How Much Is a Lifetime Fishing License in Colorado? Everything You Need to Know

Colorado is home to some of the most spectacular fishing opportunities in the United States. From alpine lakes surrounded by the Rockies to meandering rivers full of trout, the Centennial State offers year-round excitement for anglers. For those who plan to fish frequently or live in Colorado long-term, a lifetime fishing license might be an asset. But how much is a lifetime fishing license in Colorado, and who qualifies for one? This guide answers your questions and explains the options, costs, and benefits of this type of license.

Understanding Lifetime Fishing Licenses in Colorado

Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) offers different types of fishing licenses depending on a person’s age, residency, and eligibility. While most people purchase annual or short-term fishing licenses, a special category of lifetime licenses is available under specific conditions.

Unlike some states that offer paid lifetime licenses for anyone willing to make a one-time investment, Colorado does not sell lifetime fishing licenses to the general public. Instead, the state provides them at no cost or at a reduced price to specific groups, such as disabled veterans and individuals with qualifying disabilities.

Who Qualifies for a Lifetime Fishing License

In Colorado, the primary group eligible for a lifetime fishing license is disabled veterans who are state residents. This program honors military service and provides greater access to outdoor recreation.

To qualify, veterans must meet the following criteria:

Be a Colorado resident

Have a service-connected disability rated at 60% or higher by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

Submit a completed application with the necessary documentation

The license, once approved, is free of charge and valid for life. It allows the holder to fish in Colorado without having to renew their license annually.

Colorado also offers the Columbine Lifetime Fishing License for residents who have a total and permanent disability. Applicants must provide medical documentation and meet income requirements. This license is also issued free of charge and is valid for life.

These licenses are not transferable and must be carried at all times while fishing. They do not exempt the holder from other fishing regulations, such as bag limits, season restrictions, or habitat stamps when required.

How to Apply for a Lifetime Fishing License

Applying for a lifetime fishing license in Colorado is straightforward, but it does require some documentation. Disabled veterans can download the application form from the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website. Along with the form, veterans must submit:

Proof of Colorado residency (such as a driver’s license)

A letter from the VA confirming the disability rating

Any other documents requested by CPW

The completed application can be mailed or submitted in person to a CPW office. Once approved, the license is issued, and the individual can fish in Colorado waters without needing to purchase an annual license ever again.

For those applying under the Columbine License program, similar documentation is required, including a physician’s disability certification and proof of income eligibility. Applicants must also be Colorado residents and meet the specific guidelines outlined by CPW.

Processing times can vary, so it’s recommended to apply well in advance of any planned fishing trips. Once received, the license provides the same privileges as a regular fishing license, including the ability to fish in public waters and participate in regulated seasons.

Alternatives to Lifetime Licenses for Frequent Anglers

Because Colorado does not sell general lifetime fishing licenses to residents or non-residents, frequent anglers often choose annual licenses instead. The annual fishing license is valid from March 1 through the end of February the following year and is available to both residents and non-residents.

There are also short-term licenses for one-day or five-day fishing trips, which are great for tourists or occasional anglers. While these options don’t offer the long-term convenience of a lifetime license, they provide flexibility and access for a variety of fishing needs.

Why Fishing Licenses Matter in Colorado

While the cost or availability of a lifetime license might be a concern for some anglers, it's essential to understand why fishing licenses are required and how they benefit the environment. Funds from license sales go directly toward fish stocking programs, habitat restoration, and the maintenance of public access areas.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife uses this revenue to support fishery biologists, monitor fish populations, and ensure that natural resources are preserved for future generations. Whether you're fishing for rainbow trout in a high-altitude lake or casting for bass in a quiet reservoir, you're participating in a system that values conservation.

By purchasing a fishing license—or applying for a lifetime one if eligible—you’re contributing to the health of Colorado’s ecosystems and supporting outdoor recreation across the state. It's a small price to pay for the freedom to enjoy one of Colorado’s most beloved pastimes.

For everyone else, annual and short-term licenses remain the go-to options. Whether you fish once a year or every weekend, Colorado’s licensing system ensures that the natural beauty and fishing opportunities of the state remain protected and available to all.