S-R Hunting Outlook 2016: Season kicks into high gear across region

While Washington’s most popular deer hunting season starts next weekend, the state has no single opening day for hunting.

Some bear seasons opened in August. Dove and forest grouse hunting started Sept. 1.

Early deer and elk archery seasons have had their days with late seasons to follow.

Youth hunters got the first shot at upland birds and waterfowl and the geezers were allowed to rile up the pheasants with their special September season.

Early fall wild turkey season is underway in some units. Muzzleloader deer and elk hunters along with partridge and quail hunters got their start last weekend.

The most popular hunting seasons in Washington will get underway Saturday, when hunters with modern firearms will take to the field for deer and waterfowl.

“Last year’s deer harvest was the highest in our state since 2004, but drought took less of a toll this summer and overwinter survival was favorable in most areas,” said Jerry Nelson, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife deer and elk manager.

“We expect another strong season,” WDFW waterfowl manager Kyle Spragens said. “Conditions point to a good year for brood production, which is great for waterfowl hunters as long as enough rain falls during hunting season.”

Last season, nearly 550,000 waterfowl were harvested in Washington. Duck – except scaup – coot and snipe seasons open Saturday, as well as goose seasons in all goose management areas.

The exceptions include dusky Canada goose hunting in Goose Management Area 2, which is closed from October through March. Brant season, determined by the midwinter waterfowl survey, is also closed but will open on selected dates in January.

Pheasant hunting opens in Eastern Washington on Oct. 22.

Modern rifle elk season opens Oct 29.

Late buck white-tailed deer hunting in northeastern Washington opens Nov. 17.

Late turkey season opens in some units Nov. 20.

Other special seasons are sprinkled through this period.