Brief Description: Concerning a multiple season big game permit.

Sponsors: Representatives Blake, B. Sullivan, Buck, Kretz, Eickmeyer and Armstrong; by request of Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Hearing Date: 2/3/05

Staff: Jason Callahan (786-7117).

Background:

In most instances, a license issued by the Department of Fish and Wildlife (department) is required in order for a person to hunt or fish for recreational purposes. Hunting for deer or elk requires a big game license, issued by the department, and allows the holder to take and transport one animal. A big game license allows a hunter to participate in one of three general hunting seasons: archery, muzzleloader, or modern firearm. The dates of the general seasons are established by the Fish and Wildlife Commission (commission).

The department offers a number of different hunting combination license packages. These licenses allow hunters to hunt for more than one species during a year, such as deer, elk, bear, or cougar. Prices for the combination packages range from $36 for residents to $660 for non-residents. Revenue from the sale of hunting licenses are deposited into the State Wildlife Fund.

Summary of Bill:

The commission is authorized to offer permits to hunt deer or elk during multiple general hunting seasons, which includes modern firearm season, archery season, and muzzleloader season. The permit only allows the holder to take one deer or elk each year, regardless of which season the animal is taken.

The fee for the multiple season big game permit is $150 for Washington residents, and $1,500 for non-residents. Revenues from the sales of the permits will be deposited into the State Wildlife Fund.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.