Big game, except cougar, must be hunted with a minimum of .24 caliber (6mm) centerfire rifle. Cougar may be hunted with .22 caliber centerfire rifle. Rimfire rifles are not legal for big game. Show Handguns:Big game, except cougar, may be hunted with handguns with a minimum barrel length of 4 inches per manufacturer's specification, and fire a minimum .24 caliber centerfire cartridge. The minimum for cougar is a .22 caliber centerfire handgun. Rimfire handguns are not legal for big game. A modern handgun may be carried for personal protection. Modern handguns cannot be used to hunt big game except as described above. Shotguns:Deer, bear, and cougar may be hunted with 20 gauge or larger shotgun shooting slugs or size #1 or larger (0.30 inches diameter or larger) buckshot. Other big game may be hunted with a 10 or 12 gauge shotgun using slugs. Crossbows:
Small Game SeasonsSmall game seasons and firearm regulations, including fall turkey, will be published in the Game Bird and Small Game Regulations pamphlet in June. Muzzleloader Regulations
Archery Regulations
Dispatching Wounded GameA hunter can only use a hunting method that meets the equipment requirements of his/her tag to dispatch wounded game. Can you hunt with a crossbow during archery season in Washington State?(g) It is unlawful to hunt wildlife with a crossbow during an archery season. (2) A violation of this section is punishable under RCW 77.15.
Is a crossbow considered archery in Washington state?Hunting with a crossbow in Washington during archery-only season is prohibited, unless one has a disability hunting permit, in which case one can hunt with a crossbow during any season where archery weapons are allowed. It is, however, legal to use a crossbow during any modern firearms season.
Can you use a crossbow during early bow season?Crossbows are legal in any bow and arrow hunting season and other hunting seasons for all species where the use of bow and arrow is allowed. Crossbows must have a minimum draw weight of 75 pounds and a minimum stock length of 25 inches.
Can you bow hunt with a crossbow?Using a crossbow for hunting is legal during all gun seasons. While a crossbow is not considered an archery weapon in California, it can be used as one (during archery season) by people with a disability or disease that makes it impossible for them to manually draw and hold the draw on a regular, vertical bow.
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