Hunting in Colorado

Hunting in Colorado

About Hunting in This State

Colorado is one of the country's premier destinations for Western big game hunting. From the high country of the Rocky Mountains to the open plains of eastern Colorado, the state offers a wide range of terrain and hunting opportunities for both experienced Western hunters and those planning their first Colorado adventure.

Colorado is particularly well known for elk and mule deer hunting. The state's vast public lands, mountain ranges, and extensive elk herds draw hunters from across the country each fall. Archery hunters can chase bugling bulls during the September rut, while rifle and muzzleloader seasons provide additional opportunities throughout the fall.

Beyond elk and mule deer, Colorado offers hunting for pronghorn, black bear, mountain lion, moose, bighorn sheep, mountain goat, and other big game species. The eastern plains also provide opportunities for pronghorn and upland bird hunting, while waterfowl hunters can pursue ducks and geese across wetlands, reservoirs, rivers, and agricultural areas.

Whether you're chasing a bull elk through timber, glassing mule deer across a canyon, or crossing the plains after a pronghorn, Colorado gives hunters the chance to experience classic Western hunting in some of the most recognizable landscapes in North America.

Colorado Tags & Licenses

Colorado Tags & Licenses

Tags & Licenses

Colorado hunting licenses and big game permits are administered by Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW). Requirements vary by species, season, residency, and hunt location.

Resident & Nonresident Licenses

• Hunters must obtain the appropriate Colorado hunting license before hunting.
• Nonresident hunters can purchase licenses and apply for limited licenses through Colorado's big game licensing system.
• Hunters should check current CPW requirements before applying or booking a hunt.

Elk & Mule Deer

• Colorado offers both limited and over-the-counter opportunities depending on species, season, and Game Management Unit (GMU).
• Archery, muzzleloader, and rifle seasons provide different ways to pursue elk and deer.
• Limited licenses are allocated through Colorado's primary and secondary draw systems.
  Pronghorn
• Pronghorn licenses are generally limited and are distributed through Colorado's draw system.
• Hunting opportunities are concentrated across Colorado's eastern plains and open country.

Moose & Mountain Goat

• These species are managed through limited-license systems with specific hunt codes and eligibility requirements.
• Mountain goat and moose licenses are highly regulated and available only in designated units.

Bighorn Sheep

• Colorado offers limited licenses for both Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep and desert bighorn sheep.
• Hunters must apply through the appropriate draw.

Black Bear

• Bear hunting is available during designated seasons with the appropriate license and regulations.
• Season structure and license requirements vary by unit.

Colorado's licensing system can vary significantly by species and Game Management Unit. Hunters should review current CPW regulations, hunt codes, application deadlines, license availability, and season dates before booking a hunt.

Species You Can Hunt in Colorado

Elk

Mule Deer

Antelope

Bear

Turkey

Merriam's Wild Turkey