The sun is setting earlier and the leaves are starting to turn – signs of another change of season. Fall is in the air, and hunters are heading out for the year's major hunting seasons as anglers are still reeling in salmon from the Columbia River, Puget Sound, and other fisheries, plus trout from lakes throughout Washington. 
September highlights include:

• Deer and elk: Early general archery hunts will open for deer and elk in many areas of the state.
• Youth-only hunts: The special pheasant hunt for hunters under age 16 is Sept. 19-20 statewide.
• 65+ or disability hunts: The special pheasant hunt for hunters 65+ or hunters with disabilities is Sept. 21-25.
• Eastern Washington lakes: This month is the last chance to fish several of the region's rainbow and cutthroat trout fishing lakes. 
• Puget Sound halibut: Marine Areas 5-10 are open three days per week, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, through Sept. 30 or until the remaining quota is taken.

With wildfires burning in several areas of the state, hunters and people recreating outdoors are advised to check fire conditions and for related access closures before heading out. Fire restrictions are in effect on lands managed by WDFW.
For information about hunting, fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities available this month in each region of the state, see the Weekender Regional Reports.

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife is the state agency tasked with preserving, protecting and perpetuating fish, wildlife, and ecosystems, while providing sustainable fishing and hunting opportunities.