Some spring hunting canceled in Washington because of coronavirus

Washington state is starting to put restrictions on hunting after earlier closing state waters to recreational fishing to stop the spread of the new coronavirus.

The youth turkey hunt set for April 4-5 has been canceled, says the Washington state Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Spring bear hunting that was scheduled to open in six areas on April 1 also will not start.

On April 6 the department will reassess opening the impacted hunting areas, in addition to other upcoming hunting seasons, including spring turkey and additional spring bear hunts planned to open April 15.

The department’s concern is travel.

“Every stop for gas, food or a restroom break can introduce the virus to areas it hasn’t yet reached,” said Kelly Susewind, director of the Department of Fish and Wildlife. “It was a tough decision, but we want to ensure that people are properly encouraged to stay home at this time.”

Nearly 90 percent of spring bear permit holders in northeast Washington travel from outside the area.

Youth who were planning to hunt April 4 or 5 can still use their tags in the spring turkey season, if it opens, and the fall turkey season.

No fishing has been allowed in Washington state since midnight March 25 to at least 5 p.m. April 8 to prevent COVID-19 from spreading.

This story was originally published March 31, 2020 at 12:00 PM.