2024 Colorado Big Game Hunting Season
Comprehensive Guide For 2024
As the 2024 Colorado Big Game season approaches, Elk River Guns is here to help you prepare! From rifles to essential gear, we’ve got everything to ensure your success this hunting season.
Elk River Guns is your go to when preparing for a successful and memorable hunting experience in 2024. This comprehensive guide provides all the essential information you need to navigate the hunting season, from key dates and licensing to gear recommendations and safety tips.
Colorado is renowned for its diverse and abundant wildlife, making it a premier destination for big game hunters. The state offers opportunities to hunt a variety of species, including:
- Elk: Known for their size and challenging hunts, elk are a prized game animal in Colorado.
- Mule Deer: Agile and elusive, mule deer hunting requires skill and patience.
- Moose: Found in the northern regions, moose hunting is a unique and rewarding experience.
Pronghorn - Antelope: Fast and sleek, pronghorns offer a thrilling hunt for those seeking speed and endurance.
- Black Bear: For those interested in both hunting and tracking, black bear presents an exciting challenge.
Elk River Guns is committed to supporting hunters throughout the season by providing top-quality firearms, accessories, and expert advice to enhance your hunting experience.
Key Dates for the 2024 Hunting Season
Staying informed about the hunting calendar is crucial for planning your hunts effectively. Here are the key dates for the 2024 Colorado Big Game Hunting Season:
Note: Dates are subject to change. Always verify with the Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) for the most up-to-date information.
Elk/Bear Season
- Archery:
- Start Date: September 2, 2024
- End Date: September 30, 2024
- Muzzleloader:
- Start Date: September 14, 2024
- End Date: September 22, 2024
- Rifle:
- Sept. rifle (bear): Sept. 2-30
- 1st rifle : Oct. 12-16
- 2nd rifle: Oct. 26 – Nov. 3
- 3rd rifle: Nov. 9-15
- 4th rifle: Nov. 20 – 24
Mule Deer Season
- Archery:
- Start Date: September 2, 2024
- End Date: September 30, 2024
- Muzzleloader:
- Start Date: September 14, 2024
- End Date: September 22, 2024
- Rifle:
- 2nd rifle: Oct. 26 – Nov. 3
- 3rd rifle: Nov. 9-15
- 4th rifle: Nov. 20 – 24
- Plains rifle: Oct. 26 – Nov. 5
Moose Season
- Archery:
- Start Date: September 7, 2024
- End Date: September 30, 2024
- Muzzleloader:
- Start Date: September 14, 2024
- End Date: September 22, 2024
- Rifle:
- Start Date: October 1, 2024
- End Date: October 14, 2024
Pronghorn Season
- Archery:
- Start Date: August 15, 2024
- End Date: September 30, 2024
- Muzzleloader:
- Start Date: September 21, 2024
- End Date: September 29, 2024
- Rifle:
- Start Date: October 5, 2024
- End Date: October 13, 2024
Licensing and Permits
Hunting Licenses
- Qualifying License: A current-year qualifying license is required in order to apply for any of the big-game draws.
- Limited License: A set number of licenses are available for specific units and dates for each species, and are issued through an application and draw process.
- Over-the-counter (OTC) Licenses: Licenses that are available without having to go through the draw(s). They do not require buying/having a qualifying license, do not use preference points and may be purchased any time before and during a season. They are available at over 650 sales agents around the state including CPW offices and state parks, online, or by phone.
Preference points
- Preference points: Preference points help hunters to be successful in future
primary draws because points add up per species until an applicant
draws a first-choice license. One preference point is awarded to each
applicant who qualifies for and DOES NOT draw their first-choice limited
license for deer, elk, pronghorn or bear in the primary draw, or who
applies using a specific preference-point hunt code that gets them a
preference point only as their first choice. - Weighted preference points: For moose, Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep
and mountain goat, applicants with at least three preference points will
be awarded a weighted preference point in subsequent draws and will be
given weighted preference during the license draw.
Hunting Regulations and Ethics
Weapon Regulations
- Rifles: Must comply with caliber restrictions specific to each game species.
- Archery Equipment: Bows must meet minimum draw weight requirements.
- Shotguns: Limited use for certain game; check CPW guidelines.
Season-Specific Rules
- Bag Limits: Maximum number of animals that can be harvested per season.
- Hunter Education: Mandatory completion of a hunter education course for first-time hunters.
- Reporting Requirements: Certain game species require reporting post-harvest.
Ethical Hunting Practices
- Fair Chase: Respect wildlife by avoiding unfair advantages.
- Respect for Land: Adhere to property boundaries and landowner agreements.
- Safety First: Always prioritize safety for yourself and others.
Essential Gear and Equipment
Having the right gear can make the difference between a successful hunt and a missed opportunity. Here’s what you need to prepare:
Firearms and Archery Equipment
- Rifles: Precision rifles with suitable calibers for elk, deer, and moose.
- Bows and Crossbows: For archery-specific hunts, ensuring compliance with CPW regulations.
Optics and Accessories
- Scopes: High-quality scopes for better accuracy and range.
- Binoculars: Essential for scouting and tracking game.
- Rangefinders: For precise distance measurements.
Clothing and Footwear
- Camouflage Apparel: Blends with the environment to avoid detection.
- Layered Clothing: Adapts to changing weather conditions.
- Boots: Durable and comfortable footwear for rugged terrain.
Safety and Navigation
- GPS Devices: For navigation in remote areas.
- First Aid Kits: Preparedness for minor injuries.
- Communication Devices: Radios or satellite phones for emergencies.
Other Essentials
- Backpacks: To carry gear, water, and supplies.
- Hydration Systems: Ensures you stay hydrated throughout the hunt.
- Field Dressing Kits: For processing game in the field.
Elk River Guns’ Top Recommendations
Firearms
Remington Model 700: Renowned for its accuracy and reliability, perfect for elk and deer hunts
700 CDL
Savage 110 Family
Savage Model 110: Offers excellent precision with customizable options for various calibers.
Ruger American Hunter
Optics
Leupold VX-5HD: Superior clarity and durability for long-range shooting.
Vortex Viper HD: High-definition optics with excellent light transmission.
Vortex Viper HD
Accessories
Backpacks and Cases: Designed for carrying ammo and gear efficiently.
Bulldog Cases
Bulldog® has been the industry leader for decades in developing innovative carrying and storage solutions for all types of weapons.
Airtech Recoil Pads
Hunting Recoil Pads: Enhances shooting comfort and reduces fatigue.
Knifes & Shears: Essential for field dressing and other tasks.
Outdoor Edge Wild Pak
Gunsmithing Services
Our expert gunsmiths are available to maintain and customize your firearms, ensuring they perform optimally during the hunting season.
Services include:
- Barrel Replacement
- Trigger Adjustments
- Scope Mounting and Calibration
- General Maintenance and Repairs
Preparing for the Hunt: Tips and Strategies
Scout Your Hunting Area
- Visit the hunting grounds before the season starts to familiarize yourself with the terrain and animal patterns.
- Identify key locations such as water sources, trails, and feeding areas.
Practice Regularly
- Regularly practice shooting to improve accuracy and confidence.
- Simulate hunting scenarios to prepare for real-life conditions.
Plan Your Hunt
- Develop a detailed plan, including routes, target species, and backup plans.
- Share your hunting plan with a trusted friend or family member for safety.
Stay Informed
- Keep up-to-date with weather forecasts and adjust your plans accordingly.
- Monitor CPW updates for any changes in regulations or season dates.
Physical Preparation
- Ensure you’re in good physical condition to handle the demands of hunting in rugged terrain.
- Incorporate endurance and strength training into your routine.
Safety First: Best Practices
Firearm Safety
- Always treat every firearm as if it’s loaded.
- Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction.
- Be aware of your target and what lies beyond it.
Personal Safety
- Wear appropriate gear to protect against the elements.
- Stay hydrated and take regular breaks to avoid fatigue.
- Use safety harnesses when hunting from elevated positions.
Wildlife Conservation
- Respect wildlife and strive for clean, ethical kills.
- Utilize proper field dressing techniques to preserve meat quality.
- Participate in conservation efforts to maintain healthy wildlife populations.
Partnering with Local Clubs and Ranges
Routt County Rifle Club
Located just outside Steamboat Springs, the Routt County Rifle Club offers over 500 members access to top-notch facilities, including:
- Four Ranges: Rifle, shotgun, outdoor pistol, and indoor shooting ranges.
- Clubhouse: A welcoming space for members to gather, plan hunts, and share experiences.
- Training Programs: Regular workshops and training sessions to hone your hunting skills.
Additional Resources
For more detailed information on hunting regulations, licenses, and conservation efforts, visit the following resources:
- Colorado Parks and Wildlife – Big Game Hunting: cpw.state.co.us/hunting/big-game
- Hunter Education Programs: cpw.state.co.us/hunting/hunter-education
- Hunting License Online Purchase: cpw.state.co.us/buyapply
The 2024 Colorado Big Game Hunting Season promises to be an exciting time for all hunting enthusiasts. With the right preparation, gear, and knowledge, you can ensure a successful and fulfilling hunting experience.
Elk River Guns is here to provide the support and resources you need to make the most of this season. From top-quality firearms and accessories to expert advice and gunsmithing services, we are your partners in the great outdoors.
Prepare well, hunt safely, and enjoy the beauty and challenge that Colorado’s wilderness has to offer.