As Washington Fall Bear Season Opens, A Reminder On New Rules, Delayed Start Dates

THE FOLLOWING IS WASHINGTON DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND WILDLIFE MATERIAL

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) encourages all hunters to review the latest state regulations before heading out this August. Below you’ll find the recent updates and reminders to help ensure a safe, legal, and rewarding season.

Key 2025 season updates

• Opening dates and bag limits:
  • Willapa Hills and Okanogan BBMUs open August 15 with a one-bear bag limit.
  • All other BBMUs open August 1 with a two-bear bag limit.
• Tooth submission requirement:
  Hunters must submit the first premolar from each harvested black bear by December 1, 2025, using a pre-paid, self-addressed envelope available at any WDFW office. This helps biologists learn more about bear populations via accurate aging. Hunters can look up the age of their harvested bear online.
• Resource videos:
  Stay tuned—WDFW will soon release a step-by-step video on how to remove and submit a black bear tooth on the  WDFW’s website and YouTube channel.

Regulations and Identification Reminders

• It is illegal to take black bear cubs or any sow accompanied by cubs. All hunters should be able to confidently identify the sex of their target; an instructional video is available on bear sex identification.
• A bear identification test is required to hunt in specified GMUs to prevent the misidentification of grizzly bears. Hunters must carry proof of passing the test, which is available online through WDFW’s WILD system.

Stay Informed and Prepared

• Review the latest Washington Black Bear Hunting Regulations for detailed rules and updates.
• Hunters needing a license may purchase one online, by phone at