Washington Spring Black Bear Hunt Applications Deadline Nears
OLYMPIA, WASHINGTON – -(TheOutdoorWire.com)- Hunters may now purchase and submit applications for a 2009 spring black bear hunting permit, applicable to specific areas of western and eastern Washington.
To be eligible for a permit, hunters must purchase and submit an application to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) by midnight March 13.
A drawing will be held in mid-March for 295 permits in western Washington and 225 permits for hunts east of the Cascades. Permit winners will receive notification in the mail by March 31.
To apply for a permit, hunters must purchase a special permit application and a 2009 hunting license that includes bear as a species option. Hunting licenses, bear transport tags and bear permit applications may be purchased online at http://fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov/ , by calling (866) 246-9453, or at any license vendor in the state.
Special permit applications, which require a correct hunt choice number, may be submitted online at http://fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov/ or by calling (877) 945-3492.
Hunters interested in hunting on the Kapowsin Tree Farm should contact the tree farm before submitting an application to find out what areas are open. Those selected for the Kapowsin Tree Farm hunt must then purchase an access permit from Hancock Forest Management by calling (800) 782-1493.
Hunters selected for the Copalis hunt must obtain a Recreational Use Permit and should contact Rayonier at (360) 533-7000 during regular business hours.
More information on hunts scheduled on both sides of the state is available on page 58 in the 2008 Big Game Hunting Rules pamphlet at http://wdfw.wa.gov/wlm/game/hunter/hunter.htm .
Any legal weapon used during the modern firearm, archery or muzzleloader seasons can be used for spring black bear hunts. Bait or hounds are not allowed for bear hunting.