Shellfish & Clamming
Colorado Shellfish License 2026
Requirements, fees, and regulations for harvesting clams, oysters, and mussels in Colorado. Colorado is a landlocked state with no coastal or marine shellfish habitat. No recreational or commercial shellfish harvest seasons exist. Invasive mussel monitoring is an active concern in state waters.
2026 License Quick Facts
Verified 2026
Recreational Fee
Check agency
No shellfish licensing program applicable.
Commercial Fee
Varies
Contact agency
Daily Limit
See regs
Per harvester
Clam Season
Closed
Check current closures
Shellfish Species
Shellfish Available in Colorado
Species availability depends on coastal habitat, water quality, and active management programs.
Clams
Oysters
Mussels
Step-by-Step
How to Get a Shellfish License in Colorado
1
Verify Open Areas
Before purchasing a license, check that shellfish beds in your target area are currently open. Colorado Parks & Wildlife maintains an up-to-date list of approved harvesting areas. Water quality closures can occur quickly after rain events.
2
Purchase Your License
Purchase online at Colorado Parks & Wildlife, or in person at authorized license agents throughout Colorado.
3
Know Your Limits
Review the current daily bag limits for your target species.
Size minimums also apply — undersized shellfish must be returned to the water. Keep your license on your person while harvesting.
4
Harvest Responsibly
Use appropriate gear (clam rakes, oyster tongs) and handle shellfish carefully to minimize disturbance to the surrounding habitat. Replace any rocks or substrate you disturb and never harvest from closed or unclassified waters.
Requirements
Colorado Shellfish License Requirements
No shellfish harvesting applicable.
Important Notes
Colorado-Specific Information
Colorado Parks & Wildlife actively monitors for invasive zebra and quagga mussels in reservoirs. Mandatory watercraft inspections are required at many entry points.
Source: Colorado Parks & Wildlife (cpw.state.co.us).
Requirements verified 2026. Always confirm current water quality closures and regulations directly with Colorado Parks & Wildlife before harvesting.