2024-2025 Hunting Season in Colorado

1. Huntable Species

Colorado offers a diverse range of hunting opportunities, with the following primary game species:

Big Game: Elk, mule deer, white-tailed deer, pronghorn antelope, bison, and bighorn sheep.
Small Game: Rabbits, grouse, quail, wild turkey, and waterfowl.
Predators: Mountain lions and black bears.

2. Hunting Seasons & Areas

Hunting seasons and areas vary by species. Below is a general guideline:

Species	Hunting Season	Main Hunting Units (GMU)
Elk	Fall (September - November)	1-10, 12-20
Mule Deer	Fall (October - November)	21-30, 31-40
Pronghorn	Late Summer - Fall (August - October)	41-50, 51-60
Wild Turkey	Spring (April - May) & Fall (September - October)	61-70, 71-80
Waterfowl	Fall - Winter (October - January)	81-90, 91-100

Note: GMU refers to Game Management Units. Check the CPW website for specific zone regulations and maps.

Changes for 2025

Colorado plans to reintroduce gray wolves in early 2025, with up to 20 wolves expected to be released in western regions.
This may impact hunting areas and regulations, so hunters should stay informed through CPW updates.

3. Hunting Licenses, Fees & Application Requirements

A valid hunting license is required, and the costs and eligibility vary.

License Type	Species	Resident/Non-Resident	Fee (USD)	Application Requirements
Big Game License	Elk, Mule Deer	Resident	50-100	18+ years old, Hunter Education Certificate
		Non-Resident	500-700	Same as above
Small Game License	Rabbits, Grouse	Resident	20-40	18+ years old, Hunter Education Certificate
		Non-Resident	100-150	Same as above
Predator License	Mountain Lion, Black Bear	Resident	30-50	18+ years old, Hunter Education Certificate
		Non-Resident	200-300	Same as above

Note: Prices and requirements may change yearly; check CPW for updates.

Alternative Certifications or Endorsements

Certain hunting activities require additional permits or endorsements, such as archery endorsements or muzzleloader permits.

4. Hunting Regulations & Updates for 2025

Hunting regulations are updated yearly, covering hunting seasons, quotas, and area restrictions. Hunters are advised to review CPW’s latest hunting guide before the season begins.

New Activities

With the reintroduction of wolves, CPW may introduce educational programs to help hunters navigate the new ecosystem.

5. Beginner Hunting Courses

Colorado requires first-time hunters to complete a hunter education course before applying for a hunting license.

CPW offers online and in-person courses covering hunting safety, regulations, and ethics.
Upon completion, hunters receive a Hunter Education Certificate, which is required for licensing.

6. Hunting Guidelines & Safety Tips

Harvest Reporting: Certain species require hunters to submit harvest reports within a specified timeframe. Failure to report may affect future hunting eligibility.
Public Hunting Lands: Colorado provides many public hunting areas, but permits and regulations vary by location. Check CPW maps for details.
Hunting Regulations:
- Firearm restrictions (e.g., certain distances from roads or buildings).
- Seasonal restrictions on specific species.
- Ethical hunting practices to ensure conservation and sustainability.

7. Colorado's Unique Hunting Features

Feature	Details
Largest Elk Population in North America	Colorado has the largest elk population (~280,000+), with over-the-counter (OTC) elk licenses available in certain units.
Plains & Mountain Hunting Units	Offers both high-altitude mountain hunting (elk, bighorn sheep) and lowland plains hunting (whitetail deer, pronghorn, waterfowl).
Strict Big Game Draw System	Uses a preference point system for high-demand species; some units take years/decades to draw. Hybrid draw available for some tags.
Qualifying License Requirement	Hunters must purchase a qualifying license (small game or fishing) before applying for big game tags.
Mandatory Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) Testing	Required for deer, elk, and moose in selected GMUs; samples must be submitted for disease monitoring.
Ranching for Wildlife Program	Allows private landowners to offer public hunting opportunities on ranch lands while managing game populations.
High-Altitude Hunting Challenges	Bighorn sheep & mountain goat hunts occur at 12,000+ feet, requiring physical conditioning and special scouting permits.

Final Note

Before planning your hunt, always check the CPW website for the most up-to-date regulations, quotas, and hunting unit restrictions. Safe and responsible hunting ensures a sustainable future for Colorado’s wildlife.