If you’re planning to go fishing in Colorado in 2024, it’s important to understand the cost of fishing licenses and regulations. In this article, we’ll explore the various types of fishing licenses available, their prices for both residents and non-residents, and where you can purchase them.
Types of Fishing Licenses in Colorado
Colorado Parks and Wildlife offers several types of fishing licenses to cater to different needs and preferences. Here are some of the most common options:
Annual Fishing License (ages 18-64): $41.83 for residents, $102.40 for non-residents
Youth Annual Fishing License (ages 16 & 17): $10.23 for residents, same price as non-resident adult for non-residents
Senior Annual Fishing License (65 ): $10.23 for Colorado residents only
Senior Low Income Lifetime Fishing License (64 ): $10 for Colorado residents only
One-day Fishing License: $14.46 for residents, $17.64 for non-residents
Five-day Fishing License: $33.53 for non-residents only
It’s important to note that anyone 16 years old or older needs to be licensed to fish in the state of Colorado, including in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Where to Purchase Fishing Licenses in Estes Park
Fishing licenses can be purchased at various locations in Estes Park and the surrounding area. Here are a few options:
Estes Valley Recreation and Park District: Fishing licenses are available for purchase at the Marina Store.
Estes Park Mountain Shop: This shop offers a fully stocked fishing department and sells all applicable fishing licenses, ranging from one day to the entire year for both residents and non-residents.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife: Licenses can be purchased online, by phone at 1-800-244-5613, or in person at CPW offices and sales agents.
When purchasing a fishing license, you’ll need to provide a valid U.S. picture ID, such as a driver’s license. For international travelers, a passport is required.
Additional Fees and Requirements
In addition to the fishing license fees, there are a few other costs and requirements to keep in mind:
Annual Habitat Stamp: Anyone ages 18-64 purchasing an annual fishing license will have a Habitat Stamp applied at the time of purchase, costing $10.59 for both residents and non-residents.
Annual Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) Stamp: This stamp is mandatory for motorboats and sailboats operating on Colorado’s waters and costs $25 for residents and $50 for non-residents.
Hunter Education Card: If you were born after 1948, you must show a hunter education card when purchasing a Small Game & Fishing Combination license.
With these fees and requirements in mind, it’s important to plan ahead and ensure you have all the necessary documentation and stamps before heading out to fish in Colorado.
In conclusion, the cost of fishing licenses in Colorado varies depending on the type of license, residency status, and age. By understanding the different options and purchasing your license from an authorized retailer, you can enjoy fishing in Colorado’s beautiful waters while staying compliant with state regulations.