When does mule deer season open in Washington in 2026?

Washington's 2026 mule deer archery season opens September 1 and runs through September 25. Always confirm exact dates with the state wildlife agency before hunting.

What big-game species can you hunt in Washington?

In 2026, Washington has hunting seasons for mule deer.

How much is a Washington hunting license for nonresidents?

A deer license (includes tag) in Washington is $397.50 for nonresidents and $53.82 for residents.

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Washington Hunting Seasons & Prices

2026 big-game season dates and license/tag prices.

Washington offers 2026 hunting seasons for mule deer across archery, firearm, and muzzleloader methods. Seasons run from September 1 through December 15, 2026. A deer license (includes tag) costs $53.82 for residents and $397.50 for nonresidents.

Planning reference only — always confirm dates and prices with the state wildlife agency before applying, buying a license, or hunting.

Season dates

Mule deer

Season	Method	Opens	Closes	Notes	Track
Early Archery	Archery	Sep 1, 2026	Sep 25, 2026		🔔
High Buck (wilderness)	Firearm	Sep 15, 2026	Sep 25, 2026		🔔
Early Muzzleloader	Muzzleloader	Sep 26, 2026	Oct 4, 2026		🔔
General (modern firearm)	Firearm	Oct 17, 2026	Nov 1, 2026	Eastern mule/white-tailed units close ~Oct 27–30; western black-tailed through Nov 1	🔔
Late (black-tailed)	Firearm	Nov 19, 2026	Nov 22, 2026		🔔
Late Archery	Archery	Nov 25, 2026	Dec 15, 2026		🔔
Late Muzzleloader	Muzzleloader	Nov 25, 2026	Dec 15, 2026	White-tailed/mule deer close Dec 8	🔔

License & tag prices

License	Resident	Nonresident	Notes
Deer License (includes tag)	$53.82	$397.50
Big Game Combo (deer/elk/bear/cougar)	$117.30	—

A deer license includes a tag; the Big Game Combo bundles deer, elk, bear, and cougar.

Source: Washington Dept. of Fish & Wildlife license, tag & permit fees (wdfw.wa.gov)

Washington hunt units

Explore harvest history, success rates, and draw odds by unit.

101 Sherman Elk 105 Kelly Hill Elk 108 Douglas Elk 111 Aladdin Elk 113 Selkirk Elk 117 49 Degrees North Elk 121 Huckleberry Elk 124 Mount Spokane Elk 127 Mica Peak Elk 130 Cheney Elk 133 Roosevelt Elk 136 Harrington Elk

Browse all Washington harvest data →

Washington hunting FAQ

When does mule deer season open in Washington in 2026?: Washington's 2026 mule deer archery season opens September 1 and runs through September 25. Always confirm exact dates with the state wildlife agency before hunting.
What big-game species can you hunt in Washington?: In 2026, Washington has hunting seasons for mule deer.
How much is a Washington hunting license for nonresidents?: A deer license (includes tag) in Washington is $397.50 for nonresidents and $53.82 for residents.