Well, so far I have not got an answer from the WDFW enforcement. Since it has been a 50/50 split from everyone I asked, 50% say yes they can and 50% say the can't search your boat without permission or probable cause, I looked up the RCW code myself and found this:

RCW 77.15.080
Fish and wildlife officers -- Inspection authority.
Based upon articulable facts that a person is engaged in fishing or hunting activities, fish and wildlife officers have the authority to temporarily stop the person and check for valid licenses, tags, permits, stamps, or catch record cards, and to inspect all fish and wildlife in possession as well as the equipment being used to ensure compliance with the requirements of this title.

This was already posted on the other thread, but the way I read it, this has to do with inspecting your gear to make sure it is in compliance with the law.

Then there is this:

RCW 77.15.094
Search without warrant -- Seizure of evidence, property -- Limitation.
Fish and wildlife officers and ex officio fish and wildlife officers may make a reasonable search without warrant of a vessel, conveyances, vehicles, containers, packages, or other receptacles for fish and wildlife which they have reason to believe contain evidence of a violation of law or rules adopted pursuant to this title and seize evidence as needed for law enforcement. This authority does not extend to quarters in a boat, building, or other property used exclusively as a private domicile, does not extend to transitory residences in which a person has a reasonable expectation of privacy, and does not allow search and seizure without a warrant if the thing or place is protected from search without warrant within the meaning of Article I, section 7 of the state Constitution. Seizure of property as evidence of a crime does not preclude seizure of the property for forfeiture as authorized by law.

The first sentence seems clear enough to me that the game warden needs probable cause to search the boat.

Personally, I appreciate the game wardens being out there and I agree they have an exceptionally tough job, especially dealing with the public day in and day out. Hopefully I will have the opportunity to talk to a game warden and get the answer.

I appreciate any input perhaps I am reading the rules wrong and if I get a response from the WDFW I will post it.

Thanks again

Doubletake