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Hunters are expected to follow a number of guidelines when afield in Washington to help them hunt safely while respecting wildlife and the environment.
Respect the environment and wildlife
- When harvesting game, take shots that you are sure will ensure a humane harvest.
- Ensure you can retrieve and effectively care for harvested game.
- Take only what you will use, even if it is under the legal limit.
- Tread lightly while afield.
Respect property and landowners
- Always get permission to hunt on private land.
- Leave gates as you found them and never damage crops or property, including fences, outbuildings, or livestock.
- Thank the landowner.
Be considerate of others
- If you encounter people in the field who aren't hunting, strive to leave them with positive images of hunting and hunters.
- Do not flaunt your harvested animals.
Hunt safely
- Exercise caution at all times.
- Only take shots when you are sure of your target and have a good backstop.
- Use binoculars to identify your target.
- Remember that hunting and alcohol do not mix.
Know and obey the law
- Obtain proper tags and licenses.
- Hunt only in allowed areas and during designated times and seasons.
- Obey bag and possession limits.
- Use only legal hunting methods and equipment.
Support wildlife and habitat conservation
- Learn more about the habits and habitats of game and non-game wildlife and their management needs.
Pass on an ethical hunting tradition
- Invite a young person or a non-hunter next time you go afield to scout or hunt.
- Set high ethical standards to set the example for future generations of hunters.
- Hunt only with ethical hunters.
- Take pride in being an ethical hunter.