Outdoors briefs

Disabled sportsmen will undergo a bit more scrutiny before they are issued free hunting and fishing permits in Washington.

Beginning this year, the state Fish and Wildlife Department is requiring disabled sportsmen to apply for the special privilege.

“In the past, you could show your Social Security disability card or just go into a license dealer in a wheelchair and get one of the free licenses,” said Rick Rick Villalobos, chairman of the Inland Northwest Wildlife Council’s barrier-free recreation committee. “I think it’s good that Olympia is tightening up to make sure the privilege goes to the people it’s intended for.”

However, disabled hunters should act quickly, he said.

“You have to get the application from Olympia, get a signature from your doctor and return it,” Villalobos said. “It could take weeks for processing in Olympia.”

This year, March 31 is the deadline to apply for special hunting permits. Disabled hunters will need their authorization before they can get the free licenses and permit applications.

Cheap steelheading

Anglers can learn how to enjoy great British Columbia steelheading for $35 a day at the Spokane Fly Fishers program Thursday, 7 p.m., at Spokane Teachers Credit Union, W106 Nora.

Idaho resets meeting

The Idaho Fish and Game Commission has rescheduled its meetings to discuss 1995 hunting seasons for deer, elk, mountain lion and bear.

The public meeting is set for 7:30 p.m., March 1, at Idaho Fish and Game Department headquarters in Boise. The general commission meeting is set to begin at 9 a.m. March 2.