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Colorado 2026: Gunnison Basin rifle elk is no longer over-the-counter
If your yearly plan was an OTC rifle elk tag in the Gunnison Basin, that plan is done.
• Rifle elk licenses for GMUs 54, 55 and 551 are now fully limited. You have to draw them. • CWD testing is mandatory for elk harvested during rifle seasons in specific GMUs. Testing is free. There is NO mandatory deer testing in 2026. • GMU 97 and 99 boundaries changed — update your mapping apps before you scout. • CPW added new licenses for moose, buck deer, archery elk and bear across a variety of units. • Leftover limited and OTC licenses went on sale Aug. 4 at 9 a.m. MT. • A new wildlife trafficking law took effect July 1, 2026.
Reminder on the Secondary Draw: it doesn't use or award preference points, and youth get 100% preference.
Full breakdown with every draw date: https://www.buckeyehunterhub.com/Blog/colorado-2026-big-game-changes Colorado resource page: https://www.buckeyehunterhub.com/Resources/colorado
Anyone who normally hunts 54/55/551 — where are you shifting to?
Pack Out Strategy: How Do You Handle Quartering?
I'm planning my first DIY elk hunt and the thing I'm most nervous about is the pack out. What's your process for breaking down an elk in the field? Bone-in or boneless? How many trips does it typically take you?
Colorado Archery Elk Tag Draw Results
Drew my Colorado archery elk tag for Unit 54 this year! This will be my first backcountry elk hunt. Any tips on camping spots and glassing ridges in that area? Planning a 5-day trip in September.