Washington Hunters Must Submit Harvest Reports by January 31

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The Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife is reminding hunters that they must submit required hunter harvest reports by upcoming deadlines, with most reports due by January 31. The reports provide important data to help biologists manage game populations statewide and set permit levels for future seasons, even if no wildlife was harvested.

Why it matters

Accurate harvest reporting is crucial for the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife to effectively manage wildlife populations and hunting permit levels. Failure to submit required reports can lead to administrative fees for hunters.

The details

Reports are required for each deer, elk, bear, cougar, and turkey tag, as well as for each special hunt permit awarded. All tagholders must submit a report, even if they did not hunt or harvest wildlife. For most hunters, reports are due January 31. Hunters with special permits that extend beyond that date must submit a report within 10 days of the season's close. Cougar tag reports are due by March 31.

• Harvest reports for most hunters are due by January 31, 2026.
• Hunters with special permits must submit a report within 10 days of the season's close.
• Cougar tag reports are due by March 31, 2026.

What’s next

Hunters who fail to submit their required harvest reports by the deadlines may face administrative fees from the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife.