BIG-GAME HUNTING -- Washington's 2011 big-game hunting regulations have been out for nearly two weeks, giving hunters time to scope out the options.

May 18 is the deadline to apply for special permits to hunt deer, elk, mountain goat, moose, bighorn sheep, turkey and cougar.  

There aren't many big changes this year, with the exception of the controversial new 4-point antler restriction for whitetail bucks in northeastern Washington units 117 and 121.

One big change that's NOT in the pamphlet affects hunters who put in for special permits, such as moose, in Mica Peak Unit 127.   Inland Empire Paper company has closed 3,600 acres on Mica Peak to access by motorized vehicles, as I revealed in this recent story.

You'll be able to buy an IEP access pass and go onto  the company's forest roads on foot, bike or horse.  But no motor vehicles will be allowed in for hunting or hauling out meat.