A 1-day fishing license in Colorado costs $16.72 for residents and $20.46 for nonresidents based on the fee details in this article. The license lets you fish for one selected day, and anyone age 16 or older needs a valid license before fishing. You usually do not need a Habitat Stamp for your first two 1-day or extra-day fishing licenses in the same license year. Keep your license or temporary authorization number with you, then check the current Colorado fishing rules before you cast.
What’s in This Article
- How Much Is a 1-Day Fishing License in Colorado?
- Cost of the 1-Day Fishing License for Residents
- Cost of the 1-Day Fishing License for Nonresidents
- Duration and Validity of the 1-Day License
- Who Needs a 1-Day Fishing License?
- Requirements for Purchasing a 1-Day Fishing License
- Temporary Authorization Number (TAN) for Fishing
- Fishing Regulations for One-Day License Holders
- How to Purchase a 1-Day Fishing License
- Additional Options for Short-Term Fishing Licenses
- Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Answer
A Colorado 1-day fishing license costs $16.72 for residents and $20.46 for nonresidents based on the fee details in this article. It covers one selected fishing day, and anglers age 16 or older need one. You can usually skip the Habitat Stamp for your first two 1-day or extra-day licenses in a license year.
Key Takeaways
- Residents pay $16.72 for a Colorado 1-day fishing license based on the fee details in this article.
- Nonresidents pay $20.46 for a 1-day license, with extra days listed at $7.99 each.
- Anyone age 16 or older needs a valid fishing license before fishing in Colorado.
- Your first two 1-day or extra-day licenses in a license year usually do not require a Habitat Stamp.
- You must follow local bag limits, water rules, and species rules even with a 1-day license.
How Much Is a 1-Day Fishing License in Colorado?

If you want to fish in Colorado for only one day, a one-day fishing license gives you a simple short-term option. Based on the fee details in this article, residents pay $16.72, while nonresidents pay $20.46.
This license lets you fish for any legal fish species during the selected license date. You still need to follow daily limits, possession limits, location rules, and special water restrictions.
Note: License fees can change, so check Colorado Parks and Wildlife before you buy.
You can buy the license online, by phone, through authorized vendors, or at Colorado Parks and Wildlife offices. After purchase, you may receive a Temporary Authorization Number (TAN), which lets you fish right away.
Anyone age 16 or older needs a valid license. Children under 16 can fish without a Colorado fishing license, but they still need to follow fishing rules.
Cost of the 1-Day Fishing License for Residents

Colorado residents pay $16.72 for a one-day fishing license based on the fee details in this article. This short-term license works well if you only fish once or want to try fishing before buying a longer license.
The license covers the selected day, so choose your fishing date with care when you buy it. You should purchase it before you start fishing, not after you arrive at the water.
You usually do not need a Habitat Stamp for your first two 1-day or extra-day fishing licenses in the same license year. If you buy more licenses later, you may need to pay the stamp fee.
After purchase, you’ll receive proof of your license or a TAN. Keep that proof with you while fishing, because an officer may ask to see it.
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Cost of the 1-Day Fishing License for Nonresidents

If you live outside Colorado, a 1-day fishing license costs $20.46 based on the fee details in this article. This option suits visitors who want to fish for one day during a trip.
You can buy the license online, by phone, at Colorado Parks and Wildlife offices, or through authorized sellers across the state. Buy it before you fish, then keep your license or TAN with you.
If you want to fish longer, an extra-day license costs $7.99 based on the fee details in this article. This can help if your trip lasts two or more fishing days.
License Fee Overview
A nonresident 1-day license gives you short-term access to Colorado fishing without buying an annual license. It also lets you fish for legal species during your valid license period.
Here’s a simple fee summary:
- 1-day nonresident license: $20.46.
- Extra-day license: $7.99 for each added day.
- Habitat Stamp: Usually not required for your first two 1-day or extra-day licenses.
- Age rule: Anglers age 16 or older need a valid license.
Purchase Locations Available
You can buy a 1-day fishing license through several official purchase channels. The fastest option is usually the Colorado Parks and Wildlife online license system.
You can also buy from authorized license agents or by phone. Local vendors may help if you want in-person support before your trip.
After purchase, keep your proof of license handy. A TAN can serve as your proof while you wait for a printed license or when no physical copy gets mailed.
Validity and Restrictions
A Colorado 1-day fishing license is valid only for the date selected at purchase. It does not cover extra days unless you buy an extra-day license.
Nonresidents age 16 and older must have a valid license while fishing. You must also follow water-specific rules, season rules, bag limits, and legal method rules.
If you buy your license close to your fishing date, you may not receive a physical copy. Your TAN or digital proof should stay with you while you fish.
Warning: A valid license does not override closed waters, special limits, or local fishing restrictions.
Duration and Validity of the 1-Day License

A 1-day fishing license is valid for one selected fishing day. Choose the correct date when you buy it, because the license applies to that date only.
You must purchase the license before you fish. If you buy it within 15 days of your fishing date, you may use your TAN or digital proof instead of waiting for a physical license.
Here’s a quick overview of the 1-day license:
| Feature | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| License Duration | Valid for one selected day | Choose the date at purchase |
| Fishing Validity | Must be purchased before fishing | Carry proof while fishing |
| Age Requirement | Required for ages 16 and older | Applies to residents and visitors |
| Habitat Stamp Fee Exemption | Usually exempt for first two 1-day or extra-day licenses | Applies per person each license year |
Keep these details handy so you avoid license mistakes on your fishing day.
Who Needs a 1-Day Fishing License?

You need a 1-day fishing license in Colorado if you’re age 16 or older and plan to fish for one day. This rule applies to residents and nonresidents.
Here are the main license rules to know:
- Children under 16: They can fish without a Colorado fishing license.
- Residents age 16 or older: They need a valid resident license.
- Nonresidents age 16 or older: They need a valid nonresident license.
- All anglers: They must follow species limits and water-specific rules.
A 1-day license works best for a short trip or a first fishing outing. If you plan to fish often, compare the short-term cost with an annual license.
Requirements for Purchasing a 1-Day Fishing License

To buy a one-day fishing license in Colorado, you need basic personal details and a valid form of identification. Residents may also need proof that they qualify for resident pricing.
Have your information ready before you start the purchase. This helps you avoid delays when buying online, by phone, or in person.
Identification Needed
You may need a government-issued ID when you purchase a 1-day fishing license. The ID helps confirm your identity and, for residents, your Colorado residency status.
Common forms of identification include:
- A valid driver’s license.
- A state-issued identification card.
- A valid passport.
- A Social Security number when required during the license process.
Make sure your details match the information you enter during purchase. Incorrect information can slow down the process.
Age Restrictions
Colorado requires anglers age 16 or older to carry a valid fishing license. Children under 16 can fish without one, but they still need to follow all fishing rules.
Here’s a quick overview of age requirements:
| Age Group | License Requirement |
|---|---|
| Under 16 | No license required |
| 16-17 Residents | Valid Colorado fishing license required |
| 16-17 Nonresidents | Valid nonresident fishing license required |
| 18 and older | Valid fishing license required |
Check current Colorado Parks and Wildlife rules before buying, especially for youth and nonresident license options.
Habitat Stamp Requirement
Colorado usually requires a Habitat Stamp with many annual hunting and fishing licenses. A 1-day fishing license has a limited exemption for short-term anglers.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Your first two 1-day or extra-day fishing licenses in a license year usually do not need a Habitat Stamp.
- Later license purchases may require the Habitat Stamp fee.
- The exemption applies per person, not per group.
- You should check current rules before buying, because fees and exemptions can change.
Understanding this rule can help you avoid paying for the wrong license option.
Temporary Authorization Number (TAN) for Fishing

When you buy a Colorado fishing license, you may receive a Temporary Authorization Number (TAN). This number can serve as proof that you bought a valid license.
A TAN helps you fish right away while you wait for a physical license or when no physical license gets mailed. Keep it easy to access on your phone or on paper.
The TAN may have a limited validity period, so do not treat it as a long-term replacement for your license. If you buy a 1-day license close to your fishing date, your TAN or digital proof may be the only document you need.
Always carry your license proof while fishing. A wildlife officer may ask to see it at any time.
Fishing Regulations for One-Day License Holders

A one-day license gives you legal fishing access for the selected date, but it does not remove other fishing rules. You still need to follow Colorado’s statewide and water-specific regulations.
Before you fish, check these key rules:
- Bag limits: Know how many fish you can keep.
- Size limits: Check whether fish must meet a minimum or slot size.
- Species rules: Some waters have special rules for trout, bass, pike, or other species.
- Gear rules: Some areas restrict bait, lures, hooks, or fishing methods.
- Second-rod stamp: You need the proper stamp if you want to use a second line.
Rules can vary by lake, river, reservoir, and season. Review the current fishing brochure before your trip.
How to Purchase a 1-Day Fishing License

You can purchase a one-day fishing license in Colorado through several simple methods. The online option usually works best if you want fast access before your trip.
Follow these basic steps:
- Choose your fishing date before starting the purchase.
- Visit the Colorado Parks and Wildlife license system, call by phone, or go to an authorized vendor.
- Enter your personal details and residency information if needed.
- Select the correct 1-day resident or nonresident fishing license.
- Save your license proof or TAN before you start fishing.
Check every detail before payment. A wrong date or wrong residency choice can cause trouble on your fishing day.
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Additional Options for Short-Term Fishing Licenses

A one-day fishing license works well for a quick trip, but Colorado also offers short-term options for longer outings. These options can help if you plan to fish on more than one day.
Consider these short-term choices:
- Extra-day license: Add more fishing days after your first 1-day license.
- Short visit planning: Match your license dates to your actual fishing days.
- Habitat Stamp exemption: Your first two 1-day or extra-day licenses usually avoid the stamp requirement.
- TAN access: Keep your temporary proof handy if you buy close to your fishing date.
If you plan to fish many times in Colorado, compare short-term licenses with an annual license. The annual option may cost less after several trips.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Fish With a 1-Day License at Any Location in Colorado?
You can fish at many public Colorado waters with a 1-day license, but not every location follows the same rules. Some waters have closures, private access limits, special gear rules, or tighter bag limits.
Is a Wildlife Habitat Stamp Included in the License Price?
A Wildlife Habitat Stamp usually does not come as a separate item inside the 1-day license price. Based on the fee details in this article, your first two 1-day or extra-day licenses usually do not require one.
Are There Age Restrictions for Purchasing a 1-Day Fishing License?
Yes. Anglers under 16 can usually fish without a Colorado fishing license, while anglers age 16 or older need a valid license.
What Should I Do if I Lose My 1-Day Fishing License?
If you lose your license proof, contact Colorado Parks and Wildlife or the vendor that issued it. You should replace or recover your proof before fishing again.
Can I Use My 1-Day License for Ice Fishing in Colorado?
Yes, a 1-day fishing license can cover ice fishing during your valid license date. You still need to follow ice fishing rules, gear limits, and safety guidance for the water you choose.
Conclusion
A Colorado 1-day fishing license gives you a simple way to fish for one selected day without buying a full annual license. Check your resident or nonresident fee, choose the correct date, and keep your license proof or TAN with you. Before you cast, review the latest local rules for the lake, river, or reservoir you plan to visit. With the right license and a little planning, you can enjoy your day on Colorado’s water with fewer surprises.








