OLYMPIA – The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) has extended this year’s special hunt application submission deadline by one week to May 27 following an unexpected delay in the availability of physical copies of this year’s big game hunting regulations.
“Unfortunately, a shipping delay meant hard-copy regulations arrived to WDFW and were made available to hunters about one week later than we expected,” explained Anis Aoude, WDFW game division manager. “We know that many hunters really value using the physical copy of the regulations when making their hunt choices, so we chose to extend the submission deadline to give these hunters more time to make their selections with the physical copy of the pamphlet in hand.”
Hunters can pick up physical copies of the 2026 Washington Big Game Hunting Regulations at WDFW offices and license dealer locations. Please call your local license dealer or WDFW office ahead of time to inquire about availability; regulations are currently being delivered across the state.
Hunters with a special hunt permit receive the opportunity to hunt at special times or places authorized by that permit. This can often result in fewer crowds and higher success rates for hunters. Instructions and details on applying for special hunt permits are available in Washington’s big game hunting regulations pamphlet. Hunters can also learn more about special hunt permits, how the draw works, and how to apply by watching WDFW’s special hunt permit video and visiting MyWDFW.org.
Special hunt drawing results will be posted to applicants’ WILD accounts in June. Applicants with a valid email will also receive an email alert when the results are available.
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife works to preserve, protect, and perpetuate fish, wildlife, and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities.