Strategy for Colorado draw 2026/2027 with pending NR changes

[Neckbone]

So with your preference point value essentially getting cut in half in 2 years it sounds like some people are going to be spending those Co points before the changes go into effect. Presumably point creep is going to be much higher than typical these next 2 years (If you buy in to this theory)

With that said, how is that going to change your strategy on which unit you apply for these next 2 years? Our plan was to hunt Co in 2026 before I knew about the changes.

I have 5 deer and 5 elk points. My strategy has been to look at the draw-out report from the year prior and make a list of all the units that took 3-5 points to draw. Cross off units with poor public then narrow it down from there with success rates/number of tags/pressure/terrain/etc.. I now worry if I go into the draw with 5 points trying to get a unit that took 4 last year, that it may draw out at 6 due to the excessive creep this new system could be causing. How much of a "buffer" Are you going to give yourself?

I usually only apply for tags I all but know I am going to get because I get one hunt per year. I don't want to over draw or strike out, so I play the points games conservatively so I don't have to worry about being left out

 

[Thejet]

Will be interesting to see how it goes, there will for sure be point jumps varying in units.
Knowing if 5s will be 6s or 0s will be 5s is anyone’s guess.

 

[tbro16]

In a similar spot as you with my 4 elk and 3 deer points. I only do 1 hunt a year as well, so I want to be damn well sure I'm going to draw before I apply otherwise I run the risk of no hunts. That said, I dont want to settle for a lesser hunt after building up a few points. Half the reason why I applied to Idaho last week was just to hope I have a tag in my pocket before all the spring draws. Push my Colorado issues back a year lol

 

[Neckbone]

In a similar spot as you with my 4 elk and 3 deer points. I only do 1 hunt a year as well, so I want to be damn well sure I'm going to draw before I apply otherwise I run the risk of no hunts. That said, I dont want to settle for a lesser hunt after building up a few points. Half the reason why I applied to Idaho last week was just to hope I have a tag in my pocket before all the spring draws. Push my Colorado issues back a year lol

I'm right there with you. I almost did Idaho, but with the unknown and $200 just to play I decided against it. As of now I'm thinking I will apply to a unit in Co for Deer that took 3 points to draw 2025. It'd be 3rd rifle. Cow elk hunting only in this unit during 3rd rifle so limited elk hunting pressure, and what looks to be good glassing terrain and just keep my fingers crossed. Probably throw in a cheap contingency plan in another state that I can withdraw from if I score Co.