Hunting in Colorado: 13 Things to Know Before Applying for a Hunting Permit for Adults

Hunting in Colorado is a time-honored tradition for many families, but before you can head to the field or marshlands, make sure you carry the proper, current license and permits to participate in this sport.

Hunting, whether for food, trade or pest control, is safe and legal as long as the entire hunting party is educated about firearm safety and knows how to survive in the sometimes inclement weather. Licenses are issued, based on the game involved: big game, small game, turkeys and waterfowl. Licenses also differ between those issued to residents and those for non-residents.

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Big Game License Options

1. Hunters can choose from hunting seasons that pertain to archers, muzzleloaders, and rifle seasons.

2. Seasons vary among species and Game Management Units (GMUs).
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3. Over-the Counter Licenses are available in mid-July, Leftover Limited Licenses in August, and Limited Licenses are granted after successfully completing an application process in April.

Small Game Licenses

4. Hunters must submit a valid photo ID and proof of hunter education.

5. HIP (Harvest Information Program) numbers are required to hunt small game in Colorado.

6. To qualify for resident benefits, hunters must provide proof of residency for at least six months.

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Turkey Hunting

7. Spring turkey season begins in mid-April, and licenses can be bought beginning in March.

8. The “Turkey Regulations Brochure” offers great tips and information regarding license applications and fees, tips for finding game on public lands, and opportunities for hunting on private properties.

9. Turkey hunting classes are offered by the state, free of charge. Clinics are offered throughout the state.

Waterfowl Licenses

10. Game licenses are needed to hunt waterfowl in Colorado.

11. Adult hunters, 16 years of age and older, also need a State and Federal Migratory Bird Stamp or a duck stamp to hunt waterfowl.

12. Adult hunters also need a Harvest Information Program (HIP) number to hunt birds.

13. Hunter education classes are offered by the State of Colorado online and in traditional classrooms.

This article is for information only. Please check current regulations before hunting.

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