Quick Answer
Roosevelt elk hunting is not allowed in Olympic National Park, but the surrounding Olympic National Forest and surrounding public lands offer hunting opportunities for the species.
Roosevelt Elk Habitat and Distribution
Roosevelt elk are found in the western United States and Canada, and Olympic National Park is within their range. However, the park itself is closed to hunting, except for tribal members who have permits. To hunt Roosevelt elk in the Olympic National Forest, hunters need to purchase a hunting license and have a tag for the species. The state of Washington issues around 9,000 elk tags each year, with the majority going to residents.
Olympic National Forest Regulations and Seasons
The Olympic National Forest offers regulated hunting opportunities for Roosevelt elk, with specific seasons and bag limits in place. The general elk season typically runs from mid-September to mid-November, with a two-elk bag limit for non-resident hunters. Resident hunters have a one-elk bag limit. Hunters must also follow guidelines for hunting in designated areas, including the use of a companion guide and adherence to noise regulations. For the 2023 season, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) set the following bag limits: 1 bull elk (antlered), 1 bull elk (antlerless), 2 antlerless elk.
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