Fishing enthusiasts planning to cast their lines in the Colorado River in 2024 may be wondering about the cost of the required fishing stamp. The Colorado River, which forms the border between several states, has specific regulations and fees that anglers must be aware of to ensure they are fishing legally.
Colorado Parks & Wildlife Fishing License Fees
In Colorado, anglers must have a valid fishing license and Colorado Wildlife Habitat Stamp to fish in the state’s waters, including the Colorado River. The cost of a Colorado fishing license varies depending on residency, age, and duration. For example, a resident annual fishing license for ages 18-64 costs $41.83 and is valid from March 1 to March 31 of the following year (13 months).
The Colorado Wildlife Habitat Stamp, which is required in addition to the fishing license, costs a flat fee of $10.00. This stamp helps fund wildlife conservation efforts in the state.
Arizona-Colorado River Special Use Permit
In Arizona, anglers fishing the Colorado River south of the Nevada-Arizona boundary must have a valid Arizona or California fishing license and an Arizona-Colorado River Special Use Permit. The fee for this permit is set by the Arizona Game and Fish Commission and cannot exceed $4.
The special use permit, when accompanied by the proper fishing license, allows anglers to fish in any portion of the designated waters and enter the water from any point. Shore fishing does not require a Colorado River Special Use Permit as long as the angler remains on the shore of the state from which they hold a valid license and does not embark on the water.
Nevada Fishing License and Fees
Nevada also has specific regulations for fishing the Colorado River. Anglers must have a valid Nevada fishing license, and the fee for a Nevada-Colorado River Special Use Permit is $3. This permit is effective from March of the year it is issued through February of the following year.
Nevada offers various fishing license options, including annual, daily, and youth licenses for both residents and non-residents. For example, a Nevada resident annual fishing license costs $40, while a non-resident annual fishing license costs $80.
It’s important to note that the specific fees and regulations mentioned in this article are subject to change. Anglers should always check with the relevant state wildlife agencies for the most up-to-date information before planning their fishing trips on the Colorado River in 2024.