Hunting in Washington: 7 Animals to Hunt in the Spring

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) regulates the state's hunting seasons. The state is divided up into game management units, where games seasons are decided based upon wildlife management goals.

For hunters looking to take advantage of the spring season, here are four critters considered in season during Washington's spring:

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1. Cougars
Cougar hunting is legal for the late season depending on where the hunt takes place. Several game management units (GMUs) offer this hunt from early January until late April. During this time a cougar may be taken in a qualified GMU with any legal weapon.

2. Wild Turkeys
Wild turkey may be hunted during the spring from mid-April to late May. A youth-only hunt also takes place for one day, traditionally during the month of April. During the spring general season only male turkeys or turkeys with visible beards may be taken.

Additionally, a bag limit of three turkeys applies and is based upon where the turkeys are taken. Hunters are encouraged to check the latest restrictions imposed by the WDFW prior to hunting.

3. Bobcats
Bobcat may be hunted from early September to mid-March each year. They may not be hunted with dogs and the pelt must be presented to a WDFW office within 20 days of taking for proper sealing. There is no bag limit on bobcat.

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4. Foxes
Fox may be hunted statewide from early September to mid-March as well. There is no bag limit on the number of fox a hunter may take. Hunting is closed in certain areas of the state, including within the exterior boundaries or the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie, Okanogan, Wenatchee, and Gifford Pinchot national forests.

5. Raccoons
Raccoon may be hunted from early September to mid-March and there are no bag limits. No rabbit hunting can take place within the Willapa National Wildlife Refuge.

6. Rabbits
There is a possession limit of 15 cottontail and snowshoe hare rabbits, whether one kind or both. Rabbits may be hunted up to a bag limit of five per day, with dates running from early September to mid-March.

7. Coyotes
Coyote may be hunted year-round in Washington. Hunters cannot use dogs to pursue coyote and must be in possession of a small game or big game license to take the animal legally.

This article is for information only. Please check current regulations before hunting.

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