My buddies have complained about the ever increasing license fees and more than a few dropped out since 2007-2009. Of the 8 solid hunters we had for many years, only 2 of us remain. Not age related either since I’m 10+ years older than most. The financial impact of licenses is only part of the overall cost to travel 1200-1600 miles for a 9 day hunt. We still have 6 or 8 most years with some more recent guys joining the hunt. I think the cost of bull elk licenses has increased about $200 since 2005 if I’m not mistaken. I am pretty sure the cow tag has increased exactly $200. Add the cost of lodging, food, and fuel and the cost of living at home and that is the real financial impact on hunters. I’m not sure all the tags “sell out” since there always seems to be lots of leftover cow tags and unlimited OTC bull tags over most of northwestern CO. Deer tags yes; elk not so much....
