Kansas fishing guide

Welcome to your key source for all fishing-related information in Kansas. Discover not only the prime fishing spots but also learn about the diverse species inhabiting these waters. Stay informed about the latest fishing regulations and licensing requirements for fishing in Kansas

580 spots
29 fish
15 lakes
7 rivers

What kind of fish can you catch in Kansas

Below are 29 types of fish that can be caught in Kansas. The data have been collected based on fishing reports from Kansas and have undergone serious moderation. Explore the map of Kansas to find out where a particular type of fish is biting.

What rivers flow through Kansas?

Below is a list of rivers that flow through Kansas. Study the fishing map of the rivers to find out where and what kind of fish are in the river and when is the best time to catch them

Licenses for fishing in Kansas

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is advisable to visit the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism website or refer to their fishing regulations guide.

License Type Resident Price Non-Resident Price
Regular Fishing $27.50 $77.50
One-Day Fishing $6.00 $12.50
Five-Year Fishing $102.50 N/A
Lifetime Fishing $502.50 N/A
Combination (Hunting & Fishing) $47.50 $192.50
Senior Resident Fish $15 (Annual) N/A
Senior Resident Combination Hunt/Fish $25.00 N/A
Lifetime Senior Resident Hunt/Fish Combination $42.50 N/A
Trout Permit $14.50 (adult), $7 (youth) $14.50 (adult), $7 (youth)
Paddlefish Permit $12.50 $12.50
Paddlefish Permit (15 and younger) $7.50 $7.50
Hand Fishing Permit $27.50 $27.50
Bass Pass $14.50 $14.50
Three Pole Permit $8.50 $8.50
Duplicates (All Licenses/Permits $2.50 $2.50

Key Points:

  • Residents aged 16 through 74 must have a resident license to fish in Kansas unless exempt by law.
  • All nonresidents aged 16 and older must have a valid nonresident license to fish in Kansas.
  • Most licenses expire 365 days from the date of purchase, except for one-day, five-day, five-year, multi-year youth, and lifetime fishing licenses.
  • There are special conditions for residents aged 65-74, American Indians, active military personnel, and disabled veterans regarding licenses.

Fishing Regulations in Kansas

Prohibited Gear and Fishing Methods
  • Fishing with explosives, poisons, or electrical equipment is prohibited.
  • Use of seines, traps, or nets for fishing is generally not allowed, except for specific purposes.
  • Snagging is illegal, except in designated waters during specific seasons.
  • Spearfishing is restricted to certain species and waters.
  • Use of more than two poles or lines simultaneously is prohibited in most waters.
  • Jug fishing and limb lines are restricted in certain areas.
  • Chumming is prohibited in certain waters.
Catch Limits
  • Largemouth, Smallmouth, and Spotted Bass: Daily limit of 5 combined.
  • Channel and Blue Catfish: Daily limit of 10 combined.
  • Flathead Catfish: Daily limit of 5.
  • Crappie (White and Black): Daily limit of 50 combined.
  • Trout: Daily limit of 5, trout permit required for certain waters.
  • Walleye, Sauger, and Saugeye: Daily limit of 5 combined.
  • Bluegill: No daily limit.
  • Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass): Daily limit of 5.
  • Northern Pike: Daily limit of 2.
  • Muskellunge: Daily limit of 1, minimum length 40 inches.
  • White Bass: Daily limit of 25.
Restrictions on Access to Water Bodies
  • Some waters may be closed to fishing during specific periods for conservation.
  • Fishing within designated swimming areas or boat docks is prohibited.
  • Private property fishing requires landowner's consent.
  • Special access restrictions in state parks and wildlife areas.
  • Boat fishing may be restricted on certain small lakes and ponds.
Zones of Special Regulation
  • Catch-and-release only areas for specific species.
  • Special size and bag limits in designated Fish Management Areas.
  • Area-specific gear restrictions, such as artificial lures only.
  • Trophy fishing areas with additional size restrictions.
  • Restricted fishing near fish hatcheries and wildlife refuges.
Protection of Rare Species
  • Fishing for endangered or threatened species is strictly prohibited.
  • Special regulations in habitats of rare or sensitive species.
  • Restrictions on fishing in areas designated for the protection of rare species.
  • Mandatory release of accidentally caught rare species.
  • Monitoring programs for the catch of vulnerable species.
Seasonal Restrictions
  • Seasonal closures for certain species during spawning or nesting periods.
  • Winter ice fishing subject to specific safety regulations and area closures.
  • Special regulations during spawning runs in certain rivers and streams.
  • Temporary fishing bans during environmental or ecological studies.
  • Alterations in bag and size limits during different seasons for certain species.
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