10/11/2005: "Hunting rifles will compete with fishing poles in Oct."

Here they come again: Some of Washington's most popular hunting seasons will get under way Oct. 15, including the modern-firearms season for deer and those for ducks and geese. (See past story: BOCC Concerns On Rifles)

Hunting: Muzzleloaders stalking deer will have the field through Oct. 7 before making way for the general firearms season for deer that begins Oct. 15. After 10 years without a hard winter, populations of both deer and elk are healthy in most areas, said Dave Ware, WDFW game manager. "We're expecting fairly good success this year," he said.

Hunters must carry a valid 2005-06 hunting license for the species they are hunting. For licensing information: website (http://wdfw.wa.gov/lic/formpage.htm).

As part of WDFW's ongoing effort to keep chronic wasting disease out of Washington state, Ware asks that hunters report any deer or elk they see in the field acting sick or behaving strangely. Hunters who see lethargic, underweight animals are asked to call the regional WDFW wildlife manager at (425) 775-1311 ext. 121.

For information on fisheries check the WDFW Fishing Hotline (360-902-2500), the department's website (http://wdfw.wa.gov/) or the Fishing in Washington rules pamphlet (https://wdfw.wa.gov/fish/regs/fishregs.htm).