During the hunting season, Washinton state provides a wide variety of opportunities for hunters! From deer and elk to turkey and bobcats, the options are bountiful for hunting in WA. However, it is important that you come prepared and are familiar with the rules before coming to Washington for a hunting excursion. Here is everything you need to know about hunting in WA and one of the best places to enjoy this pastime. Don’t forget to request your free copy of our Vacation Guide to find other fun-filled outdoor activities in Leavenworth!
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Review the Rules and Regulations on Hunting in Washington
Before your arrival, you should familiarize yourself with Washington hunting regulations and when you can hunt for certain species. The state has four hunting seasons throughout the year, each dedicated to a specific type of hunting. The hunting seasons are as follows:
- Big Game Hunting Season: Begins early/late fall and includes deer, elk, black bears, cougars, mountain goats, moose, bighorn sheep, bobcats, coyotes, foxes, grouse, raccoons, rabbits & hares, and wild turkey.
- Migratory Waterfowl and Upland Game Season: Starts September and runs into March. This season is good for hunting Duck, Coot, Snipe, Geese, Brant, Band-tailed Pigeon, Dove, Mourning Dove, Swan, Forest Grouse, Sage & Sharptailed Grouse, Ptarmigan, Pheasant, California (Valley) Quail and Northern Bobwhite, Mountain Quail, Partridge, Cottontail & Snowshoe Hare, Jackrabbit & Pygmy Rabbit, and Crow.
- Spring Turkey Season: Lasts April-May and is the perfect time to hunt Merriam’s Turkey, Rio Grande Turkey, and Eastern Turkey.
- Trapping Season: Begins April 1st and lasts until March 31st of the following year. Good for trapping Badger, Beaver, Bobcat, Marten, Mink, Muskrat, Raccoon, Red Fox, River Otter, and Weasel.
Hunting Rules
All Washington hunters are required to have a hunting license for the particular type of hunting that you’d like to try. Also, if you were born after January 1st, 1972, you will be required to participate in hunter education training. These classes can be taken at The Department of Fish and Wildlife or online! Once you’ve qualified for your license, you can purchase it online at any time!
Where to Hunt Near Leavenworth
Leavenworth, WA falls into District 7 and must adhere to the rules and regulations of that area. However, our region enjoys some of the best hunting in the state considering the Cascades serve as the home to several species of wildlife. We highly recommend hunting in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest for incredible deer hunting in Washington!
Need a Place to Stay? Welcome to Pine River Ranch
Located just minutes from the Bavarian-style village of Leavenworth, our rustic bed and breakfast is the ultimate destination for an unforgettable getaway to Washington. Our beautiful setting is perfectly complimented with six lovely guestrooms with modern features such as in-room whirlpool tub, fireplaces for those chilly nights, and a romantic ambiance.
For relaxing hunting getaways to Leavenworth, we recommend booking our Ponderosa Suite. This is the perfect place to retire after a long day in the wilderness. During our stay, you’ll enjoy luxury amenities, beautiful views from the private deck, a large log pine bed, and a complimentary hot breakfast delivered straight to your door each morning. It’s everything you’ll need and more for a getaway that you’ll be talking about for years to come.
Book your next escape in your favorite room today! We look forward to seeing you soon.