Colorado Black Bear Hunting Units & Draw Odds
151 units
Colorado's black bear draw runs on a preference point system across 151 units, giving nonresidents a real shot at western hunting. You'll apply between March 1 and April 7 for 2026 draws, with results in May—plan accordingly. Nonresidents draw 20% of available tags, and you're looking at a $11.49 app fee plus a $302.56 tag fee if you draw. The unit data below shows recent success rates, including which units drew with zero points required, so you can target realistic options and build your strategy.
How the Colorado Draw Works
Draw system
Preference points — the highest point holders draw first.
Nonresident allocation: 20% of tags
2026 application window
Mar 1 – Apr 7(nonresident)
Results: May 26
2026 fees (nonresident, regular)
$11.49 app · $117.62 license · $302.56 tag · $100 point
Easiest Black Bear Draws for Nonresidents (2024 Results)
Point levels that drew with certainty, and the best documented zero-point hunts — actual draw results, per hunt.
0 pts drew with certainty · Rifle, Either S1
0 pts drew with certainty · Rifle, Either S1
0 pts drew with certainty · Rifle, Either S1
0 pts drew with certainty · Rifle, Either S1
0 pts drew with certainty · Rifle, Either S1
0 pts drew with certainty · Rifle, Either S1
0 pts drew with certainty · Rifle, Either S1
0 pts drew with certainty · Rifle, Either S1
0 pts drew with certainty · Rifle, Either S1
0 pts drew with certainty · Rifle, Either S1
0 pts drew with certainty · Rifle, Either S1
0 pts drew with certainty · Rifle, Either S1
| Unit | Drew with certainty at | Best zero-point hunt | Success | Public land |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unit 11 | 0 ptsRifle, Either S1 | — | — | 76% |
| Unit 12 | 0 ptsRifle, Either S1 | — | — | 53% |
| Unit 13 | 0 ptsRifle, Either S1 | — | — | 27% |
| Unit 131 | 0 ptsRifle, Either S1 | — | — | 18% |
| Unit 14 | 0 ptsRifle, Either S1 | — | — | 87% |
| Unit 16 | 0 ptsRifle, Either S1 | — | — | 55% |
| Unit 21 | 0 ptsRifle, Either S1 | — | — | 94% |
| Unit 211 | 0 ptsRifle, Either S1 | — | — | 46% |
| Unit 22 | 0 ptsRifle, Either S1 | — | — | 77% |
| Unit 23 | 0 ptsRifle, Either S1 | — | — | 50% |
| Unit 24 | 0 ptsRifle, Either S1 | — | — | 94% |
| Unit 25 | 0 ptsRifle, Either S1 | — | — | 84% |
All Colorado Black Bear Units
Colorado Black Bear Draw FAQ
How many points do I need to draw a Colorado black bear tag?
It depends on the unit. Several popular units (11, 12, 13, 131, and 14) drew with zero nonresident points required in 2024, meaning nonresidents with any preference point history had a shot. Other units may require more points—check the specific unit data to see what's realistic for your application strategy.
What are the application deadlines and fees for 2026?
Applications open March 1 and close April 7, 2026, with results posted May 26. Nonresidents pay an $11.49 application fee upfront. If you draw, the tag fee is $302.56. Budget accordingly and mark those deadlines in your calendar.
What percentage of Colorado black bear tags go to nonresidents?
Nonresidents receive 20% of available black bear tags statewide. That's the allocation across all 151 units, so competition varies significantly by location. Focus your applications on units where success data shows reasonable point requirements.
How does Colorado's preference point system work for black bear?
Colorado uses a preference point system, meaning your odds improve as you accumulate points over time. Each year you don't draw, you gain a preference point, which increases your draw odds in future years. Check specific unit data to understand what point level typically draws in your target areas.
Plan your Colorado Black Bear hunt — free account, no card. Run the draw simulator at your point level and compare every unit in the state.
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