Colorado Bear Hunting
Plan your Colorado bear hunt with season dates, license options, and hunting opportunities organized by game management unit. Browse available private-land hunts and book access directly from landowners.
Last updated by Aricin Rotarius
Find Hunts by Unit
Browse private-land bear hunts across Colorado, organized by game management unit, and book directly with landowners.
Colorado Bear Seasons
These dates represent the “general” season dates. Check the individual hunting unit regulations for the most accurate season dates and regulations.
Archery
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Sept. Rifle
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Private-land-only Rifle
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over-the-counter; unless otherwise noted in the brochure tables
Sept. Plains Rifle
–
over-the-counter
Muzzleloader
–
Rifle
–
First Rifle
–
Second Rifle
–
Third Rifle
–
Fourth Rifle
–
Colorado Bear Licenses
Resident Licenses
| License | Availability | Eligibility | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bear License | — | — | $64.01 |
| Bear License | — | Ages 12–17; Youth hunters | $19.93 |
Nonresident Licenses
| License | Availability | Eligibility | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bear/fishing combo | — | Ages 18–63 | $302.56 |
Fishing portion of nonresident big game/fishing combo licenses is good through March 31, 2027. | |||
| Bear/fishing combo | — | Ages 12–17; Youth hunters | $64.10 |
Fishing portion of nonresident big game/fishing combo licenses is good through March 31, 2027. | |||
Frequently Asked Questions
Colorado’s approximate 2026 bear season calendar runs from September 2 through November 22, depending on the hunt and method. Archery and September rifle seasons are September 2–30, while muzzleloader is September 12–20. Other rifle seasons are October 1–7, October 14–18, October 24–November 1, November 7–15, and November 18–22. Private-land-only and September Plains rifle seasons run September 2–November 22. Check the applicable license and unit regulations for exact dates and requirements.
Yes. Nonresidents can hunt bear in Colorado with a Bear License obtained through either the draw or an over-the-counter option. An over-the-counter Add-On Bear License is also available. The applicable license and restrictions depend on the hunt.
Yes. Colorado offers over-the-counter bear hunting options for residents and nonresidents through Bear Licenses and Add-On Bear Licenses. Availability and restrictions depend on the hunt, so check the current license and unit regulations.
