Bighorn Sheep Special Permits

Application Submission Period: April 24-midnight on May 24, 2023

• These hunts are for special permit holders only. See Special Permit Application Instructions for instructions on how to apply.
• You may purchase and submit one permit application for each hunt category, for which you qualify.
• Hunting licenses for mountain goat, moose, or bighorn sheep do not have to be purchased unless you are selected for a special hunt permit. If selected, you must send a check or money order for the appropriate fee, to WDFW's Headquarters office by the deadline established by the Department (15 day minimum) or the permit will become void and will be offered to an alternate. You may also purchase using a credit card by calling (866) 246-9453.

Who May Apply:

Any Ram Category:

Anyone, except those who have previously harvested a bighorn sheep ram in Washington State under an "Any Ram" permit. An individual may only harvest one bighorn sheep ram under the "Any Ram" category during his or her lifetime.

Adult Ewe Category:

Anyone may apply, every year, regardless of prior harvest(s).

Youth and Hunters with Disabilities Categories:

Anyone may apply that meets the requirements for the particular category, every year, regardless of prior harvest(s).

Raffle and Auction Permits:

Anyone may apply every year.

Bag Limit:

One (1) bighorn sheep except where otherwise permitted by department rule, even if permits are drawn for more than one bighorn sheep hunt category.

Weapon Restrictions:

Permit holders may use any legal weapon.

Hunt Choices:

Up to 4 hunt choices may be selected per category.

Horn Marking Requirements:

A hunter who kills or possesses a bighorn sheep ram taken in Washington must present the horns for inspection and marking within 10 days to a WDFW Regional or District Office or a location designated by a department representative. Call a WDFW Regional or District Office to schedule an appointment with a biologist for horn marking. A WDFW employee will permanently mark an identification number on one of the horns. Inspection and marking does NOT substitute for Mandatory Hunter Reporting (see Mandatory Hunter Reporting). For bighorn sheep, both are required.