Washington Seeks Public Input on 2026 Hunting Season Proposals

WDFW accepting comments on changes to waterfowl, deer, elk, and other big game seasons

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is now accepting public comments on proposed hunting season rule changes for the 2026 season, including updates to waterfowl, deer, elk, moose, bighorn sheep, and mountain goat seasons. The public comment period is open until March 12, and WDFW will hold a virtual public hearing on March 11 to gather additional feedback.

Why it matters

Hunting season regulations have a significant impact on wildlife management, outdoor recreation, and the local economy in Washington. Public input helps ensure the rules balance conservation needs, recreational opportunities, and the concerns of various stakeholders.

The details

Key proposals include eliminating 100 chronic wasting disease (CWD) incentive multi-season deer tags, adjusting game management unit (GMU) boundary descriptions, clarifying rules around combination deer and elk licenses, and prohibiting trespassing to collect shed antlers. WDFW is also proposing new language to describe the North Willapa regulated access area for waterfowl hunting.

  • The public comment period is open now until noon on March 12, 2026.
  • WDFW will hold a virtual public hearing and director's briefing about the proposed hunting rules on March 11, 2026.
  • WDFW Director Kelly Susewind will issue his decision on the delegated rule proposals in late March 2026.

The players

Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW)

The state agency responsible for managing Washington's fish and wildlife resources, including setting hunting seasons and regulations.

Kelly Susewind

The director of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, who will make the final decision on the proposed hunting rule changes.

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What’s next

The WDFW director will issue his decision on the proposed hunting rule changes in late March 2026, after considering public input received during the comment period and virtual public hearing.

The takeaway

The public comment period on WDFW's 2026 hunting season proposals is an important opportunity for Washington residents to provide input on regulations that impact wildlife management, outdoor recreation, and the local economy. The final rules will aim to balance conservation needs, recreational opportunities, and stakeholder concerns.