2024-2026 Season Setting

Rule-making status: Permanent
Rule-making reference: #P2023-18

Summary of proposed rule

For the 2024-2026 three-year hunting season setting, WDFW proposes rule changes for the following topics: Deer, elk, moose, bighorn sheep, mountain goat, equipment, waterfowl, trapping, small and upland game, landowner hunting permits and raffle hunts, and other related rule changes as needed. Rule proposals include providing additional hunting opportunity in certain areas, reducing opportunity in other areas, amending equipment requirements, administrative updates, and many other changes. 

Scope and rationale for proposed rule

WDFW maintains or establishes recreational hunting seasons, bag limits, and geographic boundary descriptions consistent with WDFW’s legislative mandate to provide sustainable recreational hunting opportunities for all citizens. For the 2024-2026 three-year hunting season setting, WDFW proposes rule changes in chapters 220-400 through 220-417 WAC. The proposed changes result from WDFW staff recommendations to update shifting calendar dates, provide clarifications to rules, and adjust recreational opportunity to maintain sustainable game populations, and other reasons.

Public comments

To view and submit comments, please visit the season setting public engagement page.

The comment period ends at 11:59 p.m. on March 25, 2024.

Public hearing

A public hearing for this rule proposal will be held March 26, 2024 at 1:00 p.m.

 View the Zoom webinar recording

Topic: Season Setting Director Hearing

State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA)

SEPA determination: Exempt

The rule making for this proposal is exempt from SEPA under WAC 197-11-835(6).

For more information

Staff Contact: Heather Bonagofski at Heather.Bonagofski@dfw.wa.gov

Assistance for additional accessibility and persons with disabilities contact:
833-885-1012, TTY (711), or CivilRightsTeam@dfw.wa.gov.