What is the Cost of a Colorado Fishing License in 2024?

As the weather warms and the days grow longer, anglers across Colorado eagerly await the start of fishing season. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner looking to cast your line for the first time, understanding the cost of a Colorado fishing license is essential. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the various license options, fees, and regulations for the 2024-2025 season.

Annual Fishing Licenses

The most popular choice for Colorado anglers is the annual fishing license. This pass grants you access to fish in the state’s waters for a full year, from March 1, 2024, through March 31, 2025. The cost of an annual fishing license varies based on your age and residency status:

Adult Annual (ages 18-64): $41.83 for residents, $117.14 for non-residents
Senior Annual (age 65 ): $11.47 for Colorado residents only
Youth Annual (ages 16-17): $11.47 for residents, same price as non-resident adults for non-residents

In addition to the annual license fee, all anglers between the ages of 18 and 64 are required to purchase a Habitat Stamp for $12.15. This stamp helps support wildlife conservation efforts across the state.

Daily and Multi-Day Licenses

If you’re planning a shorter fishing trip or only have a few days to spare, Colorado offers daily and multi-day licenses:

One-Day Fishing: $16.33 for residents, $19.97 for non-residents
Additional-Day Fishing: $7.82
Five-Day Fishing: $38.19 for non-residents only

These licenses are a great option for visitors or those who can’t commit to a full year of fishing. They also don’t require the purchase of a Habitat Stamp.

Other Fees and Stamps

In addition to the fishing license itself, there are a few other fees and stamps to be aware of:

Second-Rod Stamp: $12.68 per year, available to anyone with a fishing license and youth under 16
Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) Stamp: $25 for residents, $50 for non-residents
Search and Rescue Fee: $0.25 included in all license fees
Wildlife Education Fund Surcharge: $1.50 included in all license fees

It’s important to note that all license fees are subject to change, so be sure to check the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website for the most up-to-date pricing information.

Purchasing Your License

Colorado fishing licenses are available for purchase through several convenient methods:

Online at the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website
By phone at 1-800-244-5613
In person at a Colorado Parks and Wildlife office or authorized retailer

You can also display your license on your mobile device using the myColorado app, which is the official app for CPW’s license and pass purchasing website.

Supporting Conservation Efforts

When you purchase a Colorado fishing license, you’re not just paying for the privilege to fish – you’re also supporting important conservation efforts across the state. Fishing license sales fund statewide hatchery and fish-stocking operations, ensuring that Colorado’s waters remain well-stocked and healthy for years to come.

In addition to stocking fish, license sales also support public access, community angling grants, and habitat improvement projects that benefit a wide range of wildlife species.

So whether you’re a lifelong angler or just starting out, purchasing a Colorado fishing license is an investment in the future of the state’s natural resources and outdoor recreation opportunities.