Hunting & Fish/Wildlife Violations FAQ
Straightforward answers to the questions that come up most in hunting and fish/wildlife violation cases in Kittitas and Yakima Counties. Every case is different — these are general answers, not legal advice for your specific situation.
What counts as a hunting or fish and wildlife violation in Washington?
Washington hunting and fishing is regulated by the Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) under Title 77 RCW. The most common charges are hunting without a valid license or tag, hunting during a closed season, exceeding a bag limit, hunting on private land without permission, and failing to properly report or tag a harvest.
Is a first-time license or tagging violation a serious charge?
Most first-time hunting-without-a-license or tagging violations for big game (deer, elk, cougar, black bear) are gross misdemeanors under RCW 77.15.410, handled in the same district or municipal courts as other gross misdemeanor cases — not a felony-level matter. Washington reserves felony unlawful hunting charges for taking three or more animals in the same event, or a repeat violation within five years.
Can I lose my hunting or fishing privileges even if the criminal case goes well?
Yes, and for a big-game conviction it’s often not optional: convicting someone of unlawful hunting of big game requires WDFW to revoke their licenses and tags and suspend their hunting privileges for two years, separate from whatever happens in the criminal case — similar to how a DOL hearing runs alongside a DUI charge. A good outcome in court doesn’t automatically resolve the licensing side, so both need attention.
Can a hunting violation be reduced or dismissed?
Sometimes. Tony has handled cases where a hunting-without-a-license charge was reduced to a non-criminal infraction with a fine instead of a criminal conviction — the specific outcome depends on the facts, your record, and the prosecutor.
Does Tony handle felony-level wildlife charges?
No. Tony’s practice covers misdemeanor-level hunting and fish and wildlife violations in district and municipal court. Washington does have separate felony unlawful-hunting charges for large-scale or commercial violations, and those go through Superior Court, which isn’t part of his practice.
Talk to an Attorney
Call (509) 293-7593 for a free consultation about a hunting or fish and wildlife violation in Ellensburg, Yakima, or the surrounding area.