Other General Information

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Last Updated: June 18, 2026

Sportfishing Rule Development

For information on upcoming sportfishing rule development, visit the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website. The website will have information on the schedule, how you can participate, and the types of rule changes we will be considering. In addition, you can sign up for fishing rule updates and regulatory news releases through the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife email subscription lists.

Fish Tagging Notice

Photograph comparing the size of a fish PIT (Passive Integrated Transponder) tag to a U.S. penny. The small electronic tag is shown beside a 1996 Lincoln penny to illustrate its compact size for fish tracking and fisheries research. — A PIT (Passive Integrated Transponder) tag shown next to a penny for size comparison. These tiny electronic tags are used by fisheries biologists to track fish movement, monitor populations, and support conservation and fish management efforts in Washington waters.

Researchers throughout the state have released fish including sturgeon, with PIT tags (small glass-encased microchips) injected into the muscle just behind the top of the head. The tag doesn’t need to be returned, but check for the presence of a tag if the fish is to be consumed.

Several state and federal agencies (including WDFW), universities and Indian tribes also have released salmon, steelhead, sea-run cutthroat trout, sturgeon, and various marine fish species with acoustic tags in their body cavities. These tags transmit signals that are picked up by special receivers, allowing fishery managers to track the fish. Anglers who find a tag while cleaning their catch should call (360) 902-2700 to report the tag number, species of fish, date and location of their catch.

Close-up photograph of a small acoustic fish tag held between two fingers against a water background. The compact electronic tag is labeled and used by fisheries researchers to track fish movements, migration patterns, and habitat use. — An acoustic fish tag used in fisheries research to monitor fish movements and migration routes. These small electronic transmitters help biologists collect data that supports fish conservation, population management, and scientific studies in Washington waters.

Special Use Permit

Anglers with “WDFW Disability Status” may apply for a “Special Use Permit” to accommodate their fishing activities. Special Use Permits are customized on a case by case basis to the individual’s particular need. For accessibility resources, accommodations, and program information, visit the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife accessibility services page.

Prohibited Aquatic Species

It is illegal to transport, introduce, or use prohibited aquatic animal and plant species, unless specifically authorized. WDFW encourages citizens to be vigilant in preventing the introduction or spread of prohibited and other non-native species. To report sightings and learn more about what you can do, please call toll free 1-888-WDFW-AIS. For information about preventing, identifying, and reporting invasive species, visit the Washington aquatic invasive species information page.

License Suspensions and Property Forfeitures

Washington State’s Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Code (Revised Code of Washington Chapter 77.15) requires the mandatory suspension of a person’s fishing privileges, for up to five years, if a person is convicted of one of the following violations:

assaulting a Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Officer, or an employee or agent of the Department performing official duties
first degree waste of fish and wildlife
harvesting endangered fish or wildlife
unlawfully purchasing or using a license

In addition, repeat offenders (any person with three convictions for any kind of violation within ten years) receive a mandatory two-year suspension of all fishing and hunting privileges. The law treats an uncontested notice of infraction, a finding of “committed” on an infraction, or a guilty plea as a conviction that will count toward a potential suspension. You will permanently lose your fishing and hunting privileges if you hunt or fish on a suspended license or face a lifetime or longer term suspension if a violation demonstrates a willful or wanton disregard for the conservation of fish or wildlife. Furthermore, property that is used to violate any fishing and hunting regulations, or that is held with the intention of committing a violation, may be seized for evidence and may ultimately be forfeited to the state.

Anti-Snagging Rule Examples

Weighted Gear Example

When using weight, or non-buoyant lures, only 1 single-point hook measuring ¾" or less from point to shank may be used.

Diagram illustrating a legal weighted fishing rig with labeled components including the mainline, swivel, leader, lure, and weight. The graphic shows that weights must not be attached below or within 12 inches of the lure or bait, demonstrating proper fishing gear setup for regulatory compliance. — Weighted fishing gear diagram showing the correct placement of sinkers and weights in relation to a lure or bait. Proper rigging helps anglers comply with Washington fishing regulations designed to reduce fish snagging and promote ethical fishing practices.

Weights may not be attached below or less than 12" above the lure or bait.

Buoyant (floating) Lure Example

Up to 3 hooks measuring ¾" or less from point to shank may be used. Hooks can be single, double, or treble.

Diagram of a buoyant floating fishing lure attached directly to a fishing line with no weight attached to the line or lure. The illustration demonstrates a compliant fishing setup that uses the lure’s natural buoyancy instead of added weights. — Buoyant floating lure diagram showing a fishing rig without weights attached to the line or lure. This setup illustrates a legal gear configuration that relies on the lure’s floating action and helps anglers comply with Washington fishing regulations.

Reporting Violations/Poaching

Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Police officer badge featuring a gold six-point star, the Washington state seal, and the words — Official Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Police badge symbolizing the conservation officers who protect Washington’s fish, wildlife, habitats, and outdoor recreation resources through education, public safety, and law enforcement.

DIAL 911 to Report a Life Threatening Emergency

For Non-Emergency Violations/Poaching:

Call WDFW toll-free 1-(877) 933-9847 (1-877-WDFW-TIP); or
Use the dedicated WDFW email address; or
Text your poaching/violation tip anonymously to the WDFW poaching hotline 847411 (TIP411).
1. Start a text message on your phone. On the first line of the message type the key word WDFWTIP. Then add a space and type in the violation information.
2. Then, from the phone’s menu, select Send To: and type in 847411 (TIP411), and press send (Note: The text message is sent to a special computer server that will mask your identity and assign an alias); OR
Report wildlife crimes online through the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife enforcement violation reporting page or
To report fish and wildlife related crimes and incidents, call WILDCOMM at (360) 902-2936, Option 1, OR 11-(877) 933-9847
For additional information about reporting wildlife crimes and violations, see the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife enforcement violation reporting page.

For Other Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Questions:

Report lost or stolen recreational shellfish gear online through the Washington lost recreational shellfish gear reporting page.

For Aquatic Invasive Species Reports: Call toll-free 1-(888) 933-9247 (1-888-WDFW-AIS)

Reward Program

Information that contributes substantially to an arrest of another person for violation of Title 77.15 RCW, WAC 220, or WAC 232, including loss of fish, wildlife, or damage to WDFW property, could be eligible for a cash reward. Annually, about $8,000.00 is paid in rewards.