Just about everyone in Washington who fishes or hunts has already started thinking about next year’s adventures in the great outdoors. For those ready to start laying a foundation for those plans, Washington state hunting and fishing licenses for the 2010-11 season went on sale Tuesday, Dec. 1. Although the new licensing year doesn’t begin until April 1, a lot of people like to pick theirs up several months early, said Joe Stohr, deputy director for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW). “It’s always great to be prepared when the new season arrives,” Stohr said. “Plus, hunting and fishing licenses make great holiday gifts.” Licenses may be purchased by phone (360-902-2464), over the internet (fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov) or from WDFW license dealers, including Miller’s Sports, 150 E. Jewett, in downtown White Salmon. The new fishing and hunting licenses are valid from April 1, 2010 through March 31, 2011 and include vehicle use permits for access to nearly a million acres of wildlife lands throughout Washington. Like last year, all license fees include a 10 percent surcharge approved by the state Legislature to address a funding shortfall and help offset budget cuts to WDFW. Also as of Dec. 1, hunters can purchase an application for multi-season hunting permits, which allow successful applicants to hunt in all general archery, muzzleloader and modern firearms seasons throughout the year. Drawing results for 2,000 deer and 600 elk permits will be announced in April.

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