Latest Washington big game hunting regulations and special hunt applications now available

OLYMPIA — The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) has released the latest big game hunting season and regulation information.

The 2025 Big Game Hunting Seasons and Regulations pamphlet outlines rules and regulations for big game hunters in Washington including seasons, equipment, licensing, access, and more. The regulations pamphlet is now available on WDFW’s website. An electronic version of the regulations (“eRegulations”) will be available on the vendor’s website soon, with print copies available at dealer locations across the state in May.

The new regulations incorporate decisions made by WDFW Director Kelly Susewind and the Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission on proposed hunting season rule changes for this season. 

Washington has new rules to limit the spread of chronic wasting disease (CWD) in Washington. These include:

• new rules related to transporting and importing meat and other deer, elk, and moose parts harvested within and outside of Washington,
• prohibiting baiting and the use of scent lures derived from cervid urine or glandular materials for hunting statewide,
• and banning feeding deer, elk, or moose statewide.

Finally, the rules include mandatory CWD testing of harvested and salvaged cervids in any WDFW region where CWD has been detected. For the latest information on CWD rules in Washington, visit WDFW’s CWD webpage.

Washington special hunt permit applications are on sale now. Beginning April 28, hunters may submit special hunt permit applications for 2025 deer, elk, mountain goat, moose, bighorn sheep, and fall turkey seasons. Hunters with a special hunt permit receive the opportunity to hunt at special times or places authorized by that permit. This can often result in fewer crowds and higher success rates for hunters. The submission period is open through May 28.

Instructions and details on applying for special hunt permits are available in Washington’s big game hunting regulations pamphlet. Hunters can also learn more about special hunt permits, how the draw works, and how to apply by watching WDFW’s new special hunt permit video and visiting MyWDFW.org.

Special hunt drawing results will be posted to applicants’ WILD accounts in June. Applicants with a valid email will also receive an email alert when the results are available.

Hunters should always consult the latest hunting regulations pamphlets for rules and information about hunting in Washington. Individuals may also contact WDFW’s Wildlife program (360-902-2515, wildthing@dfw.wa.gov) or Licensing division (360-902-2464, licensing@dfw.wa.gov).

WDFW works to preserve, protect, and perpetuate fish, wildlife, and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities.