Baiting for the Purposes of Hunting Deer or Elk
NEW statewide prohibitions are now in place for baiting and feeding deer, elk, or moose:
It is unlawful to hunt for deer, elk, or moose using any type of bait placed, exposed, deposited, distributed, scattered, or otherwise used for the purpose of attracting these species with the intent to hunt them. "Bait" is any substance that could serve as a lure, food, or attraction for deer, elk, or moose, including natural or synthetic scents that contain or are derived from cervid urine or glandular extracts (WAC 220-414-030).
EXCEPTIONS:
Hunting on or over the following is not considered an unlawful use of bait while hunting deer, elk, or moose:
- Locally common agricultural and ranching practices, including salt or mineral distribution and feeding;
- Food that is available from undisturbed wild, volunteer, or planted vegetation; including fruit trees, orchards, vineyards, and food plots;
- Synthetic scents or lures that do not contain or are derived from cervid urine or glandular extracts;
- Naturally occurring mineral deposits; or
- As authorized by a department permit issued to address a management objective.
Exceptions do not include accidental or intentional spills, dumping, or storage of agricultural produce, feed, or bait.
It is also unlawful to feed deer, elk, or moose or to allow food to be placed to feed other wildlife that causes deer, elk, or moose to congregate. This restriction does not apply to agricultural practices such as crop production, harvest, or animal husbandry (WAC 220-440-260).
