EVERETT, Wash. — Washington State has many wonders offering a diverse and unique outdoor experience. This marvelous region includes the peaks of the North Cascades, the winsome of the Olympic Peninsula, the Pacific Ocean and the glacier-fed lakes — creating a perfect ecosystem for a wide range of wildlife.
“This is a tremendous state; we have a lot of resources,” said Sergeant Hwa Kim from Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW).
“Washington, in itself, and Puget Sound, is a really unique ecosystem conglomerated of species that reside here and migrate here throughout the year,” said WDFW Sergeant Nathaniel Munn.
Some of the best fishing opportunities in the nation are available in Washington, as well as hunting. In fact, hunting remains a vital way of life for many residents and non-residents in Washington and contributes to statewide conservation efforts.
“The state provides opportunities for recreationists to fish for certain species,” Sgt. Munn said.
To maintain the hunting and fishing lifestyle in Washington state for generations to come, we need to follow some rules that are in place to preserve and protect the state's fish, wildlife and ecosystems.
WDFW is dedicated to preserving, protecting and perpetuating the state’s wildlife, fish and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities. The program is also responsible for enforcing laws that protect fish and wildlife regulations.
“The rules are there to maintain an ordinary fishery,” said Sgt. Kim. “We want to make sure that there are proper licenses, following all the fishing regulations.”
“The rule that you may think is silly is actually, in the long-term, effective, and that’s why it is in place,” Sgt. Munn said.
To learn more about laws, licenses and permits by region and season, the WDFW has many links that provide guides and information on their website, as well as a free mobile app.
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife personnel operate around the state to enforce laws and regulations. But their work is more than just enforcement — it is about education and public safety. They even offer information on places to go for hunting, fishing, wildlife watching, hiking, horseback riding, boating or camping.
The outdoors fits everyone’s life in unique and personal ways, and WDFW wants to foster connections.
“Being able to provide tips and seeing little kids catch their first fish, the best part of the job is to see smiles,” Sgt. Kim said.
It is an opportunity to discover a new outdoor adventure and an appreciation of nature.
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