The tree-studded skylines that form much of the Grand Valley's horizon hold more than Colorado's scenic beauty. Thousands of deer, elk and other game live in those mountains, and Grand Junction serves as the region's base for many of the hunters who pursue their quarry each year.

Location-wise, Grand Junction is the center of the hunting and fishing universe, with high-quality hunting opportunities within a two-hour drive in almost every direction.

The largest migratory herd of elk in North America is found in the White River National Forest. Some of the best trophy hunting in Colorado is found on the Uncompahgre Plateau. Grand Mesa National Forest provides easy access and healthy mule deer and elk herds for hunters.

Big game is plentiful, and so are opportunities for hunters. Between 70 and 80 percent of the land in western Colorado is public, which means lots of wide-open spaces, sage-blanketed flats and timber-covered ridges where hunters can roam.

Hunting seasons and licenses

Big game hunting season in western Colorado begins in early September and last through mid-November, accommodating a variety of hunting methods. Archery seasons for deer, elk, pronghorn, and moose take place in September, while hunters who prefer using muzzleloading rifles hunt during September and October.

Regular rifle seasons for deer and elk are by far the most popular and attract the greatest number of hunters to Colorado's high country. Deer and elk seasons for rifle hunters begin in October and last through mid-November as well.

The price of licenses varies according to species and whether or not the hunter is a Colorado resident. Some licenses are available by drawing only, and hunters must apply well in advance (by early April) to have a chance at them. If you didn't apply for the draw, keep in mind that Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) has an unlimited number of over-the-counter licenses available, either through the agency's website, at one of their local offices or at one of the seven hundred license vendors found throughout the state. After the seasons open, most OTC licenses can only be purchased at a CPW office.

In addition to deer, elk, pronghorn, black bear, and several other species, CPW is offering a growing number of limited moose licenses. Using sportsmen's dollars, CPW has worked for years to establish a moose herd on Grand Mesa, with great success. The growing population has allowed the agency to offer a bull moose season since 2009, and most recently cow seasons have become available, a sign that the herd is healthy and growing. Great news for hunters and wildlife watcher alike!

Winging it

The Colorado River runs slowly through the Grand Valley, making it an attractive stopping place for ducks and geese — and, in turn, bird hunters. Goose and duck hunting season runs roughly from mid-November to February.

The state manages several state wildlife areas along the Colorado River around Grand Junction and the areas have hunting blinds that are open for hunters to use on a first-come, first served basis.

Winter fishing

Whether your preference is fly fishing or ice fishing, the Grand Junction area is a great place for anglers to wet their lines during the winter months. Some of the most popular fly-fishing streams in western Colorado, including the Frying Pan and Roaring Fork rivers near Basalt, have open, fishable water for much of the winter.

High-quality ice fishing can be found on the frozen lakes atop Grand Mesa, at Vega Reservoir near Collbran, at Rifle Gap Reservoir near Rifle and Blue Mesa Reservoir between Montrose and Gunnison. All are easily accessible and within a two-hour drive from Grand Junction.