Colorado Parks and Wildlife opens secondary draw applications for hunting licenses

The Colorado Parks and Wildlife has announced important details regarding the upcoming 2025 Big-Game Secondary Draw, which is set to open for applications on June 19 and will close on June 30 at 8 PM Mountain Time. This draw provides an opportunity for residents and visitors to apply for elk, deer, pronghorn, and bear licenses that were not allocated during the primary draw.

A key aspect of the secondary draw is that it is open to anyone who holds a qualifying license. Those who purchased a qualifying license for the primary draw will automatically meet this requirement. Notably, youth applicants will receive 100% preference in this draw, ensuring they have a better chance of securing a license.

It is important for applicants to note that group applications are not permitted. Additionally, if an applicant has already been awarded a list A license for a specific species in the primary draw, they will not be eligible to draw another list A license for the same species. However, they can still apply for list B or list C licenses.

The secondary draw will also include reissued licenses, which are licenses that required four or fewer preference points for residents to draw in the primary draw. This includes licenses that were surrendered or not paid for in the primary draw.

Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications before the deadline and to review their receipts carefully. Modifications to applications can be made prior to the deadline, but it is important to remember that preference points cannot be used or gained in the secondary draw.

For those who do not secure a license in the secondary draw, a leftover license list will be available in late July. This list will include remaining quotas from both the primary and secondary draws, as well as reissued and returned licenses.

For further information, residents can refer to the 2025 big game brochure or contact Colorado Parks and Wildlife directly at (303) 297-1192. This secondary draw presents a valuable opportunity for hunters to engage with Colorado's rich wildlife and outdoor heritage.