Common Questions About OTC Hunting Opportunities in Colorado
If you didn’t come up with a tag in the limited draw this year, remember that Colorado is the land of opportunity. Over-the-counter (OTC) elk licenses allow you to hunt every year, without having to apply for a limited tag.
If you have questions about these over-the-counter opportunities, you’re not alone. Details surrounding the OTC licenses are some of the most common questions we receive. Here are answers to a few of the most frequently asked questions.
Are OTC licenses available for both deer and elk?
No. Over-the-counter licenses are available for elk only. Deer licenses in Colorado are issued through the limited license drawing. Any licenses that did not sell out in the initial draw will be available in the Secondary Draw and then later on the leftover list from Colorado Parks and Wildlife. However, pickings are usually very slim among these leftovers.
Your best bet for obtaining a quality mule deer tag in Colorado is through the primary draw. Each year, applications are due by the first Tuesday in April.
Do I have to choose a specific unit when I purchase an OTC license?
No, you don’t have to select a unit when you purchase an OTC license. Over-the-counter elk licenses are valid in more than 100 units up and down the state. You can purchase your license, and then decide where to hunt. For a map of OTC units, you can refer to the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Big Game Brochure.
Do I have to choose a specific season when I purchase an OTC license?
Yes, you do. There are over-the-counter licenses available for archery season, second rifle season, and third rifle season. Each of these OTC licenses is season-specific. For example, your archery OTC elk license is not valid during the second rifle season, and vice versa.
Can I purchase more than one OTC license in a year?
In some cases, yes. Most either-sex and bull licenses are classified as “List A” licenses. You may only purchase one List A license per year. For example, if you purchase an either-sex OTC archery elk tag (List A), you may NOT purchase an OTC bull tag for either of the rifle seasons (Also List A).
However, some antlerless elk licenses are classified as List B. Hunters are allowed to have a List A and a List B or two List B licenses in a single year. For example, if you purchase an antlerless OTC archery elk license (List B), you may still purchase an either-sex archery license, OR a bull license for the second or third rifle seasons (List A).
When Can I Purchase Over the Counter Licenses?
OTC licenses in 2021 will go on sale August 3rd. However, these licenses are unlimited, so you don’t have to worry about them selling out. Licenses can be purchased from the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website prior to your hunt. Or you can purchase them in-person from any Colorado license vendor (most sporting goods stores, etc.).
Note: if you plan to purchase a license in person after the start of the season you intend to hunt, you will need to visit a CPW office to make that purchase.
Additional Questions About Hunting in Colorado
Do you have more questions about hunting in Colorado or where to begin? Please give Adam a call at 208-691-3014 or send us a message. We’d love to help you begin planning your Colorado hunting adventure.