Effective Date of Rule: Thirty-one days after filing.

     Purpose: To amend WAC 232-12-024 Requirements for sealing of pelts and collection of biological information for river otter, cougar, lynx, and bobcat, 232-12-051 Muzzleloading firearms, 232-12-054 Archery requirements -- Archery special use permits, 232-12-257 Use of decoys and calls, 232-28-248 Special closures and firearm restriction areas, 232-28-266 Landowner damage hunts, 232-28-272 2006-2007, 2007-2008, and 2008-2009 Black bear and cougar hunting seasons and regulations, 232-28-273 2006-2008 Moose, bighorn sheep, and mountain goat seasons and permit quotas, 232-28-282 Big game and wild turkey auction, raffle, and special incentive permits, 232-28-291 Special hunting season permits, 232-28-295 Landowner hunting permits, 232-28-333 Game management units (GMUs) boundary descriptions -- Region three, 232-28-335 Game management units (GMUs) boundary descriptions -- Region five, 232-28-337 Deer and elk area descriptions, 232-28-351 2006-2008 Deer general seasons and definitions, 232-28-352 2006-2008 Elk general seasons and definitions and 232-28-515 Trapping seasons and regulations; and adopt WAC 232-28-353 2006 Deer special permits and 232-28-354 2006 Elk special permits.

     Citation of Existing Rules Affected by this Order: Amending WAC 232-12-024, 232-12-051, 232-12-054, 232-12-257, 232-28-248, 232-28-266, 232-28-272, 232-28-273, 232-28-282, 232-28-291, 232-28-295, 232-28-333, 232-28-335, 232-28-337, 232-28-351, 232-28-352, and 232-28-515.

     Statutory Authority for Adoption: RCW 77.12.047.

      Adopted under notice filed as WSR 06-06-103, 06-06-091, 06-06-100, 06-06-101, 06-06-102, 06-06-096, 06-06-097, 06-06-099, 06-06-092, 06-06-094, 06-06-096, 06-06-095 and 06-06-104 on March 1, 2006.

     Changes Other than Editing from Proposed to Adopted Version: WAC 232-12-051 Muzzleloading firearms.

     Changes, if any, from the text of the proposed rule and reasons for difference:

•	At the end of section (1) retain the following text "and are exposed to the elements." This change was made based on the public input received.
•	Split subsection (1) into two sections starting at "Sights must be open...." Add the following text to accommodate special use needs for hunters with disabilities.
	Except hunters with disabilities who meet the definition of being visually impaired in WAC 232-12-828 may receive a special use permit that would allow the use of scopes or other visual aids. A disabled hunter permit holder in possession of a special use permit that allows the use of a scope of visual aid may hunt game birds or game animals during muzzleloader seasons.

WAC 232-12-054 Archery requirements -- Archery special use permits.

     Changes, if any, from the text of the proposed rule and reasons for difference:

•	The language that was added to subsection (1)(a) "except that a handgun may be possessed, but not be used for the purpose of hunting" has been deleted. Additional discussions with enforcement staff and the public have resulted in the decision to not recommend allowing possession of a handgun while archery hunting. The potential for illegally hunting with the handgun during an archery season was compelling and resulted in the change in the recommendation.
•	Added the following text after subsection (1)(h) to accommodate special use needs for hunters with disabilities.
	Except hunters with disabilities who meet the definition of being visually impaired in WAC 232-12-828 may receive a special use permit that would allow the use of scopes or other visual aids. A disabled hunter permit holder in possession of a special use permit that allows the use of a scope or visual aid may hunt game birds or game animals during archery seasons.
•	Strike out subsection (4)(c) because it is no longer valid.

WAC 232-28-266 Landowner damage hunts.

     Changes, if any, from the text of the proposed rule and reasons for difference: The following adjustments are in response to negotiations with the involved landowners.

     After Elk Area 3722:

•	Change the "any elk" kill quota from 30 to 40.
•	Change the "spike bull or antlerless" kill quota from 10 to 12.

     After Elk Area 3721:

•	For the "bull only" kill quota, change the date back to the original May 15-July 31 (rather than June 15-July 31) to be able to take animals when they are causing the damage.

WAC 232-28-295 Landowner hunting permits.

     Changes, if any, from the text of the proposed rule and reasons for difference: The following amendments reflect final negotiations agreed upon by the landowner and the department:

     Under "2006 4-O Cattle Company Landowner Hunting Permits":

•	In the "Elk" table, change the Access Season date from "Sept. 8-21 Archery/Oct. 1-22 Modern Firearm" to "Sept. 15-25."

     Under "2006 4-O Cattle Company Special Hunting Permits":

•	In the "4-O Antlerless Elk A" row change the permit number from 60 to 33 and the Permit Season from "Aug. 27-Sept. 7" to "Aug. 18-24."
•	In the hunt "4-O Antlerless Elk B" row change the permit number from 25 to 8 and the Permit Season from "Aug. 27-Sept. 7" to "Aug. 18-24."

     Under "2006 4-O Cattle Company Special Hunting Permits," Whitetail deer:

•	Delete the "4-O Antlerless Whitetail Deer" hunt.

WAC 232-28-351 2006-2008 Deer general seasons and definitions.

     Changes, if any, from the text of the proposed rule and reasons for difference: Under "Youth and Disabled Hunters:"

•	For 2007, change the start date to from Oct. 29 to Oct. 27. This change corrects an oversight error and starts the season on a Saturday in 2007 as was originally intended.

     Under "Early Archery Deer Seasons, Eastern Washington:"

•	Move GMUs 328, 334 through 340, and 346 through 368 from the 3 pt. min. or antlerless, Sept. 1-30, to the 3 pt. min. Sept. 1-15 and the 3 pt. min or antlerless Sept. 16-30 sections. Late winter aerial survey data indicate mule deer numbers are down in these GMUs. There are some concerns that higher than normal winter mortality has occurred this year.
•	Added GMU 379 to Eastern Mule Deer, Any mule deer, Sept. 1-30. This amendment implements the change in harvest strategy between the old GMU 381 and the new GMU 379.
•	Added GMU 379 to Eastern Whitetail Deer, Any whitetail deer, Sept. 1-30. This amendment implements the change in harvest strategy between the old GMU 381 and the new GMU 379.

     Under "Late Archery Deer Seasons":

•	Added GMU 381 to Eastern Mule Deer, 3 pt. min. or antlerless, Nov. 20-Dec. 8. This amendment implements the change in the harvest strategy between the old GMU 381 and the new GMU 379.
•	Moved GMU 388 to Eastern Mule Deer, 3 pt. min. or antlerless, Nov. 20-Dec. 8. This amendment corrects an error. There was never any intention of changing the dates of the late archery season in the new GMU 388.

     Under "Early Muzzleloader Deer Seasons":

•	Added GMU 379 to Eastern Whitetail Deer, Any whitetail deer. This amendment implements the change in harvest strategy between the old GMU 381 and the new GMU 379.
•	Added a new row for GMU 379, Eastern Mule Deer, Any mule deer. This amendment implements the change in harvest strategy between the old GMU 381 and the new GMU 379.

     Under "Late Muzzleloader Deer Seasons":

•	Added GMU 379 to Eastern Whitetail Deer, Any mule deer, Nov. 20 to Dec. 8. This amendment implements the change in harvest strategy between the old GMU 381 and the new GMU 379.
•	Added GMU 379 to Eastern Mule Deer, Any mule deer, Nov. 20 to Dec. 8. This amendment implements the change in harvest strategy between the old GMU 381 and the new GMU 379.
•	Deleted GMU 381 from Eastern Mule Deer, 3 pt. min. Nov. 20-Dec. 8. This amendment implements the change in harvest strategy between the old GMU 381 and the new GMU 379.
•	Moved GMU 130 under Eastern Whitetail Deer, to the 3 pt. min. and antlerless, Nov. 20-30 time period. This amendment corrects an omission in the first filing of the WAC.
•	Moved GMU 130 under Eastern Washington Mule Deer to a "new" Antlerless Nov. 20-30 time period. This amendment corrects an omission in the first filing of the WAC.

WAC 232-28-353 2006 Deer special permits.

     Changes, if any, from the text of the proposed rule and reasons for difference: The following permit adjustment reductions in antlerless permits are a response to late winter surveys indicating a higher than expected winter mortality in mule deer, in addition to changes due to permit allocation calculations.

     Under "Special Deer Permit Hunting Seasons add the following sentence":

•

"Hunters may only apply for permits consistent with the tag required for the hunt choice, however, Multiple Season Permit holders may apply for archery, muzzleloader, or modern firearm permit hunts." This amendment clarifies the rules for special permit applicants who have already successfully drawn a multiple season tag.

     Under "Modern Firearm Deer Permits":

•	Moved Whitcomb A hunt to "Muzzleloader Only Deer Permit Hunts" section. This amendment better accommodates a hunt on land managed by the USFWS.
•	Moved Paterson A hunt to "Muzzleloader Only Deer Permit Hunts" section. This amendment better accommodates a hunt on land managed by the USFWS.
•	Change Naneum A from 150 permits to 100 permits.
•	Reduced permits for Naneum B from 25 to 24.
•	Reduced permits for Quilomene A from 74 to 24.
•	Change Teanaway A from 200 permits to 100 permits.
•	Reduced permits for Teanaway B from 25 to 24.
•	Change Taneum A from 150 permits to 75 permits.
•	Reduced permits for L.T. Murray A from 25 to 24.
•	Change Nile A from 20 permits to 10 permits.
•	Reduced permits for Alkali A from 74 to 73.
•	Change Alkali B from 80 permits to 70 permits.

     Under "Muzzleloader Only Deer Permit Hunts:"

•	Reduced permits for Chiwawa B from 15 to 3.
•	Reduced permits for Desert C from 4 to 3.
•	Reduced permits for Naneum C from 25 to 3.
•	Reduced permits for Quilomene B from 11 to 3.
•	Change Teanaway C from 100 permits to 50 permits.
•	Reduced permits for Teanaway D from 25 to 3.
•	Change Manastash from 90 permits to 50 permits and add the letter A to the Hunt Name.
•	Reduced permits for L.T. Murray B from 25 to 3.
•	Reduced permits for Alkali C from 11 to 10.

     Under "Archery Only Deer Permits":

•	Increased permits for Chiwawa D from 10 to 19.
•	Reduced permits for Desert D from 21 to 14.
•	Reduced permits for Naneum D from 25 to 20.
•	Reduced permits for Quilomene C from 76 to 20.
•	Reduced permits for Teanaway E from 25 to 20.
•	Reduced permits for L.T. Murray C from 25 to 20.
•	Increased permits for Alkali E from 73 to 91.

     Under "Special Modern Firearm Deer Permit Hunts for hunters 65 or Older":

•	Change Quilomene D from 20 permits to 10 permits.
•	Change Manastash from 50 permits to 25 permits and add the letter B to the Hunt Name.
•	Change Umtanum A from 20 permits to 10 permits.
•	Changed the Grayback D ending date from Oct. 31 to Oct. 27. This amendment corrects an omission.

     Under "Disabled Hunter Deer Permits"

•	Change Quilomene E from 10 permits to 5 permits.
•	Change Manastash C from 20 permits to 10 permits.
•	Changed Grayback E from 2 pt. min. to 3 pt. min. or antlerless. This amendment corrects an omission and makes Grayback E consistent with other GMU 388 hunts.

     Under "Youth Special Deer Permit Hunts - Modern Firearm Only":

•	Moved Whitcomb B hunt to the "Youth Special Deer Permit Hunts - Muzzleloader Only" section. This amendment better accommodates a hunt on land managed by the USFWS.
•	Moved Paterson B hunt to the "Youth Special Deer Permit Hunts - Muzzleloader Only" section. This amendment better accommodates a hunt on land managed by the USFWS.
•	Add the following new hunt after East Klickitat E:

Green River C

Oct. 28-Nov. 3

Antlerless

GMU 485

5

	This additional hunt is a result of joint state/tribal surveys of the deer population and negotiations with the tribal government that is involved with deer hunting in the Green River Watershed.
•	Changed the opening state for Skookumchuck D from Oct. 9-31 to Oct. 7-31. This adjustment is recommended due to a recent development with private landowners willing to provide additional weekend access for youth hunters.

     Under "Special Deer Permits - Second Deer Tag:"

•	To better clarify the restrictions that apply to successful second deer applicants, add the words "deer" and "type" to the sentence: "The second deer license and tag type must be the same tag type as the first one."

     Under "Hunter Education Instructor Incentive Permits":

•	Added GMUs 382 and 388 to the Region 3 open GMUs. This adjustment corrects an oversight from previous years.

WAC 232-28-352 2006-2008 Elk general seasons and definitions.

     Changes, if any, from the text of the proposed rule and reasons for difference:

•	Under "Spike Bull Antler Restrictions" in the first sentence changed ears to the singular, "ear." This amendment clarifies the rule pertaining to spike only restrictions.
•	Under "Spike Only GMUs" replaced the dash between 249 and 251 with a comma. This corrects an error in the filing.
•	Under "3 Point Antler Restrictions," in the first sentence replaced "on the upper half of the main beam" with "above the ear." This amendment clarifies the rule pertaining to 3-point antler restrictions.
•	Under "3 Point GMUs" added the following "652 for archers, 666, 684." This corrects an error in the filing.
•	Under "Permit Only Units" added GMU "653." This corrects an error in the filing.
•	Under "Modern Firearm Elk Seasons," "Late Archery Elk Seasons," and "Late Muzzleloader Elk Seasons" for Elk Area 3911, the following footnote was added:
	**Advanced Hunter Education Master Hunters who hunt in Elk Area 3911 from August 1 through October 15, 2006, who successfully take an antlerless elk, and who notify the department by October 20, 2006, may purchase a second elk transport tag. Notification must be following the harvest of an antlerless elk from Elk Area 3911 and no later than October 20, 2006. These hunters will be issued a second elk transport tag valid for the general season for the same hunting method as specified on the first tag.
•	As a result of public input received at the commission meeting, GMU 249 was moved from "Early Archery Elk" Eastern Washington, Spike bull to "Early Archery Elk" Eastern Washington, Any elk.
•	Under "Early Archery Elk," Eastern Washington, Spike bull or antlerless, deleted Elk Area 1012. The elk area is already encompassed in Elk Area 1010 and is therefore redundant for this season.
•	Under "Early Muzzleloader Elk Seasons, Eastern Washington," moved GMU 250 from "Spike bull" to "Any elk." This corrects an error in the filing.

WAC 232-28-354 2006 Elk special permits.

     Changes, if any, from the text of the proposed rule and reasons for difference: Most of the following permit adjustments reflect changes due to permit allocation calculations.

     Under "Special Elk Permit Hunting Seasons":

•

Added the following sentence: "Hunters may only apply for permits consistent with the tag required for the hunt choice, however, Multiple Season Permit holders may apply for eastern or western Washington archery, muzzleloader, or modern firearm permit hunts." This amendment clarifies the rules for special permit applicants who have already successfully drawn a multiple season tag.

     Under "Modern Firearm Bull Permit Hunts":

•	Changed the Watershed hunt to open on Oct. 28 not Oct. 23. This adjustment corrects an error and incorporates the date agreed upon with the land manager of the watershed.
•	Reduced permits for Mission A from 7 to 2. The permits have been reduced to achieve reduced mortality for mature bulls in the Colockum.
•	The number of permits for Colockum A should be 7. The permit number was left blank when filed.
•	Increased permits for Teanaway A from 10 to 24.
•	Reduced permits for Peaches Ridge A from 142 to 132.
•	Reduced permits for Observatory A from 77 to 76.
•	Reduced permits for Goose Prairie A from 92 to 88.
•	Increased permits for Rimrock A from 109 to 118.
•	Change the number of permits for Green River from 1 to 3. This change is a result of joint state/tribal surveys of the elk population and negotiations with tribal governments involved with hunting in the Green River Watershed.
•	Increased permits for Margaret A from 22 to 23.
•	Increased permits for Toutle A from 87 to 91.
•	Reduced permits for White River A from 75 to 23.

     Under "Modern Firearm Elk Permit Hunts":

•	The Malaga D hunt should end on December 31 not January 30. This corrects an oversight. It was the department's intent to reduce the amount of hunting pressure in the Malaga.
•	Increased permits for Margaret B from 25 to 30. This change was made based on late breaking developments within the elk herd and as a result of public input received at the commission meeting.
•	Increased permits for Toutle B from 35 to 50. This change was made based on late breaking developments within the elk herd and as a result of public input received at the commission meeting.
•	The following hunt was inadvertently omitted in the filing:

Green Mtn C

Nov. 4-12

Antlerless

WF

Elk Area 5051

10

•	To deal with a damage problem the following hunt was added:

Wildwood A

Jan. 16-30, 2007

Antlerless

WF

Elk Area 5061

15

•	Increased permits for Williams Creek from 40 to 50.

     Under "Muzzleloader Bull Permit Hunts":

•	Increased permits for Dayton D from 2 to 3.
•	Reduced permits for Mission B from 3 to 1. The permits have been reduced to achieve reduced mortality for mature bulls in the Colockum.
•	Colockum C should be changed to Colockum B and the number of permits should be 1. The permit number was left blank when filed.
•	Increased permits for Teanaway C from 2 to 7.
•	Reduced permits for Peaches Ridge B from 22 to 19.
•	Reduced permits for Observatory B from 25 to 23.
•	Reduced permits for Goose Prairie B from 15 to 14.

     Under "Muzzleloader Bull Permit Hunts":

•	Reduced permits for Rimrock C from 17 to 16.
•	Increased permits for Cowiche C from 9 to 11.
•	Reduced permits for Skokomish B from 3 to 1.
•	The number of permits for White River B should be 3. The permit number was left blank when filed.

     Under "Muzzleloader Permit Hunts":

•	To deal with a damage problem the following hunt was added:

Wildwood B

Jan. 1-15, 2007

Antlerless

WM

Elk Area 5061

15

•	Increased permits for Margaret D from 10 to 15. This change was made based on late breaking developments within the elk herd and as a result of public input received at the commission meeting.
•	Increased permits for Toutle D from 10 to 15. This change was made based on late breaking developments within the elk herd and as a result of public input received at the commission meeting.

     Under "Archery Permit Hunts":

•	Reduced permits for Tucannon C from 2 to 1.
•	Increased permits for Wenaha C from 2 to 3.
•	Change Colockum "D" to Colockum "C" and the number of permits to 8. The permit number was left blank when filed.
•	Increased permits for Teanaway E from 13 to 29.
•	Reduced permits for Peaches Ridge C from 144 to 108.
•	Reduced permits for Observatory C from 93 to 88.
•	Reduced permits for Goose Prairie C from 170 to 147.
•	Increased permits for Bethel E from 45 to 47.

     Under "Archery Permit Hunts":

•	Increased permits for Rimrock D from 112 to 118.
•	Reduced permits for Cowiche E from 24 to 22.
•	Reduced permits for Margaret E from 10 to 8.
•	Reduced permits for Toutle E from 55 to 47.
•	Reduced permits for Skokomish C from 10 to 5.
•	The number of permits for White River C should be 19. The permit number was left blank when filed.

     Under "Advanced Hunter Education (AHE) Master Hunter Special Elk Permit Hunts":

•	The Malaga J hunt was deleted. It was the department's intent to delete this hunt to reduce the amount of hunting pressure in the Malaga.

     Under "Advanced Hunter Education (AHE) Master Hunter, Second Elk Tag Hunts":

•	Delete "(second tag purchase deadlines do not apply to these hunts)." This text is unnecessary and may add confusion.
•	For clarification the following sentence was added, "The second elk license and tag type must be the same tag type as the first one."
•	The following three hunts were inadvertently omitted in the filing:

Peola B	Aug. 11-Sept. 7	Antlerless	Any elk tag	Designated areas in GMU 178	15HM
Peola C	Dec. 9-Jan. 31, 2007	Antlerless	Any elk tag	Designated areas in GMU 178	15HM
Blackrock A	Aug. 1-March 31, 2007	Any elk	Any elk tag	Elk Area 3722	3HM

•	Malaga K was changed to Malaga J. The date was changed to open on January 1 from February 1. This adjustment reorders the hunt names and adjusts dates to reflect the previous adjustment.
•	Change the start date for Corral Canyon D from June 15 to July 1. The initial date was a carry over error from last year. The date in error was earlier than the date for special permit lottery selection process.
•	Changed Blackrock A to B permits from 18 to 5.

     Under "Youth 15 and Under - Special Elk Permit Hunts":

•	For clarification delete the words "15 and Under" from the heading, and add (Must be eligible for the youth hunting license and accompanied by an adult during the hunt.)
•	Changed Blackrock B to C, change restrictions from antlerless to spike or antlerless, increased permits from 10 to 20.

     Under "Persons of Disability Only":

•	Changed Blackrock C to D and changed the permits from 2 to 2HM.
•	The following hunt was inadvertently omitted in the filing:

Alkali C

Oct. 21-Nov 5

Any elk

EF

GMU 371

4

This amendment facilitates a hunt that was agreed upon with the Yakima training center after the filing of CR 102.

WAC 232-28-333 Game management units (GMUs) boundary descriptions -- Region 3.

     Changes, if any, from the text of the proposed rule and reasons for difference: Under the description for GMU 328 change the spelling of "Blewitt" to Blewett. This amendment corrects a spelling error.

     Added the following edits to GMU 372. The underlined bold text corrects an error in the old language and accommodates the creation of the new GMU 379.

•	"GMU 372 RATTLESNAKE HILLS (Benton and Yakima counties):
	Beginning at...to the Vernita Bridge on SR 24; E and S down the ((Benton County side of)) Grant-Benton county line then the Benton-Franklin county line, along the Columbia River, ((following the ordinary high water mark of the shoreline,)) to the mouth of...."

     Under the description for GMU 388, "S on Lakeside Rd to Glenwood - Goldendale Hwy." should read north. Change the S to N. This amendment corrects a typographical error held over from the old GMU 588 Grayback description.

WAC 232-28-337 Deer and elk area descriptions.

     Changes, if any, from the text of the proposed rule and reasons for difference: The following changes were made for clarification.

     For Elk Area 3068, replaced the entire boundary with new language.

     For Elk Area 3911:

•	Added the text in bold "...west on USFS Road 4305 to Corral Creek, east along Corral Creek to West Fork Teanaway River...."
•	Removed the word "Road" after Parke Creek.

     The following changes were made to Elk Area 5061:

•

Elk Area No. 5061 Wildwood (Lewis County): Beginning at the junction of the Pacific West Timber (PWT) 600 Road and the Wildwood Road (SE1/4 S29 T11N R3W); southwest on the 600 Road to the 800 Road (NW1/4 S36 T11N R4W); ((west)) - southwest on the 800 Road to the 850 Road (SW1/4 S3 T10N R4W); northwest on the 850 Road to the Weyerhaeuser 4720 Road (S20 T11N R4W); north on the Weyerhaeuser 4720 Road to the Weyerhaeuser 4700 Road (S17 T11N R4W); ((west)) east on the Weyerhaeuser 4700 road to the Weyerhaeuser 5822 Road (((NE1/4)) NW1/4 S16 T11N R4W); ((west)) east on the Weyerhaeuser 5822 Road to the Weyerhaeuser 5820 Road (((SE1/4)) NW1/4 S10 T11N R4W); ((southwest along)) southeast on the Weyerhaeuser 5820 Road to the PWT 574 Road (((SE1/4)) SE1/4 S10 T11N R4W); south on the PWT 574 Road to the ((PWT)) 570 Road (NW1/4 S14 T11N R4W); south on the ((PWT)) 570 Road to the ((PWT)) 500 Road (NW1/4 S14 T11N R4W); northeast on the 500 Road to the 560 Road (SW1/4 S12 T11N R4W); east on the 560 Road to the 540 Road (SE1/4 S12 T11N R4W); east and south on the 540 Road to the 500 Road (SE1/4 S18 T11N R3W); east on the PWT 500 Road to the Wildwood Road (N 1/2 S20 T11N R3W); south on the Wildwood Road to the point of beginning, the PWT 600 Road junction (SE1/4 S29 T11N R3W).

     For Elk Area 6012, replaced "between the western boundary of the city of Elma and the Satsop River." with the following new text "between the Satsop River and Schouweiler and Hurd Roads and then a line north from the end of Hurd Road to a point two miles north of SR 12."

     For Elk Area 6073, changed the last word of the description from "east" to "north."

     Delete boundary language description for Deer Area 3081. This Dear Area is redundant with GMU 379 and is no longer needed.

WAC 232-28-248 Special closures and firearm restriction areas.

     Changes, if any, from the text of the proposed rule and reasons for difference: Under "Restricted and Prohibited Hunting Areas":

•	Amend the Parker Lake closure for clarification and to distinguish it from other locations in the state: Parker Lake (GMU 117, Pend Oreille County): All lands south.

WAC 232-28-272 2006-2007, 2007-2008, and 2008-2009 Black bear and cougar hunting seasons and regulations.

     Changes, if any, from the text of the proposed rule and reasons for difference: Under 2006-2007, 2007-2008, and 2008-2009 Cougar Seasons:

•	Change East Cascades North B and Northeastern B season dates from Oct. 14-Nov. 5 to Oct. 14-Nov. 19, 2006, Oct. 13-Nov. 19, 2007, Oct. 11-Nov. 19, 2008. The adjustment is needed so any legal weapon cougar seasons overlap with modern firearm deer and elk seasons.

WAC 232-28-273 2006-08 Moose, bighorn sheep, and mountain goat seasons and permit quotas.

     Changes, if any, from the text of the proposed rule and reasons for difference: To remove the situation where a youth is eligible to purchase a youth moose application, but turns 16 before the youth-only moose season or before purchasing a moose license, change superscript a from:

     ^aApplicants must be eligible to purchase a youth moose permit application. Youth hunters must be accompanied by an adult during the hunt.

     To:

     ^aApplicants must be eligible to purchase a youth moose license by Nov. 30 during the license year they are applying for. Youth hunters must be accompanied by an adult during the hunt.

     Under Bighorn Sheep Permit Hunts: The following changes are calendar date adjustments only:

•	Selah Butte from Nov. 7-30 to Nov. 6-30.
•	Umtanum from Sept. 15-Oct. 10 to Sept. 15-Oct. 6.
•	Cleman Mountain A from Sept. 15-Oct. 2 to Sept. 15-Oct 6.
•	Cleman Mountain B from Nov. 7-30 to Nov. 6-30.
•	Quilomene A from Sept. 15-Oct. 2 to Sept. 15-Oct 6.
•	Quilomene B from Nov. 7-30 to Nov. 6-30.

WAC 232-28-282 Big game and wild turkey auction, raffle, and special incentive permits.

     Changes, if any, from the text of the proposed rule and reasons for difference: Under California Bighorn Sheep, Moose, and Mountain Goat Auction Permits:

•

Delete "...except must use archery equipment during archery seasons and muzzleloader equipment during muzzleloader seasons," under the weapon type language in each section. The change is because there are no archery or muzzleloader seasons for these species and to be consistent with other big game auction and raffle permits.

     Under California Bighorn Sheep Permit and California Bighorn Sheep Raffle Permit Hunt:

•	Added "are not open" to the end of the "Open Area" description.

     Under California Bighorn Sheep, Moose, and Mountain Goat Raffle Permits and Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep Auction or Raffle Permit:

•	Change the wording after weapon from "Hunter may use any legal weapon." to "Any legal weapon." The change is for consistency with other big game auction and raffle permit language.

WAC 232-28-291 Special hunting season permits.

     Changes, if any, from the text of the proposed rule and reasons for difference:

•	Removed the strike out after 1. This language needs to be retained to help clarify the new text after 1.B.
•	Insert the following text after B for clarification.
	C. Multiple season deer and elk permit applications may be purchased without additional licenses or tags. The purchase of the application will result in entry into the drawing. Persons who are successfully drawn must purchase a multiple season permit for deer or elk and may also apply for archery, muzzleloader, or modern firearm special hunting season permits for the species drawn.

     This rationale applies to all of the following bulleted recommended adjustments. The original language only addressed wild turkey special hunting permits in general and addressed special permits by species. Changes to WAC 232-28-342 require special permit applications for two different special turkey-hunting permits (early and late fall). A change from "species" to "category" was needed because multiple season deer and elk permits and two different types of turkey permits required the ability to apply for more than one application per species.

•	3.B., added the words "Early fall" at the beginning of the sentence and after "...to hunt turkeys in the early fall special hunting season."
•	Added section 3.C; "Late fall wild turkey special hunting season permit holders must have a valid turkey transport tag in possession to hunt turkeys in the late fall special hunting season."
•	4.A., deleted the first sentence, "Group applications will be accepted for any species with a group size larger than one."
•	4.A., replaced the word species with category in the second sentence.
•	4.A.vii., added the words early fall.
•	4.A.ix., added "Maximum group size for late fall turkey is 4."
•	4.A.x., added "Maximum group size for multiple season deer is 1."
•	4.A.xi., added "Maximum group size for multiple season elk is 1."
•	4.B., replaced the word species with category in the second sentence.

     Struck out subsection (7), it is already established in RCW 77.32.450 and is not necessary to be able to implement a second deer or elk tag.

     Number of Sections Adopted in Order to Comply with Federal Statute: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0; Federal Rules or Standards: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0; or Recently Enacted State Statutes: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0.

     Number of Sections Adopted at Request of a Nongovernmental Entity: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0.

     Number of Sections Adopted on the Agency's Own Initiative: New 2, Amended 17, Repealed 0.

     Number of Sections Adopted in Order to Clarify, Streamline, or Reform Agency Procedures: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0.

     Number of Sections Adopted Using Negotiated Rule Making: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0;      Pilot Rule Making: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0; or Other Alternative Rule Making: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0.

     Date Adopted: April 8, 2006.

Nancy Burkhart

for Ron Ozment, Chair

Fish and Wildlife Commission

OTS-8778.1

AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending Order 99-118, filed 8/11/99, effective 9/11/99)

WAC 232-12-024   Requirements for sealing of pelts and collection of biological information for river otter, cougar, lynx, and bobcat.   (1) It is unlawful to possess river otter, cougar, lynx, or bobcat taken in Washington without a department identification seal which has been attached to the raw pelt, on or off the carcass, prior to the pelt sealing deadline.

     (2) Any river otter, cougar, or bobcat raw pelt must be presented by the person harvesting the animal, in such a manner that teeth and biological samples can be extracted, to an authorized department employee for sealing.

     (3) The raw pelt of a bobcat or river otter must be sealed by an authorized department employee within 20 days after the close of the appropriate hunting or trapping season in which it was killed.

     (4) Any person who takes a cougar without the use of dogs must notify the department within 72 hours of kill (excluding legal state holidays) and provide the hunter's name, date and location of kill, and sex of animal. Any person who takes a cougar with the use of dogs must notify the department within 24 hours of kill (excluding legal state holidays) and provide the hunter's name, date and location of kill, and sex of animal. The raw pelt of a cougar must be sealed by an authorized department employee within five days of the notification of kill.

     Any person who takes a cougar must present the cougar skull, in such a manner that teeth and biological samples can be extracted, to an authorized department employee at the time of sealing.

     (5) It is unlawful to transport or cause the transport out of Washington a raw pelt of river otter, cougar, lynx, or bobcat taken in Washington without a department seal attached to the pelt.

     (6) The raw pelt of a river otter, cougar, lynx, or bobcat taken outside Washington and imported into the state must be identified by a tag and/or seal from the state or country of origin and be accompanied by an invoice or declaration specifying the number of pelts in the shipment.

     (7) It is unlawful to possess an unlocked, broken, or otherwise open department seal for river otter, cougar, lynx, or bobcat unless the seal wire or band has been cut through and removed from a pelt that has been received and invoiced by a licensed taxidermist or fur dealer for processing or removed from a pelt that has been processed.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 77.12.040. 99-17-034 (Order 99-118), § 232-12-024, filed 8/11/99, effective 9/11/99; 94-18-059 (Order 94-58), § 232-12-024, filed 8/31/94, effective 10/1/94. Statutory Authority: RCW 77.12.030, 77.12.040 and 77.32.220. 91-13-063 (Order 498), § 232-12-024, filed 6/17/91, effective 7/18/91; 89-18-015 (Order 404), § 232-12-024, filed 8/28/89, effective 9/28/89. Statutory Authority: RCW 77.12.030 and 77.12.040. 88-13-091 (Order 312), § 232-12-024, filed 6/20/88. Statutory Authority: RCW 77.12.040. 81-12-029 (Order 165), § 232-12-024, filed 6/1/81. Formerly WAC 232-12-065.]

     (2) Sights must be open, peep or of other open sight design. Fiber optic sights are legal. Telescopic sights or sights containing glass are prohibited. It is unlawful to have any electrical device or equipment attached to a muzzleloading firearm while hunting. Except hunters with disabilities who meet the definition of being visually impaired in WAC 232-12-828 may receive a special use permit that would allow the use of scopes or other visual aids. A disabled hunter permit holder in possession of a special use permit that allows the use of a scope or visual aid may hunt game birds or game animals during muzzleloader seasons.

     (((2))) (3) A muzzleloading firearm used for deer must fire a single, nonjacketed lead projectile of nominal 40 caliber or larger, except that buckshot size #1 or larger may be used in a smoothbore of 60 caliber or larger.

     (((3))) (4) A muzzleloading firearm used for all other big game must fire a single, nonjacketed lead projectile of nominal 50 caliber or larger, or fire a single, nonjacketed lead projectile of at least 170 grains.

     (((4))) (5) This section shall not apply to the carrying of a handgun designed to be charged with black powder only.

     (((5))) (6) This section shall not apply to persons lawfully hunting game birds with a shotgun.

     (((6))) (7) Only one barrel of a double barrel muzzleloader may be ((charged with a load)) loaded with powder or bullet or capped at any one time while hunting in a muzzleloading season except in specified firearm restricted areas.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 77.12.047. 03-13-047 (Order 03-129), § 232-12-051, filed 6/12/03, effective 7/13/03. Statutory Authority: RCW 77.12.040, 77.12.010, 77.12.020, 77.12.770, 77.12.780. 00-11-137 (Order 00-50), § 232-12-051, filed 5/23/00, effective 6/23/00. Statutory Authority: RCW 77.04.055 and 77.12.040. 90-14-109 (Order 450), § 232-12-051, filed 7/5/90, effective 8/5/90; 89-11-062 (Order 393), § 232-12-051, filed 5/18/89. Statutory Authority: RCW 77.12.040. 84-18-013 (Order 234), § 232-12-051, filed 8/28/84; 81-12-029 (Order 165), § 232-12-051, filed 6/1/81. Formerly WAC 232-12-135.]

     (a) It is unlawful for any person to carry or have in his possession any firearm while in the field archery hunting, during an archery season specified for that area.

     (b) It is unlawful to have any electrical equipment or electric device(s) attached to the bow or arrow while hunting.

     (c) It is unlawful to shoot a bow and arrow from a vehicle or from, across or along the maintained portion of a public highway, except persons with a disabled hunter permit may shoot from a vehicle if the hunter is in compliance with WAC 232-12-828.

     (d) It is unlawful to use any device secured to or supported by the bow for the purpose of maintaining the bow at full draw or in a firing position, except persons with an archery special use permit may hunt game birds or game animals using a device that stabilizes and holds a long bow, recurve bow, or compound bow at a full draw, and may use a mechanical or electrical release.

     (e) It is unlawful to hunt wildlife with a crossbow, except disabled hunter permittees in possession of a crossbow special use permit.

     (f) It is unlawful to hunt big game animals with any arrow or bolt that does not have a sharp broadhead, and the broadhead blade or blades are less than seven-eighths inch wide.

     (g) It is unlawful to hunt big game animals with a broadhead blade unless the broadhead is unbarbed and completely closed at the back end of the blade or blades by a smooth, unbroken surface starting at maximum blade width forming a smooth line toward the feather end of the shaft and such line does not angle toward the point.

     (h) It is unlawful to hunt wildlife with any bow or crossbow equipped with a scope. Except hunters with disabilities who meet the definition of being visually impaired in WAC 232-12-828 may receive a special use permit that would allow the use of scopes or other visual aids. A disabled hunter permit holder in possession of a special use permit that allows the use of a scope or visual aid may hunt game birds or game animals during archery seasons.

     (2) Rules pertaining to long bow, recurve bow and compound bow archery:

     (a) It is unlawful for any person to hunt big game animals with a bow that possesses less than 40 pounds of pull measured at twenty-eight inches or less draw length ((or has a greater than 65% reduction (let off) in holding weight at full draw)).

     (b) It is unlawful to hunt big game animals with any arrow measuring less than 20 inches in length or weighing less than 6 grains per pound of draw weight with a minimum arrow weight of 300 grains.

     (3) Rules pertaining to crossbows:

     (a) It is unlawful for a disabled hunter permit holder in possession of a crossbow special use permit to hunt big game animals with a crossbow with a draw weight less than 125 pounds, a limb width less than 24 inches, a draw length less than 14 inches, and a working trigger safety.

     (b) It is unlawful for a disabled hunter permit holder in possession of a crossbow special use permit to hunt big game animals with any arrow or bolt measuring less than 16 inches in length and weighing less than 350 grains.

     (c) It is unlawful for a disabled hunter permit holder in possession of a crossbow special use permit to hunt game animals or game birds with a crossbow that weighs more than 15 pounds.

     (4) Archery special use permits:

     (a) An archery special use permit is available to a person who possesses a valid disabled hunter permit. An archery special use permit application must be signed by a physician stating that the person's disability is permanent and the person has a loss of use of one or both upper extremities, has a significant limitation in the use of an upper extremity, or has a permanent physical limitation, which loss or limitation substantially impairs the ability to safely hold, grasp or shoot a long bow, recurve bow or compound bow. The loss or limitation may be the result of, but not limited to, amputation, paralysis, diagnosed disease, or birth defect. The approved archery special use permit must be in the physical possession of the person while using adaptive archery equipment as described in subsection (1)(d) of this section to hunt game birds or game animals.

     (b) A crossbow special use permit is available to a person who meets the requirements for an archery special use permit and is unable to use adaptive archery equipment. Adaptive equipment includes, but is not limited to: Cocking devices that hold the bow at full draw; trigger mechanisms that may be released by mouth, or chin, or hand supporting the bow; and devices that assist in supporting the bow. Information describing types of adaptive equipment will be provided to physicians for their assessment of the applicant's ability to utilize adaptive archery equipment. Muscle weakness, impaired range of motion, or unilateral hand weakness disability, of both hands or both arms or both sides of the upper extremity, may result in an inability to use adaptive archery equipment. Standard tests approved by the American Medical Association may be conducted to assess a person's abilities.

     (((c) Subsection (4)(b) of this section, crossbow special use permits will be valid for the 2004 through 2006 hunting seasons, unless reauthorized by the Washington fish and wildlife commission.))

[Statutory Authority: RCW 77.12.047 and 77.12.020. 04-11-036 (Order 04-98), § 232-12-054, filed 5/12/04, effective 6/12/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 77.12.047. 03-13-047 (Order 03-129), § 232-12-054, filed 6/12/03, effective 7/13/03; 01-17-068 (Order 01-167), § 232-12-054, filed 8/15/01, effective 9/15/01. Statutory Authority: RCW 77.12.040, 77.12.010, 77.12.020, 77.12.770, 77.12.780. 00-11-137 (Order 00-50), § 232-12-054, filed 5/23/00, effective 6/23/00. Statutory Authority: RCW 77.12.040. 90-03-092 (Order 427), § 232-12-054, filed 1/24/90, effective 2/24/90; 88-13-012 (Order 310), § 232-12-054, filed 6/6/88; 81-12-029 (Order 165), § 232-12-054, filed 6/1/81. Formerly WAC 232-12-140.]

     (3) On days open to waterfowl hunting, persons using lands or waters controlled by the department shall not:

     (a) Place waterfowl decoys prior to 4:00 a.m.;

     (b) Allow or permit waterfowl decoys to be unattended or not in their immediate control for a period greater than one hour; or

     (c) Fail to remove waterfowl decoys within two hours after the close of established daily hunting hours.

     (((2))) (4) On days closed to waterfowl hunting, persons using lands or waters controlled by the department shall not place waterfowl decoys except as authorized by permit of the director.

     (((3) It is unlawful to hunt waterfowl with the use or aid of battery-powered or other electronic devices as decoys.

     (4))) (5) This regulation shall be enforced under RCW 77.15.400.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 77.12.040. 01-17-092 (Order 01-157), § 232-12-257, filed 8/20/01, effective 9/20/01. Statutory Authority: RCW 77.12.040, 77.12.010, 77.12.020, 77.12.770, 77.12.780. 00-11-137 (Order 00-50), § 232-12-257, filed 5/23/00, effective 6/23/00. Statutory Authority: RCW 77.12.040. 81-12-029 (Order 165), § 232-12-257, filed 6/1/81. Formerly WAC 232-12-630.]

OTS-8779.2

AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending Order 05-271, filed 1/3/06, effective 2/3/06)

WAC 232-28-248   Special closures and firearm restriction areas.  

RESTRICTED AND PROHIBITED HUNTING AREAS.

These areas are closed by Fish and Wildlife Commission action. Other areas may be closed to hunting by local, state or federal regulations.

IT IS ILLEGAL TO HUNT EXCEPT WHERE PROVIDED IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS:

1.	Parker Lake (GMU 117, Pend Oreille County): All lands south of Ruby Creek Road (USFS Road 2489), north of Tacoma Creek Road (USFS Road 2389) and west of Bonneville Power Administration power lines are designated as "CLOSED AREA" to the hunting of wild animals and wild birds year round. The Parker Lake closure was established to provide a protected area for the Air Force Military Survival Training Program.
2.	Columbia River and all the islands in the river, and the Benton County shoreline below the high water mark, and any peninsula originating on the Benton County shoreline, between Vernita Bridge (Highway 24) downstream to the old Hanford townsite powerline crossing (wooden towers) in Section 24, T 13 N, R 27 E, is designated as a "CLOSED AREA" to the hunting of wild animals and wild birds.
3.	Green River (GMU 485): Except for special permit hunters, who may also take a black bear and/or cougar with the appropriate license/tag options, all lands within GMU 485 are designated as a "CLOSED AREA" to the hunting of big game by Department of Fish and Wildlife regulated hunters throughout the year. During the general westside elk season and general and late deer seasons, all lands within GMU 485 are also designated as a "CLOSED AREA" to the hunting of all wild animals (including wild birds). The City of Tacoma enforces trespass within GMU 485 on lands owned or controlled by the City during all times of the year.
4.	McNeil Island: McNeil Island (part of GMU 652) is closed to the hunting of all wild animals (including wild birds) year around.
5.	Loo-wit (GMU 522): Closed to hunting and trapping within GMU 522 (Loo-wit), except for the hunting of elk by special permit holders during established seasons and designated areas.
6.	The Voice of America Dungeness Recreation Area County Park in Clallam County is closed to all hunting except Wednesdays, weekends, and holidays, from the first weekend in October to the end of January.

BIG GAME CLOSURES

1.	Clark, Cowlitz, Pacific, and Wahkiakum counties are closed to Columbian Whitetail Deer hunting.
2.	Cathlamet: Beginning in the town of Skamokawa; then east along SR 4 to the Risk Road; then south and east along the Risk Road to Foster Road; then south along the Foster Road to the Elochoman River; then upstream along the Elochoman River to the Elochoman Valley Road (old SR 407); then west along the Elochoman Valley Road to SR 4; then east along SR 4 to SR 409; then south along SR 409 to the Cathlamet Channel of the Columbia River; then east along the north shore of the Cathlamet Channel to Cape Horn; then south in the Columbia River to the state line; then west along the state line to a point directly south of the mouth of Skamokawa Creek; then north on Skamokawa Creek to SR 4 and the point of beginning. This area is closed to all deer and elk hunting, to protect the Columbian Whitetail Deer.
3.	Willapa National Wildlife Refuge: Except for Long Island, Willapa National Wildlife Refuge is closed to all big game hunting.
4.	Walla Walla Mill Creek Watershed (GMU 157): All lands in the Mill Creek Watershed are designated as a "CLOSED AREA" to the hunting of all wild animals (including wild birds) except for the hunting of elk by the holders of GMU-157 special elk permits during the established open season. This area is closed to motorized vehicles. Entry is allowed only by Forest Service permit for the duration of the hunt. Any entry into the Mill Creek Watershed at other times is prohibited.
5.	Westport: Closed to hunting of all big game animals on that part of Westport Peninsula lying north of State Highway 105 from the west end of the Elk River Bridge and the Schafer Island Road to the ocean beach.

FIREARM RESTRICTION AREAS

The firearm restriction areas listed below have been established by the Fish and Wildlife Commission. Centerfire and rimfire rifles are not legal for hunting in any of these areas.

In firearm restriction areas, hunters may hunt only during the season allowed by their tag. Archery tag holders may hunt during archery seasons with archery equipment. Muzzleloaders may hunt during muzzleloader seasons with muzzleloader equipment. Modern firearm tag holders may hunt during modern firearm seasons with bows and arrows, muzzleloaders or revolver-type handguns meeting the equipment restrictions or legal shotguns firing slugs or buckshot.

Additional firearm restrictions may be listed under the area description.

COUNTY	AREA
Chelan	That portion of GMU 251 (Mission) beginning at the intersection of the Duncan Road and Highway 2; south on Duncan Road to Mountain Home Road; south along Mountain Home Road to the Icicle Irrigation Ditch; south and west along the Icicle Irrigation Ditch to the Snow Lake Trail; west and north along the Snow Lake Trail and across the Icicle River to Icicle River Road; east and north along Icicle River Road to the Wenatchee River; northwest along the Wenatchee River to Highway 2; north and east on Highway 2 to Duncan Road and the point of beginning.
Clallam	That portion of GMU 624 (Coyle) located within Clallam County.
Clark	GMU 564 (Battleground)
	That portion of GMU 554 in Clark County.
Cowlitz	GMU 554 (Yale) GMU 504 (Stella) That portion of GMU 564 (Battleground) in Cowlitz County.
Grays Harbor	That portion of GMU 658 (North River) beginning at Bay City; then west along Highway 105 to Twin Harbors State Park; then south along Highway 105 to Grayland Grocery; then east on Cranberry Road to Turkey Road; then east and north on Turkey Road to Bayview Logging Road; then north and east along Bayview Logging Road to Mallard Slough; then east and south along the Bayview Road to Andrews Creek; then north along main channel of Andrews Creek to Grays Harbor; then north and west along the main navigation channel to Bay City and point of beginning.
	The Chehalis Valley restriction applies only during elk seasons:
	That portion of GMU 660 (Minot Peak) described as follows: Beginning at Highway 12 and Highway 107 junction near Montesano; east and south on Highway 12 to Oakville; south on the Oakville-Brooklyn Road to a point one
	mile west of South Bank Road; northwest along a line one mile southwest of the South Bank Road to Delzene Road; north along Delzene Road to South Bank Road; northwest along South Bank Road to Wakefield Road; north on Wakefield Road to the Chehalis River; west along the Chehalis River to Highway 107 bridge; north on Highway 107 to Highway 12 to the point of beginning.
Island	That portion of GMU 410 (Island) located on Camano and Whidbey islands.
Jefferson	Indian and Marrowstone islands.
King	The area west of Highway 203 (Monroe-Fall City, then Fall City-Preston Road) to Interstate 90 (I-90), I-90 to Highway 18, Highway 18 to Interstate 5 (I-5), I-5 to the Pierce-King County line; Vashon and Maury islands.
	This area is restricted to archery only:
	The following portion of GMU 652 (Puyallup): Beginning at the intersection of State Highway 410 and the southeast Mud Mountain Dam Road near the King/Pierce County line north of Buckley; then east along the southeast Mud Mountain Road to 284th Avenue Southeast; then north along 284th Avenue Southeast to State Highway 410; then west along Highway 410 to the point of the beginning.
Kitsap	East of State Highway 16 originating at the Tacoma Narrows Bridge to Gorst, and east of Highway 3 to Newbury Hill Road, north of Newbury Hill Road and the Bremerton-Seabeck Highway to Big Beef Creek Bridge; all of Bainbridge Island, and Bangor Military Reservation.
Kittitas	GMU 334 (Ellensburg) Closed to centerfire rifles during deer and elk seasons.
Klickitat	Elk Area 5062 (Trout Lake) closed to centerfire rifles, handguns, and muzzleloaders October 1 to December 15.
Mason	GMU 633 (Mason Lake) south of Hammersley Inlet; and all of Harstene Island.
Pacific	GMU 684 (Long Beach) west of Sand Ridge Road. The portion of GMU 658 (North River) south and west of State Highway 105 and Airport Road between Raymond and North River Bridge. GMU 681 between U.S. Highway 101, Chinook Valley Road and the Columbia River from Astoria-Megler bridge to the Wallacut River.
Pierce	GMU 652 (Anderson and Ketron islands) limited to archery, shotgun, and muzzleloader. McNeil Island closed to hunting.
	See GMU 652 restriction area outlined for King County.
	GMU 627 (Kitsap) south of Highway 302 on the Longbranch Peninsula is a firearm restriction area.
San Juan	All San Juan County.
Snohomish	((West of Highway 9.)) All areas west of Highway 9, until the intersection of Highway 9 and Highway 2, then east along Highway 2 to Highway 203, then all areas west of Highway 203 to the Snohomish/King County line.
Skagit	((Guemes Island and March Point north of State Highway 20.)) All mainland areas and islands in Skagit County west of I-5 and north of the Skagit/Snohomish County line.
Skamania	That portion of GMU 564 (Battle Ground) in Skamania County.
Thurston	GMU 666 (Deschutes) north of U.S. Highway 101 and Interstate 5 between Oyster Bay and the mouth of the Nisqually River.
Whatcom	((Area west of I-5 and north of Bellingham city limits including Lummi Island and Point Roberts.)) All mainland areas and islands of Whatcom County that are west of I-5.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 77.12.047. 06-02-063 (Order 05-271), § 232-28-248, filed 1/3/06, effective 2/3/06; 05-11-022 (Order 05-89), § 232-28-248, filed 5/10/05, effective 6/10/05; 05-02-046 (Order 04-327), § 232-28-248, filed 1/3/05, effective 2/3/05. Statutory Authority: RCW 77.12.047 and 77.12.020. 04-11-036 (Order 04-98), § 232-28-248, filed 5/12/04, effective 6/12/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 77.12.047. 03-13-047 (Order 03-129), § 232-28-248, filed 6/12/03, effective 7/13/03. Statutory Authority: RCW 77.12.047, 77.12.655, 77.12.020. 02-11-069 (Order 02-98), § 232-28-248, filed 5/10/02, effective 6/10/02. Statutory Authority: RCW 77.12.040, 77.12.020, 77.32.070, 77.32.530. 01-10-048 (Order 01-69), § 232-28-248, filed 4/26/01, effective 5/27/01. Statutory Authority: RCW 77.12.040, 77.12.010, 77.12.020, 77.12.770, 77.12.780. 00-11-137 (Order 00-50), § 232-28-248, filed 5/23/00, effective 6/23/00. Statutory Authority: RCW 77.12.040. 99-10-102 (Order 99-40), § 232-28-248, filed 5/5/99, effective 6/5/99; 98-10-018 (Order 98-54), § 232-28-248, filed 4/22/98, effective 5/23/98; 97-06-052 (Order 97-32), § 232-28-248, filed 2/27/97, effective 3/30/97. Statutory Authority: RCW 77.12.010 and 77.12.040. 96-04-027, § 232-28-248, filed 2/1/96, effective 3/3/96. Statutory Authority: RCW 77.12.040. 95-11-036, § 232-28-248, filed 5/10/95, effective 6/10/95; 95-03-038 (Order 94-150), § 232-28-248, filed 1/10/95, effective 2/10/95.]

LANDOWNER DAMAGE HUNTS

A landowner with deer/elk damage will enter into a Cooperative Agreement (contract) with WDFW and establish a boundary for deer/elk hunt, season dates within the framework and number of animals to be removed. Landowner agrees not to claim damage payments, except Elk Areas 3721 and 3722, and will allow access to hunters during the general hunting seasons. Landowner selects hunters. A landowner damage access permit provided by the landowner will authorize the hunter to use an unused general deer/elk tag to hunt and kill a legal animal during the prescribed damage hunt season.

Deer:

Tag Required: Deer hunter must have a current valid, unaltered, unnotched deer tag on his/her person.

Hunting Method: Any legal weapon.

Season Framework: August 1 - March 31

((2003-2004	2004-2005	2005-2006
August 1-	August 1-	August 1-
March 31	March 31	March 31))

Location: Statewide

Legal Deer: Antlerless Only

Kill Quota: ((600 Statewide)) 300 Per license year

Location: Region One

Legal Deer: Antlerless Only

Kill Quota: 300 Per license year

Location: GMUs 105-124

Legal Deer: Whitetail Antlerless Only

Kill Quota: 300 Per license year

Elk:

Tag Required: Elk hunter must have a current valid, unaltered, unnotched elk tag on his/her person.

Hunting Method: Any legal weapon

Season Framework: August 1 - March 31

((2003-2004	2004-2005	2005-2006
August 1-	August 1-	August 1-
March 31	March 31	March 31))

Location: Statewide

Legal Elk: Antlerless Only

Kill Quota: 200 ((Statewide)) Per license year

Location: Hanford Area

Elk Area 3722

Kill Quota: ((30)) 40 any elk; ((10)) 12 spike bull or antlerless; 60 antlerless only; per license year

Elk Area 3721

Kill Quota: 50 spike or antlerless during Aug. 1 - March 31((, 2006)); 30 bulls only during May 15 - July 31, except spike only July 1-31; per license year.

Special Note: Access in Elk Area 3721 may not be sold as a condition of use of these permits. The director may consider damage claims from landowners in Elk Areas 3721 and 3722 who accept these permits and do not charge for access. Landowners in Elk Area 3722 who receive bull permits will not be considered for damage claims.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 77.12.047. 05-11-021 (Order 05-85), § 232-28-266, filed 5/10/05, effective 5/15/05; 03-10-009 (Order 03-80), § 232-28-266, filed 4/25/03, effective 5/26/03. Statutory Authority: RCW 77.12.040, 77.12.010, 77.12.020, 77.12.770, 77.12.780. 00-11-137 (Order 00-50), § 232-28-266, filed 5/23/00, effective 6/23/00. Statutory Authority: RCW 77.12.020, 77.12.030, 77.12.040 and 77.32.220. 97-05-074, § 232-28-266, filed 2/19/97, effective 3/22/97.]

2006-2008 Fall Black Bear Seasons:

((2003 Black bear seasons:))

Black Bear Management Unit	Season	Hunt Area
Coastal	Aug. 1 - Nov. 15	GMUs 501, 504, 506, 530, 601, 602, 603, 607-621, 636-651, 658-663, 672-684
Puget Sound	Aug. 1 - Nov. 15	GMUs 407, 410, 454, 624, 627, 633, 652, 666, 667
North Cascades	Aug. 1 - Nov. 15	GMUs 418-450, 460
South Cascades	Aug. 1 - Nov. 15	GMUs 466, 485, 503, 505, 510-520, 524, 550-574, 653, 654
Okanogan	Aug. 1 - Nov. 15	GMUs 203, 209-243
East Cascades	Aug. 1 - Nov. 15	GMUs 244-247, 249-251, 328, 329-((371)) 368, 382, 388, 578((, 588))
Northeastern A	Sept. ((2)) 5 - Nov. 15, 2006 Sept. 4 - Nov. 15, 2007 Sept. 2 - Nov. 15, 2008	GMUs 101-117
Northeastern B	Aug. 1 - Nov. 15	GMUs 121-130, 204
Blue Mountains	Sept. ((2)) 5 - Nov. 15, 2006 Sept. 4 - Nov. 15, 2007 Sept. 2 - Nov. 15, 2008	GMUs 145-154, 162-186
Columbia Basin	Aug. 1 - Nov. 15	GMUs 133, 136, 139, 142, 248, 254, 260-290, 371-381
((West Side PLWMAs	July 15 - Nov. 15	PLWMAs 401, 600))
Long Island	Sept. ((2)) 5 - Nov. 15, 2006 Sept. 4 - Nov. 15, 2007 Sept. 2 - Nov. 15, 2008	GMU 699

((2004 Black bear seasons:

((Black Bear Management Unit	Season	Hunt Area
Coastal	Aug. 1 - Nov. 15	GMUs 501, 504, 506, 530, 601, 602, 603, 607-621, 636-651, 658-663, 672-684
Puget Sound	Aug. 1 - Nov. 15	GMUs 407, 410, 454, 624, 627, 633, 652, 666, 667
North Cascades	Aug. 1 - Nov. 15	GMUs 418-450, 460
South Cascades	Aug. 1 - Nov. 15	GMUs 466, 485, 505, 510-520, 524, 550-574, 653, 654
Okanogan	Aug. 1 - Nov. 15	GMUs 203, 209-243
East Cascades	Aug. 1 - Nov. 15	GMUs 244-247, 249-251, 328, 329-371, 382, 578, 588
Northeastern A	Sept. 7 - Nov. 15	GMUs 101-117
Northeastern B	Aug. 1 - Nov. 15	GMUs 121-130, 204
Blue Mountains	Sept. 7 - Nov. 15	GMUs 145-154, 162-186
Columbia Basin	Aug. 1 - Nov. 15	GMUs 133, 136, 139, 142, 248, 254, 260-290, 371-381
West Side PLWMAs	July 15 - Nov. 15	PLWMAs 401, 600
Long Island	Sept. 7 - Nov. 15	GMU 699

2005 Black bear seasons:

Black Bear Management Unit	Season	Hunt Area
Coastal	Aug. 1 - Nov. 15	GMUs 501, 504, 506, 530, 601, 602, 603, 607-621, 636-651, 658-663, 672-684
Puget Sound	Aug. 1 - Nov. 15	GMUs 407, 410, 454, 624, 627, 633, 652, 666, 667
North Cascades	Aug. 1 - Nov. 15	GMUs 418-450, 460
South Cascades	Aug. 1 - Nov. 15	GMUs 466, 485, 505, 510-520, 524, 550-574, 653, 654
Okanogan	Aug. 1 - Nov. 15	GMUs 203, 209-243
East Cascades	Aug. 1 - Nov. 15	GMUs 244-247, 249-251, 328, 329-371, 382, 578, 588
Northeastern A	Sept. 6 - Nov. 15	GMUs 101-117
Northeastern B	Aug. 1 - Nov. 15	GMUs 121-130, 204
Blue Mountains	Sept. 6 - Nov. 15	GMUs 145-154, 162-186
Columbia Basin	Aug. 1 - Nov. 15	GMUs 133, 136, 139, 142, 248, 254, 260-290, 371-381
West Side PLWMAs	July 15 - Nov. 15	PLWMAs 401, 600
Long Island	Sept. 6 - Nov. 15	GMU 699))

Bag Limit: Two (2) black bear per annual hunting season only one of which may be taken in Eastern Washington.

Area Restriction: Special deer permit required to hunt black bear in GMU 485.

((Spring Permit Black Bear Seasons:

Permit quotas for each license year:

Hunt Name	Permit Hunt Boundary	Permit Level
Blue Creek	GMU 154	15
Dayton	GMU 162	15
Tucannon	GMU 166	10
Wenaha	GMU 169	30
Mt. View	GMU 172	15
Lick Creek	GMU 175	15
Grande Ronde	GMU 186	5

Who May Apply: Anyone with a valid Washington big game license, which includes black bear.

Bag Limit: One (1) black bear per black bear special permit season.

Permit Season: April 15 - May 31. Permits are valid for the license year they are issued.))

Requirements for ((Spring and)) Fall Black Bear Seasons:

License Required: A valid big game hunting license, which includes black bear as a species option, is required to hunt black bear. One black bear transport tag is included with a big game hunting license that has black bear as a species option. A second black bear transport tag must be purchased to take a second bear.

Hunting Method: Hunters may use any lawful big game modern firearm, archery, or muzzleloader equipment for hunting black bear. The use of hounds and bait to hunt black bear is prohibited statewide.

Submitting Bear Teeth: Successful bear hunters must submit the black bear premolar tooth located behind the canine tooth of the upper jaw.

2006-2007, 2007-2008, and 2008-2009 Cougar Seasons:

((Seasons for each license year, 2003-2005:))

Unit	Season	Hunt Area	Special Restrictions
Coastal	Aug. 1 - Mar. 15	GMUs 501, 504, 506, 530, 601-621, 636-651, 658-663, 672-684, 699	Any legal weapon
Puget Sound	Aug. 1 - Mar. 15	GMUs 407, 410, 454, 624-633, 652, 666	Any legal weapon
North Cascades	Aug. 1 - Mar. 15	GMUs 418, 426, 437, 448, 450, 460, 466, 485	Any legal weapon
South Cascades	Aug. 1 - Mar. 15	GMUs 503, 505, 510-520, 524, 550-574, 653, 654, 667	Any legal weapon
East Cascades North A	Aug. 1 - Mar. 15	GMUs 328, 329, 334-340	Any legal weapon
East Cascades North B	((Oct. 16 - Nov. 19)) Oct. 14 - Nov. 19, 2006 Oct. 13 - Nov. 19, 2007 Oct. 11 - Nov. 19, 2008	GMUs 203, 209-247, 249-251 within Chelan or Okanogan counties	Any legal weapon
East Cascades North C	Sept. 1 - Nov. 30	GMUs 203, 209-247, 249-251 within Chelan or Okanogan counties	Archery deer or elk hunters and muzzleloader deer or elk hunters who possess a valid big game license that includes cougar as a species option may hunt for cougar without the aid of dogs during their respective deer or elk seasons and must use equipment consistent with their deer or elk tag.
East Cascades South	Aug. 1 - Mar. 15	GMUs 342-368, 382, 388, 578((, 588))	Any legal weapon
Northeastern A	Aug. 1 - Mar. 15	GMUs 124-133	Any legal weapon
Northeastern B	((Oct. 16 - Nov. 19)) Oct. 14 - Nov. 19, 2006 Oct. 13 - Nov. 19, 2007 Oct. 11 - Nov. 19, 2008	GMUs 101-121 within Ferry, Stevens, or Pend Oreille counties, 204	Any legal weapon
Northeastern C	Sept. 1 - Nov. 30	GMUs 101-121 within Ferry, Stevens, or Pend Oreille counties, 204	Archery deer or elk hunters and muzzleloader deer or elk hunters who possess a valid big game license that includes cougar as a species option may hunt for cougar without the aid of dogs during their respective deer or elk seasons and must use equipment consistent with their deer or elk tag.
Blue Mountains	Aug. 1 - Mar. 15	GMUs 145-154, 162-186	Any legal weapon
Columbia Basin	Aug. 1 - Mar. 15	GMUs 136-142, 248, 254-290, 330, 371((, 372,))-381	Any legal weapon

Requirements for Cougar Seasons:

License Required: A valid big game hunting license which includes cougar as a species option is required to hunt cougar.

Bag Limit: Two (2) cougar per license year excluding public safety cougar removals. It is unlawful to kill or possess spotted cougar kittens or adult cougars accompanied by spotted kittens.

Area Restriction: Special deer permit required to hunt cougar in GMU 485.

Tag Information: One cougar transport tag is included with a big game license that has cougar as a species option. A second cougar transport tag must be purchased to take a second cougar.

Hunting Method: Hunters may use any lawful big game modern firearm, archery, or muzzleloader equipment for hunting cougar. The use of hounds to hunt cougar is prohibited except by a public safety cougar removal permit (WAC 232-12-243) or commission authorized hound permit (WAC 232-28-285).

Cougar Pelt Sealing: Any person who takes a cougar must ((notify the department within 72 hours of kill (excluding legal state holidays) and provide the hunter's name, date and location of kill, and sex of animal. The raw pelt of a cougar must be sealed by an authorized department employee within five days of the notification of kill. Any person who takes a cougar must present the cougar skull, in such a manner that teeth and biological samples can be extracted, to an authorized department employee at the time of sealing)) comply with the sealing requirements in WAC 232-12-024.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 77.12.047. 04-21-036 (Order 04-284), § 232-28-272, filed 10/14/04, effective 11/14/04. Statutory Authority: