Colorado holds more elk and issues more elk permits than any other state. Over 200,000 elk hunters go afield each year between the draw tags and over-the-counter opportunities in Colorado. Most of the state is managed for the quantity of elk, rather than trophy quality. A few units produce bulls reaching over 330”, while most of the state will provide only a chance for a branch-antlered bull elk. Several seasons take place during the rut and can make for an exciting hunt. Colorado has excellent dates for archery hunters looking to hunt elk during the rut.

* Includes annual fishing license

All license fees include a $0.25 search-and-rescue fee and a $1.50 fee for the Wildlife Education Fund, if applicable.

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Highlights

Boone and Crockett entries: Typical

** Units listed below may not have a current hunt for this species. Units in this table are included if any part of the unit is found within the county.

Boone and Crockett entries: Nontypical

** Units listed below may not have a current hunt for this species. Units in this table are included if any part of the unit is found within the county.

*8 counties with one entry