Cougar Hunting in Washington: Don't Be That Guy Shining a Flashlight in the Butt of a Puma
Ever dreamt of wrestling a giant house cat the size of a Labrador? Well, maybe not wrestling, but outsmarting one in the wilds of Washington? That's cougar hunting, folks! But before you dust off your grandpa's hunting gear and head out with a gallon of milk (because, you know, kittens love milk... right?), there are a few things to consider, especially when it comes to night hunting.
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| Can You Hunt Cougar At Night In Washington State |
Hold Your Horses (Literally and Figuratively): Night Hunting Cougars? Not Quite.
Unless you're rocking some serious night vision goggles and a starring role in a Predator prequel, forget about hunting cougars after dark. Here in Washington, there are some strict no-no's for night hunting, especially during deer and elk season (October and November). Using fancy night vision equipment or laser sights to target your prey is a big fine and a reputation killer. You want bragging rights, not a criminal record, right?
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Now, depending on the specific area and time of year, there might be a cougar hunting season open. But it definitely won't involve sneaking around in the dark with a spotlight. These felines are smart and have excellent night vision. You'd have about as much luck surprising a magician pulling a rabbit out of a hat.
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So When Can You Actually Hunt a Cougar?
Here's the good news: Cougar season in Washington can run from January 1st all the way to April 30th, depending on the area. But it's not a free-for-all. Different regions have quotas (harvest guidelines), and once that quota is met, the season gets shut down. Being a responsible hunter means checking with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) to see if the hunt is even open in your target area. They have a fancy hotline (866-364-4868) and a website (https://wdfw.wa.gov/hunting/regulations/big-game/cougar) to keep you updated.
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Remember: It's all about being a good sport and following the rules. No one wants to be "that guy" who messes up the cougar hunting experience for everyone else.
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Cougar Hunting by Day: More Than Just Point and Shoot
While night hunting is a no-go, there are plenty of ways to outsmart a cougar during the day. This isn't a walk in the park (pun intended). Cougars are ambush predators, so it's all about strategy and patience. You might be using calls to lure them in, tracking their signs, or setting up a blind in an area they frequent. But here's the most important tip: Always prioritize safety. Cougar attacks are rare, but they do happen. Hunt with a buddy, let someone know where you're going, and be aware of your surroundings.
Quick FAQ:
- How to find out if cougar season is open in my area? Contact the WDFW hotline (866-364-4868) or visit their website (https://wdfw.wa.gov/hunting/regulations/big-game/cougar).
- How to cougar-proof my property? There are steps you can take to make your home less attractive to cougars. Check the WDFW website for tips.
- How to prepare for a cougar hunt? Research the area, understand cougar behavior, and prioritize safety. Consider taking a hunter safety course.
- How to ethically hunt a cougar? Follow all hunting regulations, respect bag limits, and prioritize a clean kill.
- How to avoid accidentally attracting a cougar? Never approach a cougar, keep pets leashed, and make noise while hiking in cougar country.
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