OLYMPIA – The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission met virtually Feb. 16 and decided on Deer Lake rule making and heard updates on proposed rules for cougar and black bear hunting seasons.

The Commission voted to approve a year-round fishing season at Deer Lake in Stevens County. An additional change to the regulations includes a lake trout daily limit of five, with no more than one over 26 inches. The rule change will go into effect July 1, 2024.

The Commission also heard a briefing from the Wildlife Committee on rule making for black bear and cougar hunting. The Commission will hear additional updates on the cougar hunting rule making timeline and contents of the proposed rules at the March 14-16 hybrid meeting in Olympia. The Commission will discuss proposed black bear hunting rules at a future meeting in May.

The meeting was recorded and will be available on the Commission webpage for the public to watch at their convenience.

The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission is a panel appointed by the governor that sets policy for WDFW. WDFW works to preserve, protect and perpetuate fish, wildlife, and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities.