What to Do If You Lost Your Colorado Fishing License in 2024

Losing your Colorado fishing license can be frustrating, but there are a few options available to replace it. Whether you misplaced your license or it was stolen, you have the right to obtain a duplicate. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of getting a replacement license and provide helpful tips to avoid losing it in the future.

Obtaining a Duplicate License

If you’ve lost your Colorado fishing license, you can obtain a duplicate in several ways:

In Person: Visit any Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) office or authorized license agent and request a duplicate. You’ll need to provide proof of identification and pay the required fee, which is typically $5 for an annual fishing license.
By Mail: Download and complete the Request for Duplicate License form from the CPW website. Mail the completed form, along with a check or money order for the replacement fee, to the address provided on the form.
Online: If you have a Colorado driver’s license or state ID, you can access your fishing license through the myColorado mobile app. This allows you to display your license digitally on your smartphone.

When requesting a duplicate license, be prepared to provide the following information:

Your name as it appears on the original license
The type of license (e.g., annual fishing, one-day fishing)
The date of issue or approximate date of purchase
A valid form of identification (e.g., driver’s license, state ID)

Fees for Duplicate Licenses

The cost of a duplicate license varies depending on the type of license you need to replace:

Annual Fishing, Small Game, Furbearer, Combination Small Game and Fishing Licenses: The replacement fee is $5.00.
Extra Rod Stamp: The replacement fee is $4.50.
Colorado Waterfowl Stamps: The replacement fee is $5.07.

It’s important to note that these fees are subject to change, so it’s always best to check the current pricing on the CPW website or with a license agent.

Temporary Licenses

If you need to fish immediately while waiting for your duplicate license, you can purchase a temporary license. Temporary licenses are valid for a specific period, usually a day or a few days, and can be obtained from authorized license agents or online through the CPW website.

Keep in mind that the cost of a temporary license will be deducted from the price of your duplicate license when you receive it.

Preventing License Loss

To avoid the hassle of losing your Colorado fishing license, consider these tips:

Keep your license in a secure location, such as a wallet or a designated compartment in your fishing gear.
Take a photo of your license with your smartphone for easy reference.
If you have a Colorado driver’s license or state ID, use the myColorado mobile app to access your fishing license digitally.
Be mindful of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure when fishing.

Losing your Colorado fishing license can be frustrating, but with the right information and resources, you can quickly obtain a duplicate and get back to enjoying your favorite outdoor activity. Remember to keep your license safe and secure, and consider using the myColorado mobile app for added convenience.