OLYMPIA — The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife announced Monday the latest big game hunting season and regulation information, 2024-2026 hunting season rule changes and the opening of special hunt applications for the 2024 seasons.

According to the statement, the regulations pamphlet is now available on WDFW’s website, with changes related to game management unit boundaries, landowner hunting permits, pelt inspection and sealing requirements, weapon and hunting attire requirements, trapping and various rules related to big game, small game and migratory game birds. 

WDFW Director Kelly Susewind accepted all but two of the rule change proposals. Susewind rejected a proposal permitting crossbow hunting for hunters over age 65 during archery seasons and a proposal requiring florescent hunter orange or florescent hunter pink clothing for bear and cougar hunters outside of deer and elk modern firearm seasons. A summary of final hunting season rule changes is available on WDFW’s website.

Additionally, hunters can now submit Special Hunt Permit applications for 2024 deer, elk, mountain goat, moose, bighorn sheep and fall turkey seasons. The submission period is open through May 15. Hunters must submit their special hunt applications through the WDFW licensing website.

For more information, visit wdfw.wa.gov.