Dates and Deadlines
Colorado Hunting Application Deadlines
Application deadlines, draw dates, and points windows for the 2026 application cycle, as published by the Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
| Date | Deadline | Results |
|---|---|---|
| April 7, 2026 | All species application deadline | Mid April 2026 for sheep and goat, late May 2026 for moose, elk, deer, and antelope |
Dates are set by the Colorado Parks and Wildlife and can change between cycles. Always confirm with cpw.state.co.us before you apply.
How the Colorado Draw Works
Preference points, weighted draw for sheep and goat
Colorado puts every species on a single deadline in early April. Sheep and goat results come back first in mid April, and moose, elk, deer, and antelope results follow in late May. A qualifying license is required to apply, and a secondary draw for leftover licenses runs in early summer.
Deer, elk, antelope, and moose use preference points, where the highest point holders draw first. Sheep and goat use a weighted draw instead. Every year you apply improves your chances, but the tag is never guaranteed, even for applicants who have waited the longest. Colorado sells more elk licenses than any other state, which makes it a foundation state for most western application strategies.
Epic Outdoors members see draw odds and minimum points for every Colorado unit, updated every year, plus the research magazine and one on one help from our consultants. Membership is $150 per year, and the Epic Outdoors app is a free download with a 7 day full access trial.
Colorado Draw FAQs
When is the Colorado big game application deadline?
Early April each year for every species. For the current cycle the deadline is April 7, 2026.
When do Colorado draw results come out?
Sheep and goat results post in mid April. Moose, elk, deer, and antelope results post in late May.
Does Colorado use preference points?
Yes for deer, elk, antelope, and moose. Sheep and goat use a weighted draw instead, so time in the system helps but never guarantees a tag.
Can Epic Outdoors apply for me in Colorado?
Yes. Our License Application Service handles your Colorado applications, points, and deadlines for you.
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