Quick Answer
In Colorado, elk hunting is regulated by the Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) agency. For over-the-counter (OTC) elk licenses, non-residents can apply for a limited number of licenses via the CPW website. Licenses are awarded through a random drawing process.
Licensing and Drawing Process
Elk hunting in Colorado requires a valid license, which can be obtained through the CPW website or at a local license agent. For OTC elk licenses, non-residents can apply for a limited number of licenses, with a maximum of 2,600 licenses available statewide. The application period is typically in early April, with a deadline of May 1st for non-resident applications. The random drawing process for licenses usually takes place in late May. Winners are notified via email, and licenses can be purchased online or by phone.
Season Dates and Bag Limits
The OTC elk season in Colorado typically runs from September 4th to November 1st, with a 5-day season for archery hunters and a 9-day season for rifle hunters. The statewide bag limit is one bull elk, with a maximum of two elk per hunter in areas where antlerless elk are allowed. Hunters must report their harvest and submit a mandatory harvest survey within 7 days of the kill date.
Harvest Reporting and Mandatory Survey
To ensure accurate harvest data, all elk hunters must report their harvest within 7 days of the kill date. This can be done online or by mail. Hunters must also submit a mandatory harvest survey, which requires providing detailed information about the harvested elk, including its sex, antler size, and location of harvest. Failure to report harvest and submit the survey can result in fines and penalties.
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