Coyote Hunting Laws in Washington State: What Hunters Need to Know
June 8, 2026
Washington is one of the few states where a single predator species can be legally pursued every single day of the year — and that animal is the coyote. Whether you’re a seasoned predator hunter or just getting started, the Evergreen State offers genuine year-round opportunity. But “open season” doesn’t mean “no rules.”
Before you load up and head into the field, you need to understand the specific regulations that govern coyote hunting in Washington. From license requirements and night hunting windows to trapping restrictions and landowner rights, this guide walks you through everything that applies under Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) rules.
Is Coyote Hunting Legal in Washington
Yes, coyote hunting is fully legal in Washington state. Washington state does not classify coyotes as game animals, but a state license is required to hunt or trap them under RCW 77.32.010. That distinction matters: because coyotes are considered unclassified wildlife rather than a regulated game species, they carry no bag limit, no mandatory reporting of individual harvests, and no closed season tied to population management.
Coyotes live in all parts of Washington, including urban areas. While they do have their place in natural ecosystems, their spread to rural and urban areas has made them out to be a pest that preys on pets and livestock. This widespread presence — combined with the damage coyotes can cause to agriculture and domestic animals — is a key reason the state keeps hunting access open year-round.
Key Insight: Coyotes are classified as unclassified wildlife in Washington — not game animals and not furbearers. This means no bag limit and no closed season, but a valid hunting license is still required.
It is worth noting that while state law permits coyote hunting broadly, local counties and jurisdictions may have additional laws regarding coyote hunting. Always check with your county or municipality before hunting, especially in or near populated areas. You can also review Washington’s animal-related laws for broader context on how the state regulates wildlife interactions.
Coyote Hunting Season Dates in Washington
Coyote hunting is year-round in Washington state. There is no closed season, no draw period, and no application process. You can pursue coyotes in January, July, or any month in between — which makes Washington an appealing destination for predator hunters who want consistent access without the uncertainty of a lottery system.
There is no bag limit for coyotes taken in Washington. There is no bag limit for coyotes in Washington. Lawful hunting hours — one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset — apply to game animals and forest grouse during established seasons, but because coyotes are unclassified wildlife, you are also permitted to hunt them at night under specific conditions (covered in the Night Hunting section below).
Pro Tip: Because Washington’s license year runs April 1 through March 31, make sure your license is current before heading out — especially if you’re hunting near the end of March or the beginning of April.
If you’re planning a multi-state predator hunting trip, it can help to compare seasons in neighboring states. See how coyote hunting laws in Idaho differ, or review the rules for hunting in Montana to plan your itinerary.
License and Permit Requirements for Coyote Hunting in Washington
Even though coyotes are unclassified wildlife with no closed season, you still need a valid state license to hunt them legally. A valid small game license is required to hunt all species listed, except forest grouse, coyote, and crow, which may be hunted with either a valid big game or small game license. This gives you flexibility — if you already hold a big game license for deer or elk, you are covered for coyotes as well.
Prior to purchasing their first Washington state hunting license, all individuals born after January 1, 1972 must show proof that they have completed a hunter education class. A one-time deferral option is available. First-time hunters should plan ahead, since very few classes are available after August.
| License Type | Who It Covers | Valid For Coyotes? |
|---|---|---|
| Small Game License | Residents and non-residents | Yes |
| Big Game License | Residents and non-residents | Yes |
| No License (Depredation) | Landowners, family, employees, tenants | Yes — on own property only, for crop/livestock damage |
All hunters, regardless of age, must have in their possession a valid hunting license and any required tags, permits, or stamps to hunt wildlife. A 2.9% fee applies to credit and debit card purchases made through WDFW over the phone or when ordering online through the licensing system. Licenses can be purchased online, by phone at 360-902-2464, or at any of the more than 600 license dealers around the state.
Your Vehicle Access Pass (VAP) is free with the purchase of an annual hunting, fishing, or trapping license. It cannot be purchased separately. See State Recreation Lands for more information. If you have a VAP, you have free access to all WDFW-managed lands. However, a Discover Pass is required for access to all State Parks and DNR managed lands.
For a broader look at how other states handle hunting license requirements, see our guides on hunting laws in Ohio and hunting laws in Virginia.
Legal Methods and Weapons for Coyote Hunting in Washington
Washington does not specify a restricted caliber or ammunition type exclusively for coyote hunting. There are no specific ammunition restrictions for coyotes in Washington, but each county has its own restrictions. Check the county you intend to hunt in before going out. This is especially important in areas with firearm discharge ordinances or proximity to residential zones.
During modern firearm deer or elk seasons, there is an important weapon-related rule to keep in mind. Per Washington regulations, you may not hunt wildlife during any modern firearm deer or elk season with a firearm .24 caliber or larger — or one containing slugs or buckshot — unless you hold a valid license, permit, and tag for deer, elk, or other specified big game. This restriction is about what you carry in the field during those seasons, not a year-round coyote-specific rule.
- Rifles and handguns are legal for coyote hunting (subject to county restrictions)
- Archery equipment (bow, crossbow) is permitted
- Shotguns are permitted
- Hunting from a motor vehicle — including helicopters and aircraft — is prohibited
- You may hunt from a boat only if the motor or engine is off when you shoot
Important Note: During modern firearm deer or elk general seasons in October and November, carrying a rifle .24 caliber or larger in areas open to those seasons requires a valid deer or elk tag. Plan your coyote setup accordingly during those months.
The use of dogs to hunt black bear, bobcat, coyote, and cougar is prohibited year-round under RCW 77.15.245. This is a firm prohibition with no exceptions — you cannot use hounds or any dogs to pursue or flush coyotes in Washington, regardless of the time of year or location. This sets Washington apart from several other western states where hound hunting for predators is permitted.
Hunter orange or fluorescent hunter pink is required when hunting big game and upland game birds, or other game animals when using modern firearms. While coyotes are unclassified wildlife, wearing blaze orange or pink is still strongly recommended during any period when other hunters may be in the field for deer or elk.
Night Hunting and Electronic Call Rules in Washington
Night hunting for coyotes is one of Washington’s most attractive features for predator hunters. Unlike many states that restrict or outright ban hunting after dark, Washington allows it — with one significant seasonal exception.
Coyote may be hunted at night with lights year-round, except it is unlawful to hunt coyote at night during modern firearm deer or elk general seasons that occur in October and November in eastern and western Washington. This blackout period exists to reduce the risk of mistaken-identity incidents and conflicts with big game hunters in the field during the most active deer and elk seasons.
Night vision and thermal equipment fall under a separate layer of regulation. Hunting big game with the aid of an artificial light, spotlight, or night vision equipment is prohibited. Night vision equipment includes electronic light amplification devices, thermal imaging devices, and other comparable equipment used to enhance night vision. Because coyotes are not classified as big game, the prohibition on night vision technically applies to big game species — but you should confirm with WDFW directly if you plan to use thermal or night vision optics for coyotes, as interpretations can vary and local rules may apply.
Pro Tip: The safest approach is to avoid any night hunting — with or without lights or optics — during the October and November modern firearm deer and elk seasons. The restriction applies statewide in all areas open to those seasons.
Electronic game calls are legal in Washington for coyotes. Decoys are also legal for coyote hunting in Washington. This makes Washington a friendly state for predator hunters who rely on e-callers and motion decoys as core parts of their setup. There are no restrictions on the type or volume of electronic calls used specifically for coyotes.
Hunting contests are regulated under WAC 232-12-169: it is unlawful to hold a hunting contest without a permit from the department. Only non-profit organizations may sponsor hunting contests. If you’re organizing or participating in a coyote calling competition or derby, make sure the sponsoring organization has secured the required permit from WDFW. A hunting contest permit is required for all organized hunt contests. For full details on application requirements and regulations, visit the WDFW hunting contest permit page.
For a look at how night hunting and electronic call rules compare in another state, see our breakdown of hunting laws in Arkansas or hunting laws in Tennessee.
Trapping Coyotes in Washington
Trapping is a legal and commonly used method for coyote control in Washington, but it comes with its own distinct set of rules separate from hunting regulations. A valid Washington state trapper’s license is required per WAC 220-417-010. A trapping license year begins on April 1 and ends on March 31 of the next year.
People buying a Washington state trapping license for the first time must pass an exam in safe, humane, and proper trapping techniques. This requirement ensures that new trappers understand how to minimize non-target captures and comply with Washington’s animal welfare standards before setting their first trap.
As of the most recent published fee schedule (from a WDFW trapping regulations document), trapping license fees in Washington are structured as follows:
| License Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Resident Trapping License | $41.60 |
| Resident Youth Trapping License | $18.50 |
| Non-Resident Trapping License | $200.00 |
| Fur Dealer’s License | $200.00 |
Note: the 2025-2026 license year brought the first fee increase since 2011, effective July 1, 2025. Verify current fees directly through the WDFW licensing portal before purchasing, as fees are subject to change.
Washington has strict rules on trap types. It is unlawful to use a steel-jawed leghold trap, neck snare, or other body-gripping trap to capture any mammal under RCW 77.15.194. This voter-approved restriction — passed as Initiative 713 — significantly limits the trap types available to Washington trappers. Cage traps and other non-body-gripping devices are generally permitted, but you should review the current WDFW trapping regulations pamphlet for the full list of approved equipment.
Common Mistake: Assuming that a hunting license covers trapping. It does not. If you plan to trap coyotes in Washington, you need a separate trapping license — even if you already hold a valid small game or big game hunting license.
The trapping season authorizes the lethal harvest of furbearing animals for their hides and pelts only. Furbearers may not be taken from the wild and held alive for sale or personal use without a special permit. Any wildlife trapped for which the season is not open shall be released unharmed. For coyotes specifically, since there is no closed season, this last provision is less of a concern — but it is critical for other species you may accidentally trap.
For comparison on how trapping rules differ across state lines, our guide on hunting laws in Minnesota covers that state’s furbearer trapping framework in detail.
Landowner Rights and Depredation Rules in Washington
Washington law provides meaningful protections for landowners dealing with coyote problems, and the rules here are notably more permissive than the standard hunting framework. The owner, the owner’s immediate family, employee, or a tenant of real property may kill or trap a coyote on that property if it is damaging crops or domestic animals under RCW 77.36.030. A license is not required in such cases; however, there may be local restrictions on the use of firearms.
This depredation exemption is practical and broad. If a coyote is actively killing your chickens, sheep, or other livestock, you — or a family member, employee, or tenant on your property — can take action without first obtaining a hunting or trapping license. The key qualifier is that the coyote must be causing actual damage to crops or domestic animals, not simply present on the property.
- Who qualifies: Property owner, immediate family members, employees, and tenants
- Trigger condition: Coyote must be damaging crops or domestic animals
- License required: No — under RCW 77.36.030
- Local firearm rules: Still apply — check county ordinances before discharging a firearm
- Trapping under depredation: Permitted, but body-gripping trap ban still applies statewide
Important Note: The no-license depredation exemption does not override local firearm discharge ordinances. Even if you are legally entitled to shoot a coyote under state depredation law, your county or municipality may restrict firearm use in certain areas.
For urban or suburban coyote problems where lethal control is needed but hunting is not practical, in most cases when coyote management is required in urban or suburban areas, that management is contracted by the city, town, or private landowners to USDA Wildlife Services. Local or county animal services or a WDFW-certified Wildlife Control Operator may also be able to help.
If residents witness a coyote attack on supervised or enclosed pets, a wildlife violation, or an injured or dangerous animal, WDFW encourages reporting it to WDFW Dispatch by calling 360-902-2936, emailing WILDCOMM@dfw.wa.gov, or by reporting online.
Washington’s approach to landowner rights around wildlife is part of a broader set of animal-related statutes worth knowing. Our coverage of dog bite laws in Washington and leash laws in Washington provides additional context on how the state balances property rights with wildlife and domestic animal protections. If you’re a rural landowner, you may also find our guides on goat ownership laws in Washington and beekeeping laws in Washington useful for understanding the full scope of agricultural animal regulations in the state.
For hunters who pursue other species in Washington alongside coyotes, our guides on turkey hunting season in Washington and dove hunting season in Washington cover the season dates, bag limits, and license requirements for those species in detail.