The Ultimate Guide to Colorado Non Resident Fishing Licenses (2025)
Fishing in Colorado is a must-do for anglers, offering some of the most beautiful and diverse environments in the U.S. Whether you’re seeking trophy trout or chasing the thrill of warm-water species like bass and catfish, Colorado’s expansive public waters have something for everyone. However, before you cast your line, it’s crucial to understand the requirements for non-resident fishing licenses, along with local regulations, including bag limits, seasonal closures, and special areas. This guide will give you everything you need to know for 2025, from acquiring a fishing license to detailed tips that will ensure a successful trip.
1. Non-Resident Fishing License Requirements in Colorado
In Colorado, any angler aged 16 years or older must have a valid fishing license to fish in public waters, including state parks, reservoirs, rivers, and streams. Colorado offers several options for non-resident anglers, each tailored to different trip lengths and needs.
License Validity for 2024-2025:
- Valid Period: All fishing licenses purchased for 2024-2025 are valid from March 1, 2024, through March 31, 2025.
- License Options: Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) offers a variety of licenses for non-residents, including annual, one-day, five-day, and additional day options.
2. Non-Resident License Options and Fees for 2025
Here are the different types of fishing licenses available for non-residents in 2025:
| License Type | Cost (2025) |
|---|---|
| Annual Fishing License | $117.14 |
| One-Day Fishing License | $19.97 |
| Five-Day Fishing License | $38.19 |
| Additional Day | $7.82 |
Note:
- Non-resident youth (ages 16-18) must purchase an adult annual fishing license, which costs $117.14.
- All non-residents ages 18-64 must purchase a Habitat Stamp for $12.15 along with their first license purchase of the year.
You can find detailed information on prices and other fishing license options on the official Colorado Parks and Wildlife website here.
3. Where to Purchase Your Colorado Fishing License
You can easily purchase your Colorado fishing license through several methods:
- Online: Visit the official Colorado Parks and Wildlife website to buy your license online.
- Phone: Call 1-800-244-5613 to purchase your license over the phone.
- In-Person: Buy a license from authorized sales agents across Colorado, including retailers like Walmart, Bass Pro Shops, and local CPW offices.
Additionally, the My CPW app provides an easy way to access your license, track fishing reports, and view regulations directly from your smartphone.
4. Detailed Fishing Regulations for Non-Residents
Colorado has specific bag limits and size limits for each species and water body. These regulations are strictly enforced, so it’s important to understand the rules before you fish.
Bag Limits and Species-Specific Regulations (2025)
- Trout:
- Rainbow Trout & Brown Trout: Maximum of 4 fish per day.
- Cutthroat Trout: Maximum of 2 fish per day, and they must be at least 14 inches in length.
- Brook Trout: The limit is 10 fish per day.
- Bass:
- Largemouth Bass & Smallmouth Bass: Maximum of 5 fish per day, with a minimum size of 15 inches.
- Walleye:
- Maximum of 5 fish per day, with a minimum size of 18 inches.
- Catfish:
- Channel Catfish: Maximum of 5 fish per day.
- Pike:
- Northern Pike: Maximum of 5 fish per day, with a minimum size of 18 inches.
Be sure to check specific lake or river regulations, as some bodies of water may have different size limits or restrictions due to conservation efforts. For example, some waters may have a catch-and-release-only rule or special limits during spawning seasons.
Special Restrictions on Fishing Areas:
Some bodies of water have special rules or may be restricted to specific times or seasons. For instance:
- Catch-and-Release Areas: Certain streams, such as the Blue River, are designated as catch-and-release areas for trout.
- No Bait Zones: Many high-altitude lakes require artificial lures or flies only, meaning no live or dead bait.
Check the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Regulations for specific bodies of water and species by visiting the official regulations page.
5. Free Fishing Weekend: A Great Opportunity
Each year, Colorado offers a Free Fishing Weekend on the first full weekend of June. During this weekend, you can fish without a license, which is a great opportunity for newcomers to the sport or those just passing through. However, while you don’t need a fishing license, all other rules and regulations still apply, such as:
- Bag and size limits.
- Species-specific restrictions.
- Fishing hours and zones.
Be sure to plan ahead by reviewing the regulations for specific bodies of water. For more details on Free Fishing Weekend, visit the official page on CPW’s website.
6. Popular Fishing Locations for Non-Residents
Colorado offers a wide range of world-class fishing locations. Here are some of the top spots to check out in 2025:
- Blue River (Breckenridge): Famous for its trophy trout fishing, particularly in Breckenridge, this river is stocked regularly with rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout.
- Chatfield Reservoir (Denver): A popular fishing spot near Denver, great for bass, catfish, and trout. A second-rod stamp is required if you want to fish with two rods here.
- Cherry Creek Reservoir (Denver): This lake is known for walleye and trout fishing, with a beautiful setting just outside Denver.
- Lake Granby: One of Colorado’s best lakes for catching lake trout, and offers great boating and fishing opportunities.
- Colorado River: Ideal for fly fishing with an abundant supply of rainbow and brown trout, the Colorado River offers multiple access points for both beginner and expert anglers.
For the latest fishing reports and more tips on fishing locations, visit CPW’s fishing reports page.
7. Tips for Fishing in Colorado
To help make your fishing trip to Colorado successful, here are some practical tips:
- Weather Conditions: Colorado’s weather can change rapidly, especially in mountain regions. Always check the forecast before heading out and bring appropriate gear.
- Altitude Effects: Many fishing spots in Colorado are at high elevations, which means fish behavior can vary. If you’re fishing at over 6,000 feet, expect cooler water temperatures and potentially different feeding patterns.
- Gear Up Properly: Use gear suited to your target species. For example, fly fishing rods are best for high-altitude streams, while heavy-duty rods are ideal for fishing in reservoirs for bass or pike.
- Local Advice: Don’t hesitate to ask locals for advice or visit CPW offices for the most recent information on fishing conditions, regulations, and tips.
8. Supporting Conservation Efforts
By purchasing a fishing license, you help fund fish-stocking programs and support the upkeep of Colorado’s hatcheries and fisheries. The money from fishing license sales directly contributes to preserving Colorado’s beautiful landscapes and aquatic environments for future generations.
Conclusion: Your Colorado Fishing Adventure Awaits
Whether you’re new to Colorado or a returning angler, understanding the rules and knowing where to fish are key to having a successful and enjoyable experience. With the proper non-resident fishing license, you’re all set to enjoy Colorado’s beautiful waters in 2025. Remember to check specific regulations for each waterway and always respect local wildlife conservation efforts.
For the most up-to-date fishing regulations, license purchases, and fishing reports, be sure to visit the official Colorado Parks and Wildlife website.
