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

Proper licensing is essential for legal and ethical hunting. Here’s what you need to know:

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

Adhering to hunting regulations ensures sustainable wildlife management and ethical hunting practices.

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

At Elk River Guns, we pride ourselves on offering top-tier products and expert advice tailored to your hunting needs.

Firearms

Remington Model 700: Renowned for its accuracy and reliability, perfect for elk and deer hunts

700 CDL

Bolt Action Rifle, 6.5 Creedmoor, 24″ Barrel, Satin Blued Finish, American Walnut Stock, 4 Round Capacity

Savage 110 Family

The oldest continuously manufactured bolt action rifle in North America is now even better. The Model 110 family has a fresh look and is full of improvements.

Savage Model 110: Offers excellent precision with customizable options for various calibers.

Ruger American Hunter: Outstanding accuracy helps make every hunt a success.

Ruger American Hunter

Ruger Marksman Adjustable™ trigger offers a crisp release with a pull weight that is user adjustable between 3 and 5 pounds, allowing shooters to make that perfect shot.

Optics

Leupold VX

The VX®-5HD riflescope has everything you need and nothing you don’t.

Leupold VX-5HD: Superior clarity and durability for long-range shooting.

Vortex Viper HD: High-definition optics with excellent light transmission.

Vortex Viper HD

Viper HD binoculars are an optical masterpiece, giving hunters, shooters and outdoor enthusiasts a premium option without the premium price tag.

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

Introducing the all-new LimbSaver AirTech, the most advanced recoil pad in the world.

Hunting Recoil Pads: Enhances shooting comfort and reduces fatigue.

Knifes & Shears: Essential for field dressing and other tasks.

Outdoor Edge Wild Pak

Complete 8-piece, field-to-freezer game processing set with hard-side carry case.

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

Proper preparation can significantly enhance your hunting experience. Here are some tips to ensure you’re ready:

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

Safety is paramount in hunting. Follow these best practices to ensure a safe and enjoyable season:

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

Elk River Guns collaborates with local hunting clubs and ranges to connect with fellow enthusiasts, share tips, and participate in shooting matches and group hunts. Networking with experienced hunters can provide valuable insights and enhance your hunting strategies.

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.

Happy Hunting!

Joyce Treulieb

22:34 05 Jun 25

Amazing!

Michael Kusy

20:21 03 Jun 25

Always a great experience at Elk River Guns!

Jeff Von Almen

22:21 20 May 25

David was great!

Jarrod Raper

21:38 19 May 25

Staff helps with every step of the process and make sure you know what is going on! They are super informative. Great people.

Timothy Moorehead

19:56 17 May 25

Always helpful and good stock!

Stephen Failla

16:56 13 May 25

Dan Emert

15:20 12 May 25

These folks run an impressive operation and are great at everything they do. Highly, highly recommend.

Joel Harris

22:07 09 May 25

Friendly helpful & very well informed. Competitive pricing.

David Smith

17:30 07 May 25

Just got another brick of Hornady 17 HMR 15.5 gr. NTX. It gives exceptional accuracy at 100 yards, is devastatingly lethal on ground squirrels, and doesn’t poison the raptors.

DAVE MIHAICH

19:31 04 May 25

Always a pleasure at Elk River Guns!!👍🏻

Dakota Thvedt

11:02 03 May 25

Alan Clemens

23:02 02 May 25

Great and friendly service as always!

Eric Edelstein

22:33 17 Apr 25

Danny Hulslander

23:13 15 Apr 25

I've had nothing but good experiences with these guys!! Whether it's buying a new firearm, getting some gunsmithing done or selling/trading in a used firearm, they make it an easy and welcoming experience! Thanks guys!

Bob Forster

19:40 09 Apr 25

Great service. Jae made some great recommendations. Very happy with resuling product purchased.

Kasen Brennise

18:13 08 Apr 25

lawrence Belton

13:37 01 Apr 25

Heath Scroggs

00:19 27 Mar 25

Everyone was really excited to help one out!! An amazing environment!!

Mikey DeRock

22:40 25 Mar 25

Everything in house seems to be awesome, staff is friendly and helpful, you could sit and talk to everyone for far too long!Waited a bit too long getting a barrel threaded, but that is not done in house and by a sub contractor.Everything in house from customer service to selection was wonderful, I will be bringing my buisness back again!

Frances Jenkins

01:34 19 Mar 25

Very friendly and extremely knowledgeable staff.

Juan Landa

18:02 10 Mar 25

Wonderful service and great people!

Ron Mentch

22:33 07 Mar 25

Very friendly and helpful!

Sharon Cantu

00:17 02 Mar 25

Friendly & kind , Great customer services . Took the time to explain their products to me . Recommend for everyone to go check them out. Thank you for all your help .

Dave Chapin

21:51 28 Feb 25

As always, great service, very happy with my purchase. Definitely my go to store for anything gun related. Thanks elk river!

Jeff Jewson

04:39 28 Feb 25

Cannon Balls

23:23 27 Feb 25

Best store in town. Knowledgeable Smart people. Best store in Colorado as far as I know.

Donna Segale

22:14 22 Feb 25

I needed to get rid of these guns my husband had that I discovered after he passed. I am not used to being around guns and a bit nervous around them. Everyone at the store were very nice and gave me a fair price for them. The 2 dogs were also sweet.I would highly recommend them.

Scott Baraw

04:06 22 Feb 25

Elk River Guns is like family! They are knowledgeable and understanding for all your gun related needs. Jae the owner is willing to go the extra mile to make sure you are happy with your purchase/future purchases. Dave has impeccable memory. He remembers everyone’s name and welcomes you by name with a warm smile when you walk through the door. Other shops employees just want to take your money any way how. These guys are there to make your day better. They are my number one gun store in my books.Best in the northwest!

Chris H

23:22 13 Feb 25

Jae and Elk River was my go to FFL before I moved away from Steamboat. Just bought a few products from them even though I now live across the country. Elk River was responsive, shipped my product quickly in a well packaged box. Transaction was seamless. Will continue to do business with Jae and Elk River Guns.

Ralph Torres

23:09 12 Feb 25

Very knowledgeable employees in this store ifthey don’t have it. They will order it for you. I’ve never had a bad experience with elk River guns

C Young

07:55 24 Oct 24

Can’t recommend them enough. A lot of gun shops have shady salesman or condescending staff, and it’s the opposite here. David (Mr. Smith) is just the most welcoming warm person to have greet you and guide you through any of your needs. He’s downright hilarious too! Jae is the wizard you can trust with all your gunsmithing needs and is obviously effortlessly knowledgeable with any and everything guns. He has both fixed my broken handgun and mounted an optic within 10 minutes of walking in the store while charging a very fair price. Just crazy levels of service that’s so rare nowadays. Tip this man he deserves it. They have a great selection of guns/parts and transfers, though on the expensive side for transfers, (you’re in steamboat, don’t be unrealistic), are a breeze. In small towns like this we are lucky to have shop of this caliber (pun intended).