What Colorado Fishing Licenses Cost

A Colorado fishing license for residents costs $26.95 for a one-year license, or $9.95 for a one-day license. Non-residents pay $40.95 for a one-year license or $14.95 for a one-day license. These are the base prices for a standard fishing license that lets you fish in most Colorado waters.

If you want to fish for certain species or in certain ways, you may need to add a stamp to your license. A Colorado Parks and Wildlife stamp costs extra and covers specific types of fishing — for example, if you want to fish for walleye or pike in designated waters, you need the appropriate stamp. Stamps typically cost between $5 and $15 depending on the species.

Prices can change each year, so check the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website directly before you buy. You can purchase a license online, by phone, or at sporting goods stores and fishing shops across the state.

Key Takeaways

  • Colorado residents pay $26.95 for a one-year fishing license; non-residents pay $40.95.
  • One-day licenses cost $9.95 for residents and $14.95 for non-residents if you only want to fish once.
  • You may need to add a species-specific stamp ($5–$15) if you plan to fish for walleye, pike, or other restricted species.
  • You can buy a license online through Colorado Parks and Wildlife, by phone, or at local sporting goods stores.

Who Needs a License in Colorado

Anyone 16 years old or older who fishes in Colorado waters must have a valid license. This includes residents and non-residents, and it applies whether you fish in public lakes, rivers, or private water you have permission to use.

Some people do not need a license. Children under 16 can fish without one, as long as an adult with a valid license is present and supervising. Residents 65 and older can get a senior license for $8.95 per year. People with certain disabilities may be able to get a free or reduced-cost license — contact Colorado Parks and Wildlife directly to learn what documents you need.

One-Day Licenses vs. Annual Licenses

A one-day license is the right choice if you are visiting Colorado and plan to fish only once or twice. At $9.95 for residents and $14.95 for non-residents, it costs less than an annual license and is valid for 24 consecutive hours from the time you buy it.

An annual license makes sense if you live in Colorado or plan to fish more than a few times during the year. The one-year license is valid from the date you buy it through the same date the following year. If you fish regularly, the annual license pays for itself after just three or four trips.

Stamps for Specific Fish Species

Colorado requires a separate stamp if you want to fish for walleye, pike, or certain other species in designated waters. Each stamp costs between $5 and $15 and covers one species for the calendar year. You add the stamp to your existing license — you do not buy it separately.

Not all waters allow all species, and not all species require a stamp. Before you buy a stamp, check the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website or call their office to confirm which waters you plan to fish and whether a stamp is required. This step takes five minutes and saves you money if the water you want to fish does not require one.

Where to Buy Your License

The easiest way to buy a license is online through the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website. You can purchase and print your license when ready, or have it sent to your email. Online purchases are available 24 hours a day.

You can also buy a license by phone by calling Colorado Parks and Wildlife directly. Many sporting goods stores, fishing shops, and outdoor retailers across Colorado sell licenses in person. If you buy in person, bring your ID and be ready to provide your date of birth and address.

Checking License Status and Renewal

Your license is valid for one year from the date you buy it. Colorado Parks and Wildlife does not send renewal reminders, so mark your calendar or set a phone reminder for when your license expires. You can renew online, by phone, or in person using the same methods you used to buy your first license.

If you are not sure whether your license is still valid, you can check your purchase history on the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website if you bought it online. If you bought it in person, keep your receipt or license card so you know the expiration date.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish with someone else's license?

No. Each person who fishes must have their own valid license. A parent or guardian with a license can supervise a child under 16 who fishes without a license, but the adult cannot fish using the same license.

What happens if I fish without a license?

Fishing without a valid license is a violation of Colorado Parks and Wildlife regulations and can result in fines. The amount varies depending on the circumstances, but it is always more expensive than buying a license upfront.

Do I need a license to fish on private property?

Yes. You need a valid Colorado fishing license to fish anywhere in the state, including private water, unless you own the property and it is not stocked by Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Always confirm the rules with the property owner before you fish.

Can I buy a license for someone else as a gift?

Yes. You can buy a license online or in person for another person. If you buy online, you will need their date of birth and address. Some retailers also sell gift certificates that the recipient can use to buy their own license.

What if I lose my license?

If you lose your printed license, you can reprint it from your account on the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website if you bought it online. If you bought it in person, contact the retailer or Colorado Parks and Wildlife to request a replacement.