Washington draws a hard line between archery and crossbow hunting. Under WAC 220-414-100 it is unlawful to hunt wildlife with a crossbow during an archery season; crossbows are legal for big game only during modern firearm or muzzleloader seasons. Legal crossbows must pull at least 125 pounds, have a trigger safety and shoot bolts of at least 350 grains with unbarbed 7/8-inch broadheads.
Terrain & Hunting Landscape
Divided by the Cascade Range, Washington offers wet, dense evergreen forests and coastal rainforests in the west, and arid high deserts, sagebrush, and pine-clad mountains in the east.
Roosevelt elk (west) and Rocky Mountain elk (east), along with three deer subspecies: black-tailed, mule deer, and whitetail. Black bear and cougar are also prominent.
Public Hunting Areas
Gifford Pinchot National Forest, Colville National Forest, Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, and the WDFW Olympic Wildlife Area.
Crossbow & Bowhunting Culture
Washington hunters value diversity in tactics, ranging from 'still hunting' the foggy western timber to glassing the wide-open eastern canyons. Ethics and 'Leave No Trace' are central themes.
Season Overview
Crossbows are prohibited during all Washington archery seasons and are legal for big game only in modern firearm or muzzleloader seasons. Legal crossbows need 125 pounds minimum draw weight, a working trigger safety and bolts of at least 350 grains with unbarbed broadheads at least 7/8 inch wide. Discharging a crossbow from a vehicle or along a public highway is prohibited.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a crossbow during Washington's archery season?
No. It is unlawful to hunt wildlife with a crossbow during an archery season in Washington; crossbows may be used for big game only during modern firearm or muzzleloader seasons.
Is there a disability exemption for crossbows in Washington?
WAC 220-414-100 bars crossbow use during archery seasons without a disability exemption; hunters with disabilities should contact WDFW about current accommodations before applying for archery tags.
What are Washington's crossbow equipment requirements?
Crossbows used for big game must have a minimum draw weight of 125 pounds and a properly working trigger safety. Bolts must weigh at least 350 grains and carry sharp, unbarbed broadheads at least 7/8 inch in cutting diameter.
Are there archery-only or crossbow zones in Washington?
Washington's archery seasons are weapon-specific rather than zone-based: archery seasons exclude crossbows, while modern firearm and muzzleloader seasons allow them. Individual game management units may add restrictions.
What licenses do I need to hunt with a crossbow in Washington?
You need a valid Washington hunting license and the appropriate transport tag for the species and season, such as a modern firearm deer or elk tag.
Can I shoot a crossbow from a vehicle or road in Washington?
No. It is unlawful to discharge a crossbow from a vehicle or from, across or along the maintained portion of a public highway.
Do I need a Discover Pass to hunt on all public lands in Washington?
A Discover Pass is required for lands managed by DNR and State Parks, while WDFW lands generally require a Vehicle Access Pass (provided with most hunting licenses).
Are there specific requirements for pheasant hunting in Western Washington?
Yes, hunters in Western Washington must purchase a Western Washington Pheasant License and use non-toxic shot at all state-managed pheasant release sites.