GRAND JUNCTION, Colo -- Orange hats and camouflage gear will start to become a more common sight around Colorado. Hunting season is underway. Archery season started last week, small game season started Wednesday. The current small game season includes doves, turkey, blue grouse and chukar, which can be found on the Western Slope.

Hunting activity in Colorado will increase throughout the fall. The busiest time is usually late October during elk and deer season. For many families, fall is all about hunting.

"A very big tradition in Colorado and a very good family activity," Division of Wildlife Spokesman Randy Hampton says.

For folks from out of town, a hunting trip to the Centennial State is a big investment.

"Resident licenses are very affordable. Non- residents pay a lot of money to hunt in Colorado, for the opportunities that we have," Hampton explains.

Out-of-towners can spend up to seven times more for some hunting licenses. That's how the D.O.W. pays the bills.

"The Colorado Division of Wildlife does not receive general funds tax revenue. We are funded by people who hunt and fish. A vast majority of our funding comes from hunting licenses," Hampton says.

Hunting season also means more business for area sporting goods stores. Many hunters stop at places like Grand Junction's Gene Taylors to stock up on essentials.

"Ammunition, cases, whatever they need to get them out in the field.Knives, sleeping bags, tents," Gene Taylor's gunsmith James Palmer says. Fall is his department's busiest time of year. "We can sell you a new gun, we can accessorize it, fix it if it's broken."

Local stores are often a lifesaver for hunter's who forgot to pack something.

"Boots, clothing, even fishing gear to do something on the side," Palmer says.

The Grand Junction Visitor and Convention Bureau doesn't specifically track how much money hunters spend in town. But, between hotel stays, eating out and buying souvenirs, they certainly play an important role in our economy.

Many licenses for this year's hunting seasons are already taken. But, depending on your plans, there are still some options. The D.O.W. has what they call over-the- counter licenses that are good for many areas of the state. If you'd like to check out what options are available for you, log onto the division of wildlife's website at: www.wildlife.state.co.us/hunting