Colorado鈥檚 fall hunting forecast
STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, Colo. — It is hard to believe that after the record-setting winter and the splendid spring/summer stretch, summer is already ending. As I write, in the third week of August, we are seeing decreasing temperatures, and the foliage of fall is already starting to show its splendor as the natural world prepares for the onset of another (great) winter.
As August transitions to September, hunters around the nation prepare for Colorado鈥檚 legendary big game hunting seasons. However, this year鈥檚 preparations are different, as many game management units (GMUs) in the northwest corner of the state, in and around the Yampa River Valley, have reduced the number of tags available and shortened some seasons. Not all of these changes are clear in the big game brochures released earlier in the year. Hunters in this area are encouraged to obtain up-to-date information on these impactful changes.
The hunting forecast for northwest Colorado is for tougher hunting. There are a few reasons for that. Firstly, a bad winter led to a reduction in populations of elk, deer, and pronghorn. For that reason, there are fewer animals to target. Hunters should be LESS selective this year when hunting, though they should try to avoid shooting females to assist in the population rebuilding quickly. Hunters should also expect INCREASED hunting pressure in certain units, especially OTC (over-the-counter) units that border with or are near units with tag reductions and shortened seasons.
Hunters in areas with crowding should do their best to get away from roads and trails and to seek out secluded refuges where animals will concentrate during periods of high hunting pressure. Try to have a plan A, B, and C ready to roll if you arrive at your selected hunting location to discover high hunting pressure in the area.
The summer was dry despite the winter that preceded it, and as a result, hunting near water and wallows (shallow water or muddy areas), especially for elk, will be very productive. Please be aware of fire restrictions that may go into place. The monsoon moisture that arrives every fall has been inconsistent this year. For the above reasons, water will be a great place to focus effort when looking for big game animals.
Other recreational groups in the woods should be aware of big game seasons and safe practices to follow when recreating outdoors during active hunting periods. Wear bright colors (including those neon ski colors coming back into fashion), seen easily from a distance. Try to avoid colors that mimic those of animals, including white, the same color as an elk rump. Try to recreate in the middle of the day, avoiding morning and afternoon periods when hunters are most active in the woods. Lastly, follow leash laws when walking pets, as hunters may push animals (including predators like bears and mountain lions) into residential areas in and around neighborhoods.
Lastly, and most importantly, all user groups need to be aware of big game regulations that govern the taking of animals.
Be safe, have fun, and make ethically wise choices in the woods this fall!
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