Colorado Hunting Seasons 2023-2024 promises an unmatched hunting experience among the state’s stunning nature. Educating oneself about Colorado’s myriad hunting rules, restrictions, and criteria is crucial to make the most of this excursion. Although following these guidelines may be difficult, doing so is essential for guaranteeing both personal safety and the overall success of the search. Hunters may completely immerse themselves in Colorado’s breathtaking scenery while participating in ethical and responsible hunting by following and adhering to the set rules.
Although hunting in Colorado may be varied and fun, it can take time to understand the state’s hunting regulations. However, hunters may go on an exciting journey with the proper planning and knowledge. To help you organize the perfect hunting vacation, we’ll provide helpful information about Colorado’s hunting laws, animals, and seasons in this article. Thanks to the complete calendar of Colorado’s most recent hunting season, a great hunting experience may be had by being informed on the most recent hunting chances and rules. You may start an unforgettable hunting expedition in Colorado’s stunning landscapes with proper preparation and obedience to the rules.
Colorado Hunting Seasons 2023-2024
Colorado has a well-defined hunting calendar to provide a fair and sustainable hunting experience for all hunters, whether after a big game like elk or a small game like rabbit or pheasant. It’s essential to be aware of when the seasons for different types of hunting begin and end so that preparations can be made in advance. The big game hunting season typically begins in late August and continues through December, while the small game hunting season typically begins in October and continues until April.
Make the most of your hunting vacation in Colorado by according to the schedules provided.
Big Game Seasons in Colorado
Overview of Big-Game Hunting Changes in Colorado 2023-2024
| CPW's Update | Information |
|---|---|
| Changes in Big-Game Hunting | Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) announces "unprecedented" changes in the northwest region's big-game hunting. |
| Reason for Changes | A historically harsh winter in the region severely affected elk, deer, and pronghorn due to deep snow and food shortages. |
| Hunting Season Dates | First rifle season in the "severe winter zone" is from Oct. 14-18, with other openings in late October and November (Oct. 28-Nov.4, Nov. 11-17 and Nov. 22-26). |
| Impact on Animal Survival | Collared elk had the lowest survival rates ever documented, and deer and pronghorn faced similar devastation. |
| Reduction in Licenses | In the "severe winter zone," there will be significant reductions in elk(up to 89% reduction), deer(up to 94% reduction), and pronghorn licenses (up to 83% reduction). |
| Financial Impact | CPW acknowledges the financial effect on its operations and regional economies, which depend on revenues from hunting and fishing license sales. |
| Reminder for Other Outdoor Activities | CPW reminds hikers, cyclists, and off-roaders about shared lands and the possibility of increased hunting activity in different areas. |
Deer Season
| Colorado Deer Season | Hunting Season Start Date | Hunting Season End Date | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Archery season (2023) | Saturday, September 02, 2023 | Saturday, September 30, 2023 | |
| Archery season (2024) | Monday, September 02, 2024 | Monday, September 30, 2024 | |
| Muzzleloader season (2023) | Saturday, September 09, 2023 | Sunday, September 17, 2023 | |
| Muzzleloader season (2024) | Saturday, September 14, 2024 | Sunday, September 22, 2024 | |
| High Country Deer (2023) | Saturday, September 09, 2023 | Sunday, September 17, 2023 | Limited 9-day antlered deer season |
| High Country Deer (2024) | Saturday, September 07, 2024 | Sunday, September 15, 2024 | Limited 9-day antlered deer season |
| Plains archery deer season (2023) | 10/01- 10/27 and 11/08- 11/30 and 12/15- 12/31 | ||
| OR 10/01- 10/27 and 11/08- 12/31 | |||
| OR 10/01- 11/30 and 12/15- 12/31 | |||
| Plains archery deer season (2024) | 10/01- 10/25 and 11/06- 11/30 and 12/15- 12/31 | ||
| OR 10/01- 10/25 and 11/06- 12/31 | |||
| OR 10/01- 11/30 and 12/15- 12/31 | |||
| Plains muzzleloader deer (2023) | Saturday, October 14, 2023 | Sunday, October 22, 2023 | |
| Plains muzzleloader deer (2024) | Saturday, October 12, 2024 | Sunday, October 20, 2024 | |
| Plains rifle deer seasons (2023) | Saturday, October 28, 2023 | Tuesday, November 07, 2023 | |
| Plains rifle deer seasons (2024) | Saturday, October 26, 2024 | Tuesday, November 05, 2024 | |
| Late Plains rifle deer season (2023) | Friday, December 01, 2023 | Thursday, December 14, 2023 | |
| Late Plains rifle deer season (2024) | Sunday, December 01, 2024 | Saturday, December 14, 2024 |
Elk Season
| Colorado Elk Season | Hunting Season Start Date | Hunting Season End Date |
|---|---|---|
| Plains Archery season (2023) | Saturday, September 02, 2023 | Saturday, September 30, 2023 |
| Plains Archery season (2024) | Monday, September 02, 2024 | Monday, September 30, 2024 |
| Plains muzzleloader Elk (2023) | Saturday, September 09, 2023 | Sunday, September 17, 2023 |
| Plains muzzleloader Elk (2024) | Saturday, September 14, 2024 | Sunday, September 22, 2024 |
| Plains rifle Elk seasons (2023) | Friday, September 01, 2023 | January 31st, 2023 |
| Plains rifle Elk seasons (2024) | Sunday, September 01, 2024 | January 31st, 2024 |
| 1st regular rifle elk season (2023) | Saturday, October 14, 2023 | Wednesday, October 18, 2023 |
| 1st regular rifle elk season (2024) | Saturday, October 12, 2024 | Wednesday, October 16, 2024 |
| 2nd regular rifle deer and elk combined season (2023) | Saturday, October 28, 2023 | Sunday, November 05, 2023 |
| 2nd regular rifle deer and elk combined season (2024) | Saturday, October 26, 2024 | Sunday, November 03, 2024 |
| 3rd regular rifle deer and elk combined season (2023) | Saturday, November 11, 2023 | Friday, November 17, 2023 |
| 3rd regular rifle deer and elk combined season (2024) | Saturday, November 09, 2024 | Friday, November 15, 2024 |
| 4th regular rifle deer and elk combined season (2023) | Wednesday, November 22, 2023 | Sunday, November 26, 2023 |
| 4th regular rifle deer and elk combined season (2024) | Wednesday, November 20, 2024 | Sunday, November 24, 2024 |
| 1st Separate Limited Elk | Saturday, October 14, 2023 | Wednesday, October 18, 2023 |
| 2nd Combined Deer & Elk | Saturday, October 28, 2023 | Sunday, November 05, 2023 |
| 3rd Combined Deer & Elk | Saturday, November 11, 2023 | Friday, November 17, 2023 |
| 4th Combined Limited Deer & Elk | Wednesday, November 22, 2023 | Sunday, November 26, 2023 |
| 1st Separate Limited Elk | Saturday, October 12, 2024 | Wednesday, October 16, 2024 |
| 2nd Combined Deer & Elk | Saturday, October 26, 2024 | Sunday, November 03, 2024 |
| 3rd Combined Deer & Elk | Saturday, November 09, 2024 | Friday, November 15, 2024 |
| 4th Combined Limited Deer & Elk | Wednesday, November 20, 2024 | Sunday, November 24, 2024 |
| Late rifle elk season (2023) | Monday, November 27, 2023 | Tuesday, January 31, 2023 |
| Late rifle elk season (2024) | Saturday, November 25, 2023 | Wednesday, January 31, 2024 |
| Private Land Only (PLO) Deer and Elk | Tuesday, August 15, 2023 | Tuesday, January 31, 2023 |
Moose Season
| Colorado Moose Season | Hunting Season Start Date | Hunting Season End Date |
|---|---|---|
| Archery moose season (2023) | Saturday, September 09, 2023 | Saturday, September 30, 2023 |
| Archery moose season (2024) | Saturday, September 07, 2024 | Monday, September 30, 2024 |
| Muzzleloader moose season (2023) | Saturday, September 09, 2023 | Sunday, September 17, 2023 |
| Muzzleloader moose season (2024) | Saturday, September 14, 2024 | Sunday, September 22, 2024 |
| Antlered and antlerless rifle moose season (2023) | Sunday, October 01, 2023 | Saturday, October 14, 2023 |
| Antlered and antlerless rifle moose season (2024) | Tuesday, October 01, 2024 | Monday, October 14, 2024 |
| Alternative concurrent antlerless rifle moose season (2023) | Saturday, October 14, 2023 | Wednesday, October 18, 2023 |
| Saturday, October 28, 2023 | Sunday, November 05, 2023 | |
| Saturday, November 11, 2023 | Friday, November 17, 2023 | |
| Wednesday, November 22, 2023 | Sunday, November 26, 2023 | |
| Alternative concurrent antlerless rifle moose season (2024) | Saturday, October 12, 2024 | Wednesday, October 16, 2024 |
| Saturday, October 26, 2024 | Sunday, November 03, 2024 | |
| Saturday, November 09, 2024 | Friday, November 15, 2024 | |
| Wednesday, November 20, 2024 | Sunday, November 24, 2024 |
Pronghorn Season
| Colorado Pronghorn Season | Hunting Season Start Date | Hunting Season End Date |
|---|---|---|
| Archery pronghorn season-Bucks only (2023) | Tuesday, August 15, 2023 | Thursday, August 31, 2023 |
| Archery pronghorn season-Either-Sex (2023) | Friday, September 01, 2023 | Wednesday, September 20, 2023 |
| Archery pronghorn season-Bucks only (2024) | Thursday, August 15, 2024 | Saturday, August 31, 2024 |
| Archery pronghorn season-Either-Sex (2024) | Sunday, September 01, 2024 | Friday, September 20, 2024 |
| Muzzleloader pronghorn season (2023) | Thursday, September 21, 2023 | Friday, September 29, 2023 |
| Muzzleloader pronghorn season (2024) | Saturday, September 21, 2024 | Sunday, September 29, 2024 |
| Rifle pronghorn season (2023) | Saturday, October 07, 2023 | Sunday, October 15, 2023 |
| Rifle pronghorn season (2024) | Saturday, October 05, 2024 | Sunday, October 13, 2024 |
Black Bear Season
| Colorado Black Bear Season | Hunting Season Start Date | Hunting Season End Date |
|---|---|---|
| Archery bear season (2023) | Saturday, September 02, 2023 | Saturday, September 30, 2023 |
| Archery bear season (2024) | Monday, September 02, 2024 | Monday, September 30, 2024 |
| Muzzleloader bear season (2023) | Saturday, September 09, 2023 | Sunday, September 17, 2023 |
| Muzzleloader bear season (2023) | Saturday, September 14, 2024 | Sunday, September 22, 2024 |
| September Rifle bear season (2023) | Saturday, September 02, 2023 | Saturday, September 30, 2023 |
| September Rifle bear season (2024) | Monday, September 02, 2024 | Monday, September 30, 2024 |
| Concurrent rifle bear seasons (2023) | Saturday, October 14, 2023 | Wednesday, October 18, 2023 |
| Saturday, October 28, 2023 | Sunday, November 05, 2023 | |
| Saturday, November 11, 2023 | Friday, November 17, 2023 | |
| Wednesday, November 22, 2023 | Sunday, November 26, 2023 | |
| Concurrent rifle bear seasons (2024) | Saturday, October 12, 2024 | Wednesday, October 16, 2024 |
| Saturday, October 26, 2024 | Sunday, November 03, 2024 | |
| Saturday, November 09, 2024 | Friday, November 15, 2024 | |
| Wednesday, November 20, 2024 | Sunday, November 24, 2024 | |
| PLO rifle bear seasons (2023) | Saturday, September 02, 2023 | Saturday, September 30, 2023 |
| Sunday, October 01, 2023 | End of 4th regular rifle deer/elk combined season | |
| PLO rifle bear seasons (2024) | Monday, September 02, 2024 | Monday, September 30, 2024 |
| Tuesday, October 01, 2024 | End of 4th regular rifle deer/elk combined season | |
| Plains rifle bear seasons (2023) | Saturday, September 02, 2023 | Sunday, November 26, 2023 |
| Plains rifle bear seasons (2024) | Monday, September 02, 2024 | Sunday, November 24, 2024 |
Furbearer Season
Coyote Season
| Species | Season Start Dates | Season End Dates | Bag Limit | Possession Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coyote Season | 1-Jan | 31-Dec | Unlimited | Unlimited |
Beaver Season
| Species | Season Start Dates | Season End Dates | Bag Limit | Possession Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beaver Season | 1-Oct | 30-Apr | Unlimited | Unlimited |
Bobcat Season
| Species | Season Start Dates | Season End Dates | Bag Limit | Possession Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bobcat Season | 1-Dec | End of February | Unlimited | Unlimited |
Badger Season
| Species | Season Start Dates | Season End Dates | Bag Limit | Possession Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Badger | 1-Nov | End of February | Unlimited | Unlimited |
Mink Season
| Species | Season Start Dates | Season End Dates | Bag Limit | Possession Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mink | 1-Nov | End of February | Unlimited | Unlimited |
Pine Marten
| Species | Season Start Dates | Season End Dates | Bag Limit | Possession Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pine Marten | 1-Nov | End of February | Unlimited | Unlimited |
Fox Season
| Species | Season Start Dates | Season End Dates | Bag Limit | Possession Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gray Fox | 1-Nov | End of February | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Red Fox | 1-Nov | End of February | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Swift Fox | 1-Nov | End of February | Unlimited | Unlimited |
Raccoon
| Species | Season Start Dates | Season End Dates | Bag Limit | Possession Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Raccoon | 1-Nov | End of February | Unlimited | Unlimited |
Ring-Tailed Cat
| Species | Season Start Dates | Season End Dates | Bag Limit | Possession Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ring-Tailed Cat | 1-Nov | End of February | Unlimited | Unlimited |
Skunk Season
| Species | Season Start Dates | Season End Dates | Bag Limit | Possession Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Striped Skunk | 1-Nov | End of February | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Western Spotted Skunk | 1-Nov | End of February | Unlimited | Unlimited |
Weasel Season
| Species | Season Start Dates | Season End Dates | Bag Limit | Possession Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Long-Tailed Weasel | 1-Nov | End of February | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Short-Tailed Weasel | 1-Nov | End of February | Unlimited | Unlimited |
Opossum
| Species | Season Start Dates | Season End Dates | Bag Limit | Possession Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Opossum Season | 1-Nov | End of February | Unlimited | Unlimited |
Muskrat
| Species | Season Start Dates | Season End Dates | Bag Limit | Possession Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Muskrat Season | 1-Nov | End of February | Unlimited | Unlimited |
CO Waterfowl Season
Goose Season
| Colorado Goose Seasons | Hunting Start Date | Hunting End Date | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regular Season (Dark Geese) | 31-Oct | 12-Feb | AREA: (EAST OF THE CONTINENTAL DIVISION, EXCEPT FOR THE SPECIAL SEASONS BELOW IN THE North Park, San Luis Valley, AND SOUTH PARK ) |
| Regular Season (Light Geese) | 29-Oct | 12-Feb | AREA: (EAST OF THE CONTINENTAL DIVISION, EXCEPT FOR THE SPECIAL SEASONS BELOW IN THE North Park, San Luis Valley, AND SOUTH PARK ) |
| San Luis Valley Season (Dark Geese) | 1-Oct | 19-Oct | Areas: (Alamosa, Conejos, Costilla and Rio Grande counties, and the parts of Archuleta, Hinsdale, Mineral, Saguache and San Juan counties east of the Continental Divide) |
| San Luis Valley Season (Light Geese) | 19-Nov | 12-Feb | Areas: (Alamosa, Conejos, Costilla and Rio Grande counties, and the parts of Archuleta, Hinsdale, Mineral, Saguache and San Juan counties east of the Continental Divide) |
| South Park Season (Dark Geese) | 1-Oct | 13-Jan | Areas: (Chaffee, Custer, Fremont, Lake, Park and Teller counties) |
| South Park Season (Light Geese) | Areas: (Chaffee, Custer, Fremont, Lake, Park and Teller counties) | ||
| North Park Season (Dark Geese) | 1-Oct | 13-Jan | Areas: (Jackson County) |
| North Park Season (Light Geese) | 29-Oct | 12-Feb | Areas: (Jackson County) |
| Light Goose Conservation Order Season* (*see Habitat Stamp information below) | 14-Feb | 30-Apr | Areas: (East of I-25) |
| Early Canada Goose Season | 1-Sep | 9-Sep | Pacific Flyway |
| Regular Season (Western Zone) | 1-Oct | 9-Oct | Pacific Flyway |
| 6-Nov | 31-Jan | Pacific Flyway | |
| Regular Season (Eastern Zone) | 1-Oct | 4-Jan | Pacific Flyway |
There is no longer a Goose Northern Front Range Zone. It is now a part of the larger Central Flyway Zone.
Duck and Coot Season
| Colorado Duck and Coot Season | Hunting Start Date | Hunting End Date | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northeast Zone (Central Flyway) | Sunday, October 08, 2023 | Oct 8–Nov 27 | Areas: (East of I-25 and north of I-70) |
| Northeast Zone (Central Flyway) | Monday, December 18, 2023 | Wednesday, January 31, 2024 | Areas: (East of I-25 and north of I-70) |
| Southeast Zone (Central Flyway) | Saturday, October 28, 2023 | Wednesday, January 31, 2024 | Areas: (East of I-25 and south of I-70, and all of El Paso, Pueblo, Huerfano and Las Animas counties) |
| Mountain/Foothills Zone (Central Flyway) | Sunday, October 01, 2023 | Monday, November 27, 2023 | Areas: (West of I-25 and east of Continental Divide, except El Paso, Pueblo, Huerfano and Las Animas counties) |
| Mountain/Foothills Zone (Central Flyway) | Monday, December 25, 2023 | Wednesday, January 31, 2024 | Areas: (West of I-25 and east of Continental Divide, except El Paso, Pueblo, Huerfano and Las Animas counties) |
| Western Zone (PACIFIC FLYWAY) | Sunday, October 01, 2023 | Wednesday, October 18, 2023 | Areas: (West of Continental Divide not included in the Eastern Zone) |
| Western Zone (PACIFIC FLYWAY) | Monday, November 06, 2023 | Wednesday, January 31, 2024 | Areas: (Routt, Grand, Summit, Eagle and Pitkincounties, part of the Saguache, San Juan, Hinsdale and Mineral counties west of ContinentalDivide, and part of Gunnison County exceptthe North Fork of the Gunnison River Valley(GMUs 521, 53 and 63) and the part of Moffat Co east of the northern intersection of CR 29 with the Moffat-Routt Co line, south along CR 29 to the intersection of CR 29 with the Moffat-Routt Co line-(Elkhead Reservoir State Park) |
| Eastern Zone (PACIFIC FLYWAY) | Sunday, October 01, 2023 | Saturday, January 13, 2024 |
Teal Season
| Colorado Teal Season | Hunting Start Date | Hunting End Date | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| September Teal Season | 10-Sep | 18-Sep | Areas: (Lake and Chaffee counties and all areas east of I-25) (Youth, Veteran & Active Military Hunt) |
| Northeast Zone (Central Flyway) | 1-Oct | 2-Oct | Areas: (East of I-25 and north of I-70) |
| Southeast Zone (Central Flyway) | 22-Oct | 23-Oct | Areas: (East of I-25 and south of I-70, and all of El Paso, Pueblo, Huerfano and Las Animas counties.) (Youth, Veteran & Active Military Hunt) |
| Mountain/Foothills Zone (Central Flyway) | 24-Sep | 25-Sep | Areas: (West of I-25 and east of the Continental Divide, except El Paso, Pueblo, Huerfano and Las Animas counties.) (Youth, Veteran & Active Military Hunt) |
| Western Zone (PACIFIC FLYWAY) | 22-Oct | 23-Oct | Areas: (West of Continental Divide not included in the Eastern Zone). (YOUTH, VETERAN & ACTIVE MILITARY HUNT ) |
| Eastern Zone (PACIFIC FLYWAY) | 24-Sep | 25-Sep | Areas: (Routt, Grand, Summit, Eagle andPitkin counties, part of the Saguache, SanJuan, Hinsdale and Mineral counties west ofContinental Divide, and part of GunnisonCounty except the North Fork of the GunnisonRiver Valley (GMUs 521, 53 and 63), and the part of Moffat Co. east of the northern intersection of CR 29 with the Moffat-Routt Co. line, south along CR 29 to the intersection of CR 29 with the Moffat-Routt Co. line (Elkhead Reservoir StatePark). (YOUTH, VETERAN & ACTIVE MILITARY HUNT ) |
Colorado Turkey Season
| Colorado Turkey Season | Hunting Start Date | Hunting End Date | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mountain Meadows Ranch) | Saturday, April 22, 2023 | Wednesday, May 31, 2023 | Unit-84 |
| Spring (Purgatoire Ranch) | Saturday, April 15, 2023 | Monday, April 24, 2023 | Unit (136,143,147) |
| Spring (Twin Peaks Ranch) | Wednesday, April 26, 2023 | Sunday, May 07, 2023 | Unit-85 |
| Wednesday, May 17, 2023 | Sunday, May 28, 2023 | Unit-85 | |
| Spring (Twin Peaks Ranch-Youth Only) | Wednesday, April 26, 2023 | Sunday, May 07, 2023 | Unit-85 |
| Wednesday, May 17, 2023 | Sunday, May 28, 2023 | Unit-85 | |
| Fall | Friday, September 01, 2023 | Friday, October 27, 2023 | |
| Late Season | Friday, December 15, 2023 | Monday, January 15, 2024 |
Each hunting license and geographic region has its own season opening and closing dates. Pages 4–7 of the booklet have useful hunting tables with further information. Certain licenses have time restrictions and may only be utilized during certain periods. There are optimal times for hunting, and you should be aware of such times.
Mountain Lion Season
Dates for Hunting: April 1–30, 2023, followed by November 28, 2023–March 31, 2023.
The dates of April 1-30, 2023 and November 28-20, 2023-March 31-2023 are included in these harvest quotas. The maximum number of lions that may be collected at once is referred to as the “harvest limit” for that particular unit.
Areas that aren’t included in the chart below are closed to lion hunting in April and/or October. Inside rear cover you’ll find a map.
| Colorado Mountain Lion Season | Hunting Season Start Date | Hunting Season End Date |
|---|---|---|
| April mountain lion season (2023) | Saturday, April 01, 2023 | Sunday, April 30, 2023 |
| April mountain lion season (2024) | Monday, April 01, 2024 | Tuesday, April 30, 2024 |
| Regular mountain lion season (2023) | Monday, November 27, 2023 | Sunday, March 31, 2024 |
| Regular mountain lion season (2024) | Monday, November 25, 2024 | Monday, March 31, 2025 |
Print Mountain Lion Season Summary here
Read the Mountain Lion brochure for additional details.
Colorado Small Game Seasons
Some of the most popular small game animals to hunt in Colorado include Quails, Pheasants and Grouse.
Colorado Birds Season
| Species | Zones | Hunting Start Dates | Hunting End Dates |
|---|---|---|---|
| Band-tailed pigeon | Statewide | 1-Sep | 14-Sep |
| Chukar partridge | Statewide | 1-Sep | 30-Nov |
| Crow | Statewide | 1-Nov | 28-Feb |
| Doves | Statewide | 1-Sep | 29-Nov |
| Eurasian-collared dove | Year-round | 1-Jan | 31-Dec |
| European starlings, House sparrow | Year-round | 1-Jan | 31-Dec |
| Greater prairie-chicken | GMUs 93, 97, 98, 100, 101, 102, 103 and 109, Morgan Co, portions E of Colo 71, S of Colo 14 and Hwy 138 | 1-Oct | 31-Jan |
| Grouse: Dusky (Blue) | West of I-25 | 1-Sep | 27-Nov |
| Grouse: Greater sage-grouse | GMUs 3, 11, 13, 18, 27, 28, 37, 181, 201, 211, 301, 441 | 10-Sep | 16-Sep |
| Grouse: Mountain sharp-tailed grouse | GMUs 4, 5, 12, 13, 14, 131, 211, 214, 441 | 1-Sep | 18-Sep |
| Pheasant | East of I-25 | 12-Nov | 31-Jan |
| Pheasant | West of I-25 | 12-Nov | 2-Jan |
| Quail (Northern bobwhite, Gambel's & scaled) | Area 1: East of I-25 and south of I-70; Area 2: East of I-25 and north of I-70; Area 3: West of I-25 except Pueblo, Fremont, Huerfano, El Paso and Las Animas counties | Season 1: Nov 12 - Jan 31; Season 2: Nov 12- Jan 2; Season 3: Nov 12 - Jan 2 | |
| Sandhill crane | East of Continental Divide except North Park and San Luis Valley | 1-Oct | 27-Nov |
| Rails: Sora and Virginia | Statewide | 1-Sep | 9-Nov |
| Teal | Lake and Chaffee counties, areas east of I-25 | 11-Sep | 19-Sep |
| White-tailed ptarmigan | Season 1: Statewide except GMUs 44, 45, 53, 54, 66, 67, 68, 70, 71, 74-81, 444, 751; Season 2: GMUs 44, 45, 53, 54, 66, 67, 68, 70, 71, 74-81, 444, 751 | Season 1: Sept 10 - Oct 2; Season 2: Sept 10 - Nov 27 | |
| Wilson's snipe | Statewide | 1-Sep | 16-Dec |
Small Game Animals
| Species | Zones | Hunting Start Dates | Hunting End Dates |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abert's squirrels | Statewide | 15-Nov | 15-Jan |
| Common snapping turtle | Statewide | 1-Apr | 31-Oct |
| Cottontails | Statewide | 1-Oct | End of Feb |
| Snowshoe hare | Statewide | 1-Oct | End of Feb |
| White-tailed jackrabbits | Statewide | 1-Oct | End of Feb |
| Black-tailed jackrabbits | Statewide | 1-Oct | End of Feb |
| Coyote | Statewide | 1-Jan | 31-Dec |
| Squirrels | Statewide | 1-Oct | End of Feb |
| Marmot | Statewide | 10-Aug | 15-Oct |
| Prairie dogs | Public land | 15-Jun | End of Feb |
| Prairie dogs | Private land | 1-Jan | 31-Dec |
| Prairie rattlesnake | Statewide | 15-Jun | 15-Aug |
| Wyoming ground squirrel | Statewide | 1-Jan | 31-Dec |
Colorado Hawking & Falconry Season
| Species | Zones | Hunting Start Dates | Hunting End Dates |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cottontail rabbits, snowshoe hares, white-tailed & black-tailed jackrabbit | Statewide | 1-Sep | 31-Mar |
| Chukar partridge | Statewide | 1-Sep | 31-Mar |
| Band-tailed pigeon, crow, mourning & white-winged doves, duck, goose, coot, Sora and Virginia rail, Wilson's snipe | Central and pacific flyways | Dates align with acknowledged seasons | |
| European starling, House sparrow, Eurasian collared-dove | Year-round | Statewide | |
| Squirrels: Fox & pine | Statewide | 1-Sep | 31-Mar |
| Furbearers | Dates coincide with established seasons | Statewide | |
| Grouse: Dusky (Blue) | West of I-25 | 1-Sep | 31-Mar |
| Grouse: Greater sage-grouse | GMUs 3, 11, 13, 18 except east of Colo 125 in Grand County, 27, 28 except north and east of Grand CR 50 (Church Park Rd) and US 40, 37, 181, 201, 211, 301 and 441; and in North Park (GMUs 6, 16, 17, 161 and 171) | 1-Sep | 31-Jan |
| Grouse: Mountain sharp-tailed (Also known as Columbian sharp-tailed grouse) | GMUs 4, 5, 12, 13, 14, 131, 211, 214, 441 | 1-Sep | 31-Jan |
| Pheasant | Statewide | 1-Sep | 31-Mar |
| Quail: Northern bobwhite, scaled & Gambel's | Statewide | 1-Sep | 31-Mar |
| White-tailed ptarmigan | Statewide | 1-Sep | 31-Mar |
Colorado Hunting Regulations
General regulations
- Colorado has extended seasons for hunting waterfowl and migratory birds, with a variety of bag and possession limitations to choose from. Before digging trenches for waterfowl, hunters in Colorado are obliged to call the Utility Notification Center at 1-800-922-1987.
- In addition to the application, all small game hunters must show proof of hunter education and carry a Habitat Stamp. You can buy anything you want at any of the stores near you, at the CPW office, on their website, or by calling their toll-free number, 1-800-244-5613.
- Colorado allows hunting from half an hour before dawn to half an hour after sundown.
- Finding, spotting, or killing big game animals with the use of any artificial light or illuminating equipment is prohibited.
- Only predators and large game birds may utilize electronic calls or recorded game cries.
- Hunters using guns, arrows, or muzzleloaders must wear blazing orange or pink throughout the hunting season.
- Any alteration to a hunting device, including crossbows, in Colorado requires the approval of the Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
- Before hunting on private property, you must first seek the landowner’s written permission.
- Hunting from a car or using a vehicle to pursue, drive at, or harass game animals is prohibited.
- Only predators and large game birds are permitted to utilize bait, which may include maize or other food.
- All harvested wildlife must be inspected by the hunter no later than 24 hours after being taken.
- Except for fur-bearing animals and game birds, it is unlawful to trade or sell any kind of wildlife.
- Some waterfowl and upland game bird hunts in Colorado prohibit the use of lead shot.
- Only some waterfowl and large game species are legal to hunt from a boat or other floating equipment.
- Both a valid hunting license and a government-issued photo ID must be carried at all times when hunting.
- Using dogs to hunt big game is only allowed with the landowner’s permission.
- While under the influence of alcohol, it is against the law to own or use a firearm.
- Call Colorado Parks and Wildlife to find out whether and where you may use your gun during your hunting expedition.
- To use a crossbow on private property, you must first get the landowner’s permission and then only do so during the appropriate archery season.
- Within five days of a successful hunt, Colorado Parks and Wildlife require hunters to submit a written report and a tag for each animal taken.
- Hunting from an airplane or using an airplane to pursue, find, or harass wildlife is illegal.
- Big game animals cannot have their heads, skin, bones, or internal organs discarded.
- Any furbearer setting a trap or snare on any land should have the written consent of the landowner.
- Hunting on private property requires a documented permit, which hunters must acquire as well as an understanding of the difference between public and private lands.
- Wild animal capture for commercial purposes is prohibited, with the exception of game birds and furbearers.
- A hunter in Colorado is required to report any game taken to the state’s parks and wildlife department. Both huge and small creatures are included in this.
Waterfowl Regulations
- The Colorado Parks and Wildlife department has established particular hunting seasons.
- Hunters in the state of Colorado must be in possession of both a state hunting license and a federal duck stamp.
- In order to maintain the health of the waterfowl population, only non-toxic shot may be used throughout the shooting season.
- Waterfowl hunting laws, such as daily and possession limitations, are dynamic and alter over time.
- Certain regions, including national wildlife refuges, parks, and military facilities, strictly restrict hunting.
- To hunt on private land, you need the landowner’s written permission.
- The Colorado Parks and Wildlife department requires that every captured waterfowl be properly tagged and recorded.
- In certain locations, you can’t use lures, decoys, or electronic sounds to attract wildlife.
- The minimum amount of bright orange material that must cover a hunter’s head, chest, and back while in the field is 500 square inches.
- Waterfowl season starts 30 minutes before dawn and ends at dusk.
- No hunting is allowed to be done while in a moving vehicle, boat, or plane.
- It is against the law to intentionally attract or stupefy ducks using medications or poisons.
- Safe and proper disposal of spent shells and deceased birds is the hunter’s responsibility.
- Shooting or possessing ducks out of season or in excess of daily or possession limits is unlawful.
- When shooting waterfowl, it’s important to follow the rules or you might face consequences like losing your license or even facing criminal charges.
Turkey Regulations
- Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) enforces the state’s turkey hunting regulations.
- The CPW sets yearly hunting seasons in which hunting is permitted.
- In order to go turkey hunting, hunters need both a hunting license and a turkey hunting permit.
- Private property may be hunted on with the owner’s consent, and public land can be hunted as well, although with limits.
- In Colorado, baiting is against the law.
- Guns, bows, and crossbows are the only legal hunting implements for gobbling down turkeys.
- It’s acceptable to utilize decoys, calls, and blinds.
- Shotguns and rifles must have their magazines filled to hold no more than three shells, while bows and arrows must conform to the CPW’s specifications for draw weight and arrow length.
- The permitted hunting times are half an hour before daybreak and half an hour after dusk.
- In Colorado, each hunter is allowed to take one wild turkey every season unless they are under the age of 16 or have a qualifying disability.
- Dogs cannot be used in the act of hunting turkeys.
- When traveling to and from their hunting spot, turkey hunters are required to wear 500 square inches of bright orange cloth above the waist and in plain view from all directions.
- If you’re going to be transporting turkeys in the field, you’ll need to follow CPW rules.
- In order to comply with CPW regulations, all harvested turkeys must be reported within five days following the hunt.
For Complete hunting rule category wise, find the list of regulation brochure below:
- Fishing
- Big Game Hunting
- Bighorn Sheep/Mountain Goat
- Mountain Lion
- Small Game and Waterfowl
- Turkey
For more list of brochures visit the cpw.state.co.us website.
Safety and Consideration for for Outdoor Recreation
| Aspects | Information |
|---|---|
| Outdoor Activities | Colorado promotes hunting, hiking, riding, wildlife watching, and more. |
| Support for Wildlife Management | 70% of wildlife management funding come from hunting and fishing. |
| Preparation for Nonhunters | Nonhunters should know hunting season dates and safety advice. Fluorescent clothing is advised. |
| Respect and Courtesy | It's prohibited to harass hunters. All outdoor users deserve respect and civility. |
| Hunters and Conservation | Hunters are vital to wildlife conservation and CWD control. |
| Hunting Season Expectations | The hard northwest winter lessened hunting pressure. The Eastern Plains improved after rain. |
| Hunting Forecast | Despite hurdles, hunters have a good hunting prediction. |
| Small Game License | Small game permits have caliber limits during large game rifle seasons. |
| Planning Your Hunt | CPW's Hunting Atlas includes locations, maps, migratory pathways, and OHV paths. Extra licenses are available. |
| Contact Information | Call center agents and hunt planners are available for assistance. |
FAQs related to Colorado Hunting Season
When is it often legal to go hunting in Colorado?
The hunting seasons in Colorado vary across the state and depend on the species being pursued as well as the specific area. Late August through December is prime time for hunting big game, whereas October through April is prime time for hunting small game.
Do I need a license to hunt in Colorado?
Absolutely everyone, regardless of age or residence status, needs a hunting license to go hunting in Colorado. The hunters must also follow any extra rules that apply to the species they are targeting.
What are the different species of game animals in Colorado?
Elk, deer, bear, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, mountain lion, and many more kinds of game animals call Colorado home.
Do I need a permit to hunt on Colorado's public lands?
While the U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Property Management both permit hunting on public land in Colorado, hunters must still follow any restrictions that apply to that particular parcel of land.
John Lewis, the passionate founder of HuntingSeasons.org, is committed to promoting responsible hunting and a profound love for the wilderness. With years of expertise, his platform serves as a reliable guide for hunting enthusiasts, advocating ethical practices and nature preservation.
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