If you’re a Colorado resident age 64 or older, Colorado Parks & Wildlife (CPW) has a lower-cost Senior Annual Fishing License. As of 2026-02-04, CPW shows the senior annual license at $11.73. Annual fishing licenses run March 1 through March 31 of the next year (13 months).
Habitat Stamp note: CPW requires a Habitat Stamp for anyone ages 18–64. Most seniors 65+ won’t need it, but anglers who are exactly 64 still do.
Key takeaways
- Who qualifies: Colorado resident, age 64+.
- Cost (as of 2026-02-04): $11.73; Habitat Stamp $12.47 if you’re 18–64.
- Valid: March 1–March 31 (13 months).
- How to buy: Online, by phone, or in person through CPW and sales agents.
- What to bring: Government ID + proof of Colorado residency; new customers may need an SSN/ITIN.
Who qualifies for the senior fishing license
You qualify if you’re a Colorado resident aged 64 or older. The license covers the full annual season (March 1–March 31).
How much the senior fishing license costs
As of 2026-02-04, the Senior Annual Fishing License costs $11.73.
You may also need:
- Habitat Stamp: $12.47 (required for anglers ages 18–64; you only need one per year).
- Second-rod stamp: $12.98 per season if you plan to fish with a second line.
CPW also adds small fees to most licenses. Carry your license (or proof of purchase) while you fish.
What you need to buy it
- Government-issued ID (to confirm who you are and your age).
- Proof of Colorado residency (for resident pricing).
- SSN or ITIN (often needed for new customers age 16+; it may apply at age 12 for a second-rod stamp).
Government-issued ID
Bring a secure government ID (for example, a Colorado driver’s license or ID card). CPW accepts several other forms of verifiable ID, too.
Proof of residency
CPW says you’re a resident if you’ve lived in Colorado for six straight months and have a Colorado driver’s license or ID card that’s at least six months old. You can lose residency for CPW licensing if you register to vote outside Colorado or accept resident licenses in another state.
SSN/ITIN
If you’re a new customer, be ready to give your Social Security Number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number when you set up your account and buy licenses/stamps.
Why it’s worth it
This license is a low-cost way to fish legally for the full annual season. CPW also notes that license dollars support fishing access and fish work across Colorado.
If you’re income-eligible, CPW lists a Centennial Senior Annual Fishing option for Colorado residents aged 64+ (application required).
How to buy a senior fishing license
- Online through CPW’s licensing system.
- By phone through CPW.
- In person at a CPW office or an authorized sales agent.
You can also show many resident licenses in the State of Colorado’s myColorado app.
More help for seniors
- Safety help: Check parks and community centers for basics and safety tips.
- Fishing clubs: Great for learning local waters and meeting other anglers.
- CPW tools: Use the fishing atlas, stocking reports, and rule updates to plan trips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can seniors fish without a license in Colorado?
In most cases, no. Anglers 16 and older need a valid license. Youth aged 15 and under fish for free, and CPW also has an annual Free Fishing Weekend when license and Habitat Stamp rules are waived.
Are there any age exceptions for the senior license?
The reduced-price senior annual fishing license is for Colorado residents aged 64 and older. CPW also offers special lifetime/assistance licenses (such as disability and some veteran programs) with their own rules.
What fishing methods are allowed with the senior license?
Your license covers legal fishing methods in Colorado, but rules vary by water and species. Check current CPW rules for the water you’re fishing.
Can the senior fishing license be used in other states?
Licenses are usually state-specific. If you plan to fish outside Colorado (including border waters), check that state’s rules first.
Is there a limit on the number of licenses a senior can purchase?
Most anglers buy one annual license per season. For unusual cases (replacements, duplicates, group programs), contact CPW or a sales agent.
Conclusion
A Colorado Senior Annual Fishing License is an affordable way for residents 64+ to enjoy the outdoors. Before you go, review current fees, stamps, and rules—especially if you’re age 64 (since the Habitat Stamp rule covers ages 18–64).
For official details and current fees, see Colorado Parks & Wildlife fishing licenses and fees and the Habitat Stamp requirements.
