Colorado stands as a premier destination for hunters seeking a diverse and rich experience. It boasts vast expanses of public lands – 23 million acres – and has the largest elk herd in the US, along with a variety of other big game species such as mule deer, pronghorn, and the Shiras moose. Whether you prefer the traditional bow, a modern rifle, or a muzzle-loader, Colorado’s hunting seasons stretch from the golden hues of early fall to the crisp snows of winter, accommodating every style and preference.
In this guide, we’ll navigate you through the essentials of Colorado hunting seasons – season dates, rules and regulations, licenses info, legal hunting methods and gear, and more. Let’s get started.
Colorado Hunting Season Dates by Game Species
Colorado Hunting Licenses: General Info
Qualifying License: required to apply for big game hunting
To apply for Colorado’s big-game hunting draws, hunters must first purchase or possess a current-year qualifying license. These licenses are available from March 1 and must be obtained before entering either the primary or secondary draw.
Qualifying licenses include annual (valid March 1 – March 31) and lifetime options for residents and nonresidents:
- Annual resident and nonresident small game
- Annual resident combination small game/fishing
- Annual resident senior combination small game /fishing
- Resident or nonresident spring turkey
- Resident or nonresident fall turkey (valid for the secondary draw only)
- Resident veteran lifetime combination small game/fishing
- Resident first responder lifetime combination small game/fishing
- Annual small-game license for resident senior lifetime fishing license holders.
Remember, the license must be valid for the 2024 license year to participate in the draws, and a 2024 Habitat Stamp will be included with the purchase if needed.
Limited License: licenses offered in a limited number and available through the draw(s)
Limited licenses are issued through an application and draw process. The types include:
- Public land licenses – valid across CPW-owned or leased lands, private lands, and most federal lands in the specific units;
- Private-land-only licenses – valid only on private lands in specific GMUs. Require landowner permission to apply for;
- Leftover limited licenses – these are licenses not issued in the primary draw. They become available after the primary draw. The remaining licenses after the secondary draw become over-the-counter leftover limited licenses;
- Ranching for Wildlife (RFW) licenses – exclusive to Colorado residents and are available on certain ranch properties.
- Season choice licenses – offer the flexibility to hunt across different seasons in specified units with the correct method of take until successful. Available for deer and bull or either-sex moose only.
1. LIMITED LICENSES: PRIMARY DRAW
- Availability: Through the draw process.
- Application Period: March 1 – April 2, 8 p.m. MT.
- How to Apply: Online or by phone at 1-800-244-5613.
- License Types: Includes public-land, private-land-only (PLO), and Ranching for Wildlife (RFW) licenses.
- Requirements: Apply by April 2, 8 p.m. MT for limited licenses or preference points.
2. LIMITED LICENSES: SECONDARY DRAW
- Availability: Through the draw process for unclaimed licenses.
- Application Period: June 20 – June 28, 8 p.m. MT.
- Eligibility: Open to all, whether you applied for the primary draw or not. Preference points are not used.
- How to Apply: Online or by phone at 1-800-244-5613.
- License Types: Remaining limited licenses with quota from the primary draw (deer, elk, pronghorn, and bear).
- Additional Info: $8 resident and $10 nonresident application fees. Youth (12–17) receive priority. Leftover licenses after this draw are available for purchase starting Aug. 6, 9 a.m. MT.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) License: unlimited, unlimited add-on bear, and leftover limited licenses available without the draw(s)
This type of license:
- Doesn’t require hunters to go through the draw
- Doesn’t require buying/having a qualifying license
- Doesn’t use preference points
- Can be purchased any time before and during a season.
OTC licenses include:
- Unlimited Licenses: Not quantity-restricted by CPW; available during over-the-counter sales. Doesn’t mean you can buy unlimited number of these (refer to the List A, B & C section).
- Add-on Bear Licenses: With an archery/muzzleloader deer or elk license, you can buy an OTC bear license for the same method of take, if at least one hunting unit overlaps on both licenses. Add-on Rifle Licenses are available for holders of an E-E-061-E1-R license.
- Leftover Limited Licenses: Unissued licenses from primary/secondary draws are listed for purchase online, in-person, or at sales agents on leftover day, including reissued licenses.
1. OVER-THE-COUNTER (OTC): LEFTOVER/REISSUED LIMITED LICENSES
- Sale Start Date: August 6 (9 a.m. MT)
- Purchase Options: In person at sales agents, by phone, or online.
- Availability:
- Leftover List available in late July.
- Reissue Preview List are posted every Tuesdays at 11 a.m. MT; those hunt codes will be available for purchase every Wednesday from 11 a.m. MT.
- All hunt codes will be released every Wednesday, 11 a.m.–1 p.m. MT, starting the week after leftover licenses go on sale. No additions after 1 p.m. MT each Wednesday.
2. OVER-THE-COUNTER (OTC): UNLIMITED LICENSES
- Sale Start Date: August 6 (9 a.m. MT)
- Purchase Options: In person, by phone, or online at designated agents.
- Note: Add-on bear licenses qualify as unlimited OTC licenses; available post-season start.
LIST A, B & C
Big-game hunting licenses are categorized as A, B, or C in hunt code tables or next to most OTC maps, indicating if multiple licenses for the same species are available.
- List A Licenses: Restricted to one per hunter per season. List A license = A.
- List B Licenses: Offers a possibility to obtain two licenses per season, combining either one List A and one List B or two List B = A+B or B+B
- List C Licenses: List C hunts allow for unlimited List C licenses along with the potential for one List A and one List B or multiple List B licenses = A+B+C+C+C, or B+B+C+C+C, etc.
Colorado Big Game Hunting: Deer, Elk, Pronghorn, Moose & Bear
Planning Your Big Game Hunt
Here’s what you need to know before you continue your research on CO hunting seasons and regulations:
Have hunter education
You must have hunter education certification and card number to apply for draws or purchase a hunting license if born after Jan. 1, 1949. You must carry proof while hunting.
Choose your species
Colorado offers 10 big game species, including mule and whitetail deer, elk, pronghorn, moose, and bear.
Know your hunting area
Colorado’s hunting regions are divided into Game Management Units (GMUs). Hunters must know their GMU boundaries, including private lands. Check out the state map and unit descriptions here.
Know the season for your game
Deer, elk, and bear archery hunting season begins in early September and spans nearly a month. Muzzleloader season overlaps with archery, followed by four rifle seasons. The first rifle season is exclusive to elk and bear, while the subsequent three allow hunting for elk, bear, and deer simultaneously.
Pick the method of take
Colorado offers hunting seasons for archery, muzzleloader, and rifle/associated methods, which include shotguns, handguns, muzzleloaders (minimum .40 caliber, .50 for elk/moose), and bows/crossbows.
What licenses you can get
Annually, a limited number of licenses are distributed across GMUs. Participate in big game draws or buy leftover licenses after the draws are over.
Some licenses for elk, pronghorn, and bear are available without draws and are unlimited in number. You can purchase them online, by phone, or in-person statewide.
Colorado Hunting Licenses for Big Game: Draws Dates
LIMITED LICENSES: PRIMARY DRAW (deer, elk, pronghorn, moose & bear)
- Qualifying licenses go on sale: March 1
- Applications accepted: March 1 – April 2
- Application & correction deadline: April 2 (8 p.m. MT)
- Draw results posted online: May 28 – 31
- Surrender period deadline: June 3 (11:59 p.m. MT)
- Payment deadline: June 14 (11:59 p.m. MT)
- Licenses in the mail by: June 28
LIMITED LICENSES: SECONDARY DRAW (deer, elk, pronghorn & bear)
- Qualifying licenses go on sale: March 1
- Applications accepted: June 20 – 28
- Application & correction deadline: June 28 (8 p.m. MT)
- Draw results posted online: July 8
- Surrender period deadline: July 10 (11:59 p.m. MT)
- Payment deadline: July 22 (11:59 p.m. MT)
- Licenses in the mail by: July 26
OTC LICENSES
- Leftover/Reissues licenses go on sale: Aug. 6 (9 a.m. MT)
- Unlimited OTC licenses go on sale: Aug. 6 (9 a.m. MT)
CO Big Game Hunting License Requirements
What do you need to buy a license
- Proper ID & proof of residency;
- Proof of hunter education;
- Habitat Stamp (2024 or lifetime) – required for everyone aged 18–64 before buying any license or applying for draws. It’s automatically added to your first hunting or fishing license purchase, if applicable, including qualifying licenses. Nonrefundable.
- Qualifying license – required only to participate in big-game draws. Hunters wishing to buy leftover limited or over-the-counter licenses don’t need a qualifying license.
Rules & Requirements
- The hunter must possess and carry during hunting a physical hunting license.
- Carry proof of hunter education unless the license has a “V”; verify at the CPW office or state park.
- You must hunt only the specified animal, sex, season, unit(s), and method as well as follow land-use rules.
- It’s illegal to give false information, alter, loan, transfer, sell, or give away your license.
- Duplicate licenses are available for half the original cost (not to exceed $25) if your license is lost or destroyed; purchasable from sales agents before the season or CPW locations after it starts.
- Licenses expire on the date printed on the license.
- Nonresident fishing licenses are valid until March 31, 2025, even after detaching a big-game carcass tag, provided the rest of the license remains intact.
Preference Points & Weighted Preference Points
Preference Points: General Info
- Hunters receive 1 preference point per species if they don’t draw a first-choice license in the primary draw. Points are used only in the primary draw, not the secondary.
- Youths aged 12–17 (and 11-year-olds turning 12 in 2024) can apply for preference points.
- Preference points can be chosen as the first-choice hunt code on applications to use another year – no need to submit a separate application for preference points.
- If you are issued a first-choice license, all accumulated points for that species will be reset to zero.
- Points will keep accumulating until a first-choice license is drawn, but they expire if no application or purchase for that species is made within 10 years.
- Priority goes to those with the most points, except when the license quota or nonresident cap would be exceeded, and except for the hybrid draw.
- For group applications, the allocation is based on the lowest point member.
- Second-, third-, and fourth-choice, over-the-counter, leftover limited licenses, and the secondary draw don’t use or generate points.
- Preference point fees are not required for deer, elk, pronghorn, or bear.
- Points are species-specific and non-transferable, not tied to hunt codes, sex, units, seasons, or method of take.
- Active duty U.S. military stationed in Colorado or claiming Colorado residency, returning from deployment, may apply for missed preference points. Applications will be available at the end of July.
Weighted Preference Points: General Info
- Colorado also uses a weighted preference point system for moose, Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, and mountain goat licenses, increasing draw probability.
- Hunters can accumulate up to three points; failure to draw a first-choice license having three points grants weighted preference.
- Weighted preference is calculated by randomizing the application number and then dividing it by the number of weighted points you have plus one. Individuals with three preference points and no weighted preference will have their application number divided by one.
- Preference point fees apply to both standard and weighted points for these species. Read more about the weighted preference here.
Preference point fees:
- Moose, bighorn sheep, and mountain goat: If you apply for a preference point hunt code as your first choice or are unsuccessful in drawing your first choice hunt, you’ll be charged a $50 resident or $100 non-resident preference point fee. This fee is not required for youths and lifetime license holders, while Colorado military personnel overseas can get refunds.
- You can choose not to pay the preference point fee during your application, which means you won’t be charged and won’t get a preference or weighted point for 2024, even if applying for a preference point as your first choice.
- If you apply for a point only, your credit card will be charged after the draw. The application fee, $12.15 Habitat Stamp, and qualifying license fees are nonrefundable. Failure to charge your card prompts an email notice; not paying by June 14 results in forfeiting your 2024 preference point.
Big Game Hunting License Fees
Limited License Draw Application Processing Fee (per species, per draw, nonrefundable):
- Resident – $8
- Nonresident – $10
Habitat Stamp (required and non-refundable):
- Habitat Stamp 2024 – $12.15
- Lifetime Habitat Stamp – $364.63
Qualifying licenses:
Resident:
- Spring turkey – $35.76 (youth $18.75)
- Fall turkey (valid for the secondary draw only) – $29.69 (youth $18.75)
- Annual small game – $35.76 (youth $1.46)
- Small game/fishing combo – $60.05
- Senior small game/fishing combo (age 65+) – $35.32
- Annual small-game license for senior lifetime fishing license holders (Senior Columbine or Centennial lifetime fishing license holders only) – $25.60
- Veteran lifetime combo (60% disabled or Purple Heart recipient) – free
- First responder lifetime combo (permanent occupational disability) – free
Nonresident:
- Spring turkey – $183.94 (youth $123.21)
- Fall turkey (valid for the secondary draw only) – $183.94 (youth $123.21)
- Annual small game – $98.92 (youth $1.46)
Preference & Weighted Point Fee (Moose, Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep and mountain goat only):
- Resident (age 18+) – $50
- Nonresident (age 18+) – $100
License Fees (draw, leftover, OTC):
Deer
Resident adult – $47.91
Resident youth – $18.45
Nonresident adult/fishing combo* – $481.52
Nonresident youth/fishing combo* – $122.91
Elk
Resident adult – $66.12
Resident youth – $18.45
Nonresident bull/fishing combo* – $803.39
Nonresident either-sex/fishing combo* – $803.39
Nonresident cow/fishing combo* – $803.39
Nonresident youth/fishing combo* – $122.91
Pronghorn
Resident adult – $47.91
Resident youth – $18.45
Nonresident adult/fishing combo* – $481.52
Nonresident youth/fishing combo* – $122.91
Moose
Resident – $366.13
Nonresident/fishing combo*- $2,686.04
Bear
Resident – $60.05
Resident youth – $17.85
Nonresident adult/fishing combo* – $251.75
Nonresident youth/ fishing combo* – $59.89
Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep/Desert bighorn sheep/Mountain goat
Resident – $366.13
Nonresident (one species + fishing combo)* – $2,686.04
*Fishing licenses are good through March 31.
Colorado Big Game Hunting Rules Highlights
- Avoid Confusion with Young Wildlife: Distinguish between moose calves and cow elks — moose calves have reddish fur. Also, don’t hunt bear cubs under a year old.
- Reporting Mistakes: If you accidentally shoot the wrong species, field dress it and immediately contact CPW for the next steps.
- Hunting Hours: Legal times are from half-hour before sunrise to half-hour after sunset.
- Hunter Orange: Wear 500 square inches of fluorescent orange or pink, plus a matching hat, when hunting with firearms. Archery hunters are encouraged but not required to do so for safety.
- Tagging Game: Sign and attach your carcass tag to your game immediately after harvest.
- OHV Use: Operate OHVs with a valid Colorado registration or permit on designated routes. Permits cost $25.25.
- Horse Entry: Obtain a health certificate for horses entering Colorado from out-of-state.
- GPS Marking: Hunters who have GPS units are encouraged to mark harvest locations, especially for moose or bear (also, read about mandatory inspections and reports for moose and bear).
- Collared Animals: Report and return any collars from harvested collared wildlife to CPW.
Big Game: Legal Methods of Take
CENTERFIRE RIFLES
- Minimum .24 caliber (6 mm).
- Barrel at least 16 inches, total length minimum 26 inches.
- Semiautomatics limited to 6 rounds total in magazine and chamber.
- Expanding bullets required, minimum 70 grains for deer, pronghorn, and bear; 85 grains for elk and moose, with over 1,000 ft-lbs impact energy at 100 yards.
- Illegal for hunting game birds, small-game mammals, or furbearers with >.23 caliber rifles during rifle deer/elk seasons west of I-25 unfilled deer or elk license for the season.
- Prohibitions:
- Smart rifles, including firearms with target tracking systems, electronic triggers, or scopes with computer processors.
- Fully automatic rifles.
MUZZLELOADING RIFLES & SMOOTHBORE MUSKETS
- Muzzleloading seasons require legal muzzleloaders only.
- Use of in-line muzzleloaders permitted.
- Firearms must be single-barrel firing single projectiles.
- Minimum calibers: .40 for conical, .50 for round-ball (deer/pronghorn/bear), .50 for conical, .54 for round-ball (elk/moose).
- Bullet weights: ≥170 grains (.40-.50 caliber), ≥210 grains (> .50 caliber).
- Shotshell primers and B.O.R. Lock MZ System bullets are legal.
- Pelletized powder systems are banned during muzzleloading seasons.
- Breech-loading is prohibited.
- Only open or iron sights, with legal fiber optics and fluorescent paint; no scopes or sighting devices using artificial light, batteries, and electronic
gear. - Sabots are forbidden, cloth patches are not sabots.
- Black powder and substitutes are allowed, smokeless powder is disallowed.
- No electronic/battery-powered devices on muzzleloaders.
SHOTGUNS
- Minimum 20 gauge, firing a single slug; buckshot not allowed for big game.
- Barrel at least 18 inches long, overall length 26 inches minimum.
HAND-HELD BOWS
- Long, recurve, or compound bows must be hand-drawn and not mechanically held. String or mechanical releases are allowed if hand-operated without additional attachments to the bow, besides the bowstring.
- Must use broadhead arrows with ≥7/8-inch width and two steel edges, aligned in the same plane.
- Draw weight must be a minimum of 35 lbs; no maximum let-off specified.
- Arrow support/guide devices must not contact the arrow beyond the bow’s brace height.
- Only one arrow can be shot at a time; no auto-loading mechanisms.
- No scopes or electronic devices on bows/arrows, except lighted nocks. Recording devices may be used as long as they do not cast light toward the target or aid in range finding, sighting or shooting the bow
- Hydraulic or pneumatic technology cannot be used to derive or store energy to propel arrows; explosive arrows are banned.
CROSSBOWS
- Draw weight minimum 125 pounds.
- Draw length must be at least 14 inches.
- Must have a positive mechanical safety device.
- Bolts minimum 16 inches long with a broadhead at least 7/8-inch wide and two steel cutting edges. Each
cutting edge must be in the same plane for entire length of cutting surface. - Not allowed during archery seasons.
HANDGUNS
- Barrel at least 4 inches long.
- Uses .24-caliber (6 mm) expanding bullets.
- No shoulder stocks or attachments.
- Cartridge or load must deliver a minimum of 550 ft-lbs energy at 50 yards.
CALLS
- Mechanical, including mouth calls, allowed.
- Electronic calls for big-game hunting are prohibited.
Big Game Bag Limits
- BAG LIMITS, LICENSE PURCHASES: Bag and possession limits dictate the legal number of each species you can take. Big game harvested in Jan. and Feb. count towards the prior year’s limits. Multiple-unit licenses are limited by the unit specified in the hunt code.
- MOOSE: There is a lifetime limit of one bull moose per hunter, excluding auction, raffle, or special management licenses.
- COYOTES: Coyotes can be hunted without a small-game license during big-game seasons with an unfilled big-game license, but only in the same unit and manner as the big-game license specifies. After filling the big-game license, a small-game or furbearer license is required to continue hunting coyotes. Coyote harvest does not affect the status of your big-game license.
Big Game Tagging
- Attach Carcass Tag: Immediately after harvesting, sign, date, and attach the carcass tag to the harvested animal as per instructions. Keep the tag on until the meat is processed.
- Tag Placement: Place the tag on the carcass or a significant piece with sex evidence. Keep intact during transport or storage until the meat is consumed.
- Legality and Authorization: A properly attached, signed, and dated carcass tag legalizes possession, transportation, and storage of the carcass or parts.
- Illegal Actions: Signing the tag before harvest is illegal. After the harvest, only remove the carcass tag; removing other parts voids the license.
- License and Tag Loss: If the carcass tag is lost, destroyed, or detached, secure a duplicate at a CPW office by proving accidental loss or destruction.
- Nonresident Combo License: For nonresidents with a big game/fishing combo license, the fishing license remains valid after detaching the carcass tag, provided the rest of the license is intact.
Big Game Transporting
- . You can be cited for illegally transporting game animals even if someone else made an error. Ensure carcasses are tagged, meet evidence of sex and
antler-point requirements, and are accompanied by hunters’ licenses and either carcass tags or donation certificates for processed meat. - Attach carcass tags securely to the carcass itself, ensuring they also accompany any processed meat.
- For commercial shipping, include the original or a copy of the license and carcass tags or donation certificates with the carcass or processed meat.
- Adhere to National Park Service regulations when transporting game through federal areas. Contact the National Park Service.
- Nonresidents must comply with their state’s laws for transporting game from areas with Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD).
Colorado Elk Hunting Season Dates
![Colorado Hunting Seasons 2024-2025 [Guide]](https://blog.gritroutdoors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/otc-antlered-elk-rifle-season.jpg "Colorado Hunting Seasons 2024-2025 [Guide] 5")
Archery Elk
West of I-25 and Unit 140: Sept. 2–30*
Muzzleloader Elk (by draw only)
Statewide: Sept. 14 – 22*
Rifle Elk
1st season: Oct. 12 – 16
2nd season: Oct. 26 – Nov. 3
3rd season: Nov. 9 – 15
4th season: Nov. 20 – 24
*unless otherwise noted in the brochure tables
Colorado Deer Hunting Season
Archery Deer
West of I-25 and Unit 140: Sept. 2–30*
Plains deer (east of I-25, except Unit 140): Oct. 1–25, Nov. 6–30, Dec. 15–31
Whitetail-only (limited): Oct. 1–25, Nov. 6–30, Dec. 15–31
Muzzleloader Deer (by draw only)
Statewide: Sept. 14 – 22*
Plains deer (east of I-25, except Unit 140): Oct. 12–20
Whitetail-only (limited): Oct. 12–20
Rifle Deer
2nd season: Oct. 26 – Nov. 3
3rd season: Nov. 9 – 15
4th season: Nov. 20 – 24
Plains deer (east of I-25, except Unit 140): Oct. 26–Nov. 5
Late plains deer (east of I-25, except Unit 140): Dec. 1–14
Whitetail-only (limited): Oct. 26-Nov. 5
Late Whitetail-only (limited): Dec. 1-14
*unless otherwise noted in the brochure tables
Colorado Pronghorn Hunting Season Dates
Archery Pronghorn
Pronghorn (Limited): Aug. 15-20 or Aug. 15-20 & Sept. 1-20 (split season)
Pronghorn bucks only (OTC): Aug. 15-31
Pronghorn either sex (OTC): Sept. 1-20
Muzzleloader Pronghorn (by draw only)
Statewide: Sept. 21–29
Rifle Pronghorn
Pronghorn (limited): Oct. 5 – 13*
*Check hunt code tables in brochure for early and late rifle seasons for certain hunts.
Colorado Bear Hunting Season Dates
Archery Bear
Bear (OTC and/or limited): Sept. 2–30
Muzzleloader Bear (by draw only)
Bear (OTC and/or limited): Sept. 14 – 22
Rifle Bear
Bear Sept. (limited): Sept. 2–30
1st season (OTC and/or limited): Oct. 12 – 16
2nd season (OTC and/or limited): Oct. 26 – Nov. 3
3rd season (OTC and/or limited): Nov. 9 – 15
4th season (OTC and/or limited): Nov. 20 – 24
Bear Private-Land-Only (OTC): Sept. 2–Nov. 24*
*unless otherwise noted in the brochure tables
Colorado Moose Hunting Season Dates
Archery Moose
Statewide: Sept. 7–30
Muzzleloader Moose (by draw only)
Statewide: Sept. 14 – 22*
Rifle Moose
Statewide: Oct. 1–14
*unless otherwise noted in the brochure tables
Colorado Sheep & Goat Hunting Season Dates
![Colorado Hunting Seasons 2024-2025 [Guide]](https://blog.gritroutdoors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/big-horn-sheep-gmu-map-colorado.jpg "Colorado Hunting Seasons 2024-2025 [Guide] 7")
Rocky Mtn. Bighorn Sheep
Statewide: Aug. 1 – Dec. 31*
Desert Bighorn Sheep
Statewide: Nov. 1 – 30
Mountain Goat
Statewide: Sept. 3 – Oct. 31*
*Season Dates: Hunt dates vary by license type and hunt location.
Colorado Mountain Lion Hunting
![Colorado Hunting Seasons 2024-2025 [Guide]](https://blog.gritroutdoors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/colorado-mountain-lion-hunting.jpeg "Colorado Hunting Seasons 2024-2025 [Guide] 9")
CO Mountain Lion Hunting License Requirements
What do you need to buy a license
- Proper ID & proof of residency;
- Proof of hunter education;
- Habitat Stamp (2024 or lifetime) – required for everyone aged 18–64 who buys or applies for hunting or fishing licenses, or preference points.
Rules & Requirements
- You must carry a lion license during hunting within the April 1–March 31 license year.
- Hunter education for hunting lion: 1. You must have a hunter education card to purchase a license; 2. Mandatory Mountain Lion Education certified course and test are available online (CID number required). Alternatively, tests can be taken at CPW area offices.
- Carry the hunter education completion certificate while hunting or ensure “V” is printed on the license. To verify hunter education, present the card at any CPW office or state park.
- Out-of-state/province/country hunter education cards are accepted.
- Hunter Education Exemptions:
- For Over-50/Active Military/Veterans: Test out for certificate.
- Apprentice Certificate: Available for individuals 10+ years (12+ for big game), requires mentor; usable twice (cpw.info/apprentice-certificate).
Mountain Lion Hunting License Fees
Habitat Stamp (required and non-refundable):
- Habitat Stamp 2024 – $12.15
- Lifetime Habitat Stamp – $364.63
Licenses
- Resident – $60.05
- Nonresident – $501.75
Mountain Lion Hunting Regulations
- CHECK LIMITS: Before hunting, verify the Available Mountain Lion Harvest Limits online.
- UNIT CLOSURES: Hunting in a unit is illegal once it’s closed, as indicated in the “Daily Harvest Limits Report.”
- HUNTING HOURS: Legal hours are from half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset.
- AGE REQUIREMENTS: Hunters must be 12 or older. Eleven-year-olds can purchase a license if they turn 12 by season’s end but cannot hunt before their 12th birthday. Hunters 16 or under need an adult (18+) with hunter education to accompany them.
- CLOTHING: Fluorescent pink is an acceptable alternative to fluorescent orange for hunters. Wearing fluorescent orange or pink is encouraged but not required for lion hunters.
- PROHIBITIONS:
- Killing kittens or lions with kittens (spotted lions are kittens).
- Using artificial light.
- Using bait.
- Only non-electronic calls are allowed; electronic calls are banned.
- DOGS:
- Up to 8 dogs per pack permitted; pursuing lions with dogs for training outside of season is forbidden.
- Hunters must be present and actively involved when dogs are released.
- AFTER PURSUIT: Lions must be harvested or released after being pursued, treed, or cornered; blocking escape for others to harvest is illegal.
- MEAT PREPARATION: Edible parts (excluding internal organs) must be prepared for human consumption.
- TAGGING: Carcass tag must be immediately attached to the harvested lion.
- TRANSPORTING CARCASSES: It’s illegal to transport a mountain lion carcass without natural evidence of sex attached unless under specific conditions like commercial processing or with a donation certificate.
- EQUIPMENT RESTRICTION: Hunting within 50 feet of road centerlines using archery, rifles, muzzleloaders, handguns, or shotguns with single slugs is prohibited.
- AREA CLOSURES: Kenosha Pass and Guanella Pass Rd. areas have specific hunting restrictions and closures detailed by location and conditions, including proximity to roads and landmarks.
Mountain Lion: Legal Methods of Take
Centerfire Rifles / Handguns
- Bullets must weigh a minimum of 45 grains.
- Must produce at least 400 foot-pounds of energy at the muzzle.
- Handguns require a minimum barrel length of 4 inches.
- Semiautomatics are limited to a combined magazine and chamber capacity of 6 rounds.
- Prohibitions include smart rifles and fully automatic rifles.
Muzzleloading Rifles & Smoothbore Muskets
- Minimum caliber of .40 for conical bullets; .50 for roundball bullets.
- Bullets must be at least 170 grains in weight.
Shotguns
- Minimum gauge of 20.
- Must fire single slug.
Hand-Held Bows
- Long, recurve, or compound bows must be hand-drawn and not mechanically held. String or mechanical releases are allowed if hand-operated without additional attachments to the bow, besides the bowstring.
- Must use broadhead arrows with ≥7/8-inch width and two steel edges, aligned in the same plane.
- Draw weight must be a minimum of 35 lbs; no maximum let-off specified.
- Arrow support/guide devices must not contact the arrow beyond the bow’s brace height.
- Only one arrow can be shot at a time; no auto-loading mechanisms.
- No scopes or electronic devices on bows/arrows, except lighted nocks. Recording devices may be used as long as they do not cast light toward the target or aid in range finding, sighting or shooting the bow
- Hydraulic or pneumatic technology cannot be used to derive or store energy to propel arrows; explosive arrows are banned.
Crossbows
- Draw weight minimum 125 pounds.
- Draw length must be at least 14 inches.
- Must have a positive mechanical safety device.
- Bolts minimum 16 inches long with a broadhead at least 7/8-inch wide and two steel cutting edges. Each
cutting edge must be in the same plane for entire length of cutting surface.
Bag Limits
- LICENSE YEAR LIMIT: 1 mountain lion, any sex, per license year (April 1–March 31). Hunters may harvest one lion from Nov. 25, 2024–March 31, 2025, depending on the valid season dates for the unit you are hunting.
- SPECIAL DAMAGE SEASONS: Lions harvested during these seasons don’t count towards the annual limit.
- SOUTHERN UTE INDIAN RESERVATION: Lions harvested here do not count towards the annual bag limit.
Reporting & Inspection
- REPORT HARVEST: Notify a CPW office within 48 hours of harvesting a mountain lion. Provide CID, license number, date and location of harvest, and the lion’s sex via voicemail if necessary.
- PREPARE LION: After taking field photos, place a stick in the lion’s mouth to keep it open, aiding in later tooth extraction by CPW agents.
- INSPECTION AND SEALING: Personally present the lion’s head and hide, unfrozen, to a CPW office within 5 days for inspection and sealing. If heads and hides are frozen, they may be retained by CPW until thawed for tooth extraction. Hunters must complete a hunt report. Lions or parts must be inspected and sealed before leaving Colorado. Unsealed hides or heads become state property. A mandatory check report is required at inspection, which is free. Seals must remain until the hide is tanned.
- INTERNATIONAL TRANSPORT: For exporting a mountain lion or parts internationally, obtain CITES documents from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (303-342-7430) or download them from the official website.
Colorado Mountain Lion Hunting Season Dates
Mountain Lion Season
Statewide: Nov. 25, 2024–March 31, 2025
Colorado Turkey Hunting
Colorado Hunting Licenses for Turkey: Important Dates
- Application accepted beginning:
- Spring: Jan. 2
- Fall: May 1
- Application & correction deadline:
- Spring: Feb. 6 (8 p.m. MT)
- Fall: May 31 (8 p.m. MT)
- Draw results online:
- Spring: Feb. 14
- Fall: June 5
- Surrender period deadline:
- Spring: Feb 16 (11:59 p.m. MT)
- Fall: June 17 (11:59 p.m. MT)
- Payment deadline:
- Spring: Feb 28 (11:59 p.m. MT)
- Fall: June 19 (11:59 p.m. MT)
- OTC license sales begin:
- Spring: March 1 (9 a.m. MT)
- Fall: June 20 (9 a.m. MT)
Turkey Preference Points:
- Earning Preference Points: Earn 1 point for not drawing a first-choice hunt code, or by applying for a preference point as your first choice. Earn 2 points for turkey each year by applying in both seasons.
- Preference Point Hunt Code: Apply using hunt code T-M-999-99-P (spring) or T-E-999-99-P (fall) for preference points only. Requires purchasing a Habitat Stamp and paying application fees, both nonrefundable.
- Draw Priority: Priority is given based on highest preference points; in group applications, the lowest member’s points determine priority.
- Use of Points: Only applicable to first-choice applications; second to fourth choices do not affect or earn points.
- Accumulation and Use: Points accumulate over years and are only used when drawing a first-choice license.
- Maintaining Points: Must apply or purchase a license once every 10 years to avoid losing points. This includes applying for points to keep the file active.
- Monitoring Points: Track preference point levels and draw results in your CPW account profile.
CO Turkey Hunting License Requirements
What do you need to buy a license
- Proper ID & proof of residency;
- Proof of hunter education;
- Habitat Stamp (2024 or lifetime) – required for everyone aged 18–64 who buys or applies for hunting or fishing licenses, or preference points.
Rules & Requirements
- TURKEY LICENSE: Small-game licenses do not cover turkeys; a specific turkey license is needed.
- LIMITED LICENSES: Available by draw for spring/fall, valid only for designated dates/units. Hunters can apply online. 1 application per season, with fall applications opening MAY 1.
- OTC LICENSES: Available for both seasons, purchasable online, by phone, or in-person at CPW locations.
- LICENSE VALIDITY: Licenses are valid for and expire after the season printed on them. Licenses are not transferable.
- FALSE STATEMENTS: Illegal and void the license.
- HIP REGISTRATION: Not required for turkey hunters.
- HUNTER EDUCATION:
- You must have a hunter education card to apply for / purchase a license;
- Carry the hunter education completion certificate while hunting or ensure “V” is printed on the license. To verify hunter education, present the card at any CPW office or state park.
- Out-of-state/province/country hunter education cards are accepted.
- Hunter Education Exemptions:
- For Over-50/Active Military/Veterans: Test out for certificate.
- Apprentice Certificate: Available for individuals 10+ years (12+ for big game), requires mentor; usable twice (cpw.info/apprentice-certificate).
CO Turkey License Fees
Habitat Stamp (required and non-refundable):
- Habitat Stamp 2024 – $12.15
- Lifetime Habitat Stamp – $364.63
Licenses
Resident
- Application processing fee – $8.00
- Spring – $35.76
- Fall – $29.69
- Youth Spring or Fall (under 18) – $18.75
Nonresident
- Application processing fee – $10.00
- Spring or Fall – $138.94
- Youth Spring or Fall (under 18) – $123.21
CO Turkey Hunting Regulations
- HUNTING HOURS: From half an hour before sunrise to sunset.
- BAG LIMITS:
- Spring: 2 bearded turkeys (1 with a limited license, 1 with an OTC license).
- Fall: 1 turkey of either sex.
- Late season: 2 beardless turkeys.
- TAGGING: Immediately after harvest, sign, date, and attach the carcass tag from the license to the turkey. Tags must remain attached during transportation, at camp, in storage, or possession. If a tag is lost or detached, obtain a duplicate tag before hunting by proving the incident accidental. Provide proof of accidental detachment, loss, or destruction at any CPW area office for a duplicate.
- EVIDENCE OF SEX: A turkey harvested in the spring must have its beard naturally attached while being transported.
Turkey: Legal Methods of Take
Shotguns
Max 10-gauge, limited to 3-shell capacity; #2 size shot (lead or steel) or smaller. Single slugs are prohibited.
Hand-Held Bows & Crossbows
Allowed.
Centerfire Rifles / Handguns
- Spring: Not allowed.
- Fall & Late Seasons: can be muzzleloading, centerfire, or rimfire; bullets must be ≥17 grains with ≥110 foot-pounds muzzle energy at 100 yards.
Air Guns
Allowed in fall and late seasons, must be .25 caliber or larger precharged pneumatic.
Legal Methods
- Turkeys can be taken over standing crops or feed scattered solely for agricultural purposes. not bait.
- Artificial decoys and manual calls are okay; recorded/electronic calls are prohibited.
It’s illegal to:
- Claim public lands as private, except if under an exclusive control lease.
- Hunt on private property without explicit landowner consent.
- Hunt state trust lands without lessee permission, except in designated wildlife recreation areas.
- Keep a loaded firearm in a vehicle.
- Use vehicles or aircraft for hunting activities.
- Hunt while impaired by drugs or alcohol.
- Hunt with artificial lighting aids.
- Mishandle or waste game meat; excludes internal organs.
- Engage in party hunting—taking game for others or vice versa.
- Use electronic calls or recordings for hunting.
- Bait turkeys with food substances.
- Install permanent hunting blinds or stands on SWAs; only removable ones are allowed and must be taken down daily.
- Use nails in trees for stands or blinds; blinding must identify hunter’s CID and usage dates.
- Reserve or lay claim to public blinds or stands; they’re available on a first-come basis.
- Hunt using internet-based or remote technology, including drones.
- Use live-action cameras for immediate game tracking or hunting assistance.
Reporting & Inspection
- REPORT HARVEST: Notify a CPW office within 48 hours of harvesting a mountain lion. Provide CID, license number, date and location of harvest, and the lion’s sex via voicemail if necessary.
- PREPARE LION: After taking field photos, place a stick in the lion’s mouth to keep it open, aiding in later tooth extraction by CPW agents.
- INSPECTION AND SEALING: Personally present the lion’s head and hide, unfrozen, to a CPW office within 5 days for inspection and sealing. If heads and hides are frozen, they may be retained by CPW until thawed for tooth extraction. Hunters must complete a hunt report. Lions or parts must be inspected and sealed before leaving Colorado. Unsealed hides or heads become state property. A mandatory check report is required at inspection, which is free. Seals must remain until the hide is tanned.
- INTERNATIONAL TRANSPORT: For exporting a mountain lion or parts internationally, obtain CITES documents from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (303-342-7430) or download them from the official website.
Colorado Turkey Hunting Season Dates
Spring
Statewide: April 13 – May 31*
Fall
Statewide: September 1 – October 25*
Late Season
Statewide: December 15 – January 15*
*Season Dates: Hunt dates vary by license type and hunt location. See hunt tables for details, pages 4-7 of the brochure. Some licenses are valid only on certain dates. It is your responsibility to know the correct dates for your hunt.
Colorado Small Game, Furbearers & Waterfowl Hunting
![Colorado Hunting Seasons 2024-2025 [Guide]](https://blog.gritroutdoors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/co-birds-and-waterfowl-hunting-1024x761.jpeg "Colorado Hunting Seasons 2024-2025 [Guide] 13")
CO Small Game, Furbearers & Waterfowl Hunting License Requirements
Refer to the CPW official website for up-to-date info.
What do you need to buy a license
- Proper ID & proof of residency;
- Proof of hunter education;
- Habitat Stamp (2024 or lifetime) – required for everyone aged 18–64 who buys hunting licenses.
Rules & Requirements
- License Requirements: Hunters need appropriate annual or daily licenses and permits for their game type and must have them on hand during hunting.
- HIP Registration: Hunters of small game, coyotes, and migratory birds must enroll in HIP annually for license validity.
- License Validity Period: Annual fishing, small-game and furbearer licenses, the furbearer harvest permit, and the Colorado Waterfowl Stamps and Habitat Stamps are valid from March 1 to March 31 of the next year, with lifetime licenses for Colorado residents.
- 2024 Small Game License: Required for hunting small game beyond March 31, 2024.
- Small Game Hunting: Requires a small-game or combo small-game/fishing license.
- Furbearer Hunting: Needs a furbearer license (to hunt furbearers only) or (including daily small-game licenses and combo small-game/fishing licenses) AND a $10 annual furbearer harvest permit.
- Coyote Hunting: Can be done with a small-game or furbearer license; no annual furbearer permit needed. If holding an unfilled big-game license for the same season/unit, you can hunt coyotes without additional licenses, but must use the method allowed by the big-game license. After filling the big-game license, a small-game or furbearer license is needed to continue hunting coyotes. Rifle users must use a .23 caliber or smaller.
- Eurasian Collared-Doves Hunting: Requires a hunter education card but no license.
- Common Snapping Turtles Hunting: Needs a small-game or fishing license.
- Waterfowl Hunting: Requires a small-game license. Hunters 16+ need a Federal Duck Stamp and a Colorado State Waterfowl Stamp.
- Colorado State Waterfowl Stamp: Printed on the license and activated by signing your name in ink.
- Federal Duck Stamp:
- Available July 1 online, via phone, at select post offices, CPW offices, and sales agents.
- Valid with ink signature across its face; electronic version issued at state outlets provides a temporary code for 45 days.
- Not required for light geese during the conservation order season.
- Sandhill Cranes Hunting: Requires a federal permit obtained through HIP.
- Band-Tailed Pigeons Hunting: Needs a small-game license and a separate $5 permit.
- Area-specific Licenses: Restrict hunting to designated areas.
- Licenses cannot be transferred to another person.
- False statements during purchase or alteration of a license are illegal and void the license.
- All license exchanges with be charged a $5.00 fee.
- HUNTER EDUCATION:
- You must have a hunter education card to apply for / purchase a license;
- Carry the hunter education completion certificate while hunting or ensure “V” is printed on the license. To verify hunter education, present the card at any CPW office or state park.
- Out-of-state/province/country hunter education cards are accepted.
- Hunter Education Exemptions:
- For Over-50/Active Military/Veterans: Test out for certificate.
- Apprentice Certificate: Available for individuals 10+ years (12+ for big game), requires mentor; usable twice (cpw.info/apprentice-certificate).
- HABITAT STAMP:
- Annual Habitat Stamp is required for hunters aged 18–64, costing $12.15 each and valid from March 1 to March 31 the following year. Lifetime Habitat Stamps are available for $364.63.
- Exemptions:
- Anyone buying a one-day or additional-day license for fishing and/or small game is exempt from purchasing the Habitat Stamp with the first two of these licenses. The habitat fee will be assessed when a third one-day or additional-day license is purchased for fishing or small game.
- Participants in the Columbine, Blue Spruce, Independence, or Big Game Mobility programs are exempt.
CO Small Game, Furbearers & Waterfowl License Fees
Habitat Stamp (required and non-refundable):
- Habitat Stamp 2024 – $12.15
- Lifetime Habitat Stamp – $364.63
Licenses (2023-2024)
As of the day of this post, there are no 2024-2025 license fees available yet. The 2023-2024 fees are given only for reference. Refer to the CPW official website for up-to-date info.
Resident
- Small Game – $33.96
- Small Game (one day) – $15.55
- Small Game (additional day) – $7.50
- Youth Small Game and Furbearer (under 18) – $1.40
- Small Game and Fishing Combination – $56.97
- Colorado Waterfowl Stamp – $11.50
- Federal Migratory Bird Hunting Stamp (Duck Stamp) – $31
- Senior small game & fishing combination (65 and older) – $33.54
- Senior Annual Small Game for Lifetime Fishing License Holders (Senior Columbine or Centennial lifetime fishing license holders only) – $24.34
- First Responder Lifetime small game and fishing – Free
- combination (permanent occupational disability)
- Veteran lifetime small game & fishing combination (60% or more disability) – Free
Nonresident
- Small Game – $93.78
- Small Game (one day) – $19.01
- Small Game (additional day) – $7.50
- Youth Small Game and Furbearer (under 18) – $1.40
- Colorado Waterfowl Stamp – $11.50
- Federal Migratory Bird Hunting Stamp (Duck Stamp) – $31
CO Small Game, Waterfowl & Furbearer Hunting Regulations
Refer to the CPW official website for up-to-date info.
- HUNTING HOURS: Small game/waterfowl allowed from half-hour before sunrise to sunset. Furbearers extend to half-hour after sunset. Raccoons, coyotes, bobcats, skunks, beavers, and foxes may be hunted at night. Light goose hunting is permitted from half-hour before sunrise to half-hour after sunset. See “Furbearers” in “Small-Game Hunting Laws” for details.
- HUNTING AIDS:
- Dogs can hunt small game and furbearers but not cottontail rabbits, snowshoe hares, or tree squirrels during big game seasons.
- Use of artificial decoys is allowed.
- Hawking with neutered, tattooed, and dyed European ferrets is allowed.
- Wildlife can be called using mechanical devices; however, electronic calls are restricted to furbearers and crows.
- Migratory game bird hunting over natural agricultural feeds is permissible; baiting is prohibited.
- Using drones for hunting assistance is illegal.
- GENERAL:
- Firing lines may be established on CPW properties.
- Illegal activities include:
- Killing, capturing, injuring, or harassing wildlife via motor vehicle or aircraft.
- Operating an aircraft with intent to injure, harass, drive, or rally wildlife.
- Discharging firearms or releasing arrows from vehicles or aircraft.
- Discharging firearms or releasing arrows across public roads, with a 50-foot prohibition zone.
- Firearms (other than pistols or revolvers) must have an unloaded chamber in vehicles.
- No firearm with cartridges in the chamber or magazine, or a strung bow (unless cased), is allowed under artificial light.
- Hunters must retrieve and prepare all edible portions of game.
- Hunters are encouraged to wear fluorescent orange or pink for visibility (encouraged for small-game and migratory bird hunters).
- Hunters must stop at CPW check stations as required.
- Hunters must understand that wildlife law violations can lead to license suspension if 20 or more points are accumulated in 5 years.
- OHV regulations include:
- Firearms (excluding handguns) and bows must be unloaded and encased when transported.
- Firearms used on an OHV on private land for depredating wildlife are exempt.
- CALIBER RESTRICTION:
- Hunting game birds, small-game animals, or furbearers with a centerfire rifle larger than .23 in regular rifle deer and elk seasons west of I-25,
unless you have an unfilled deer or elk license for the season you are hunting. A small-game license is required.
- Hunting game birds, small-game animals, or furbearers with a centerfire rifle larger than .23 in regular rifle deer and elk seasons west of I-25,
Legal Methods of Take
Refer to the CPW official website for up-to-date info.
Small Game Mammals:
- HUNTING:
- Allowed: Rifles/handguns, shotguns up to 10 gauge with a 3-shell capacity, hand-held bows/crossbows, air guns, slingshots, hawking.
- Prohibited: Smart rifles (with target tracking, electronic triggers, or ballistics computers) and fully automatic rifles.
- TRAPPING:
- Live traps on public lands must be labeled with the trapper’s CID or name. Unlabeled traps may be confiscated. This rule also applies to furbearers.
Small Game Birds (Except Migratory Birds):
- HUNTING:
- Rifles/handguns permitted for dusky grouse and ptarmigan.
- Shotguns up to 10 gauge, no single slugs, with a 3-shell capacity limit.
- Hand-held bows/crossbows.
- Air guns and slingshots for dusky grouse and ptarmigan.
- Hawking.
Migratory Birds:
- Shotgun Limits: Maximum 10 gauge. Only 3 shells allowed in magazine and chamber combined. Must be shouldered. Modification required for over-capacity shotguns. No slugs for waterfowl.
- Bow Restrictions: Mechanical hold or draw of arrows prohibited. Bows cannot be used on designated firing lines.
- Waterfowl Hunting: Allowed in open areas, blinds, or concealed locations (no sink boxes). Camouflage with crop vegetation must not spread grain/feed.
- Vessel Hunting Rules: Hunting from vessels is permitted if motor is off and sails are furled or if drifting/hand-propelled. Motorized vessels only for retrieving decoys or game.
- Baiting: It’s legal to hunt migratory birds (including waterfowl, coots, and cranes) over non-baited land such as standing, flooded crops, manipulated natural vegetation, or harvested fields with inadvertent seed scattering from standard agricultural practices. Baited land, defined by any area with materials that attract game birds, remains off-limits for 10 days after all bait is removed. Also permissible to hunt these birds over areas where agricultural operations naturally scatter grain or feed.
- Falconry is allowed.
- Aids: Use of dogs, decoys, and calls lawful, excluding recorded/electronically amplified calls, except for crows.
- Plumage, skins, feathers permits:
- No permit needed for possessing/transporting legal migratory bird plumage or skins.
- No permit required to possess, dispose, or transport feathers from legally killed wild ducks/geese or birds seized by authorities. Legally obtained feathers can be used to make fishing flies, beddings, and other commercial products, excluding millinery or decorative items.
- Light Goose Season allows electronic calls and shotguns with >3 rounds; hunts extend from half-hour before sunrise to half-hour after sunset; Colorado stamp required, not federal.
Furbearers:
- Legal Equipment for Trapping and Hunting:
- Permitted equipment includes any rifle, handgun, shotgun, handheld bow/crossbow, live (cage/box) traps, and pre-charged pneumatic air guns (.25 caliber or larger for coyote/bobcat).
- Bait from plant/animal sources; no metal, glass, plastic, or paper. Legal wildlife parts allowed.
- Electronic calls permitted.
- Trap Checking:
- Traps must be checked daily; every 24 hours in lynx areas.
- Accidentally trapped animals during open seasons must be immediately killed or released; live trapped animals can’t be moved and must be killed or released on-site.
- Captured Animals Handling:
- Release immediately any accidentally trapped wildlife when not in season or illegal; Dead non-target wildlife found in traps must be reported to a CPW officer within 5 days.
- If you accidentally capture a Canada lynx and it’s not injured, you must release it immediately and report it to CPW within 24 hours. If a lynx is accidentally injured, but not in your possession, you must report it to CPW within 24 hours. If you capture a lynx accidentally and injure it, take the lynx to CPW or a licensed veterinarian, and report it to CPW within 24 hours. If you accidentally kill a lynx, you must report it to CPW within 24 hours, and take the carcass to CPW within 3 days after the report. Compliance ensures exemption from illegal possession charges.
- Night Hunting:
- Private land hunting (beavers, raccoons, coyotes, bobcats, striped skunks and red, gray or swift foxes) with artificial light is permitted with landowner consent for specified animals.
- Public land hunting restrictions:
- Artificial light for hunting raccoons, coyotes, bobcats, skunks, beavers, and foxes requires a permit, valid only for specified times/locations.
- Permits not valid 24h before/during deer, elk, pronghorn seasons, or opening weekends for grouse, pheasant, quail, waterfowl.
- Illegal to use lights attached to/inside vehicles or hunt within 500 yards of structures, or where it compromises safety.
- Permit must be presented upon request by law enforcement.
- CPW reserves the right to deny permits.
- No permits for bobcat hunting in lynx areas. Accidental lynx kills result in revocation and non-issue of bobcat night-hunting permits for the year.
Tagging & Transporting Birds
Refer to the CPW official website for up-to-date info.
- Attach carcass tags to required wildlife.
- Accompany wildlife without a carcass tag, exceptions noted.
- Keep one wing or head on birds until final destination.
- Mark migratory bird shipments with sender and receiver details.
- Don’t abandon migratory birds without proper tagging.
- Receiving or possessing untagged migratory birds is illegal.
- Record species, receipt, and disposal dates, plus sender/receiver details for migratory bird handling.
- Retain records for one year post-last entry.
- Permit authorized inspections of records and facilities.
- Weekly import limits are 25 doves, 10 pigeons, 10 ducks, and 5 geese from foreign countries, excluding Canada and Mexico, where export limits apply. Birds must have one wing attached during transport. Importing birds owned by others is illegal.
- It is illegal to take, have, transport, import or export migratory birds, their parts, nests or eggs that were taken, bought, sold, transported, possessed or exported illegally.
- Transport or possess no live migratory birds; euthanize immediately if recovered.
- No permit needed for personal use of migratory bird plumage or skins.
- No permit required to possess, dispose, or transport feathers from legally killed wild ducks/geese or birds seized by authorities. Legally obtained feathers can be used to make fishing flies, beddings, and other commercial products, excluding millinery or decorative items.
- It is illegal to buy, sell, barter or offer to buy or
sell feathers or mounted specimens of migratory game birds.
Non-Toxic Shot Regulations
- Lead Shot Restriction: Using or possessing lead shot for waterfowl hunting is prohibited statewide, including on national wildlife refuges. Keep lead shot stored in your vehicle or another non-accessible area while hunting.
- Nontoxic Shot for Captive-Reared Mallards: Hunting in commercial wildlife parks, field trials, and dog training with captive-reared mallards requires nontoxic shot.
- Shot Size Limitation: Nontoxic shot used for ducks, geese, or coots must not be larger than size T.
- Nontoxic Shot Approval: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service authorizes nontoxic shot types, including corrosion-inhibited copper shot since November 6, 2017, for waterfowl hunting. More information is available on the USFWS website.
Colorado Small Game (incl. Furbearers) Hunting Season Dates
As of the day of this post, there are no Colorado 2024-2025 waterfowl, small game, and furbearer hunting season dates available. The 2023-2024 dates are given only for reference. Refer to the CPW official website for up-to-date info.
Colorado Small Game Birds & Migratory Birds Hunting Season Dates
As of the day of this post, there are no Colorado 2024-2025 waterfowl, small game, and furbearer hunting season dates available. The 2023-2024 dates are given only for reference. Refer to the CPW official website for up-to-date info.
Colorado Waterfowl Hunting Season Dates
As of the day of this post, there are no Colorado 2024-2025 waterfowl, small game, and furbearer hunting season dates available. The 2023-2024 dates are given only for reference. Refer to the CPW official website for up-to-date info.
Colorado Goose Hunting Season Dates
As of the day of this post, there are no Colorado 2024-2025 waterfowl, small game, and furbearer hunting season dates available. The 2023-2024 dates are given only for reference. Refer to the CPW official website for up-to-date info.
![Colorado Hunting Seasons 2024-2025 [Guide]](https://blog.gritroutdoors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/co-goose-hunting-seasons.jpeg "Colorado Hunting Seasons 2024-2025 [Guide] 18")
![Colorado Hunting Seasons 2024-2025 [Guide]](https://blog.gritroutdoors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/co-goose-hunting-seasons-2.jpeg "Colorado Hunting Seasons 2024-2025 [Guide] 19")
