IMHO, the WDFW statutes (RCW 77 and the WACs) are in serious need of updating (read re-write). As far as the appropriate penalties for violations, I can tell you that both a fine and clear process for the potential for license suspensions ranging from one year to life will serve as a deterrent for most folks who might think about pushing the envelope.

Fines will impact some folks and cause them to not violate in the future. Some folks just consider a fine a cost of doing business. The loss of license privileges, however, takes the person out of the field for a period of time. That can impact the mindset more than a fine.

Additionally, WA is a member of the Wildlife Violator Compact (about 30 states participating) and the suspension is applicable in all member states. Most of the western states are participants so the suspension means no hunting/fishing in any WVC until the suspension is over.