Kansas Hunting 2025 Huntin' Fool

Application Deadlines Non-Resident Fees Resident Fees Big Game Season Dates Draw Result Dates State Contact Information

April 25, 2025

UP-FRONT FEES
Hunting License (Adult)	$100.38
Hunting License (Youth under 16)	$43.23
Application Fee (Whitetail Deer)	$28.32
Points Only Option (Whitetail Deer)	$28.32
Applicants will have to front the tag fees, and, if unsuccessful, they will receive a refund for all but about $31 for the Adult deer tag fee and about $25 for the Youth deer tag.
POST DRAW FEES (IF SUCCESSFUL)
Whitetail Deer Tag (Adult)	$430.07
Whitetail Deer Tag (Youth under 16)	$120.98
Mule Deer Stamp (Optional, Must be Drawn)*	$157.05
Antelope Tag (Archery Adult, Over-the-Counter)	$311.59
Antelope Tag (Archery Youth, Over-the-Counter)	$105.53
*You must draw a Whitetail Deer tag before you can apply for a Mule Deer Stamp

UP-FRONT FEES
Hunting License (Adult)	$27.50
Multi-Year Hunting License (Youth, Age 16 - 20)	$42.50
Application Fee (Whitetail Deer)	$28.32
Points Only Option (Whitetail Deer)	$28.32
Applicants will have to front the tag fees, and, if unsuccessful, they will receive a refund for all but about $31 for the Adult deer tag fee and about $25 for the Youth deer tag.
POST DRAW FEES (IF SUCCESSFUL)
Whitetail Deer Tag (Adult)	$42.50
Whitetail Deer Tag (Youth Under 16)	$12.50
Antelope Tag (Archery Adult, Over-the-Counter)	$52.50
Antelope Tag (Archery Youth, Over-the-Counter)	$12.50

SEASON	KANSAS SEASON DATES
ARCHERY DEER	September 15 – December 31, 2025
GENERAL YOUTH & DISABLED	September 5 – 13, 2025
MUZZLELOADER	September 15 – 28, 2025
GENERAL FIREARMS	December 3 – 14, 2025
ANTELOPE ARCHERY	September 20 – 28, 2025
ANTELOPE MUZZLELOADER	September 29 – October 6, 2025
ANTELOPE FIREARM	October 3 – 6, 2025

YEAR	RESULTS POSTED
2025	May 23
2024	May 23
2023	May 26
2022	June 10
2021	May 25
2020	May 21

Kansas Department of Wildlife & Parks

512 SE 25th Ave
Pratt, KS 67124-8174

ph. 620-672-5911

APPLY CHECK POINTS

It is important when applying in Kansas to apply for the unit you are wanting to hunt as well as an adjoining unit as you can hunt two adjoining units if drawn.
-Kansas will look at an applicant's first four choices before moving on to the next applicant.
-Non-residents wanting to hunt mule deer will need to apply for a mule deer stamp in the April application period.
Kansas is a true preference point state. Hunters with the most points will be awarded the permits. Preference points are only for whitetail deer. Mule deer is a random draw with no point system.
Crossbows are legal in Kansas during the archery season.
Youth have discounted license and permit fees in Kansas along with a specific youth season. Go to xyz.youthHF.com to find out the specific youth hunting options.
Applicants must submit the entire tag fee at the time of application as well as purchase a hunting license.
-All tag fees will be refunded if unsuccessful in the draw, but the hunting license and application cost are non-refundable.
Kansas offers a group application for up to five people, and applicants must apply for the same unit and weapon choice.

The Kansas non-resident deer application deadline is April 26, 2025.

Non-residents may apply online at www.ksoutdoors.com. Non-resident antlered permits are available through an online application only. The application includes a $27.50 non-refundable application fee for non-residents. Unsuccessful applicants will earn a preference point for the following year’s draw. The application deadline for non-resident antlered permits is April 25, 2025. Preference points remain on file for five years from the last date a point was issued or purchased. If an applicant fails to make at least one application or purchase one point within five consecutive years, all earned preference points will be reset to zero.

A non-resident must apply for the Mule Deer Stamp during the April application period. A non-resident who successfully draws an archery or muzzleloader whitetail deer permit (units 1, 2, 3, 17, or 18) and has applied for the Mule Deer Stamp will be entered into a draw for one of 25 limited permits that cover those same units. If drawn, the applicant’s whitetail deer archery or muzzleloader permit converts to a deer either-species, either-sex archery or muzzleloader permit. Preference points do not carry toward the Mule Deer Stamp draw.

Deer Season Dates | Kansas Hunting

Archery | September 16-December 31
General Youth and Disabled Hunt | September 7-15
Muzzleloader | September 16-29
General Firearms | December 4-15

Group Hunt | Kansas

The group hunt application is to accommodate non-residents who do not want to hunt unless their hunting partners also draw. Applicants (up to five) must apply for the same unit and the same weapon choice. Each person will submit an application, and there will be a question on the application about group hunts. The first applicant in the group to apply would select the Create Group Option on this question. This will create a group, and you will be given a group number. Each applicant applying after the group has been set up would select the Join Group Option and fill in the group number. Applicants will be asked at the time of application to select the choice of permit delivery (printed and mailed to applicant or electric delivery to the mobile app). The overall group will be drawn from the lowest preference point in the group.

Kansas offers some of the best whitetail hunting opportunities of all the midwestern states. Private lands that are managed for big whitetail bucks to food plots are likely the main pull for deer hunters when applying for Kansas. While tags for whitetail are still accessible, they have become more competitive and tougher to draw over the years. The eastern side of the state bordering Missouri is home to the highest population of whitetail deer in the state. There are a few public access areas to hunt, but hunters who secure spots with outfitters will be more successful and have a significantly higher chance of harvesting a mature buck.

In addition to great whitetail hunting, Kansas gives hunters the opportunity to pursue mule deer by applying for the Mule Deer Stamp. The draw odds for the Mule Deer Stamp are low, but successful applicants have a unique chance to hunt quality mule deer in the state. The highest populations of mule deer are found along the western side of the state, particularly along the Colorado border. The mature bucks typically range from 160-170”, with occasional 200” bucks being harvested.

Kansas has a very unique tag system where they allow successful applicants in one zone to hunt an adjacent zone with their permit. This is designed to increase opportunities for hunters. However, with very limited public land, State Wildlife Areas, or Walk-In Hunter Access programs areas, it can still be extremely challenging if hunters do not have private land access.

For non-residents, Kansas offers great over-the-counter archery antelope permits.

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Unlimited One-On-One hunt consultations and everything you need to prep like a pro and hunt like a fool.

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$4.00

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All fees listed below will have an internet convenience fee added at the time of applying online for a permit or preference point. You will also need to purchase a non-resident hunting license, which is $127.50 for hunters 16 and over, or a junior hunt license, which is $42.50 for hunters 15 and younger.

$117.50 Non-Resident Youth Whitetail Deer Permit

Youth 15 and younger
Includes a $27.50 non-refundable application fee

$477.50 Non-Resident Whitetail Deer Permit

16 and older
Includes a $27.50 non-refundable application fee

SEASON	KANSAS SEASON DATES
ARCHERY DEER	September 15 – December 31, 2025
GENERAL YOUTH & DISABLED	September 5 – 13, 2025
MUZZLELOADER	September 15 – 28, 2025
GENERAL FIREARMS	December 3 – 14, 2025
ANTELOPE ARCHERY	September 20 – 28, 2025
ANTELOPE MUZZLELOADER	September 29 – October 6, 2025
ANTELOPE FIREARM	October 3 – 6, 2025

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$87.50 Non-Resident Hunt-Own-Land Deer Permit

This is available to non-resident individuals who qualify as Kansas landowners. The permit is valid for any whitetail or mule deer only on land owned or operated by the non-resident landowner, during muzzleloader-only, archery, and firearm seasons using equipment legal for that season. This is available at vendor locations or online August 2-December 31.

$42.50 Special Hunt-Own-Land Relative Deer Permit

This is available to individuals who qualify as lineal ascendants or descendants or siblings of resident landowners or all tenants and spouses of a qualifying landowner. The permit is valid for any whitetail or mule deer only on land owned or operated by a landowner or tenant during muzzleloader-only, archery, and firearm seasons using equipment legal for that season. Lineal relatives include direct ascendants or descendants such as a grandfather, mother, son, or granddaughter. Cousins, uncles, or nieces are not lineal family members. You would also need to purchase an annual hunting license. This is available at vendor locations or online August 2-December 31.

Age Range: 17 years old and younger (15 and younger for youth reduced pricing)

Youth Requirements:

Any hunter who was born on or prior to July 1, 1957 needs to have completed hunter education.
Applicants 15 years and under may hunt under adult supervision without passing hunter education.
Youth 16 years and older are not eligible for youth-priced permits.
-However, youth 17 and under are still eligible to hunt the youth deer season.

Youth Cost Benefits:

A youth (15 and under) junior non-resident hunt license is only $42.50.
A youth (15 and younger) whitetail deer tag is $117.50.
A youth (15 and younger) archery antelope tag is $102.50.
Youth ages 16 and 17 must pay adult prices, but they can still participate in youth deer hunts.

Youth Draw Benefits:

Youth get 20% preference in the general buck deer and antlerless elk, antlerless deer, and doe antelope draws.
Youth and disabled hunters have a special season prior to the archery hunt in September.
Hunters 17 and younger may hunt the youth season dates, but hunters over the age of 15 will have to buy the full price license and permit.

Firearm permit holders may hunt with any legal equipment during the firearm season. Muzzleloader permit holders may only hunt with muzzleloading or archery equipment during the muzzleloader and firearm seasons. Archery permit holders may only use archery equipment during the archery season, even during days that overlap the muzzleloader or regular firearm season.

Legal firearms include centerfire rifles and handguns that are not fully automatic, using only hard-cast solid lead, soft point, hollow point, tumble-on-impact, or other expanding bullets and any gauge shotgun using only slugs.

Legal muzzleloaders include rifles, pistols, and muskets that are loaded with bullets only through the front of the firing chamber and that fire a bullet of .40 inches in diameter or larger using hard-cast solid lead, conical lead, sabot-ed, or tumble-on-impact bullets. Magnifying scopes may be used as long as they do not project visible light towards the target.

Legal archery equipment includes longbows, recurve bows, compound bows, and crossbows. No bow, crossbow, or arrow may have any electronic device attached that controls the flight of the arrow. Devices that may be attached to a bow or arrow shall include lighted pin, dot, or holographic sights; illuminated nocks; rangefinders; film or video cameras; radio-frequency location devices; and draw-lock devices. Arrows used for hunting big game must be equipped with broadhead points that when fully expanded cannot pass through a ring 3/4-inch in diameter. Non-broadhead arrows may be possessed while hunting but may not be used to take big game. Devices capable of dispensing chemicals may not be used.

Lures, decoys, and non-electric calls may be used while hunting big game. Hunters may use blinds and stands. Rangefinding devices and optical scopes or sights that project no visible light towards the target are legal. Horses and mules shall not be used for herding or driving big game. Firearm-equipped air guns may be possessed during the firearm season and used to take big game. Handguns may be possessed during all big game seasons. However, only handguns specified as legal equipment for firearms or muzzleloader seasons may be used for big game hunting. Ethical hunters select equipment most effective for their capabilities, the game hunted, and the style of hunting they prefer. Hunters should consider muzzle velocity, kinetic energy, bullet type, recoil, and accuracy when selecting equipment that is adequate for the game hunted.

A non-resident landowner is any non-resident who owns 80 acres or more of Kansas farm or ranch land. To qualify as a non-resident landowner, a person must own or rent their own land in single ownership with their name on the deed. Property held in a trust, LLC, partnership, or other legal entity is owned by that legal entity. Permits are only available to a legal entity when an employee owns or has been granted a lease for at least 80 acres or manage an 80-acre or larger farm that produces an agricultural commodity such as crops or cattle. Serving as a board member, trustee, non-managing partner, or other such position does not qualify a person for a Kansas landowner deer permit. For details, call 620-672-5911 and ask for Law Enforcement.

Dogs may be used to locate dead or wounded big game animals with the following restrictions: each dog shall be maintained on a handheld leash at all times, an individual tracking big game animals outside of legal shooting hours shall not carry equipment capable of harvesting the big game animal, and each individual harvesting a big game animal shall be limited to the equipment type for the permit and season that is authorized. Each individual participating in the tracking of a big game animal shall have a hunting license, unless the individual is exempt by law. To find individuals with trained blood tracking dogs, go to www.unitedbloodtrackers.org.

HFA002-5

Alaska Peninsula Coast

Species: Brown Bear

Cost: $ 29,500.00

Location: Alaska, United States

HFA091-1

New Mexico Unit 36

Species: Rocky Mountain Elk

Cost: $ 8,000.00

Location: New Mexico, United States

HFA396-3

All-Inclusive Guided Stone

Species: Stone Sheep

Cost: $ 89,250.00

Location: British Columbia, Canada

HFA038-5

Trophy Canadian Moose

Species: Canadian Moose

Cost: $ 9,800.00

Location: British Columbia, Canada

HFA127-2

Wyoming Antelope Hunt

Species: Pronghorn Antelope

Cost: $ 4,500.00

Location: Wyoming, United States

HFA245-8

Montana Mountain Lion

Species: Mountain Lion

Cost: $ 6,800.00

Location: Montana, United States

HFA392-4

Idaho Trophy Mule Deer

Species: Mule Deer

Cost: $ 5,900.00

Location: Idaho, United States

Harvesting female deer is the most effective way to control deer where deer numbers exceed people’s tolerance due to damages or disturbances they may cause. Hunting may also be used to control deer problems and maintain a population that habitat supports. Deer adapt to hunting pressure and find areas where they can evade hunters. In some cases, those areas are created because a particular landowner desires to restrict or prohibit hunter access. Protected areas serve as refuges and may result in future herd increases and higher deer damage on adjacent or other properties where protected deer spend time when hunting season is closed. Landowners have several options for controlling deer on their property: allow or increase hunting, encourage hunters to harvest antlerless deer, contact KDWP at 620-672-5911 for the hunter referral list, or apply for deer control permits that may be used when damage occurs while normal hunting seasons are closed.

Blinds and stands may be used on Department lands, subject to posted requirements and under the following conditions: (1) stands may not be placed more than 14 days prior to the season and shall be removed within 14 days from the close of the season; (2) ladders, screw-in metal steps, and steps attached by ropes, cables, or chains may be used to access stands and must be removed with the stand; (3) natural blinds may be used and shall be constructed of natural herbaceous materials or woody debris present on site; (4) any person may use these stands if not occupied; (5) only two portable blinds or stands per Department-owned or managed area are allowed per hunter; (6) portable blinds and stands must be marked with the owner’s name and address or KDWP number; (7) portable blinds may not be left unattended overnight; and (8) any stand not conforming to the requirements may be removed or destroyed by Department staff.

How much is a hunting license in Kansas?

In Kansas, the cost of a hunting license varies based on residency, age, and license type. A standard resident annual hunting license is $27.50, while a nonresident annual license costs $127.50. Youth (under 16) and seniors (75+) are generally exempt, and landowners hunting on their own land do not need a license. Combo licenses (hunt/fish), 5-year options, youth discounts, and apprentice licenses are also available. Nonresidents under 16 pay $42.50. All licenses include vendor and automation fees. Permits and hunter education may also be required depending on species and season. Licenses can be purchased online at ksoutdoors.com, by phone, or at vendors statewide.

How do you get a hunting license in Kansas?

To obtain a hunting license in Kansas, you can purchase one online at http://ksoutdoors.com , through over 600 license vendors statewide, or by calling 1-833-587-2164. Certain big game and turkey permits, such as those for deer, turkey, antelope, and elk, require a lottery draw and must be applied for at http://GoOutdoorsKansas.com or by phone. Nonresidents must purchase a nonrefundable Kansas hunting license before applying. First-time applicants must provide their Social Security number, which is kept secure and used for child support enforcement compliance. Individuals born on or after July 1, 1957, must complete an approved hunter education course unless exempt. Those under 27 must carry their certificate while hunting. Hunters 16 or older without hunter education may purchase up to two apprentice hunting licenses, valid for one year, and must be directly supervised by a licensed adult age 18 or older. Hunter education is not required when hunting on your own land or on controlled shooting areas with a CSA license ($27.50).

How much is a Kansas non-resident hunting license?

A Kansas non-resident hunting license costs $127.50, including apprentice licenses. Additional options for non-residents include a Nonresident Hunt/Fish Combo License for $192.50, and a Nonresident Youth License (15 and under) for $42.50. These annual licenses expire one year from the date of purchase. All nonresident hunters, regardless of age, must have a non-resident hunting license unless exempt. Nonresidents attending school full-time in Kansas and residing in-state may purchase resident licenses and permits (excluding lifetime licenses), provided they carry proof of student status.

Is Kansas a draw state for deer hunting?

Yes, Kansas is a draw state for certain deer hunting permits. The following permits are available through lottery draw only: Resident Firearm Either-Species/Either-Sex, Nonresident Muzzleloader White-tailed Deer Combo, Nonresident Archery White-tailed Deer Combo, and Nonresident Firearm White-tailed Deer Combo. Applications must be submitted online at http://GoOutdoorsKansas.com under the "Limited Draw Applications" tab. Nonresidents must have or purchase a nonrefundable Kansas hunting license to apply. There is a nonrefundable application fee of $12.50 for residents and $27.50 for nonresidents. Successful applicants will be charged the remaining permit fee; unsuccessful applicants will receive a preference point for the next year's draw. You can also purchase a preference point without applying for a permit. The application deadline for resident permits is June 13, 2025, and for nonresident permits, it's April 25, 2025. Other big game species in Kansas, like turkey, antelope, and elk, also require draw permits.

When does deer hunting season start in Kansas?

In Kansas, the deer hunting season start dates for 2024–2025 vary by weapon type and hunter eligibility. The Youth and Disabled season begins on September 7, 2024, followed by both the Muzzleloader and Archery seasons starting on September 16, 2024. A Pre-rut Whitetail Antlerless Firearm season opens on October 12, with an extended version for Unit 12 beginning October 15. The Regular Firearm season starts on December 4, 2024. Hunters should check ksoutdoors.com or the GoOutdoorsKS app for updates, as regulations may change.

Can you hunt deer with a .223 in Kansas?

Yes, you can hunt deer with a .223 in Kansas, as long as the ammunition used meets the state’s legal requirements. Kansas regulations permit the use of centerfire rifles (excluding fully automatic firearms) for deer hunting, and the law specifically requires the use of expanding bullets such as hard-cast solid lead, soft point, hollow point, or tumble-on-impact rounds. Since .223 caliber ammunition is commonly available in soft point and hollow point variants, it is legal for deer hunting in Kansas when using these types of bullets.

Can you hunt elk in Kansas?

Yes, you can hunt elk in Kansas, but only under specific conditions. Elk permits are available through an online lottery draw system and are generally restricted to Kansas residents. Most elk hunting occurs on the 100,000-acre Fort Riley Military Reservation, although elk can also be found in Units 2 and 3. Hunters must apply for permits via GoOutdoorsKansas.com, and the application deadline for the 2025 season is June 13, 2025. Permit types include Any-Elk and Antlerless-Only, with additional options for landowners hunting their own land. Fort Riley offers its own limited access program, and specific season dates vary by unit and method (archery, muzzleloader, firearm). Nonresidents are generally not eligible for elk permits, except under narrow tenant landowner exemptions. A valid Kansas hunting license is also required unless exempt by law.

Can you hunt with a crossbow in Kansas?

Yes, you can hunt with a crossbow in Kansas. Crossbows are considered a legal form of archery equipment and are permitted for hunting a wide range of species, including deer, elk, turkey, rabbits, squirrels, coyotes, and furbearers. When using a crossbow for big game, arrows must have broadheads that do not pass through a 3/4-inch ring when expanded. Non-broadhead arrows may be possessed but not used to take big game. Electronic devices that control the flight of the arrow are prohibited, but illuminated nocks, rangefinders, video cameras, and non-projecting optical scopes or sights are allowed. Crossbows are legal during general archery seasons and may also be used by youth and disabled permit holders during their respective seasons.

Is trophy hunting legal in Colorado?

Trophy hunting, defined as killing a big game animal solely to take its antlers, hide, or other trophy parts while leaving the carcass behind, is illegal in Colorado. State law considers this a felony offense, and hunters are required to properly tag, utilize, and report their harvests. For certain species like bears, mountain lions, and bobcats, mandatory inspection and sealing of specific parts is also required. While legally licensed hunters can pursue animals for their trophy value, they must comply with all regulations that ensure the full use of the animal and prevent waste.

How old to hunt in Colorado?

In Colorado, the general minimum age to hunt big game and mountain lion is 12, though youth can apply for a license at age 11 if they turn 12 before the season ends. Youth ages 12–15 must be accompanied by a qualified mentor while hunting big game, and those under 16 must also be accompanied when hunting mountain lion, turkey (with a youth license), or small game with a youth license. There is no minimum age to hunt turkey as long as hunter education requirements are met. Youth hunters under 18 may purchase reduced-cost licenses, and those meeting education requirements can also choose to buy an adult small-game license, which allows them to hunt without a mentor. All hunters born on or after January 1, 1949, must have a hunter education card.

When does my membership expire?

How to get a hunting license in Colorado?

To get a hunting license in Colorado, you must first complete hunter education if you were born on or after January 1, 1949, unless eligible for an exemption or apprentice certificate. For big game, you’ll need a qualifying license to apply for draw hunts (e.g., annual small game or turkey license). You can apply for limited licenses through the primary (March 1–April 1) or secondary draw (June 19–30), or purchase over-the-counter (OTC) licenses starting August 5. Youth, disabled, and special programs also offer outreach licenses. A Habitat Stamp is required for most hunters aged 18–64. Licenses can be purchased online, by phone, or at CPW offices and authorized sales agents. Residents must prove at least six months of continuous Colorado residency. Be sure to have your ID, proof of hunter education, and payment ready when purchasing. For the most current details, visit [cpw.state.co.us](https://cpw.state.co.us).

How much is a hunting license in Colorado?

The cost of a hunting license in Colorado depends on residency, species, and age. For big game, resident licenses range from $49.15 for deer or pronghorn to $375.97 for moose, while nonresident combo licenses range from $294.75 for bear to $2,758.49 for moose. Mountain lion licenses cost $60.05 for residents and $501.75 for nonresidents. Small game licenses cost $35.76 for residents and $98.92 for nonresidents, with youth licenses as low as $1.46. Turkey licenses range from $30.44 to $188.86 depending on residency and age. A Habitat Stamp ($12.15–$12.47) is required for most hunters ages 18–64, and application processing fees ($8–$11) apply for draw hunts. Most license fees also include a search-and-rescue and wildlife education fund fee. For the most accurate pricing, consult the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website.

How much is a non-resident big game hunting license in Colorado?

The cost of a non-resident big game hunting license in Colorado varies by species and is typically sold as a combo license that includes fishing privileges. For 2024, non-resident adult combo licenses cost $494.47 for deer or pronghorn, $797.74 for elk, $294.75 for bear, and $2,758.49 for moose. Youth non-resident combo licenses (ages 12–17) are lower, such as $126.18 for deer or pronghorn and $200.92 for elk. A Habitat Stamp is also required for non-residents ages 18–64, costing $12.15 in 2024 and $12.47 in 2025. These prices include mandatory fees like the Wildlife Education Fund and search-and-rescue fee.

What is Colorado Plains Rifle Season?

The Colorado Plains Rifle Season refers to a set of rifle hunting seasons for various big game species that take place in the plains units, primarily east of I-25. These seasons vary by species and license type. For deer, the Plains Rifle Season runs from October 25 to November 4. For bear, an over-the-counter Plains Rifle Season runs from September 2 to November 23. Elk hunters have access to over-the-counter either-sex elk licenses valid from September 1 to January 31 in certain plains units, with a separate antlered elk rifle season in Unit 128 from October 15 to November 23. These hunts may be either limited or over-the-counter depending on the unit and species. Landowner permission is often required, as most land in the plains is privately owned.

What big game can you hunt in Colorado?

In Colorado, you can hunt a wide range of big game species, including deer (both mule deer and white-tailed deer), elk, pronghorn, moose, black bear, mountain lion, Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, and mountain goat. While the primary regulations focus on deer, elk, pronghorn, moose, and bear, separate rules and licensing options exist for mountain lion, bighorn sheep, and mountain goat. These species are all recognized as big game in Colorado and are managed through a combination of limited license draws, over-the-counter options, and special permits.

Can I hunt on my own land in Colorado?

Yes, you can hunt on your own land in Colorado, but you must still follow all applicable hunting laws. This includes having a valid hunting license for the species you're pursuing, completing hunter education if you were born on or after January 1, 1949, and purchasing a Habitat Stamp if you're between ages 18–64. Season dates, bag limits, legal hunting methods, and game management unit regulations still apply on private land. While being the landowner satisfies the permission requirement for private-land-only licenses, you must ensure your land is eligible and within the appropriate hunt unit. Hunting near public roads or highways may also be restricted.

Can you hunt BLM land in Colorado?

Yes, you can hunt on BLM (Bureau of Land Management) land in Colorado, as it is generally open to public hunting. However, you must have a valid Colorado hunting license and follow all state hunting regulations, including season dates, species rules, and legal methods of take. While BLM land is open to hunting, off-trail game retrieval with motorized vehicles is usually prohibited, and specific rules or access restrictions may apply in certain areas. Hunters are advised to contact the local BLM office for up-to-date maps, regulations, and any closures before heading out.

Can you hunt in the national forest in Colorado?

Yes, you can hunt in National Forests in Colorado. These public lands are generally open to hunting, but you must follow all state hunting regulations, including licensing, season dates, and legal methods of take. Some areas within National Forests may have temporary closures, access restrictions, or special rules, so it’s important to contact the local Forest Service office before your hunt to get up-to-date maps and information. Always confirm the regulations for the specific Game Management Unit (GMU) where you plan to hunt, as many GMUs include portions of National Forest land.

Can you hunt with a suppressor in Colorado?

Can you hunt with a crossbow in Colorado?

Yes, you can hunt with a crossbow in Colorado, but only under certain conditions. Crossbows are legal for hunting big game and mountain lion **during rifle or associated methods seasons**, not during archery-only seasons. To be legal, a crossbow must have a minimum 125-pound draw weight, a 14-inch draw length, a working safety, and use bolts at least 16 inches long with broadheads that are at least 7/8 inch wide and have two steel cutting edges in the same plane. Crossbows also appear to be allowed for small game, though they cannot be used for archery season big game hunts. The legality of crossbows for turkey hunting is unclear in the available sources, so it’s best to check directly with Colorado Parks and Wildlife for confirmation.

Can a non-hunter accompany a hunter in Colorado?

Yes, a non-hunter can accompany a hunter in Colorado under certain conditions. For youth hunters and those using apprentice certificates, a mentor must be present, but the mentor does not have to hunt. Hunters with disabilities may also be accompanied by one or more non-hunters for assistance. In general, non-hunters are allowed to accompany licensed hunters as long as they do not participate in hunting activities and all regulations are followed. However, in areas like State Wildlife Areas (SWAs), non-hunters age 16 or older may need a valid hunting/fishing license or a SWA pass to be present. Always check specific property rules with Colorado Parks and Wildlife before heading out.

Can you carry a pistol while bow hunting in Colorado?

Yes, you can carry a pistol while bow hunting in Colorado, but it must be for self-defense only—not for hunting or finishing wounded game. Using a firearm to dispatch an animal shot with a bow is illegal. Open carry is legal, and concealed carry is allowed with a valid Colorado permit (note that not all out-of-state permits are recognized). Handguns are exempt from some transport restrictions, but rifles and bows must be unloaded and cased when transported on off-highway vehicles. Discharging any weapon from or across a public road or within 50 feet of its centerline is prohibited. Always review current Colorado Parks and Wildlife regulations before your hunt.

Can you hunt on Sunday in Colorado?

Yes, you can hunt on Sundays in Colorado. There is no statewide prohibition against Sunday hunting in the regulations. As long as you're hunting during legal hours, within the designated season, and following all other rules for the species and Game Management Unit (GMU), Sunday hunting is allowed. However, some specific properties—like certain State Wildlife Areas—may have their own access or day-use restrictions, so it's important to check the regulations for the exact area where you plan to hunt. Always consult Colorado Parks and Wildlife for the most up-to-date information.

Can you hunt wilderness areas in Colorado?

Yes, you can hunt in wilderness areas in Colorado, but you must follow specific regulations. Wilderness areas like Flat Tops, Maroon Bells–Snowmass, Mount Evans, Buffalo Peaks, and Weminuche are open to hunting, and some offer “wilderness-only” hunt options with limited licenses. These areas often restrict motorized access and may require special permits, such as camping reservations in popular zones like Maroon Bells–Snowmass. While standard hunting rules apply, additional U.S. Forest Service regulations—like equipment limits and group size—may also affect your hunt. Always check Colorado Parks and Wildlife regulations and contact the managing agency before hunting in a designated wilderness area.

Can you use walkie-talkies while hunting in Colorado?

Yes, you can use walkie-talkies while hunting in Colorado, but only for general communication. It is **illegal** to use radios, walkie-talkies, cell phones, or other electronic devices to relay the location of wildlife to aid in hunting or to coordinate a shot. For example, telling a partner where an animal is or advising them to shoot is prohibited. However, using walkie-talkies to stay in touch for safety, planning, or non-wildlife-related coordination is allowed. Always follow Colorado Parks and Wildlife regulations regarding electronic communication while hunting.

What are the dates for big game hunting in Colorado?

The general big game hunting season dates in Colorado for 2025 vary by species, method of take (archery, muzzleloader, or rifle), and Game Management Unit (GMU). The Colorado Parks and Wildlife regulations provide a framework of statewide dates, but actual hunt periods may differ depending on hunt codes and unit-specific regulations. Most archery seasons start in early September, muzzleloader seasons typically run mid-September, and rifle seasons are staggered through October and November, with some late hunts extending into December or even January. Plains rifle seasons and over-the-counter options also provide extended opportunities in designated units. Hunters must consult the CPW’s website for exact season dates for their chosen species, unit, and license type.

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Dates & Fees | Kansas Hunting

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