you know the most up-to-date information. It is your responsibility to know and obey all rules and regulations. Ignorance of the law is not an excuse.

• Anyone can hunt if they purchase his or her hunting license. Deer, elk, bear, cougar, and turkey require a transport tag while hunting. Special hunting permits and accompanying tags are needed to hunt mountain goats; moose; sheep; or for certain specific hunts for deer, elk, and turkeys. To hunt waterfowl, hunters must have the migratory bird permit and the federal migratory bird stamp.
• Everybody born after January 1, 1972, must complete the hunter education training program successfully before buying a hunting license. If you were born after January 1, 1972, you must show your hunter education certificate before you may purchase your initial Washington hunting license. A deferral option is now available.

Juvenile Hunters

Everyone, regardless of age, must have all required licenses, tags, endorsements, and/or permits to hunt wild animals and wild birds.

• Juveniles under 16 years of age do not need a state or a federal migratory waterfowl stamp to hunt.
• No minor under 18 years of age may possess a firearm unless he/she is hunting or trapping under a valid license.
• Other exceptions apply; please consult RCW 9.41.042, RCW 77.32.155, and RCW 77.15.