For the purposes of this chapter "special hunting season" means a hunting season established by rule of the commission for the purpose of taking specified wildlife under a special hunting permit.

(1) Except as otherwise provided in this chapter or department rule, a recreational license issued by the director is required to hunt, fish, or take wildlife or seaweed. A hunting license is not required for bullfrogs.

(2) A pass or permit issued under RCW 79A.80.020, 79A.80.030, or 79A.80.040 is required to park or operate a motor vehicle on a recreation site or lands, as defined in RCW 79A.80.010.

(3) The commission may, by rule, indicate that a fishing permit issued to a nontribal member by the Colville Tribes shall satisfy the license requirements in subsection (1) of this section on the waters of Lake Rufus Woods and on the north shore of Lake Rufus Woods, and that a Colville Tribes tribal member identification card shall satisfy the license requirements in subsection (1) of this section on all waters of Lake Rufus Woods.

(4) A recreational fishing license is not required to fish for carp in Moses Lake or Vancouver Lake.

Findings—2024 c 77: "(1) The legislature finds that as Washington's growing population accesses limited natural resources, there is a need to increase compliance, and provide education, on appropriate gear, seasons, and species take limits.

(2) The legislature further finds that previously unregulated species are under increased recreational harvest. Recreational licensing is an appropriate mechanism to educate the public and preserve opportunity in the future.

(3) The legislature further finds that eulachon, also known as Pacific smelt and Columbia river smelt, are listed as a threatened species under the endangered species act and licensing requirements are needed to provide angler education and allow for better regulation and monitoring to prevent them from becoming endangered.

(4) The legislature also finds that licensing for carp will aid in enforcement of illegal fishing where people fishing for regulated species without a required license have claimed to be fishing for carp, thereby negatively affecting the fisheries of other regulated species.

(5) The legislature further finds that licensing for crawfish will provide the public with education that enables them to distinguish between native and invasive crawfish species, facilitating the removal of invasive crawfish." [ 2024 c 77 s 1.]

Finding—Intent—2019 c 290: See note following RCW 77.12.085.

Effective date—2011 c 320: See note following RCW 79A.80.005.

Findings—Intent—2011 c 320: See RCW 79A.80.005.

Effective date—2009 c 564: See note following RCW 2.68.020.

Severability—Effective date—2008 c 329: See notes following RCW 28B.105.110.

Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.

Legislative findings and intent—1987 c 506: See note following RCW 77.04.020.

Findings—Intent—1983 c 284: See note following RCW 82.27.020.

Effective dates—Legislative intent—1981 c 310: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.

Effective date—Intent, construction—Savings—Severability—1980 c 78: See notes following RCW 77.04.010.

Licenses, tags, and stamps issued pursuant to this chapter shall be revoked and the privileges suspended for any period in which a person is certified by the department of social and health services or a court of competent jurisdiction as a person in noncompliance with a support order. Fish and wildlife officers and ex officio fish and wildlife officers shall enforce this section through checks of the department of licensing's computer database. A listing on the department of licensing's database that an individual's license is currently suspended pursuant to RCW 46.20.291(8) shall be prima facie evidence that the individual is in noncompliance with a support order. Presentation of a written release issued by the department of social and health services stating that the person is in compliance with an order shall serve as prima facie proof of compliance with a support order.

Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.

Short title—Part headings, captions, table of contents not law—Exemptions and waivers from federal law—Conflict with federal requirements—Severability—1997 c 58: See RCW 74.08A.900 through 74.08A.904.

Effective dates—Intent—1997 c 58: See notes following RCW 74.20A.320.

Notwithstanding RCW 77.32.010, the commission may adopt rules designating times and places for the purposes of family fishing days when licenses and catch record cards are not required to fish or to harvest shellfish.

Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.

Effective date—1996 c 20: "This act shall take effect July 1, 1996." [ 1996 c 20 s 3.]

Legislative findings and intent—1987 c 506: See note following RCW 77.04.020.

(1) All recreational and commercial licenses, permits, tags, stamps, and raffle tickets shall be issued under the authority of the commission. The commission shall adopt rules for the issuance of licenses, permits, tags, stamps, and raffle tickets, and for the collection, payment, and handling of license fees, including terms and conditions to govern dealers, and dealer fees. A transaction fee on commercial and recreational documents issued through an automated licensing system may be set by the commission and collected from licensees. The department may authorize all or part of such fee to be paid directly to a contractor providing automated licensing system services. The department and dealers shall collect and retain dealer fees of at least two dollars for purchase of a standard hunting or fishing recreational license document or commercial license document, except that the commission may set a lower dealer fee for issuance of tags or when a licensee buys a license that involves a stamp or display card format rather than a standard department licensing document form. Dealer fees must be uniform throughout the state.

(2) The application fee is waived for all commercial license documents that are issued through the automated licensing system.

Intent—Effective date—2020 c 148: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.

Effective date—2011 c 339 s 5: "Section 5 of this act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect June 30, 2011." [ 2011 c 339 s 41.]

Finding—1999 c 243: "The legislature finds that recreational license dealers are private businesses that provide the service of license sales in every part of the state. The dealers who sell recreational fishing and hunting licenses for the department of fish and wildlife perform a valuable public service function for those members of the public who purchase licenses as well as a revenue generating function for the department. The modernized fishing and hunting license format will require additional investments by license dealers in employee training and public education." [ 1999 c 243 s 1.]

Effective date—1999 c 243: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [May 10, 1999]." [ 1999 c 243 s 4.]

Effective date—1998 c 191: "Sections 10, 24, 31 through 33, 37, 43, and 45 of this act are necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and take effect immediately [March 27, 1998]." [ 1998 c 191 s 49.]

Findings—1996 c 101: See note following RCW 77.32.530.

Legislative findings and intent—1987 c 506: See note following RCW 77.04.020.

Effective dates—Legislative intent—1981 c 310: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.

Effective date—Intent, construction—Savings—Severability—1980 c 78: See notes following RCW 77.04.010.

(1) Applicants for a license, permit, tag, or stamp shall furnish the information required by the director. However, the director may not require the purchaser of a razor clam license under RCW 77.32.520 to provide any personal information except for proof of residency. The commission may adopt rules requiring licensees or permittees to keep records and make reports concerning the taking of or effort to harvest fish, shellfish, and wildlife. The reporting requirement may be waived where, for any reason, the department is not able to receive the report. The department must provide reasonable options for a licensee to submit information to a live operator prior to the reporting deadline.

(2) The commission may, by rule, set an administrative penalty for failure to comply with rules requiring the reporting of taking or effort to harvest wildlife. The commission may also adopt rules requiring hunters who have not reported to complete a report and pay the assessed administrative penalty before a new hunting license is issued.

(3) The commission may, by rule, set an administrative penalty for failure to comply with rules requiring the reporting of data from catch record cards officially endorsed for Puget Sound Dungeness crab. The commission may also adopt rules requiring fishers who possessed a catch record card officially endorsed for Puget Sound Dungeness crab and who have not reported to complete a report and pay the assessed administrative penalty before a new catch record card officially endorsed for Puget Sound Dungeness crab is issued.

(4) Fees for recreational fishing are specified in RCW 77.32.600 and fees for hunting are specified in RCW 77.32.610.

Effective date—2025 c 328: See note following RCW 77.08.010.

Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.

Legislative findings and intent—1987 c 506: See note following RCW 77.04.020.

Effective dates—Legislative intent—1981 c 310: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.

Effective date—Intent, construction—Savings—Severability—1980 c 78: See notes following RCW 77.04.010.

The commission may adopt rules pertaining to the form, period of validity, use, possession, and display of licenses, permits, tags, stamps, and raffle tickets required by this chapter. This authority extends to the issuance of electronic licenses, permits, tags, stamps, and catch record cards, as well as their use, possession, display, and presentation to agency staff.

Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.

Findings—1996 c 101: See note following RCW 77.32.530.

Legislative findings and intent—1987 c 506: See note following RCW 77.04.020.

Effective dates—Legislative intent—1981 c 310: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.

Effective date—Intent, construction—Savings—Severability—1980 c 78: See notes following RCW 77.04.010.

(1)(a) When purchasing any hunting license, persons under the age of 18 shall present certification of completion of a course of instruction in the safe handling of firearms, safety, conservation, and sporting/hunting behavior. All persons purchasing any hunting license for the first time, if born after January 1, 1972, shall present such certification.

(b)(i) The director may establish a program for training persons in the safe handling of firearms, conservation, and sporting/hunting behavior and shall prescribe the type of instruction and the qualifications of the instructors. The director shall, as part of establishing the training program, exempt the following individuals from the firearms skills portion of any instruction course completed over the internet:

(A) Current or retired members of the United States military;

(B) Current or retired general authority Washington peace officers as defined in RCW 10.93.020;

(C) Current or retired limited authority Washington peace officers as defined in RCW 10.93.020, if the officer is or was duly authorized by his or her employer to carry a concealed pistol;

(D) Current or retired specially commissioned Washington peace officers as defined in RCW 10.93.020, if the officer is or was duly authorized by his or her commissioning agency to carry a concealed pistol;

(E) Current or retired Washington peace officers as defined in RCW 43.101.010 who have met the requirements of RCW 43.101.095 or 43.101.157 and whose certification is in good standing or has not been revoked; and

(F) Current or retired federal peace officers as defined in RCW 10.93.020.

(ii) The director may cooperate with the national rifle association, organized sports/outdoor enthusiasts' groups, or other public or private organizations when establishing the training program.

(c) Upon the successful completion of a course established under this section, the trainee shall receive a hunter education certificate signed by an authorized instructor. The certificate is evidence of compliance with this section.

(d) The director may accept certificates from other states that persons have successfully completed firearm safety, hunter education, or similar courses as evidence of compliance with this section.

(2)(a) The director may authorize a once in a lifetime, one license year deferral of hunter education training for individuals who are accompanied, while hunting, by a nondeferred Washington-licensed hunter who is at least 18 years of age. The commission shall adopt rules for the administration of this subsection to avoid potential fraud and abuse.

(b) The director is authorized to collect an application fee for obtaining the once in a lifetime, one license year deferral of hunter education training from the department. This fee must be deposited into the fish and wildlife enforcement reward account and must be used exclusively to administer the deferral program created in this subsection.

(c) For the purposes of this subsection, "accompanied" means to go along with another person while staying within a range of the other person that permits continual unaided visual and auditory communication.

(3) To encourage the participation of an adequate number of instructors for the training program, the commission shall develop nonmonetary incentives available to individuals who commit to serving as an instructor. The incentives may include additional hunting opportunities for instructors.

(4) The commission is authorized to adopt rules to offer a one-time discount of up to $20 on a hunting license purchase to first-time resident hunters who have completed the Washington hunter education training program.

Effective date—2025 c 328: See note following RCW 77.08.010.

Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.

Legislative findings and intent—1987 c 506: See note following RCW 77.04.020.

Effective dates—Legislative intent—1981 c 310: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.

Effective date—Intent, construction—Savings—Severability—1980 c 78: See notes following RCW 77.04.010.

The commission shall enhance the fish, shellfish, and wildlife-related recreational opportunities for a person with a disability. The commission shall authorize the director to grant a disability designation to a person with a disability who meets eligibility criteria established by the commission by rule. The commission shall adopt rules defining who is a person with a disability for purposes of eligibility for disability designation. A person granted a disability designation is eligible for reasonable accommodations, determined by the director, to allow the person to participate in fish, shellfish, and wildlife-related recreational activities. The commission shall adopt rules governing the conduct of a person with a disability participating in fish, shellfish, and wildlife-related recreational activities and the conduct of companions permitted, as a reasonable accommodation, to assist such a person in fish, shellfish, and wildlife-related recreational opportunities.

A scientific permit allows the holder to collect for research or display food fish, game fish, shellfish, and wildlife, including avian nests and eggs as required in RCW 77.32.010, under conditions prescribed by the director. Before a permit is issued, the applicant shall demonstrate to the director their qualifications and establish the need for the permit. The director may require a bond of up to one thousand dollars to ensure compliance with the permit. Permits are valid for the time specified, unless sooner revoked.

Holders of permits may exchange specimens with the approval of the director.

A permit holder who violates this section shall forfeit the permit and bond and shall not receive a similar permit for one year. The fee for a scientific permit is twelve dollars. The application fee is one hundred five dollars.

Effective date—2011 c 339: See note following RCW 43.84.092.

Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.

Effective date—1991 sp.s. c 7: See note following RCW 77.65.450.

Effective dates—Legislative intent—1981 c 310: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.

Effective date—Intent, construction—Savings—Severability—1980 c 78: See notes following RCW 77.04.010.

Except as authorized in RCW 77.32.565, licenses, permits, tags, and stamps required by this chapter and raffle tickets authorized under this chapter shall not be transferred.

Short title—2008 c 10: See note following RCW 77.32.565.

Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.

Findings—1996 c 101: See note following RCW 77.32.530.

Effective dates—Legislative intent—1981 c 310: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.

Effective date—Intent, construction—Savings—Severability—1980 c 78: See notes following RCW 77.04.010.

The director shall by rule establish the conditions and fees for issuance of duplicate licenses, rebates, permits, tags, and stamps required by this chapter. The fee for duplicate licenses, rebates, permits, tags, and stamps, except catch record cards, may not exceed the actual cost to the department for issuing the duplicate.

Effective date—2003 c 318: See note following RCW 77.32.430.

Effective date—1994 c 255 ss 1-13: See note following RCW 77.32.520.

Effective date—1991 sp.s. c 7: See note following RCW 77.65.450.

Legislative findings and intent—1987 c 506: See note following RCW 77.04.020.

Effective date—1985 c 464: See note following RCW 77.65.450.

Effective dates—Legislative intent—1981 c 310: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.

Effective date—Intent, construction—Savings—Severability—1980 c 78: See notes following RCW 77.04.010.

Effective dates—1975 1st ex.s. c 15: See note following RCW 77.65.450.

(1) The correct licenses and tags are required to hunt deer, elk, black bear, cougar, sheep, mountain goat, moose, or wild turkey except as provided in RCW 77.32.450.

(2) Persons who kill deer, elk, bear, cougar, mountain goat, sheep, moose, or wild turkey shall immediately validate and attach their own transport tag to the carcass as provided by rule of the director.

Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.

Legislative findings and intent—1987 c 506: See note following RCW 77.04.020.

Effective dates—Legislative intent—1981 c 310: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.

In addition to a small game hunting license, a supplemental migratory bird permit is required to hunt for migratory birds.

The migratory bird permit is required for all persons 16 years of age or older. Furthermore, a migratory bird authorization is required for all persons to hunt band-tailed pigeon, brant, sea duck, snow goose, and southwest Canada goose.

Effective date—2025 c 328: See note following RCW 77.08.010.

Effective date—2011 c 339: See note following RCW 43.84.092.

Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.

Effective date—1992 c 41: "This act shall take effect January 1, 1993. The director of wildlife may take steps necessary to ensure that this act is implemented on its effective date." [ 1992 c 41 s 2.]

Effective date—1991 sp.s. c 7: See note following RCW 77.65.450.

Legislative findings and intent—1987 c 506: See note following RCW 77.04.020.

Effective date—1985 c 464: See note following RCW 77.65.450.

Effective dates—Legislative intent—1981 c 310: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.

(1) A special hunting season permit is required to hunt in each special season.

(2) Persons may apply for special hunting season permits as provided by rule of the commission.

(3) Persons may apply for multiple season hunting season permits as provided by rule of the commission.

(4) Persons may apply for special hunting "quality" permits as provided by rule of the commission. The commission designates as "quality" hunts those that allow the harvest of buck deer, bull elk, or allow the harvest of male big game species that are only available for hunting by a special hunting permit. The commission may authorize a special hunting permit for goat, sheep, moose, or other big game species not specified.

(5) An application fee is required to enter a drawing for all permits in this section.

Effective date—2025 c 328: See note following RCW 77.08.010.

Effective date—2011 c 339: See note following RCW 43.84.092.

Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.

Effective date—1991 sp.s. c 7: See note following RCW 77.65.450.

Legislative findings and intent—1987 c 506: See note following RCW 77.04.020.

Effective dates—Legislative intent—1981 c 310: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.

In concurrent waters of the Columbia river and in Washington coastal territorial waters from the Oregon-Washington boundary to a point five nautical miles north, an Oregon angling license comparable to the Washington personal use fishing license is valid if Oregon recognizes as valid the Washington personal use fishing license in comparable Oregon waters.

If Oregon recognizes as valid the Washington personal use fishing license southward to Cape Falcon in the coastal territorial waters from the Washington-Oregon boundary and in concurrent waters of the Columbia river then Washington shall recognize a valid Oregon license comparable to the Washington personal use fishing license northward to Leadbetter Point.

Oregon licenses are not valid for the taking of food fish or game fish when angling in concurrent waters of the Columbia river from the Washington shore.

Effective date—1998 c 191: "Sections 1 through 9, 11 through 23, 25 through 30, 34 through 36, 38 through 42, and 44 of this act take effect January 1, 1999." [ 1998 c 191 s 48.]

Effective date—1994 c 255 ss 1-13: See note following RCW 77.32.520.

Finding—Contingent effective date—Severability—1993 sp.s. c 17: See notes following RCW 77.32.520.

Declaration of state policy—Severability—Effective date—1977 ex.s. c 327: See notes following RCW 77.65.150.

(1) Catch record card information is necessary for proper management of the state's food fish and game fish species and shellfish resources. Catch record card administration shall be under rules adopted by the commission. Except as provided in this section, there is no charge for an initial catch record card. Each subsequent or duplicate catch record card is subject to a fee.

(2) A license to take and possess Dungeness crab is only valid in Puget Sound waters east of the Bonilla-Tatoosh line if the fisher has in possession a valid catch record card officially endorsed for Dungeness crab.

(3) Catch record cards issued with affixed temporary short-term charter stamp or guide stamp licenses are neither subject to the fee nor to the Dungeness crab endorsement fee provided for in this section. Charter boat or guide operators issuing temporary short-term charter stamp or guide stamp licenses shall affix the stamp to each catch record card issued before fishing commences. Catch record cards issued with a temporary short-term charter stamp or guide stamp are valid for one day.

(4) A catch record card for halibut is subject to a fee when purchased with an annual saltwater or combination fishing license and must be provided at no cost for those who purchase a one-day temporary combination fishing license or one-day temporary charter stamp.

(5) The department shall include provisions for recording marked and unmarked salmon in catch record cards issued after March 31, 2004.

(6)(a) The funds received from the sale of catch record cards, catch card penalty fees, and the Dungeness crab endorsement must be deposited into the limited fish and wildlife account created in RCW 77.12.170(1).

(i)(A) Eleven percent of the revenue received from the sale of each Dungeness crab endorsement must be used for the removal and disposal of derelict shellfish gear either directly by the department or under contract with a third party. The department is required to maintain a separate accounting of these funds and provide an annual report to the commission and the legislature by January 1st of every year.

(B) The remaining portion of the funds received from the sale of each Dungeness crab endorsement must be used for education, sampling, monitoring, and management of catch associated with the Dungeness crab recreational fisheries.

(ii) Funds received from the sale of halibut catch record cards must be used for monitoring and management of recreational halibut fisheries, including expanding opportunities for recreational anglers.

(b) Moneys allocated under this section shall supplement and not supplant other federal, state, and local funds used for Dungeness crab recreational fisheries management.

Effective date—2025 c 328: See note following RCW 77.08.010.

Intent—Effective date—2020 c 148: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.

Effective date—2011 c 339: See note following RCW 43.84.092.

Intent—2004 c 107: "It is the intent of the legislature to optimize the management of the recreational allocation of Dungeness crab in Washington state. To accomplish this task, it is necessary to accurately and efficiently quantify the total catch by recreational fishers for Dungeness crab using data from catch record cards. Therefore, an endorsement fee on the catch record card paid at the time of purchasing a recreational fishing license will be required for Dungeness crab to specifically identify the recreational crab harvesting population. The endorsement fee will significantly improve the precision of the catch estimates by eliminating the current practice of sampling fishers who do not participate in the recreational crab fishery." [ 2004 c 107 s 1.]

Report—2004 c 107: "After the completion of one season using the Dungeness crab endorsement fee for Puget Sound recreational Dungeness crab fisheries, the department of fish and wildlife shall evaluate the effectiveness of the endorsement fee as a method for improving the accuracy of catch estimates for the Puget Sound recreational Dungeness crab fishery. The department's report shall include how the method has affected their ability to more accurately estimate the preseason allocation of the Puget Sound recreational Dungeness crab fishery and monitor in-season catch. The department shall report their findings to the appropriate committees of the legislature by May 15, 2006." [ 2004 c 107 s 3.]

Effective date—2004 c 107: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect May 15, 2004." [ 2004 c 107 s 4.]

Effective date—2003 c 318: "This act takes effect April 1, 2004." [ 2003 c 318 s 3.]

Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.

Enhancement programs receive revenue using a percentage rate applied to the fee of each eligible license and deposited within each dedicated account as follows:

(1) Six and eight-tenths percent of all freshwater and combination fishing licenses, including temporary combination fishing licenses, must be deposited in the warm water game fish account created in RCW 77.44.050;

(2) Twelve percent of all saltwater and combination fishing licenses, including temporary combination fishing licenses, must be deposited in the recreational fisheries enhancement account created in RCW 77.105.150;

(3) Two and three-tenths percent of all saltwater, freshwater, and combination fishing licenses, including temporary combination fishing licenses, must be deposited in the regional fisheries enhancement group account created in RCW 77.95.090; and

(4) One and eight-tenths percent of all saltwater and combination fishing licenses, including temporary combination fishing licenses, must be deposited in the rockfish research account created in RCW 77.12.702.

Effective date—2025 c 328: See note following RCW 77.08.010.

Effective date—1999 c 235: See note following RCW 77.44.050.

Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.

(1) A big game hunting license is required to hunt for big game. A big game license allows the holder to hunt for forest grouse, unclassified wildlife, and the individual species identified within a specific big game combination license package. Each big game license includes one transport tag for each species purchased in that package. A hunter may not purchase more than one license for each big game species except as authorized by rule of the commission.

(2) In the event that the commission authorizes a special hunt permit for goat, sheep, moose, or other big game species not specified, a license is required and is subject to a fee.

(3) Multiple season big game tag: The commission may, by rule, offer permits for hunters to hunt deer or elk during more than one general season. Only one deer or elk may be harvested annually under a multiple season big game tag.

(4) Authorization to hunt the species set out under subsection (2) of this section is by special permit issued under RCW 77.32.370.

Effective date—2025 c 328: See note following RCW 77.08.010.

Effective date—2011 c 339: See note following RCW 43.84.092.

Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.

(1) A small game hunting license is required to hunt for all classified wild animals and wild birds, except big game. A small game license also allows the holder to hunt for unclassified wildlife.

(2)(a) In addition to a small game license, a turkey tag is required to hunt for turkey.

(b) Two-thirds of the moneys received from turkey tags must be appropriated solely for turkey or upland game bird management within the limited fish and wildlife account created in RCW 77.12.170(1). The remainder of the moneys received from turkey tags must be appropriated to the fish, wildlife, and conservation account created in RCW 77.12.170(3). Moneys received from turkey tags may not supplant existing funds provided for these purposes.

Effective date—2025 c 328: See note following RCW 77.08.010.

Intent—Effective date—2020 c 148: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.

Effective date—2011 c 339: See note following RCW 43.84.092.

Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.

(1) A personal use saltwater, freshwater, combination, or temporary license is required for all persons 16 years of age or older to fish for or possess fish taken for personal use from state waters or offshore waters.

(a) A combination license allows the holder to fish for or possess fish, shellfish, and seaweed from state waters or offshore waters.

(b) A saltwater license allows the holder to fish for or possess fish taken from saltwater areas.

(c) A freshwater license allows the holder to fish for, take, or possess food fish or game fish species in all freshwater areas.

(2)(a) A temporary combination fishing license is valid for one to three consecutive days and allows the holder to fish for or possess fish, shellfish, and seaweed taken from state waters or offshore waters.

(b) A charter stamp is valid for a one-day temporary combination fishing license for residents and nonresidents for use on a charter boat as defined in RCW 77.65.150. A guide stamp is valid for a one-day temporary combination fishing license for residents and nonresidents for use with a guide as defined in RCW 77.65.370, 77.65.480, or 77.65.590.

(c) The temporary combination fishing license fee for active duty military personnel serving in any branch of the United States armed forces is the resident rate. Active duty military personnel must provide a valid military identification card at the time of purchase of the temporary license to qualify for the resident rate.

(3) The commission may adopt rules to allow the use of two fishing poles per fishing license holder for use on selected state waters. If authorized by the commission, license holders must purchase a two-pole endorsement to use a second pole. The proceeds from the sale of the two-pole endorsement must be deposited into the limited fish and wildlife account created in RCW 77.12.170(1) and used for the operation and maintenance of state-owned fish hatcheries.

Effective date—2025 c 328: See note following RCW 77.08.010.

Intent—Effective date—2020 c 148: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.

Effective date—2011 c 339: See note following RCW 43.84.092.

Findings—Intent—Effective date—2007 c 442: See notes following RCW 77.12.702.

Effective date—2003 c 181: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [May 9, 2003]." [ 2003 c 181 s 2.]

Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.

(1) Upon written application, a combination fishing license shall be issued at the reduced rate of $6.90 and all hunting licenses shall be issued at the reduced rate of a youth hunting license fee for the following individuals:

(a) A resident 65 years old or older who has a qualifying discharge, as defined in RCW 73.04.005, from the United States armed forces and has a service-connected disability;

(b) A resident who has a qualifying discharge, as defined in RCW 73.04.005, from the United States armed forces and has a 30 percent or more service-connected disability;

(c) A resident with a disability who permanently uses a wheelchair;

(d) A resident who is blind or visually impaired; and

(e) A resident with a developmental disability as defined in RCW 71A.10.020 with documentation of the disability certified by a physician licensed to practice in this state.

(2) Upon department verification of eligibility, a nonstate resident veteran with a disability who otherwise satisfies the criteria of subsection (1)(a) and (b) of this section must be issued a combination fishing license or any hunting license at the same cost charged to a nondisabled Washington resident for the same license.

(3) Upon written application and department verification, the following recreational hunting licenses must be issued at no cost to a resident member of the state guard or national guard, as defined in RCW 38.04.010, as long as the state guard or national guard member is: An active full-time state guard or national guard employee; or a state guard or national guard member whose status requires the state guard or national guard member to participate in drill training on a part-time basis:

(a) A small game hunting license under RCW 77.32.460(1);

(b) A supplemental migratory bird permit under RCW 77.32.350; and

(c) A big game hunting license under RCW 77.32.450(1).

Effective date—2025 c 328: See note following RCW 77.08.010.

Intent—2024 c 146: See note following RCW 73.04.005.

Effective date—2013 c 101: "This act takes effect February 1, 2014." [ 2013 c 101 s 2.]

Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.

In order to simplify fishing license requirements in transition areas between salt water and fresh water, the commission may adopt rules designating specific waters where either a fresh water or a salt water license is valid.

Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.

(1) A personal use shellfish and seaweed license is required for all persons other than residents or nonresidents under 16 years of age to fish for, take, dig for, or possess seaweed or shellfish, including razor clams, for personal use from state waters or offshore waters including national park beaches.

(2) A razor clam license allows a person to harvest only razor clams for personal use from state waters, including national park beaches.

(3) A personal use shellfish and seaweed license or razor clam license must be in immediate possession of the licensee and available for inspection while a licensee is harvesting shellfish or seaweed. However, the license does not need to be visible at all times.

Effective date—2025 c 328: See note following RCW 77.08.010.

Effective date—2011 c 339: See note following RCW 43.84.092.

Report—2007 c 336: "The department of fish and wildlife shall monitor the sale of personal use shellfish and seaweed licenses and razor clam licenses for four years from July 22, 2007. If in any of the four years the number of license sales drop more than ten percent from July 22, 2007, then the department of fish and wildlife shall report the sales and revenue data for the licenses along with any relevant information regarding the reasons for the decrease to the legislature." [ 2007 c 336 s 2.]

Finding—Effective date—1999 c 243: See notes following RCW 77.32.050.

Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.

Effective date—1994 c 255 ss 1-13: "Sections 1 through 13 of this act shall take effect January 1, 1995." [ 1994 c 255 s 23.]

Finding—1993 sp.s. c 17: "The legislature finds that additional cost savings can be realized by simplifying the department of fisheries recreational licensing system. The legislature finds that significant benefits will accrue to recreational fishers from streamlining the department of fisheries recreational licensing system. The legislature finds recreational license fees and commercial landing taxes have not been increased in recent years. The legislature finds that reduction in important department of fisheries programs can be avoided by increasing license fees and commercial landing taxes. The legislature finds that it is in the best interest of the state to avoid significant reductions in current department of fisheries activities." [ 1993 sp.s. c 17 s 1.]

Contingent effective date—1993 sp.s. c 17: "This act shall take effect January 1, 1994, except that sections 13 through 30 of this act shall take effect only if Senate Bill No. 5124 does not become law by August 1, 1993." [ 1993 sp.s. c 17 s 32.] Senate Bill No. 5124 [1993 c 340] did become law; sections 13 through 30 of 1993 sp.s. c 17 did not become law.

Severability—1993 sp.s. c 17: "If any provision of this act or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [ 1993 sp.s. c 17 s 53.]

The director shall administer rules adopted by the commission governing the time, place, and manner of holding hunting and fishing contests and competitive field trials involving live wildlife for hunting dogs. The department shall prohibit contests and field trials that are not in the best interests of wildlife.

Legislative findings and intent—1987 c 506: See note following RCW 77.04.020.

Effective date—Intent, construction—Savings—Severability—1980 c 78: See notes following RCW 77.04.010.

Contests and field trials: RCW 77.32.540.

(1) The commission in consultation with the director may authorize hunting of big game animals and wild turkeys through auction. The department may conduct the auction for the hunt or contract with a nonprofit wildlife conservation organization to conduct the auction for the hunt.

(2) The commission in consultation with the director may authorize hunting of up to a total of thirty big game animals and wild turkeys per year through raffle. The department may conduct raffles or contract with a nonprofit wildlife conservation organization to conduct raffles for hunting these animals. In consultation with the gambling commission, the director may adopt rules for the implementation of raffles involving hunting.

(3) The director shall establish the procedures for the hunts, which shall require any participants to obtain any required license, permit, or tag. Representatives of the department may participate in the hunt upon the request of the commission to ensure that the animals to be killed are properly identified.

(4) After deducting the expenses of conducting an auction or raffle, any revenues retained by a nonprofit organization, as specified under contract with the department, shall be devoted solely for wildlife conservation, consistent with its qualification as a bona fide nonprofit organization for wildlife conservation.

(5) The department's share of revenues from auctions and raffles shall be deposited in the limited fish and wildlife account created in RCW 77.12.170(1). The revenues shall be used to improve game management and shall supplement, rather than replace, other funds budgeted for management of game species. The commission may solicit input from groups or individuals with special interest in and expertise on a species in determining how to use these revenues.

(6) A nonprofit wildlife conservation organization may petition the commission to authorize an auction or raffle for a special hunt for big game animals and wild turkeys.

Intent—Effective date—2020 c 148: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.

Findings—1996 c 101: "The legislature finds that it is in the best interest of recreational hunters to provide them with the variety of hunting opportunities provided by auctions and raffles. Raffles provide an affordable opportunity for most hunters to participate in special hunts for big game animals and wild turkeys. The legislature also finds that wildlife management and recreation are not adequately funded and that such auctions and raffles can increase revenues to improve wildlife management and recreation." [ 1996 c 101 s 1.]

If a private entity has a private lands wildlife management area agreement in effect with the department, the commission may authorize the private entity to conduct raffles for access to hunt for big game animals and wild turkeys to meet the conditions of the agreement. The private entity shall comply with all applicable rules adopted under RCW 77.32.530 for the implementation of raffles; however, raffle hunts conducted pursuant to this section shall not be counted toward the number of raffle hunts the commission may authorize under RCW 77.32.530. The director shall establish the procedures for the hunts, which shall require any participants to obtain any required license, permit, or tag. Representatives of the department may participate in the hunt upon the request of the commission to ensure that the animals to be killed are properly identified.

Findings—1996 c 101: See note following RCW 77.32.530.

A person shall not promote, conduct, hold, or sponsor a contest for the hunting or fishing of wildlife or a competitive field trial involving live wildlife for hunting dogs without first obtaining a hunting or fishing contest permit. Contests and field trials shall be held in accordance with established rules.

Legislative findings and intent—1987 c 506: See note following RCW 77.04.020.

Effective date—Intent, construction—Savings—Severability—1980 c 78: See notes following RCW 77.04.010.

Contests and field trials: RCW 77.32.525.

A property owner, lessee, or tenant may remove a trap placed on the owner's, lessee's, or tenant's posted or fenced property by a trapper.

Trappers shall attach to the chain of their traps or devices a legible metal tag with either the department identification number of the trapper or the name and address of the trapper in English letters not less than one-eighth inch in height.

When a property owner, lessee, or tenant presents a trapper identification number to the department for a trap found upon the property of the owner, lessee, or tenant and requests identification of the trapper, the department shall provide the requestor with the name and address of the trapper. Prior to disclosure of the trapper's name and address, the department shall obtain the name and address of the requesting individual in writing and after disclosing the trapper's name and address to the requesting individual, the requesting individual's name and address shall be disclosed in writing to the trapper whose name and address was disclosed.

Effective date—1993 sp.s. c 2 ss 1-6, 8-59, and 61-79: See RCW 43.300.900.

Effective date—Intent, construction—Savings—Severability—1980 c 78: See notes following RCW 77.04.010.

(1) A group fishing permit allows a group of individuals to fish, and harvest shellfish, without individual licenses or the payment of individual license fees. The department must also provide, without charge, any applicable catch record cards.

(2) The director must issue a group fishing permit on a seasonal basis to: A state-operated facility or state-licensed nonprofit facility or program for persons with physical or mental disabilities, hospital patients, seriously or terminally ill persons, persons who are dependent on the state because of emotional or physical developmental disabilities, or senior citizens who are in the care of the facility; or a state or local agency or nonprofit organization operating a program for at-risk youth. The permit is valid only for use during open season.

(3) The director may set conditions and issue a group fishing permit to groups working in partnership with and participating in department outdoor education programs. At the discretion of the director, a processing fee may be applied.

(4) The commission may adopt rules that provide the conditions under which a group fishing permit is issued.

(1) In addition to the fees authorized in this chapter, the department shall include a surcharge to fund biotoxin testing and monitoring by the department of health of beaches used for recreational shellfishing, and to fund monitoring by the Olympic region harmful algal bloom program of the Olympic natural resources center at the University of Washington. The surcharge on recreational shellfish licenses cannot be increased more than one dollar and can only be increased when the surcharge for commercial shellfish licenses is increased. A surcharge of four dollars applies to resident and nonresident shellfish and seaweed licenses as authorized by *RCW 77.32.520(3) (a) and (b); a surcharge of three dollars applies to resident and nonresident adult combination licenses as authorized by **RCW 77.32.470(2)(a); a surcharge of three dollars applies to annual resident and nonresident razor clam licenses as authorized by *RCW 77.32.520(4); and a surcharge of two dollars applies to the three-day razor clam license authorized by *RCW 77.32.520(5). Amounts collected from these surcharges must be deposited in the biotoxin account created in subsection (3) of this section. The department may not use any amounts collected from these surcharges to pay for its administrative costs.

(2) Any moneys from surcharges remaining in the general fund—local account after the 2007-2009 biennium must be transferred to the biotoxin account created in subsection (3) of this section and be credited to the appropriate institution. The department of health and the University of Washington shall, by December 1st of each year, provide a letter to the relevant legislative policy and fiscal committees on the status of expenditures. This letter shall include, but is not limited to, the annual appropriation amount, the amount not expended, account fund balance, and reasons for not spending the full annual appropriation.

(3) The biotoxin account is created in the state treasury to be administered by the department of health. All moneys received under subsection (1) of this section must be deposited in the account and used by the department of health and the University of Washington as required by subsection (1) of this section. Of the moneys deposited into the account, one hundred fifty thousand dollars per year must be made available to the University of Washington to implement subsection (1) of this section. Moneys in the account may be spent only after appropriation.

Reviser's note: *(1) RCW 77.32.520 was amended by 2025 c 328 s 13, deleting subsections (3), (4), and (5).

**(2) RCW 77.32.470 was amended by 2025 c 328 s 11, changing subsection (2)(a) to subsection (1)(a).

Effective date—2009 c 577: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect July 1, 2009." [ 2009 c 577 s 2.]

Effective date—2005 c 416: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [May 11, 2005]." [ 2005 c 416 s 2.]

Findings—2003 c 263: "The legislature finds that testing and monitoring of beaches used for recreational shellfishing is essential to ensure the health of recreational shellfishers. The legislature also finds that it is essential to have a stable and reliable source of funding for such biotoxin testing and monitoring. The legislature also finds that the cost of the resident and nonresident personal use shellfish and seaweed licenses is undervalued and not properly aligned with neighboring states and provinces." [ 2003 c 263 s 1.]

Effective date—2003 c 263: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect July 1, 2003." [ 2003 c 263 s 4.]

(1) The department may sell watchable wildlife decals. Proceeds from the sale of the decal must be deposited into the limited fish and wildlife account created in RCW 77.12.170(1) and must be dedicated to the support of the department's watchable wildlife activities. The department may also use proceeds from the sale of the decal for marketing the decal and for marketing watchable wildlife activities in the state.

(2) The term "watchable wildlife activities" includes but is not limited to: Initiating partnerships with communities to jointly develop watchable wildlife projects, building infrastructure to serve wildlife viewers, assisting and training communities in conducting wildlife watching events, developing destination wildlife viewing corridors and trails, tours, maps, brochures, and travel aides, and offering grants to assist rural communities in identifying key wildlife attractions and ways to protect and promote them.

(3) The commission must adopt by rule the cost of the watchable wildlife decal. A person may, at their discretion, contribute more than the cost as set by the commission by rule for the watchable wildlife decal in order to support watchable wildlife activities.

Intent—Effective date—2020 c 148: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.

Effective date—2011 c 320: See note following RCW 79A.80.005.

Findings—Intent—2011 c 320: See RCW 79A.80.005.

Findings—2003 c 317: "The legislature finds that healthy wildlife populations significantly contribute to the economic vitality of Washington's rural areas through increased opportunities for watchable wildlife and related tourism. Travel related to watchable wildlife is one of the fastest growing segments of the travel industry. Much of this travel occurs off-season, creating jobs and providing revenue to local businesses and governments during otherwise slow periods. The watchable wildlife industry is particularly important to Washington's rural economies.

The legislature also finds that it is vital to support programs that enhance watchable wildlife activities and tourism, while also protecting the wildlife resources that attract the viewers. A revenue source must be created and directed to the watchable wildlife programs of the department of fish and wildlife to develop watchable wildlife opportunities in cooperation with other local, state, and federal agencies, and nongovernmental organizations." [ 2003 c 317 s 1.]

(1) In order to facilitate hunting and fishing opportunities for a terminally ill person, the director may provide any licenses, tags, permits, stamps, and other fees without charge including transaction and dealer fees.

(2) The director may accept special permits or other special hunting opportunities, including raffle tags, auction tags, and multiple season opportunities from donors seeking to facilitate hunting opportunities for a terminally ill person. The director shall distribute these donations pursuant to rules adopted under subsection (4) of this section.

(3) The director may take other actions consistent with facilitating hunting and fishing opportunities for a terminally ill person. These actions may include, but are not limited to, entering into agreements with willing landowners pursuant to RCW 77.12.320.

(4) In addition to rules required under subsection (2) of this section, the commission may adopt rules as necessary to effectuate the purpose and policies of this section.

Short title—2008 c 10: "This act may be known and cited as the Senator Bob Oke memorial act." [ 2008 c 10 s 4.]

(1) In order to effectively manage wildlife in areas or at times when a higher proficiency and demonstrated skill level are needed for resource protection or public safety, the department establishes the master hunter permit program. The master hunter permit program emphasizes safe, ethical, responsible, and lawful hunting practices. Program goals include improving the public's perception of hunting and perpetuating the highest hunting standards.

(2) A master hunter permit is required to participate in controlled hunts to eliminate problem animals that damage property or threaten public safety. The commission may establish by rule the requirements an applicant must comply with when applying for or renewing a master hunter permit including, but not limited to, a criminal background check. The director may establish an advisory group to assist the department with administering the master hunter permit program.

(3) Funds generated under this section must be deposited into the fish and wildlife enforcement reward account established in RCW 77.15.425, and the funds must be used exclusively to administer the master hunter permit program.

Effective date—2025 c 328: See note following RCW 77.08.010.

(1) A western Washington pheasant license is required to hunt for pheasant in western Washington.

(2) The license is available as a season option, a youth full season option, or a three-day option.

Effective date—2025 c 328: See note following RCW 77.08.010.

(1) The department shall permit the release of wild beavers on public and private lands with agreement from the property owner.

(2) The department may limit the release of wild beavers to areas of the state where:

(a) There is a low probability of released beavers becoming a nuisance or causing damage;

(b) Conditions exist for released beavers to improve, maintain, or manage stream or riparian ecosystem functions; and

(c) There is evidence of historic endemic beaver populations.

(3) The department may condition the release of beaver to maximize the relocation's success and minimize risk. Factors that the department may condition include:

(a) Stream gradient;

(b) Sufficiency of the water supply;

(c) Stream geomorphology;

(d) Adequacy of a food source;

(e) Proper site elevation and valley width;

(f) Age of the beavers relocated;

(g) Times of year for capture and relocation;

(h) Requirements for the capture, handling, and transport of the live beavers;

(i) Minimum and maximum numbers of beavers that can be relocated in one area; and

(j) Requirements for the permit holder to initially provide supplemental food and lodge building materials.

(4) The department may require:

(a) Specific training for those involved with capture, handling, and release of beavers; and

(b) The notification of any potentially affected adjacent landowners before permitting the release of wild beavers.

(5) Nothing in this section creates any liability against the state or those releasing beavers nor authorizes any private right of action for any damages subsequently caused by beavers released pursuant to this section.

(6) For the purposes of this section, "beaver" means the American beaver (Castor canadensis).

(7) For the purposes of this section, beavers may only be released to carry out relocation: (a) Between two areas east of the crest of the Cascade mountains; or (b) between two areas west of the crest of the Cascade mountains.

Finding—2012 c 167: "The legislature finds that beavers have historically played a significant role in maintaining the health of watersheds in the Pacific Northwest and act as key agents in riparian ecology. The live trapping and relocating of beavers has long been recognized as a beneficial wildlife management practice, and has been successfully utilized to restore and maintain stream ecosystems for over fifty years. The benefits of active beaver populations include reduced stream sedimentation, stream temperature moderation, higher dissolved oxygen levels, overall improved water quality, increased natural water storage capabilities within watersheds, and reduced stream velocities. These benefits improve and create habitat for many other species, including endangered salmon, river otters, sandhill cranes, trumpeter swans, and other riparian and aquatic species. Relocating beavers into their historic habitat provides a natural mechanism for improving the environmental conditions in Washington's riparian ecosystems without having to resort to governmental regulation or expensive publicly funded engineering projects." [ 2012 c 167 s 1.]

(1) In order to facilitate hunting and fishing opportunities for Washington state resident veterans who are eligible for reduced fishing and hunting license fees, based on a service-related disability, under RCW 77.32.480, the department may accept donations from the public so that resident disabled veterans, on a first-come, first-served basis, may elect to utilize a donation towards their purchase of hunting and fishing licenses.

(2) The director may take other actions consistent with facilitating hunting and fishing opportunities for disabled veterans. These actions may include, but are not limited to, entering into agreements with willing landowners pursuant to RCW 77.12.320.

(3) The department shall adopt rules to implement this section and to define the license products, to include the transaction and dealer fees, available for purchase using donated funds.

Recreational fishing fee table

Effective date—2025 c 328: See note following RCW 77.08.010.

Hunting fee table

Effective date—2025 c 328: See note following RCW 77.08.010.

(1) The commission may adopt rules to create and sell combination licenses for all hunting and fishing activities at or below a fee equal to the total cost of the individual license contained within any combination. This includes, but is not limited to, discounts for seniors and those that meet the qualifications, such as veterans who are disabled as specified in RCW 77.32.480. Combination licenses may span one or more license years.

(2) The director may offer temporary discounted promotional pricing to increase angler, hunting, or wildlife viewing participation.

Effective date—2025 c 328: See note following RCW 77.08.010.