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Washington Hunting Season Dates 2026–27

Season openers, closers, and tag requirements by species. Always confirm against Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife before you hunt. Dates can change.

License: resident $35 · nonresident $185. Species tags and permits are extra. See each section below.

Deer - High Buck Hunts only (all three subspecies) Season Dates

SeasonOpensClosesTag
High Buck Hunt - modern firearm (wilderness areas and Lake Chelan NRA)Sep 15, 2026Sep 25, 2026Modern firearm deer tag; 3 pt. minimum
High Buck Hunt - muzzleloader (wilderness areas and Lake Chelan NRA)Sep 15, 2026Sep 25, 2026Muzzleloader deer tag; 3 pt. minimum

Wild Turkey Season Dates

SeasonOpensClosesTag
Spring general season, statewideApr 15, 2026May 31, 2026Valid turkey tag. Rifles are unlawful for turkey in spring.
Youth spring season, statewideApr 1, 2026Apr 7, 2026Youth hunter accompanied by an adult 18 or older; valid turkey tag
Hunter education instructor incentive permit, statewideApr 1, 2026May 31, 2026Drawn hunter education instructor permit (4 drawn per year); one extra bearded bird
Fall general season - GMUs 101-154 and 162-186 (4 turkeys: 2 beardless plus 2 either sex): Eastern WashingtonSep 1, 2026Dec 31, 2026Valid turkey tag. Rifles are unlawful for turkey in fall.
Fall general season - GMUs 382, 388, 568-578 (2 either sex turkeys)Sep 1, 2026Dec 31, 2026Valid turkey tag. Rifles are unlawful for turkey in fall.
Fall general season - GMUs 203-290 (1 either sex turkey): Eastern WashingtonSep 1, 2026Dec 31, 2026Valid turkey tag. Rifles are unlawful for turkey in fall.
Fall permit hunt - Teanaway, GMU 335 (50 permits, either sex, bag 1): Eastern WashingtonNov 15, 2026Dec 15, 2026Drawn fall turkey special permit plus a valid turkey tag
Falconry season - Eastern WashingtonSep 1, 2026Feb 15, 2027Turkey tag plus falconer's permit; 1 turkey of either sex per tag, maximum 2

Black Bear Season Dates

SeasonOpensClosesTag
Fall general season - BBMUs 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 (bag limit 2): Black Bear Management Units opening August 1 (bag limit 2)Aug 1, 2026Nov 15, 2026Big game license with black bear species option; second transport tag must be purchased for a second bear
Fall general season - BBMU 5 Okanogan and BBMU 14 Willapa Hills (bag limit 1): Black Bear Management Units opening August 15 (bag limit 1)Aug 15, 2026Nov 15, 2026Big game license with black bear species option

Elk Season Dates

SeasonOpensClosesTag
Modern firearm general - Eastern Washington, GMUs 101, 105, 108, 111, 113, 117, 121, 204 (any bull); 145-154, 162-186, 249, 336-368 (spike bull); 251, 328, 329, 334, 335 (true spike bull); 124-142, 372, 382, 388 (any elk)Oct 31, 2026Nov 8, 2026Eastern Washington Modern Firearm Elk Tag (EF)
Modern firearm general - Eastern Washington, GMUs 203, 209-248, 250, 254-290, 373, 379, 381 (any elk)Oct 31, 2026Nov 15, 2026Eastern Washington Modern Firearm Elk Tag (EF)
Modern firearm general - Eastern Washington, Elk Area 3722 (antlerless only)Sep 12, 2026Sep 27, 2026Eastern Washington Modern Firearm Elk Tag (EF)
Modern firearm general - Western Washington, most open GMUs (3 pt. min.); 501, 504, 663, Elk Areas 4601 and 6014 (3 pt. min. or antlerless); 564, 666 (any elk); 454 (any bull)Nov 7, 2026Nov 18, 2026Western Washington Modern Firearm Elk Tag (WF)
Early archery - Eastern Washington, GMUs 101-142, 204, 243, 247, 249, 250, 272, 278, 284, 290, 373, 379, 381, 382, 388 (any elk); 154, 162, 166, 169, 172, 175, 186, 251, 328, 329, 336, 340, 352, 356, 364 (spike bull); 145, 149, Elk Area 1054, 163, 178, 181, 334, 335, 371 (spike bull or antlerless)Sep 12, 2026Sep 24, 2026Eastern Washington Archery Elk Tag (EA)
Early archery - Western Washington, GMUs 454, 564, 666, 684, Elk Area 6014 (any elk); Elk Area 4601, 501-505, 554, 568, 574, 578, Elk Area 6061, 652, 654, 660, 663, 667-673, 681, 699 (3 pt. min. or antlerless); 407, 448, 460, 466, 506-520, 524, 530, 550, 560, 572, 601-618, 624, 627, 633, 638, 642-651, 658 (3 pt. min.)Sep 12, 2026Sep 24, 2026Western Washington Archery Elk Tag (WA)
Early muzzleloader - Eastern Washington, GMUs 101-121, 204, 247 (any bull); 124-142, 245, 250, 272, 278, 284, 290, 379 (any elk); 145, 149, 154, 162, 163, 166, 172, 175, 178, 181, 249, 336-342, 352-368 (spike bull); 251, 328, 329, 334, 335, Elk Area 2051 (true spike bull)Oct 3, 2026Oct 9, 2026Eastern Washington Muzzleloader Elk Tag (EM)
Early muzzleloader - Western Washington, GMUs 454, 564, 666, 684 (any elk); most other open GMUs (3 pt. min.); 501, 503, 504, 505, 652, Elk Area 6014, 654, 663, 667, Elk Area 4601 (3 pt. min. or antlerless)Oct 3, 2026Oct 9, 2026Western Washington Muzzleloader Elk Tag (WM)
Late archery - Eastern Washington, GMUs 101, 105, 108, 117, 204 (any bull) and 121, 124, 127, 373, 382, 388 (any elk)Nov 25, 2026Dec 8, 2026Eastern Washington Archery Elk Tag (EA)
Late archery - Eastern Washington, GMUs 334, 335 (spike bull or antlerless) and 249, 251, 336, 342, 346, 352, 364, Elk Area 3681 (spike bull)Nov 25, 2026Dec 8, 2026Eastern Washington Archery Elk Tag (EA)
Late archery - Eastern Washington, GMU 178 (antlerless only)Nov 20, 2026Dec 8, 2026Eastern Washington Archery Elk Tag (EA)
Late archery - Eastern Washington, GMU 163 (antlerless only)Dec 9, 2026Jan 20, 2027Eastern Washington Archery Elk Tag (EA)
Archery during the modern firearm window - Eastern Washington, GMUs 203, 209-248, 250, 254-290, 379, 381 (any elk; hunter orange or pink required)Oct 31, 2026Nov 15, 2026Eastern Washington Archery Elk Tag (EA)
Late archery - Western Washington, Elk Area 4601, 503, 505, 652, 663, 667, 672, 681, 699 (3 pt. min. or antlerless); 454, 564, 666, Elk Area 6014 (any elk); 407, 448, 506, 530, 603, 612, 615, 638, 648 (3 pt. min.)Nov 25, 2026Dec 15, 2026Western Washington Archery Elk Tag (WA)
Late muzzleloader - Eastern Washington, GMUs 130-142 (any elk)Nov 25, 2026Dec 8, 2026Eastern Washington Muzzleloader Elk Tag (EM)
Muzzleloader during the modern firearm window - Eastern Washington, GMUs 203, 209-248, 250, 254-290, 373, 379, 381 (any elk; hunter orange or pink required)Oct 31, 2026Nov 15, 2026Eastern Washington Muzzleloader Elk Tag (EM)
Late muzzleloader - Western Washington, GMU 407 (3 pt. min.)Dec 16, 2026Dec 31, 2026Western Washington Muzzleloader Elk Tag (WM)
Late muzzleloader - Western Washington, Elk Area 4601, 501, 503, 504, 505, 652, 667 (3 pt. min. or antlerless)Nov 25, 2026Dec 8, 2026Western Washington Muzzleloader Elk Tag (WM)
Late muzzleloader - Western Washington, GMUs 454, 564, 666, 684, Elk Area 6014 (any elk) and 448, 601, 618, 651, 658 (3 pt. min.)Nov 25, 2026Dec 15, 2026Western Washington Muzzleloader Elk Tag (WM)
Late muzzleloader - Western Washington, GMUs 568, 574, 578 (3 pt. min.)Nov 25, 2026Nov 30, 2026Western Washington Muzzleloader Elk Tag (WM)
Master Hunters only - Elk Areas 3911 and 3912, antlerless (all weapon types): Eastern WashingtonAug 1, 2026Jan 20, 2027Master Hunter Permit; hunter orange or pink required
Master Hunters only - GMUs 334 and 371, antlerless (August segment): Eastern WashingtonAug 1, 2026Aug 31, 2026Master Hunter Permit; hunter orange or pink required in August
Master Hunters only - GMUs 334 and 371, antlerless (January segment): Eastern WashingtonJan 1, 2027Jan 31, 2027Master Hunter Permit
Master Hunters only - GMUs 127-142, antlerless (all weapon types): Eastern WashingtonDec 9, 2026Dec 31, 2026Master Hunter Permit
Master Hunters only - GMU 371, antlerless, archery and muzzleloader: Eastern WashingtonAug 1, 2026Aug 31, 2026Master Hunter Permit; hunter orange or pink required

Band-tailed Pigeon Season Dates

SeasonOpensClosesTag
Regular season, statewideSep 15, 2026Sep 23, 2026Small game licence, migratory bird permit, HIP survey, plus a band-tailed pigeon authorization and harvest record card

Bighorn Sheep Season Dates

SeasonOpensClosesTag
Any ram - Selah Butte, Sheep Unit 4 (2 permits): Eastern WashingtonOct 1, 2026Oct 31, 2026Drawn bighorn sheep permit; any legal weapon
Any ram - Cleman Mountain, Sheep Unit 7 (8 permits): Eastern WashingtonOct 1, 2026Oct 31, 2026Drawn bighorn sheep permit; any legal weapon
Any ram - Lincoln Cliffs, Sheep Unit 12 (2 permits): Eastern WashingtonSep 15, 2026Oct 10, 2026Drawn bighorn sheep permit; any legal weapon
Any ram - Quilomene, Sheep Unit 13 (3 permits): Eastern WashingtonOct 1, 2026Oct 31, 2026Drawn bighorn sheep permit; any legal weapon
Any ram - Swakane, Sheep Unit 14 (2 permits): Eastern WashingtonSep 15, 2026Oct 10, 2026Drawn bighorn sheep permit; any legal weapon
Any ram - Chelan Butte A, Sheep Unit 18 (2 permits): Eastern WashingtonSep 15, 2026Oct 10, 2026Drawn bighorn sheep permit; any legal weapon
Any ram - Chelan Butte B, Sheep Unit 18 (2 permits): Eastern WashingtonOct 11, 2026Nov 15, 2026Drawn bighorn sheep permit; any legal weapon
Adult ewe - Lincoln Cliffs Whitestone Unit, Sheep Unit 20 (2 permits): Eastern WashingtonSep 15, 2026Sep 30, 2026Drawn bighorn sheep permit, adult ewe only; any legal weapon
Adult ewe - Swakane, Sheep Unit 14 (2 permits): Eastern WashingtonOct 11, 2026Oct 31, 2026Drawn bighorn sheep permit, adult ewe only; any legal weapon
Juvenile ram - Cleman Mountain, Sheep Unit 7 (2 permits): Eastern WashingtonSep 15, 2026Sep 30, 2026Drawn bighorn sheep permit, juvenile ram; any legal weapon
Youth adult ewe - Chelan Butte, Sheep Unit 18 (1 permit): Eastern WashingtonSep 15, 2026Oct 10, 2026Drawn youth bighorn sheep permit, adult ewe only; any legal weapon
Youth adult ewe - Swakane, Sheep Unit 14 (2 permits): Eastern WashingtonOct 11, 2026Oct 31, 2026Drawn youth bighorn sheep permit, adult ewe only; any legal weapon
Hunters with disabilities, adult ewe - Chelan Butte A, Sheep Unit 18 (2 permits): Eastern WashingtonOct 11, 2026Oct 31, 2026Drawn disabled hunter bighorn sheep permit, adult ewe only; any legal weapon
Hunters with disabilities, juvenile ram - Chelan Butte B, Sheep Unit 18 (2 permits): Eastern WashingtonOct 11, 2026Oct 31, 2026Drawn disabled hunter bighorn sheep permit, juvenile ram only; any legal weapon

Black-tailed Deer (Western Washington) Season Dates

SeasonOpensClosesTag
Early archery - GMUs 407-426, 437, 448, 450, 454, 466, 501, 504, 505, 554, 564, 568, 621-636, 648-652, 654-673, 684 (any deer) and 460, 503, 574, 601-618, 638, 642, 653, 681, 699 (any buck) and 578 (3 pt. min.): Western WashingtonSep 1, 2026Sep 25, 2026Archery deer tag or multi-season tag
Early archery - GMUs 510, 513, 516, 520, 524, 530, 556 (any deer) and 506, 550, 560, 572 (any buck): Western WashingtonSep 1, 2026Sep 20, 2026Archery deer tag or multi-season tag
Early muzzleloader - GMUs 407, 418, 426, 437, 448, 450, 501, 503-506, 510, 513, 516, 520, 530, 550, 554, 560, 568, 572, 574, 603, 607, 612, 615, 621, 624, 633-651, 660, 663, 672, 673 (any buck) and 410-424, 454, 564, 627, 652, 655, 666, 684, Deer Area 6020 (any deer) and 578 (3 pt. min.): Western WashingtonSep 26, 2026Oct 4, 2026Muzzleloader deer tag
Modern firearm general season - all open Western Washington GMUsOct 17, 2026Nov 1, 2026Modern firearm deer tag
Late modern firearm general season - GMUs 407, 454, 466, 501-520, 524-560, 568, 572, 601-621, 624, 627-654, 658-699 (any buck) and 410-424, 564, 655, Deer Area 6020 (any deer): Western WashingtonNov 19, 2026Nov 22, 2026Modern firearm deer tag
Late archery - GMUs 437, 466, 510-520, 524 (any deer) and 448, 460, 506, 530, 560, 572, 601, 603-618, 638, 642, 681, 699 (any buck): Western WashingtonNov 25, 2026Dec 15, 2026Archery deer tag or multi-season tag
Late archery - GMUs 407, 410-417, 419-424, 454, 505, 564, 624, 627, 636, 648, 652, 654, 655, 660-672 (any deer): Western WashingtonNov 25, 2026Dec 31, 2026Archery deer tag or multi-season tag
Late muzzleloader - GMUs 407, 410-417, 419-424, 454, 504, 564, 633, 654, 666, 667, 684 (any deer) and 448, 460, 501, 602, 621, 651, 658, 673 (any buck): Western WashingtonNov 25, 2026Dec 15, 2026Muzzleloader deer tag

Crow Season Dates

SeasonOpensClosesTag
Regular season, statewideSep 1, 2026Dec 31, 2026Valid big game OR small game licence

Mourning Dove Season Dates

SeasonOpensClosesTag
Regular season, statewide (single segment, no zones)Sep 1, 2026Oct 30, 2026Small game licence, migratory bird permit and HIP survey
Extended falconry season, statewideOct 31, 2026Dec 16, 2026Falconer's permit, small game licence, migratory bird permit and HIP survey

Bobcat, Raccoon and Fox (hunting seasons) Season Dates

SeasonOpensClosesTag
Bobcat, statewideSep 1, 2026Mar 15, 2027Small game licence
Raccoon, statewideSep 1, 2026Mar 15, 2027Small game licence
Fox, statewide except four national forestsSep 1, 2026Mar 15, 2027Small game licence
Coyote, statewide, year roundApr 1, 2026Mar 31, 2027Valid big game OR small game licence

Forest Grouse (Dusky, Sooty, Ruffed and Spruce) Season Dates

SeasonOpensClosesTag
Regular season, statewideSep 15, 2026Jan 15, 2027Valid big game OR small game licence
Falconry season, statewideAug 1, 2026Mar 15, 2027Small game licence plus falconer's permit; 3 forest grouse per day

Moose Season Dates

SeasonOpensClosesTag
Any antlered bull - Kettle Range-East Okanogan, GMUs 101, 105, 204 (10 permits): Northeast Washington (100-series GMUs)Oct 1, 2026Nov 30, 2026Drawn moose special permit; any legal weapon
Any antlered bull - Douglas A Early, GMU 108 (4 permits): Northeast Washington (100-series GMUs)Oct 1, 2026Oct 31, 2026Drawn moose special permit; any legal weapon
Any antlered bull - Douglas A Late, GMU 108 (4 permits): Northeast Washington (100-series GMUs)Nov 1, 2026Nov 30, 2026Drawn moose special permit; any legal weapon
Any antlered bull - Aladdin A Early, GMU 111 (3 permits): Northeast Washington (100-series GMUs)Oct 1, 2026Oct 31, 2026Drawn moose special permit; any legal weapon
Any antlered bull - Aladdin A Late, GMU 111 (3 permits): Northeast Washington (100-series GMUs)Nov 1, 2026Nov 30, 2026Drawn moose special permit; any legal weapon
Any antlered bull - Selkirk 113, GMU 113 (15 permits): Northeast Washington (100-series GMUs)Oct 1, 2026Nov 30, 2026Drawn moose special permit; any legal weapon
Any antlered bull - 49 Degrees North A Early, GMU 117 (12 permits): Northeast Washington (100-series GMUs)Oct 1, 2026Oct 31, 2026Drawn moose special permit; any legal weapon
Any antlered bull - 49 Degrees North A Late, GMU 117 (12 permits): Northeast Washington (100-series GMUs)Nov 1, 2026Nov 30, 2026Drawn moose special permit; any legal weapon
Any antlered bull - Huckleberry A Early, GMU 121 (10 permits): Northeast Washington (100-series GMUs)Oct 1, 2026Oct 31, 2026Drawn moose special permit; any legal weapon
Any antlered bull - Huckleberry A Late, GMU 121 (10 permits): Northeast Washington (100-series GMUs)Nov 1, 2026Nov 30, 2026Drawn moose special permit; any legal weapon
Any antlered bull - Spokane West A, GMU 124 west of Hwy 395 (2 permits): Northeast Washington (100-series GMUs)Oct 1, 2026Nov 30, 2026Drawn moose special permit; any legal weapon
Any antlered bull - Mt Spokane South A, Moose Area 1 within GMU 124 (8 permits): Northeast Washington (100-series GMUs)Oct 1, 2026Nov 30, 2026Drawn moose special permit; any legal weapon
Any antlered bull - Mt Spokane North A, Moose Area 2 within GMU 124 (8 permits): Northeast Washington (100-series GMUs)Oct 1, 2026Nov 30, 2026Drawn moose special permit; any legal weapon
Any antlered bull - Hangman, GMUs 127, 130, 139 (4 permits): Eastern WashingtonOct 1, 2026Nov 30, 2026Drawn moose special permit; any legal weapon
Antlerless only - Douglas 108 B, GMU 108 (2 permits): Northeast Washington (100-series GMUs)Oct 1, 2026Nov 30, 2026Drawn moose special permit; any legal weapon
Antlerless only - Aladdin 111 B, GMU 111 (2 permits): Northeast Washington (100-series GMUs)Oct 1, 2026Nov 30, 2026Drawn moose special permit; any legal weapon
Antlerless only - 49 Degrees North B, GMU 117 (2 permits): Northeast Washington (100-series GMUs)Oct 1, 2026Nov 30, 2026Drawn moose special permit; any legal weapon
Antlerless only - Huckleberry B, GMU 121 (8 permits): Northeast Washington (100-series GMUs)Oct 1, 2026Nov 30, 2026Drawn moose special permit; any legal weapon
Antlerless only - Spokane West B, GMU 124 west of Hwy 395 (2 permits): Northeast Washington (100-series GMUs)Oct 1, 2026Nov 30, 2026Drawn moose special permit; any legal weapon
Antlerless only - Mt Spokane South B, Moose Area 1 within GMU 124 (2 permits): Northeast Washington (100-series GMUs)Oct 1, 2026Nov 30, 2026Drawn moose special permit; any legal weapon
Antlerless only - Mt Spokane North B, Moose Area 2 within GMU 124 (2 permits): Northeast Washington (100-series GMUs)Oct 1, 2026Nov 30, 2026Drawn moose special permit; any legal weapon
Antlerless only - Mica Peak, GMU 127 (2 permits): Eastern WashingtonOct 1, 2026Nov 30, 2026Drawn moose special permit; any legal weapon
Antlerless only - Cheney B, GMUs 130, 139 (2 permits): Eastern WashingtonOct 1, 2026Nov 30, 2026Drawn moose special permit; any legal weapon
Youth antlerless - Mt Spokane North Y, Moose Area 2 within GMU 124 (1 permit): Northeast Washington (100-series GMUs)Oct 1, 2026Nov 30, 2026Drawn youth moose special permit; any legal weapon
65 years and over, antlerless - 49 Degrees North V, GMU 117 (1 permit): Northeast Washington (100-series GMUs)Oct 1, 2026Nov 30, 2026Drawn senior moose special permit; any legal weapon
65 years and over, antlerless - Huckleberry V, GMU 121 (2 permits): Northeast Washington (100-series GMUs)Oct 1, 2026Nov 30, 2026Drawn senior moose special permit; any legal weapon
Disabled hunter, antlerless - 49 Degrees North D, GMU 117 (1 permit): Northeast Washington (100-series GMUs)Oct 1, 2026Nov 30, 2026Drawn disabled hunter moose special permit; any legal weapon
Disabled hunter, antlerless - Mt Spokane South D, Moose Area 1 within GMU 124 (1 permit): Northeast Washington (100-series GMUs)Oct 1, 2026Nov 30, 2026Drawn disabled hunter moose special permit; any legal weapon

Mountain Goat Season Dates

SeasonOpensClosesTag
Naches Pass (3-6) (1 permit)Sep 1, 2026Nov 30, 2026Drawn mountain goat permit; any legal weapon
Goat Rocks West (5-4) (1 permit)Oct 1, 2026Nov 30, 2026Drawn mountain goat permit; any legal weapon
Goat Rocks East (5-5), GMU 364 (1 permit)Oct 1, 2026Nov 30, 2026Drawn mountain goat permit; any legal weapon
Mt. Margaret Backcountry (5-6) (2 permits)Oct 1, 2026Nov 30, 2026Drawn mountain goat permit; any legal weapon
Mt. St. Helens South (5-7) (2 permits)Oct 1, 2026Nov 30, 2026Drawn mountain goat permit; any legal weapon

Cougar (Mountain Lion) Season Dates

SeasonOpensClosesTag
General season, statewide (any legal weapon) - closes early in any CHMU that reaches its harvest capSep 1, 2026Mar 31, 2027Big game license with cougar species option; one cougar transport tag included

Mule Deer (Eastern Washington) Season Dates

SeasonOpensClosesTag
Early archery - GMUs 101-136, 145, 149, 166-175, 186, 204-250, 254-278, 334, 382, 388 (3 pt. min.) and 139, 142, 284, 372, 373, 379, 381, Deer Area 3334 (3 pt. min. or antlerless): Eastern WashingtonSep 1, 2026Sep 25, 2026Archery deer tag or multi-season tag
Early archery - GMUs 154, 162, 163, 178, 181, 251, 328, 335, 336, 340, 346, 352, 356, 360, 364, 368 (3 pt. min.): Eastern WashingtonSep 1, 2026Sep 20, 2026Archery deer tag or multi-season tag
Early muzzleloader - GMUs 101-149, 175, 181, 186, 203, 204, 209, 215, 231, 233, 239, 242-246, 248, 250, 251, 254, 260, 262, 266, 269, 272, 278, 284, 328, 330-342, 352-368, 373, 379 (3 pt. min.) and Deer Areas 3334 and 3372 (3 pt. min. or antlerless): Eastern WashingtonSep 26, 2026Oct 4, 2026Muzzleloader deer tag
Modern firearm general season - GMUs 101-154, 162-186, 203-284, 328, 330-368, 372, 373, 379, 381, 382, 388 (3 pt. min.): Eastern WashingtonOct 17, 2026Oct 27, 2026Modern firearm deer tag
Late archery - GMUs 209, 215, 233, 243, 250 (3 pt. min.): Eastern WashingtonNov 21, 2026Nov 30, 2026Archery deer tag or multi-season tag
Late archery - GMUs 145, 163, 178, 272, 278 (3 pt. min.) and 373, Deer Area 3372 (3 pt. min. or antlerless): Eastern WashingtonNov 20, 2026Dec 8, 2026Archery deer tag or multi-season tag
Late archery - GMUs 336, 342, 346, 352, 364, 388, Deer Area 3682 (3 pt. min.): Eastern WashingtonNov 25, 2026Dec 8, 2026Archery deer tag or multi-season tag
Late archery - GMU 382 (3 pt. min.): Eastern WashingtonDec 1, 2026Dec 8, 2026Archery deer tag or multi-season tag
Late muzzleloader - GMUs 379, 381 (3 pt. min.): Eastern WashingtonNov 25, 2026Dec 8, 2026Muzzleloader deer tag
Late muzzleloader - GMU 382 (3 pt. min.): Eastern WashingtonNov 20, 2026Nov 30, 2026Muzzleloader deer tag

Chukar and Gray (Hungarian) Partridge Season Dates

SeasonOpensClosesTag
Youth season, chukar - Eastern WashingtonSep 12, 2026Sep 13, 2026Youth hunter accompanied by an adult 18 or older; small game licence
Youth season, gray (Hungarian) partridge - Eastern WashingtonSep 12, 2026Sep 13, 2026Youth hunter accompanied by an adult 18 or older; small game licence
Regular season, chukar - Eastern WashingtonOct 3, 2026Jan 31, 2027Small game licence
Regular season, gray (Hungarian) partridge - Eastern WashingtonOct 3, 2026Jan 18, 2027Small game licence
Falconry season, statewideAug 1, 2026Mar 15, 2027Small game licence plus falconer's permit; 6 partridge

Ring-necked Pheasant Season Dates

SeasonOpensClosesTag
Youth season - Eastern WashingtonSep 12, 2026Sep 13, 2026Youth hunter accompanied by an adult 18 or older; small game licence
Youth season - Western WashingtonSep 12, 2026Sep 13, 2026Youth hunter accompanied by an adult 18 or older; small game licence and Western Washington Pheasant Permit
Hunters 65 and older and hunters with disabilities - Eastern WashingtonSep 14, 2026Sep 18, 2026Small game licence
Hunters 65 and older and hunters with disabilities - Western WashingtonSep 14, 2026Sep 18, 2026Small game licence and Western Washington Pheasant Permit
Regular season - Eastern WashingtonOct 17, 2026Jan 18, 2027Small game licence
Regular season - Western Washington (hunting hours 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.)Sep 19, 2026Nov 30, 2026Small game licence and Western Washington Pheasant Permit
Extended season - Western Washington release sites only (8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.)Dec 1, 2026Dec 15, 2026Small game licence and Western Washington Pheasant Permit
Falconry season, statewideAug 1, 2026Mar 15, 2027Small game licence plus falconer's permit; 2 pheasants of either sex

Quail (California/Valley, Northern Bobwhite, Mountain) Season Dates

SeasonOpensClosesTag
Youth season, California (valley) quail and northern bobwhite - Eastern WashingtonSep 12, 2026Sep 13, 2026Youth hunter accompanied by an adult 18 or older; small game licence
Regular season, California (valley) quail and northern bobwhite - Eastern WashingtonOct 3, 2026Jan 18, 2027Small game licence
Regular season, California (valley) quail and northern bobwhite - Western WashingtonSep 19, 2026Nov 30, 2026Small game licence
Regular season, Mountain Quail - Western Washington onlySep 19, 2026Nov 30, 2026Small game licence
Falconry season, statewideAug 1, 2026Mar 15, 2027Small game licence plus falconer's permit

Cottontail Rabbit and Snowshoe Hare Season Dates

SeasonOpensClosesTag
Regular season, statewideSep 1, 2026Mar 15, 2027Small game licence
Falconry season, statewideAug 1, 2026Mar 15, 2027Small game licence plus falconer's permit

Duck, Goose & Waterfowl Season Dates

SeasonOpensClosesTag
Ducks (first segment), statewideOct 17, 2026Oct 25, 2026Small game licence, Federal Duck Stamp, migratory bird permit, HIP survey
Ducks (second segment), statewideOct 28, 2026Jan 31, 2027Small game licence, Federal Duck Stamp, migratory bird permit, HIP survey
Scaup, statewide (closed Oct. 17 - Nov. 6)Nov 7, 2026Jan 31, 2027Small game licence, Federal Duck Stamp, migratory bird permit, HIP survey
Coot (first segment), statewide - same dates as ducksOct 17, 2026Oct 25, 2026Small game licence, migratory bird permit, HIP survey
Coot (second segment), statewide - same dates as ducksOct 28, 2026Jan 31, 2027Small game licence, migratory bird permit, HIP survey
Snipe (first segment), statewide - same dates as ducksOct 17, 2026Oct 25, 2026Small game licence, migratory bird permit, HIP survey
Snipe (second segment), statewide - same dates as ducksOct 28, 2026Jan 31, 2027Small game licence, migratory bird permit, HIP survey
Youth waterfowl day (first) - West Zone: Duck West ZoneSep 26, 2026Sep 26, 2026Hunter 15 or under, accompanied by a non-hunting adult 18 or older
Youth waterfowl day (second) - West Zone: Duck West ZoneFeb 6, 2027Feb 6, 2027Hunter 15 or under, accompanied by a non-hunting adult 18 or older
Youth waterfowl day (first) - East Zone: Duck East ZoneOct 3, 2026Oct 3, 2026Hunter 15 or under, accompanied by a non-hunting adult 18 or older
Youth waterfowl day (second) - East Zone: Duck East ZoneFeb 6, 2027Feb 6, 2027Hunter 15 or under, accompanied by a non-hunting adult 18 or older
Veterans and active military personnel day, statewideFeb 6, 2027Feb 6, 2027Veteran or active duty; must carry DD214, Veteran Benefit Card, Retired Active Military ID or Active Duty ID
September Canada goose - Goose Management Area 1Sep 5, 2026Sep 13, 2026Small game licence, migratory bird permit, HIP survey
September Canada goose - Goose Management Area 2 Coast: Goose Management Area 2 - CoastSep 5, 2026Sep 13, 2026Small game licence, migratory bird permit, HIP survey
September Canada goose - Goose Management Area 2 Inland: Goose Management Area 2 - InlandSep 5, 2026Sep 13, 2026Small game licence, migratory bird permit, HIP survey
September Canada goose - Goose Management Area 3Sep 5, 2026Sep 13, 2026Small game licence, migratory bird permit, HIP survey
September Canada goose - Eastern Washington (Goose Management Areas 4 and 5): Goose Management Area 4Sep 5, 2026Sep 6, 2026Small game licence, migratory bird permit, HIP survey
Regular goose, Canada and white-fronted (first segment) - Goose Management Area 1Oct 17, 2026Nov 29, 2026Small game licence, migratory bird permit, HIP survey
Regular goose, Canada and white-fronted (second segment) - Goose Management Area 1Dec 12, 2026Jan 31, 2027Small game licence, migratory bird permit, HIP survey
White geese (late February segment) - Goose Management Area 1Feb 13, 2027Feb 21, 2027Snow goose authorization and harvest record card required in GMA 1
Regular goose (first segment, Sat/Sun/Wed only) - Goose Management Area 2 Coast: Goose Management Area 2 - CoastOct 17, 2026Nov 29, 2026Goose authorization and harvest record card required; dusky Canada goose CLOSED
Regular goose (second segment, Sat/Sun/Wed only) - Goose Management Area 2 Coast: Goose Management Area 2 - CoastDec 12, 2026Jan 10, 2027Goose authorization and harvest record card required; dusky Canada goose CLOSED
Regular goose (first segment, Sat/Sun/Wed only) - Goose Management Area 2 Inland: Goose Management Area 2 - InlandOct 17, 2026Nov 1, 2026Goose authorization and harvest record card required; dusky Canada goose CLOSED
Regular goose (second segment, Sat/Sun/Wed only) - Goose Management Area 2 Inland: Goose Management Area 2 - InlandNov 25, 2026Jan 10, 2027Goose authorization and harvest record card required; dusky Canada goose CLOSED
Regular goose (third segment, Sat/Sun/Wed only; NWRs and WDFW Wildlife Areas closed) - Goose Management Area 2 Inland: Goose Management Area 2 - InlandFeb 7, 2027Feb 15, 2027Goose authorization and harvest record card required; dusky Canada goose CLOSED
Regular goose (first segment) - Goose Management Area 3Oct 17, 2026Oct 25, 2026Small game licence, migratory bird permit, HIP survey
Regular goose (second segment) - Goose Management Area 3Nov 7, 2026Jan 31, 2027Small game licence, migratory bird permit, HIP survey
Regular goose, Canada and white-fronted (Sat/Sun/Wed plus named holiday dates, and every day Jan. 25-31) - Goose Management Area 4Oct 17, 2026Jan 24, 2027Small game licence, migratory bird permit, HIP survey
White geese (first segment, Sat/Sun/Wed plus named holiday dates) - Goose Management Area 4Oct 17, 2026Nov 29, 2026Small game licence, migratory bird permit, HIP survey
White geese (second segment, Sat/Sun/Wed plus named holiday dates, and every day Jan. 25-31) - Goose Management Area 4Dec 23, 2026Jan 24, 2027Small game licence, migratory bird permit, HIP survey
White geese (late winter segment) - Goose Management Area 4Feb 20, 2027Mar 10, 2027Small game licence, migratory bird permit, HIP survey
Regular goose (first segment) - Goose Management Area 5Oct 17, 2026Nov 2, 2026Small game licence, migratory bird permit, HIP survey
Regular goose (second segment, every day) - Goose Management Area 5Nov 7, 2026Jan 31, 2027Small game licence, migratory bird permit, HIP survey
Brant: Clallam and Whatcom counties - Jan. 23, 2027Jan 23, 2027Jan 23, 2027Brant authorization and harvest record card required
Brant: Clallam and Whatcom counties - Jan. 27, 2027Jan 27, 2027Jan 27, 2027Brant authorization and harvest record card required
Brant: Clallam and Whatcom counties - Jan. 30, 2027Jan 30, 2027Jan 30, 2027Brant authorization and harvest record card required
Brant: Pacific County - Jan. 16, 2027Jan 16, 2027Jan 16, 2027Brant authorization and harvest record card required
Brant: Pacific County - Jan. 17, 2027Jan 17, 2027Jan 17, 2027Brant authorization and harvest record card required
Brant: Pacific County - Jan. 19, 2027Jan 19, 2027Jan 19, 2027Brant authorization and harvest record card required
Brant: Pacific County - Jan. 21, 2027Jan 21, 2027Jan 21, 2027Brant authorization and harvest record card required
Brant: Pacific County - Jan. 23, 2027Jan 23, 2027Jan 23, 2027Brant authorization and harvest record card required
Brant: Pacific County - Jan. 24, 2027Jan 24, 2027Jan 24, 2027Brant authorization and harvest record card required
Brant: Pacific County - Jan. 26, 2027Jan 26, 2027Jan 26, 2027Brant authorization and harvest record card required
Brant: Pacific County - Jan. 28, 2027Jan 28, 2027Jan 28, 2027Brant authorization and harvest record card required
Brant: Pacific County - Jan. 30, 2027Jan 30, 2027Jan 30, 2027Brant authorization and harvest record card required
Brant: Pacific County - Jan. 31, 2027Jan 31, 2027Jan 31, 2027Brant authorization and harvest record card required
Brant: Youth, veterans and active military personnel day - Clallam, Pacific and Whatcom counties (and Skagit only if that county's season opens)Feb 6, 2027Feb 6, 2027Brant authorization and harvest record card required

White-tailed Deer (Eastern Washington) Season Dates

SeasonOpensClosesTag
White-tailed Deer (Eastern Washington): Early archery - GMUs 101-124 (any buck): Northeast Washington (100-series GMUs)Sep 1, 2026Sep 25, 2026Archery deer tag or multi-season tag
White-tailed Deer (Eastern Washington): Early archery - GMUs 204-250, 254-284, 373, 379, 381 (any deer)Sep 1, 2026Sep 25, 2026Archery deer tag or multi-season tag
White-tailed Deer (Eastern Washington): Early archery - GMUs 127-142, 145, 149, 166, 169, 172, 175, 186 (3 pt. min.)Sep 1, 2026Sep 25, 2026Archery deer tag or multi-season tag
White-tailed Deer (Eastern Washington): Early archery - GMUs 154, 162, 163, 178, 181 (3 pt. min.)Sep 1, 2026Sep 22, 2026Archery deer tag or multi-season tag
White-tailed Deer (Eastern Washington): Early muzzleloader - GMUs 101-124, 203, 204, 209, 215, 231, 233, 239, 242-248, 250, 251, 254, 260, 262, 266, 269, 272, 278, 284 (any buck) and 127-149, 175, 181, 186 (3 pt. min.) and 373, 379 (any deer)Sep 26, 2026Oct 4, 2026Muzzleloader deer tag
White-tailed Deer (Eastern Washington): Modern firearm general season - GMUs 101, 105, 108, 111, 113, 117, 121, 124 (any buck): Northeast Washington (100-series GMUs)Oct 17, 2026Oct 30, 2026Modern firearm deer tag
White-tailed Deer (Eastern Washington): Modern firearm general season - GMUs 203-284 (any buck), 127-154 and 162-186 (3 pt. min.), 373, 379, 381 (any deer)Oct 17, 2026Oct 27, 2026Modern firearm deer tag
White-tailed Deer (Eastern Washington): Youth modern firearm general season - GMU 124 (any deer): Northeast Washington (100-series GMUs)Oct 24, 2026Oct 30, 2026Youth hunter, modern firearm deer tag
White-tailed Deer (Eastern Washington): Youth modern firearm general season - GMUs 127-142 (3 pt. min. or antlerless)Oct 24, 2026Oct 27, 2026Youth hunter, modern firearm deer tag
White-tailed Deer (Eastern Washington): Late modern firearm general season - GMUs 105, 108, 111, 113, 117, 121, 124 (any buck): Northeast Washington (100-series GMUs)Nov 7, 2026Nov 19, 2026Modern firearm deer tag
White-tailed Deer (Eastern Washington): Late archery - GMU 101 (any buck): Northeast Washington (100-series GMUs)Nov 10, 2026Dec 15, 2026Archery deer tag or multi-season tag
White-tailed Deer (Eastern Washington): Late archery - GMUs 105, 108, 117, 121, 124 (any buck) and 127 (3 pt. min.): Northeast Washington (100-series GMUs)Nov 25, 2026Dec 15, 2026Archery deer tag or multi-season tag
White-tailed Deer (Eastern Washington): Late archery - GMUs 204, 209, 215, 233, 243 (any deer)Nov 25, 2026Dec 15, 2026Archery deer tag or multi-season tag
White-tailed Deer (Eastern Washington): Late archery - GMUs 145, 163, 178, 272, 278 (3 pt. min.) and 373 (any deer)Nov 20, 2026Dec 8, 2026Archery deer tag or multi-season tag
White-tailed Deer (Eastern Washington): Late muzzleloader - GMU 113 (any buck) and 130, 133, 136, 139, 142 (3 pt. min.) and 379, 381 (any deer)Nov 25, 2026Dec 8, 2026Muzzleloader deer tag
White-tailed Deer (Eastern Washington): Late muzzleloader - GMUs 172, 181 (3 pt. min.)Nov 20, 2026Dec 8, 2026Muzzleloader deer tag
Verify before you hunt. These dates are compiled for planning and can change between when they're published and when the season opens, and many states vary dates by unit, zone, or WMU. Always confirm with Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife before heading out. Nothing here is legal advice.
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