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When Is the Rut in Eastern Washington?

Washington rut phase dates for the 2026 season. Eastern Washington is one of 2 distinct rut zones in Washington — timing here runs on its own schedule.

Short answer: peak rut in Eastern Washington typically runs Nov 16 to Nov 25.
Compared with the rest of Washington: peak rut in Eastern Washington runs about 1 day later than Western Washington.

Eastern Washington Rut Phases

Region Pre-Rut Seeking Peak Rut Post-Rut
Eastern Washington Oct 28 – Nov 8 Nov 8 – Nov 16 Nov 16 – Nov 25 Nov 25 – Dec 4

Every Rut Zone in Washington

Hunting a different part of the state? Peak dates shift.

Region Pre-Rut Seeking Peak Rut Post-Rut
Western Washington Oct 28 – Nov 8 Nov 8 – Nov 15 Nov 15 – Nov 23 Nov 23 – Dec 2
Eastern Washington ← you are here Oct 28 – Nov 8 Nov 8 – Nov 16 Nov 16 – Nov 25 Nov 25 – Dec 4
How to use these dates. Rut timing is driven mainly by photoperiod, so these windows hold up well year to year. What moves is visible daylight activity — cold fronts, wind, and hunting pressure shift when deer move inside the window. Use the dates to pick your week, then the daily forecast to pick your morning. Always verify seasons with your state agency.
Check today's hunting conditions → All Washington rut dates

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Washington rut overviewWashington season dates 2026–27Taxidermists in WashingtonPlan a hunt in Washington