CO Elk Preference Points?

[cornfedkiller]

Im sure this has been discussed here a million times, but can someone give me an overview of how the Colorado draw works?

When do you apply?
What are the different tags that you choose from?
How much does it cost to apply?
Which zones are the best?
How many points will it take to draw in the better zones?
Do you hold on to your points forever? (ie, if I apply for 5 years then skip a year, do I keep my points?)


Im completely new to elk hunting, but would like to do it in the future, so I figured I better start planning ahead.

 

[Bulldawg]

Call the parks and wildlife and have them send you a proclamation and read it front to back.. It's a simple yet complicated system.. But you apply in March cost the price of the tag and the best units are in the northwest corners and if you are starting now you'll be dead before you draw.

 

[5MilesBack]

Im sure this has been discussed here a million times, but can someone give me an overview of how the Colorado draw works?

When do you apply? Deadline is early April every year.
What are the different tags that you choose from? There are OTC tags that are good for all OTC units. Then there are draw tags that are good only in those specified units.
How much does it cost to apply? There is a $3 application fee, plus you have to pay the entire cost of the tag which is refunded if you don't draw. Also they started charging $40 for every PP if you don't purchase a license of some sort the previous year.
Which zones are the best? I'll let you decide that. NW corner of the state is the hardest to draw. Then 61, then 76.
How many points will it take to draw in the better zones? It will take you 20+ years (and growing) to draw the best units.
Do you hold on to your points forever? (ie, if I apply for 5 years then skip a year, do I keep my points?) I can't remember for sure but I think if you fail to apply for 5 years in a row, you lose your points for good.


Im completely new to elk hunting, but would like to do it in the future, so I figured I better start planning ahead.

Definitely need to start planning, but at this point I wouldn't bother holding out for any of the above I listed.

 

[Grant Gladson]

To start with elk hunting OTC is plenty good in Colorado. You can build points and be guaranteed and either sex archery tag that's good for a majority of the states. Plenty of elk to chase in those units

 

[jm1607]

IMO, Colorado is a good short term state.. 3-4 points will get you in some very good (Archery/Muzzle) Elk units.. Same with Mule Deer

 

[camelcluch]

Get the book and read it. It will explain the tags and what you can get and how to get it. There are a few tricks that the vast majority miss out on.