Colorado is a popular destination for tourists and residents alike. You’ll first need to get a fishing permit for Colorado before you can cast a line in the beautiful waters of Colorado. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all of the information you need about fishing licenses for Colorado.
What is a Colorado Fishing License?
A fishing license in Colorado is a document that allows you to fish on the waterways of the state. Anyone 16 years old or older is required to have a fishing license, regardless of whether they live in the state or not.
Why do you need a fishing license in Colorado?
Colorado makes it illegal to fish without a fishing license. The penalties can be severe. Fishing without a Colorado fishing license can result in fines ranging from $50 to $500. In some cases, you could even be sentenced to jail. By purchasing a Colorado fishing license, you can avoid these penalties and support conservation efforts to protect the state’s fish population.
Colorado Fishing License Types
You can get different types of fishing licenses in Colorado depending on your age and residency status as well as the type of fishing that you intend to do. Here are a few options you have:
Resident Licenses
You can apply for a resident’s fishing license if you live in Colorado. You can choose from a variety of options, including a lifetime, five-year or yearly license. You can also apply to get a combination permit, which includes small game hunting, trapping and fishing.
Non-Resident Licenses
You can apply for a fishing license if you are not a resident of Colorado. This license comes in daily and annual options, and allows you to fish in state waters.
Youth Licenses
You can apply for a youth license if you are under 16 years old. This license is open to residents and non-residents in the state, and is valid throughout the year.
Senior Licenses
You can apply for an older fishing license if you are 65 or older. This license is valid for an entire year and is available to residents and non-residents.
How to Get a Colorado Fishing License
The process of obtaining a fishing permit in Colorado is relatively straightforward. You can apply online, by phone, or at different locations in the state.
Online License Application
Visit the Colorado Parks and Wildlife site and follow the instructions to apply for a Colorado fishing permit online. You will need a valid form or identification and a credit card in order to complete the transaction.
Phone License Application
Call the Colorado Parks and Wildlife phone center and follow the provided instructions to apply for a license. You will need a credit card in order to complete the transaction.
In Person License Application
Visit one of the many license sellers in the state to apply for a fishing or hunting license. These include sporting good stores, hardware shops, and Colorado Parks and Wildlife office.
How much does a Colorado fishing license cost?
The cost of Colorado fishing licenses varies depending on what type of license you are applying for. Here are some of the most popular options and their current prices (as at 2021).
Resident Fishing License
Yearly: $35.17Five-Year: $132.58
Lifetime: $1,021.25
Combo Five-Year: $190.58
Combo Lifetime: $1,520
Non-Resident fishing license
One-Day: $13.90
Five-Day: $37.90
Yearly: $70.33
Youth Fishing License
Yearly: $11.18
Senior Fishing License
Yearly: $9.85
Where Can You Fish With A Colorado Fishing License
A valid Colorado fishing licence allows you to fish in all public waters of the state. This includes rivers, streams, lakes, reservoirs and other public waters. There are exceptions to the rule, including privately owned waters and special areas.
Fishing Regulations Colorado
Colorado has a number of fishing regulations to protect fish populations, maintain the balance of ecosystems and to protect the ecosystem. There are limits on the size and number of fish that you can catch. There are also restrictions on the type of bait and equipment you can use, and there are specific seasons for fishing certain species. Colorado Parks and Wildlife has detailed information about Colorado’s fishing laws.
Renewing Your Colorado Fishing License
If you have a Colorado fishing license, you will need to renew it every year if you intend to continue fishing in the state. You can renew your fishing license online, by phone, or at different locations in the state.
The Bottom Line
A fishing license is not only required by law, but it’s also a great way to support conservation efforts in Colorado. You can still enjoy fishing in Colorado while preserving its natural beauty for future generations by following the regulations and fishing responsibly.