Hunting, Fishing and Shooting

The Forest boasts world class fishing streams and big game hunting.

Shooting is prohibited in and around developed recreation sites.

Lake and Pond Fishing

The Forest offers more lakes, ponds and streams than you can visit in a summer!

State laws apply to fishing laws and regulations on all national forests. Colorado fishing regulations.

Ice Fishing

Many of our lakes are generally available for ice fishing when the ice gets thick enough. Use extreme caution when testing the thickness of the ice.

River and Stream Fishing

Rivers, creeks and reservoirs within the national forest system offer great opportunities for fishing. Many of the slow-moving bodies of water, especially reservoirs, offer an excellent variety of fishing opportunities. There are miles of easy access fishing including on the Forest's namesake, the Rio Grande!

Hunting

Our national forest offers many types of hunting opportunities for hunters of all ages and experience levels. Each year visitors enjoy hunting high in the mountains in thick timber stands, in open ground above timber and in the sagebrush lowlands. We have some of the best big game hunting in Colorado including GMU 76.

State laws apply to hunting laws and regulations on all national forests. Colorado hunting regulations.

Archery

We have the Rock Creek Archery Range near Monte Vista, CO.

Recreational and Target Shooting

Shooting is allowed. Gun safety and courtesy are a must. For recommended areas and additional information, contact the local ranger district offices.

Federal Rules

According to Title 36 of the Code of Federal Regulations, recreational shooting can take place on the National Forests and Grasslands under these conditions:
- You are at least 150 yards from a residence, building, campsite, developed recreation area or occupied area
  - You are not shooting across or on a National Forest System Road or an adjacent body of water.
  - You are not shooting into or within a cave
  - You are not shooting in any manner or place where any person, property or resource is exposed to injury or damage due to such discharge
  - You are not firing any tracer bullet or incendiary ammunition.

Know Before You Go