OLYMPIA, WA — April 3, 2025 |
For the first time in over a decade, Washington state residents could soon see a significant increase in the cost of hunting and fishing licenses. On Wednesday, the Washington State Senate narrowly passed Senate Bill 5583, which would implement a 38% price hike, marking the first such increase since 2011.
The bill passed along party lines in a 25-24 vote, with Democrats arguing the change is necessary to account for inflation and to address a looming state budget shortfall. The measure now heads to the House of Representatives for final approval.
First Price Hike in Over a Decade Targets Budget Gap
Democrats estimate a $12 billion budget shortfall over the next four years, while Republicans argue the deficit is closer to $6.7 billion. GOP lawmakers have criticized the bill as an overreach, claiming it’s a stepping stone for unnecessary tax increases, but they lack the votes to stop it.
“This bill proposes to make an inflationary adjustment,” said Sen. Marko Liias (D-Edmonds) during the Senate floor debate. “It’s a big adjustment, but inflation has been significant over the last 15 years to keep up with those costs.”
Liias, a key sponsor of the bill, added that the legislation also introduces reduced fees for seniors aged 70 and older, offering up to a 66% discount on license prices.
How Much Will Hunting and Fishing Licenses Cost?
If passed, residents would see the following price changes beginning in July 2025:
- Big Game Combo License (includes deer, elk, bear, and cougar):
- Current: $85 → New: $117.30
- Senior Rate: $39.88
- Fishing Package (freshwater + saltwater):
- Current: $45.50 → New: $62.79
- Senior Rate: $21.39
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife anticipates generating approximately $19.6 million in revenue in the first year, even after projecting an 11% drop in license sales due to the higher prices.
Opposition: Cost Could Hurt Rural and Low-Income Residents
Senate Republicans voiced strong concerns, particularly about how the increase may impact subsistence hunters in rural areas who rely on hunting and fishing to feed their families.
“A lot of people in my district are subsistence hunters,” said Sen. Shelly Short (R-Addy). “This is the meat they put in their freezers. Hunting and fishing is part of our culture and tradition across the state.”
Short also pushed an amendment to limit the authority of the Fish and Wildlife Commission to impose additional surcharges. She argued that elected legislators — not appointed commissioners — should decide on new fees.
“We’re a body of checks and balances,” Short said. “These decisions should stay with the Legislature.”
The amendment failed after Democrats rejected it, though Liias assured that surcharge authority would remain under legislative control, as clarified in the bill’s language.
Outdoor Enthusiasts Weigh In
Republican Sen. Ron Muzzall (R-Oak Harbor) pointed out that hunters and fishers often bear the financial burden of maintaining public lands that others — like hikers, bird watchers, and cyclists — enjoy without fees.
“Whether it’s bird watchers on Fir Island or mountain bikers in the Okanagan … they don’t pay for these properties. We do,” Muzzall said.
What’s Next?
Senate Bill 5583 now awaits consideration in the House. If approved, Washington hunters and anglers should expect to pay higher license fees starting this summer.
