When Does Archery Season Start in Colorado? A Comprehensive Guide

Colorado is renowned for its majestic landscapes, diverse wildlife, and thriving outdoor recreational activities. Among these, archery hunting stands out as a cherished tradition for many residents and visitors. The Centennial State offers a plethora of opportunities for archery enthusiasts, but when exactly does the archery season start in Colorado? Let’s delve into the specifics.

Understanding Colorado’s Hunting Seasons

Before we pinpoint the start of the archery season, it’s essential to understand that Colorado categorizes its hunting seasons based on the type of game and the weapon used. The primary categories are big game (which includes deer, elk, pronghorn, moose, and bear) and small game. Each of these categories has its own designated seasons for rifle, muzzleloader, and archery hunting.

Big Game Archery Season

For big game hunting, the archery season is typically one of the earliest hunting seasons to commence. This is primarily because archery, being a more challenging hunting method, requires a longer period for hunters to have a fair chance at success. For the latest regulations check the Colorado Big Game Brochure.

Deer and Elk: The archery season for deer and elk usually begins in late August or early September and lasts for about a month. It’s a time when the animals are more active due to the rutting season, making it an opportune time for archers. In 2024, the dates are Sept. 2-30.
Pronghorn: The archery season for pronghorn starts a bit later, typically in mid-September, and runs for about three weeks. In 2024 the dates are Aug. 15 – Sept 20.
Moose: Archery season for moose generally coincides with that of deer and elk, starting in late August or early September. In 2024 the dates are Sept. 7 – 30.
Bear: For those interested in bear hunting, the archery season typically starts in early September and can last until the end of the month. In 2024 the dates are Sept. 2-30th and generally coincide with Deer and Elk season.

It’s worth noting that while these are general timelines, specific dates might vary each year based on the Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) regulations and Hunt Units. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to consult the CPW’s official website or annual brochure for exact dates. Also to note, there may be special dates for Youth, Limited License, and Disabled individuals.

Small Game Archery Season

Small game includes animals like rabbits, squirrels, pheasants, and turkeys. While not as popular as big game archery hunting, there’s still a significant interest in hunting these species with a bow and arrow. Always check the CPW website for the most accurate details and more in-depth information.

Turkey: The spring archery season for turkey typically begins in April and can extend into May. There’s also a fall season, which usually starts in September. In 2024 it depends on the unit, but the dates for 2024 are generally Sept. 1st – Oct. 6th for Fall Turkey, and April 13th – May 31st or May 4th – 31st depending on the unit and other factors. Check the Colorado Turkey Regulations Brochure 2024.
Other Small Game: For other small game species, the archery season can vary, but it generally aligns with the overall hunting season for that species. This could range from September to February, depending on the animal. Check the Colorado Small Game Brochure 2024.

To note: You can generally use a bow as a manner of hunting during any rifle seasons if you prefer, but you still must have the correct tag for the season. That means, if you get a Second Rifle tag, you could use a bow during that season, but if you have an Archery tag that is only applicable to Archery season dates and not Rifle season dates. Call CPW to clarify as it’s very important to always be within state regulations for proper hunting and licensing.

Factors Influencing Archery Season Dates

Several factors determine the start and end dates of the archery season in Colorado:

Wildlife Population: One of the primary considerations is the health and size of the game populations. If a particular species’ numbers are dwindling, the CPW might decide to shorten the hunting season or implement stricter bag limits.
Environmental Concerns: Factors like drought, harsh winters, or wildfires can impact game movement and population. In such cases, the CPW might adjust hunting seasons accordingly.
Hunter Demand: The number of hunters applying for licenses can also influence season dates. If there’s a significant increase in archery hunters, the CPW might consider extending or shifting the season to accommodate the demand.

Staying Informed and Prepared

While it’s crucial to know when the archery season starts, preparation is equally important. Here are some steps to ensure a successful hunting trip:

Licensing: Ensure you have the necessary licenses and tags. These can be obtained from the CPW’s official website or authorized sales agents.
Equipment Check: Make sure your archery equipment is in top condition. This includes checking the bowstring, arrows, and other essential gear.
Safety First: Familiarize yourself with the hunting regulations and safety guidelines. Remember, a safe hunt is a successful hunt.
Scout the Area: If possible, visit your chosen hunting spot before the season starts. This will give you a better understanding of the terrain and animal movement.

In conclusion, Colorado’s archery season is a much-anticipated time for hunting enthusiasts. While the general timelines mentioned above provide a rough idea, it’s always recommended to check the official CPW resources for the most up-to-date information. With proper preparation and respect for the environment and wildlife, archery hunting in Colorado can be a rewarding experience.

Note: This article is a general overview and might not contain the most recent or specific data. Always refer to the official Colorado Parks and Wildlife Big Game Brochure or resources for the most accurate information.

When does archery season start in Colorado