Fishing is a beloved pastime for many in Washington state, but for those with disabilities, navigating the process of obtaining a fishing license can be challenging. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to get a disabled fishing license in Washington for 2024, ensuring you can enjoy the great outdoors and all that fishing has to offer.
Understanding Disability Status in Washington State
Before applying for a disabled fishing license, it’s important to understand the eligibility requirements for disability status in Washington state. According to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), you must have a permanent physical or developmental disability that substantially impairs your ability to participate in recreational activities or access department lands.
Temporary or short-term disabilities are not eligible for disability status. To qualify, you must have a permanent disability as defined in WAC 220-200-160, which includes lower extremity impairments, upper extremity impairments, visual impairments, and cognitive intellectual developmental disabilities.
Applying for Disability Status
To apply for disability status with WDFW, you must download the Hunter/Fisher Disability Status Application from the WDFW website. Your licensed medical doctor (MD), advanced registered nurse practitioner (ARNP), or physician assistant (PA) will need to complete and certify the application.
Once the application is completed, you can return it to the WDFW Licensing Division at PO Box 43154, Olympia, WA 98504, or fax it to (360) 902-2466. Allow two weeks for processing, and if you do not receive a notice after two weeks, contact the WDFW office at (360) 902-2464 or TDD (360) 902-2207.
Obtaining a Disabled Fishing License
Once you have been granted disability status, you can apply for a discounted fishing license. The Washington State Legislature passed House Bill 1192 in 2013, expanding eligibility requirements for reduced license fees.
To qualify for reduced fees, you must have a permanent disability as described in RCW 77.32.480. This includes residents who permanently use a wheelchair, are blind or visually impaired, or have a developmental disability as determined by the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) authority or physician’s certification.
To apply for a reduced fee fishing license, download the Hunter/Fisher Reduced Fee Application from the WDFW website. Have a licensed MD, ARNP, or PA with documented knowledge of your disability complete and certify the form, then mail it to the WDFW Licensing Division at PO Box 43154, Olympia, WA 98504, or fax it to (360) 902-2466.
Additional Resources and Accessibility Options
In addition to discounted fishing licenses, WDFW offers several programs and resources for anglers with disabilities. The Road Access Entry Program provides opportunities for accessibility modifications to hunters with mobility disabilities, allowing them to access areas that may otherwise be inaccessible.
WDFW also offers special use permits, which allow for limited, specific exceptions to recreational activities, services, equipment, or regulations for persons granted a permanent disability designation. These permits are processed through the Licensing Division.
For more information about disability-related programs and resources, contact the WDFW Licensing Division at (360) 902-2464 or visit a WDFW office near you.