Hunting Hunters may now purchase and submit applications for a 2013 spring black bear hunting permit, applicable to specific areas of Western and Eastern Washington.

Deadline: Hunters must purchase and submit an application by midnight Thursday.

To apply: Hunters must purchase a special permit application and a 2013 hunting license that includes bear as a species option. Licenses, bear transport tags and permit applications may be purchased online at https://fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov, by calling toll free 866-246-9453 or at any license vendor in the state.

Special permit applications, which require a correct hunt choice number, may be submitted online at https://fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov or by calling toll free 877-945-3492.

The drawing: It will be in mid-March. There will be 383 permits in Western Washington and 314 permits for hunts east of the Cascades. Permit winners will receive their permit in the mail by March 31. Results also will be posted at wdfw.wa.gov/hunting.

Private lands: Hunters interested in hunting on the Kapowsin Tree Farm should contact the tree farm before applying to find out what areas are open. Those selected for the Kapowsin Tree Farm hunt must then purchase an access permit from Hancock Forest Management by calling toll free 800-782-1493.

Hunters selected for the Copalis hunt must obtain a recreational use permit and contact Tracie Lamb at Rayonier at 855-729-4868.

More info: Learn more at wdfw.wa.gov/hunting/regulations.