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

Losing your Colorado fishing license can be a frustrating experience, but don’t worry – there are a few options available to you in 2024. Whether you misplaced your license or it was stolen, you can obtain a duplicate without having to purchase a new one.

Obtaining a Duplicate License

If you lost your Colorado fishing license, you can obtain a duplicate by following these steps:

Complete the Request for Duplicate License form. You can find this form on the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website. Fill out one form for each license you need to replace.
Sign and mail the completed form. Send the form to Colorado Parks & Wildlife, LRCO, 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216.
Include the appropriate replacement fee. The fee varies depending on the type of license:
Annual Fishing, Small Game, Furbearer, Combination Small Game and Fishing Licenses – $5.00
Extra Rod Stamp – $4.50
Colorado Waterfowl Stamps – $5.07
Include your original license if it has incorrect information. If your original license contained errors, you must include it with your request for a duplicate.

Alternatively, you can visit a local business that sells licenses and request a duplicate. They will charge you $5 and print a replacement on the spot.

Eligibility for a Free Fishing License

In some cases, you may be eligible for a free fishing license in Colorado. Here are a few exceptions:

Children under 16. Kids under the age of 16 can fish without a license.
Residents with disabilities. Colorado residents with permanent disabilities can apply for a free lifetime fishing license through Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
Military veterans. Colorado residents who are over 60% disabled from active duty and are recipients of the Purple Heart can apply for a free fishing and hunting combo license.

If you fall into one of these categories, you can fish without purchasing a Wildlife Habitat Stamp.

Purchasing a Colorado Fishing License

If you don’t qualify for a free fishing license and need to purchase one, you have several options:

Online. You can order your license from the comfort of your own home without even speaking to anyone. Just create an account and fill in the online form.
By phone. Call 1-800-244-5613 and speak to a trained sales representative who will guide you through the application process.
In person. Visit a licensed retailer or CPW location. There are hundreds of official vendors across the state, including tackle stores, hardware stores, and Walmart.

When ordering a short-term fishing license, you will receive a temporary authorization number (TAM) that will act as your license until your physical license arrives in the mail.

Colorado offers a wide range of fishing opportunities, with more than 12,000 miles of streams and 2,500 lakes. To enjoy these incredible fisheries, make sure you have a valid fishing license before heading out.

In 2024, Colorado residents can now access their fishing licenses through the myColorado mobile app. This app allows you to display your license electronically on your smartphone, making it even easier to prove you have a valid license while enjoying the great outdoors.