Hunting in Curecanti National Recreation Area
About Curecanti Recreation Area
Curecanti Recreation Area is located west of Gunnison and boasts stunning gorges as well as Colorado's largest lake, Blue Mesa Reservoir. At its longest, the reservoir stretches for twenty kilometers along Highway 50.
Curecanti National Recreation Area consists of over 41,000 acres of public land administered by the National Park Service.
Curecanti Recreation Area's land and water areas are open for public hunting and trapping subject to provisions of applicable State regulations except within one mile of developed recreation areas.
Hunting Regulations
Hunting is regulated in accordance with state wildlife regulations and federal law. Here are general regulations that will help all recreators at Curecanti have a safe and enjoyable visit:
- Hunters must have a valid Colorado State Hunting License in their possession.
- Hunters must wear at least 500 square inches of solid daylight fluorescent orange during muzzleloading and rifle seasons. This includes orange on a hat or head covering visible from all directions.
- Shooting from any vehicle is prohibited.
- It is illegal to abandon wounded animals or to remove only the trophy parts of a carcass.
Here are some regulations specific to Curecanti National Recreation Area:
- Hunting is permitted in certain areas within Curecanti.Hunters are responsible for knowing all regulations before hunting.
- The discharge of a weapon from, towards or across the frozen surface of Blue Mesa Reservoir is prohibited.
- Hunters must be a minimum of 100 yards away from any road, trail, campground, picnic area, facility, or other developed area before discharging a weapon. Shooting toward, across, or from any visitor use area is prohibited.
Here are some safety tips that hunters can use:
- Tell your friends or someone from your family where you're going and when you'll be back.
- Take a map and compass with you, and be familiar with how to use them.
- Carry a survival kit and be prepared for shifting weather conditions and emergencies.
- Be cautious of height fluctuations and take lots of water with you.
- Keep an eye out for other hunters, hikers, and leisure area visitors.
- Fires should be handled with caution; campfires should be totally extinguished.
- All accidents and illegal hunting should be reported to a park ranger.