Colorado’s hunting seasons offer diverse opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. From big game like elk and deer to small game and waterfowl, the state provides a range of options throughout the year. The 2024-2025 hunting seasons in Colorado span from late August to February, with specific dates varying by species and hunting method.

Hunters must navigate a complex system of licenses, including limited draw and over-the-counter options. Colorado Parks and Wildlife manages these seasons carefully to balance conservation efforts with recreational hunting. The agency sets quotas and regulates hunting methods to ensure sustainable wildlife populations.

Preparation is key for a successful Colorado hunting experience. Hunters should familiarize themselves with regulations, obtain proper licenses, and scout locations well in advance. With changes coming to the Big Game Season Structure in 2025, staying informed about updates and engaging with Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s public feedback process is crucial for hunters planning future trips.

Understanding Colorado’s Hunting Licenses and Draws

Colorado’s hunting license system involves a mix of draws, preference points, and over-the-counter options. Hunters must navigate these processes to secure their desired tags and comply with state regulations.

Qualifying Licenses and Requirements

To participate in Colorado’s hunting draws, hunters must purchase a qualifying license. These include annual small game, annual spring turkey, or combination small game/fishing licenses. Qualifying licenses are valid from April 1 to March 31 of the following year.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) requires hunters to complete a hunter education course before obtaining a license. This course covers safety, ethics, and wildlife conservation principles. Proof of completion is mandatory for all hunters born on or after January 1, 1949.

Hunters must also adhere to specific age restrictions. Youth hunters aged 12-17 can apply for and purchase licenses at a reduced rate. Adult licenses are required for those 18 and older.

Primary and Secondary Draws

Colorado uses a two-tiered draw system for limited licenses. The primary draw occurs in early April, with results typically available by mid-May. This draw allocates the majority of limited licenses for big game species.

Applicants can list up to four hunt code choices per species. CPW processes applications based on preference points and randomization for high-demand hunts. Unsuccessful primary draw applicants can participate in the secondary draw.

The secondary draw takes place in early June. It offers remaining limited licenses not allocated during the primary draw. This process provides additional opportunities for hunters to secure tags for their desired hunts.

Over-the-Counter vs Limited Licenses

Colorado offers both over-the-counter (OTC) and limited licenses. OTC licenses are available for purchase without going through a draw process. These include:

• Elk licenses for certain units and seasons
• Small game and furbearer licenses
• Fishing licenses

Limited licenses are distributed through the draw system. They apply to:

• Most deer and pronghorn hunts
• Bighorn sheep, mountain goat, and moose hunts
• Certain elk hunts in high-demand units

Limited licenses help CPW manage wildlife populations and maintain quality hunting experiences. The number of tags available varies by species, unit, and season.

Preference Points System

Colorado’s preference points system gives hunters who don’t draw their desired tag a better chance in future draws. Points are awarded for unsuccessful applications in the primary draw.

Key aspects of the preference points system include:

• One point awarded per species per year
• Points accumulate over time
• Higher point totals increase drawing odds
• Some hunt codes require a minimum number of points

For highly sought-after hunts, CPW reserves up to 20% of tags for a random draw. This gives all applicants a chance, regardless of preference point totals.

Hunters can also purchase preference points without applying for a license. This option allows them to build points for future use.

Big Game Hunting Seasons and Regulations

Colorado offers diverse big game hunting opportunities with specific seasons and regulations for different species. Hunters must be aware of dates, licensing requirements, and conservation measures.

Deer and Elk Hunting Seasons

Deer and elk hunting in Colorado follows a structured schedule. Archery season runs from September 2-30, 2024. Muzzleloader hunters can pursue game from September 14-22, 2024.

Rifle seasons are divided into four periods:

• 1st season: October 12-16, 2024
• 2nd season: October 26 to November 3, 2024
• 3rd season: November 9-15, 2024
• 4th season: Dates to be announced

These seasons allow for varied hunting experiences and help manage wildlife populations effectively.

Moose, Antelope, and Bear Seasons

Moose hunting is highly regulated due to limited populations. Specific dates are set annually through a draw system.

Antelope (pronghorn) seasons typically align with deer and elk dates for archery and rifle hunts.

Bear hunting seasons in 2024:

• Rifle: September 2-30
• Archery: September 2-30

Hunters must check current regulations for exact dates and any changes to season structures.

Hunting Rules and Bag Limits

Colorado enforces strict rules to ensure sustainable hunting practices. Bag limits vary by species and hunting unit.

Key regulations include:

• Proper licensing and tags
• Hunter orange requirements during rifle seasons
• Legal hunting methods for each season

Bag limits are typically one animal per license for big game. Some units offer additional harvests for population management.

Hunters must report their harvest within 48 hours and submit parts for testing in certain areas.

Ranching for Wildlife Program

The Ranching for Wildlife program partners private landowners with Colorado Parks and Wildlife. It provides public hunting access on private ranches.

Benefits include:

• Extended seasons for participants
• Increased hunting opportunities
• Improved wildlife habitat management

Hunters can apply for these special licenses through the regular draw process. The program helps balance wildlife populations across public and private lands.

Chronic Wasting Disease Management

Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) affects deer, elk, and moose populations. Colorado actively manages CWD through testing and monitoring programs.

Hunters in certain units must submit harvested animals for CWD testing. This data helps track disease spread and informs management decisions.

CWD-positive areas may have special regulations or increased harvest quotas to manage affected populations. Hunters should stay informed about CWD status in their hunting areas and follow all guidelines for safe meat handling.

Game Management Units and Hunting Areas

Colorado divides its hunting landscape into Game Management Units (GMUs) to regulate and manage wildlife populations effectively. These units play a crucial role in organizing hunting activities across the state’s diverse terrains.

Mapping Colorado’s GMUs

Colorado is divided into over 180 Game Management Units. Each GMU has specific regulations, seasons, and quotas for various game species. The Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) provides detailed GMU maps to help hunters navigate these areas. These maps show unit boundaries, public lands, and key geographical features.

Hunters can access digital GMU maps through the CPW website or mobile apps. Physical maps are also available at CPW offices. It’s essential for hunters to familiarize themselves with GMU boundaries and regulations before their hunt.

Public Lands Access

Colorado offers extensive public lands for hunting. The Bureau of Land Management oversees 8 million acres in the state, most of which is open for hunting. State wildlife areas, state trust lands, and state parks also provide hunting opportunities.

Hunters must follow specific regulations for each type of public land. Some areas may have restricted access or require additional permits. It’s crucial to check with the managing agency for up-to-date information on closures, restrictions, and access points.

Public land hunters should use GPS devices or apps to ensure they stay within legal boundaries. Many areas offer walk-in access programs, providing hunters with additional opportunities on private lands enrolled in the program.

Private Lands and Permission

While Colorado boasts abundant public hunting grounds, private lands also play a significant role in the state’s hunting landscape. Hunters must obtain permission from landowners before accessing private property for hunting activities.

Some private landowners participate in programs that allow limited public access for hunting. These arrangements may involve leases or special agreements with the state. Hunters should always carry written permission when hunting on private land.

Respect for private property is crucial. Hunters must be aware of property boundaries and follow all guidelines set by the landowner. Trespassing can result in legal consequences and loss of hunting privileges.

Small Game and Waterfowl Seasons

Colorado offers diverse hunting opportunities for small game and waterfowl. Hunters can pursue various species during specific seasons, with regulations in place to ensure sustainable wildlife management.

Grouse, Waterfowl, and Upland Birds

Dusky grouse hunting runs from September 1 to November 24, 2024, with a daily bag limit of 3 and a possession limit of 9. Waterfowl hunting requires a small-game license, Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp, and Colorado State Waterfowl Stamp for hunters 16 and older.

Duck and goose seasons vary by species and region. Teal can be hunted during specific teal seasons and all other duck seasons. Turkey hunting is available in spring and fall, with separate licenses required.

Hunting Season Dates for Small Games

Small game hunting seasons extend throughout the year for different species. Snowshoe hare can typically be hunted in fall and winter months. Snapping turtle hunting is permitted in some areas, subject to specific regulations.

Migratory game bird seasons are set annually in compliance with federal guidelines. Hunters must register for the Harvest Information Program (HIP) through CPW’s licensing system or by phone.

Upland bird hunting includes pheasant, quail, and chukar partridge, with seasons generally running from fall through winter. Specific dates and bag limits are published in the Colorado Small Game and Waterfowl Brochure each year.

Conservation and Wildlife Management

Hunting plays a crucial role in Colorado’s conservation efforts and ecosystem management. Hunters contribute significantly to wildlife protection and habitat preservation through various programs and initiatives.

The Role of Hunters in Conservation

Hunters in Colorado actively participate in conservation efforts through the purchase of hunting licenses and habitat stamps. These funds directly support wildlife management programs and habitat restoration projects. The Colorado Parks and Wildlife department uses this revenue to maintain healthy wildlife populations and protect critical ecosystems.

Hunters also assist in population control of certain species, helping to maintain ecological balance. This is particularly important for managing elk and deer populations, which can impact vegetation and other wildlife if left unchecked.

Many hunters volunteer their time for conservation projects, such as habitat improvement and wildlife surveys. These efforts provide valuable data for wildlife biologists and land managers.

Habitat Preservation Initiatives

Colorado’s Habitat Stamp Program is a key initiative for preserving wildlife habitats. All hunters and anglers must purchase a habitat stamp, which funds land acquisitions and habitat improvement projects.

The Bighorn Sheep Access Program allows hunters to access prime habitats while generating funds for conservation. This program helps protect and enhance bighorn sheep populations and their habitats.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife also partners with landowners to create conservation easements, preserving large tracts of private land for wildlife habitat. These partnerships are crucial for maintaining wildlife corridors and protecting diverse ecosystems.

Hunting and Colorado’s Ecosystem

Hunting serves as a vital tool in maintaining Colorado’s ecological balance. Regulated hunting helps control wildlife populations, preventing overgrazing and habitat degradation.

Predator management through hunting helps protect vulnerable species and livestock. This is particularly important in areas where mountain lions or bears may pose threats to other wildlife or domestic animals.

Hunting also promotes biodiversity by preventing any single species from dominating an ecosystem. This balance is essential for maintaining healthy plant communities and diverse wildlife populations.

By participating in hunting, outdoor enthusiasts gain a deeper understanding of Colorado’s ecosystems. This connection often leads to increased support for conservation efforts and sustainable land use practices.

Additional Hunting Resources

Colorado offers valuable resources to support hunters in their pursuit of game. These tools enhance safety, clarify regulations, and provide options for managing licenses.

Hunter Education and Safety

Hunter education is mandatory for anyone born on or after January 1, 1949, who wants to hunt in Colorado. The state offers both in-person and online courses. These programs cover firearm safety, wildlife management, and hunting ethics.

Hunters must wear at least 500 square inches of solid fluorescent orange or pink material above the waist while in the field. This requirement applies to most big game seasons, with some exceptions for archery and certain special seasons.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife provides free hunting clinics and workshops throughout the year. These events offer hands-on experience and expert guidance for both new and experienced hunters.

Hunting License Refunds and Reissues

Colorado offers refunds for hunting licenses under specific circumstances. Refunds may be granted for medical reasons, military duty, or extreme emergencies.

To request a refund, hunters must submit a completed refund application form along with supporting documentation. The deadline for refund requests is typically within 30 days of the start of the hunting season.

License reissues are available for lost or destroyed licenses. Hunters can obtain a replacement through the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website or at authorized license agents for a small fee.

Understanding Hunting Regulations

Colorado’s hunting regulations are updated annually. Hunters should carefully review the current year’s brochure for specific rules, season dates, and bag limits.

Game Management Units (GMUs) divide the state into distinct hunting areas. Each unit may have different regulations and license quotas.

Special regulations apply to certain species and areas. For example, some units require mandatory checks for harvested animals.

Leftover limited licenses, if available, go on sale in early August. These provide additional opportunities for hunters who didn’t draw their preferred licenses during the primary application period.

Non-Resident Hunter Information

Non-resident hunters planning to pursue game in Colorado need to be aware of specific regulations and limitations. For the 2024 season, non-resident hunters are restricted to 25% of the total permits for most hunt codes.

In units where residents have needed 6 or more preference points to draw over the past three years, non-residents are further limited to 20% of available permits. This change aims to balance hunting opportunities between residents and non-residents.

Colorado hunting licenses for non-residents can be purchased through various channels:

• Online at CPWShop.com
• By phone at 1-800-244-5613
• At authorized sales agents throughout the state

Non-resident hunters must complete an approved hunter education course if born on or after January 1, 1949. This requirement applies before applying for or purchasing a Colorado hunting license.

For the first rifle season, non-residents should check specific dates and regulations for their chosen game management unit. Over-the-counter (OTC) licenses are available for some hunting opportunities and do not require preference points.

Non-residents should carefully review the Colorado Parks and Wildlife regulations to ensure compliance with all hunting laws and seasons for their desired game species.