Now that several states have banned hunting contests, Washington proposes hunting contest restrictions. Subsequently, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) announced they are seeking public comments on proposed recommendations for hunting contest and hunting restriction rules.
Firstly, we originally reported this matter several months ago. Revisit that article for a brief history and added insight. Secondly, we visited with Anis Aoude on the EHUNTR Newscast regarding this topic, specifically. During, he provides exceptional information on this episode.
To clarify, WDFW is the primary state agency charged with maintaining wildlife natural resources. Responsibilities relate to the conservation and preservation of fish, wildlife, and their ecosystems. These efforts serve to provide sustainable fishing and hunting opportunities.
“We’ve heard from the public that they are concerned about holding certain contests, which award prizes to the person that kills the most animals. If the Commission approves the rule proposals, then these types of contests will no longer be permitted.”
– Anis Aoude, WDFW Game Division Manager
Potential Hunting Contest Restrictions
There are two proposals related to imposing additional hunting contest restrictions. For example, the first will prohibit the state from selling hunting contest permits without individual bag limits. Additionally, the second prohibits individuals from participating in a hunting contests without a permit.
“Six other states currently have some form of ban on wildlife killing contests. We remain committed to providing hunting opportunities that are consistent with the hunting community’s stewardship values.”
– Anis Aoude, WDFW Game Division Manager
Further, these potential changes only affect hunting contests and do not change any other hunting rules for species that have no bag limit; including bobcats, coyotes, crows, foxes, or raccoons. Moreover, fishing contests and field trials are also unaffected.
Public Comment Period
June 17, 2020 through July 14, 2020. During, WDFW will accept written public comments. In addition, the proposals and comment forms are available on the WDFW website.
“The Commission, which sets policy for WDFW, will also accept public comments on the proposed recommendations at its July 30 – Aug. 1 webinar. Final action by the Commission is scheduled at their Aug. 21 webinar.”
– WDFW Press Release
So, here is how to submit written comments:
- Address:
Wildlife Program
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife
PO Box 43200
Olympia, WA 98504 - Email:
rules.coordinator@dfw.wa.gov
States That Banned Hunting Contests
- Bans in these states do not all affect the same species and do not include regular, legal hunting seasons & methods.
- Further, partial bans exist in Idaho, Montana, North Carolina, Utah & Washington
- 2014 – California: banned
- 2018 – Vermont: banned
- 2019
- Arizona: banned
- Massachusetts: banned
- New Mexico: banned
- 2020 – Colorado: banned
