A Guide To Understanding Colorado Hunting Codes

Colorado's hunting license system uses a specific coding structure that can seem complex at first glance. Whether you're a first-time hunter or a seasoned veteran looking to brush up on the details, this guide will help you decode the information contained in Colorado hunting codes.

The Basics of Colorado Hunting Codes

Colorado hunting codes follow a structured format that provides essential information about:

  • The type of license or permit
  • The species that tag allows you to hunt
  • The hunting method allowed
  • The specific area (Game Management Unit or GMU)
  • The season you can hunt

Breaking Down the Hunt Code Structure

A typical Colorado hunt code looks something like this: EE123O1R. Let's break down what each part means.

Species Identifier (First Letter)

The first letter indicates the species you're permitted to hunt. Generally, the letter code matches the first character of that species.

  • E = Elk
  • D = Deer
  • A = Antelope/Pronghorn
  • B = Bear
  • L = Mountain Lion
  • M = Moose
  • S = Bighorn Sheep
  • G = Mountain Goat
  • T = Turkey

License Type/Sex (Second Letter)

The second letter tells you what type of license it is. For instance, bull tags are marked with an 'M' where cow tags might be marked with an 'E' or 'F'

  • E = Either-sex (any gender)
  • M = Male/Buck only
  • F = Female/Doe only
  • A = Antlered (animals with antlers)
  • P = Private land only

Unit Number (Three Digits)

The three-digit number represents the Game Management Unit (GMU) where you're allowed to hunt. Colorado has over 100 GMUs, each with specific boundaries and regulations. For example:

  • 001 = GMU 1
  • 023 = GMU 23
  • 391 = GMU 391

Season Designator (Letter)

This letter indicates the specific hunting season:

  • O = Opening season
  • 1, 2, 3, 4 = First, second, third, or fourth season
  • A, B, C, D = Different season segments
  • E = Early season
  • L = Late season

Method of Take (Last Letter)

This number tells you what weapon system is permitted. One thing to note is that archers can hunt with a bow in a rifle season but a rifle hunter cannot use a rifle during an archery season.

  • R = Rifle
  • A = Archery
  • M = Muzzleloader

Tips for Using Hunt Codes

  • Always double-check your hunt code before applying for a license. A single incorrect character can result in applying for the wrong hunt.
  • Use the CPW Big Game Brochure to find hunt codes based on your preferences for species, area, and season.
  • Cross-reference the hunt code with the written description in the Big Game Brochure to ensure you understand all regulations.
  • Be aware of preference point requirements for each hunt code, as some hunts require multiple years of points to have a realistic chance of drawing.
  • Pay attention to season dates associated with each hunt code, as they can vary significantly from year to year.

Special Considerations

  • Some hunt codes may have additional designations for special hunts, such as youth-only hunts or mobility-impaired hunts.
  • Private land only (PLO) hunts will typically have a "P" in the code.
  • Some units may have multiple sub-units, indicated by additional letters or numbers.

Conclusion

Understanding Colorado hunting codes is essential for successful and legal hunting experiences. By breaking down each component of the code, you can quickly identify what species you're allowed to hunt, where you can hunt, when the season takes place, and what method you can use.

Remember that regulations can change annually, so always consult the most current Colorado Parks and Wildlife resources when planning your hunt. Happy hunting!