Is a Fishing License Required in Kansas? Find Out Now!
Fishing is a popular pastime in Kansas, but before you cast your line, it’s important to understand the state’s fishing license requirements. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the rules and regulations governing fishing licenses in Kansas, helping you stay compliant and enjoy your fishing experience.
Who Needs a Fishing License in Kansas?
In Kansas, residents aged 16 through 74 must have a resident license in possession while fishing, unless exempt by law. All nonresidents aged 16 and older must have a valid nonresident license to fish in Kansas .
Exemptions to the License Requirement
Certain groups are exempt from the fishing license requirement. These include:
- Landowners and their immediate family living with them, and tenants renting land for agricultural purposes and members of their immediate family living with them are exempt from fishing license requirements on waters on their own land .
- Residents who are at least one-sixteenth American Indian by blood, and so certified by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, may apply to KDWPT for a free fishing license .
- Persons on active duty in the armed forces who entered the service while residents of Kansas may purchase resident fishing licenses. Nonresidents on active military duty stationed in Kansas and nonresident students going to school in Kansas qualify for resident fishing licenses .
- Active members of the Kansas Army or Air National Guard are eligible for free fishing and hunting licenses and park permits .
- Legal Kansas residents who have been separated from the armed services under honorable conditions and have a disability certified by the Kansas Commission On Veterans Affairs as being service-connected and such disability is equal to or greater than 30 percent may apply through the Pratt Operations Office for free hunting and fishing licenses .
How to Purchase a Fishing License in Kansas
Purchasing a fishing license in Kansas is a straightforward process, with multiple options available to suit your needs. Here’s a detailed guide on how to obtain a fishing license in the state:
Online Purchase
You can buy a fishing license online through the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism website . Visit the website and follow the prompts to select the appropriate license type, enter your personal information, and complete the payment process.
Licensed Agents
Kansas has over 600 licensed agents across the state where you can purchase a fishing license in person . These agents include various retail stores, sporting goods stores, and other businesses. To find a licensed agent near you, visit the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism website and search for agents by county .
Department Offices
Fishing licenses can also be purchased in person at any Kansas Department Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism office . Visit their website to find the nearest office location.
Phone Purchase
You can purchase a fishing license over the phone by calling the toll-free number 1-833-587-2164 . This service is available for your convenience, and the fishing license will be mailed to you after the purchase is complete.
Local License Vendors
Many local businesses, such as Walmart and other retail stores, also sell fishing licenses . It’s a good idea to call ahead to ensure the vendor is open and has the appropriate license type available.
License Duration and Expiration
Most fishing licenses in Kansas expire 365 days from the date of purchase, except for multi-year, five-day, lifetime, and one-day fishing licenses . This allows you to enjoy fishing for an entire year before needing to Renew your license.
License Cost
The cost of a fishing license in Kansas varies depending on the type of license and the angler’s age and residency status. For example, a resident 1-Day fishing license costs $6.00, a resident fishing license costs $27.50, and a resident combination fish & hunt license costs $47.50. Nonresident fishing licenses cost $52.50, and nonresident combination fish & hunt licenses cost $137.50 .
By following these steps and understanding the different purchasing options, you can easily obtain a fishing license in Kansas and enjoy your time on the water. Remember to always carry your fishing license with you while fishing and adhere to the state’s fishing regulations to ensure a legal and enjoyable experience.
Cost of Fishing Licenses
Fishing is a popular pastime in Kansas, with a variety of licenses available to both residents and non-residents. The cost of these licenses varies depending on the type of license, the duration, and the age of the angler.
Resident Fishing Licenses
For Kansas residents, the cost of a fishing license depends on the duration and type of fishing planned. A Resident 1-Day Fish License costs $8.50, which is perfect for those planning a single day of fishing . For those who fish more frequently, a Resident Fishing License is available at $27.50 . This license is valid for 365 days from the date of purchase .
For residents who also enjoy hunting, a Resident Combination Fish & Hunt License is available at $47.50 . This license provides the convenience of a single license for both activities.
Nonresident Fishing Licenses
Nonresidents also have a variety of options when it comes to fishing licenses. A Nonresident 1-Day Fish License is available at $14.50, while a Nonresident Fishing License, valid for 365 days from the date of purchase, costs $52.50 .
Additional Permits
In addition to the basic fishing licenses, there are also additional permits available for specific types of fishing. For example, a Trout Permit costs $14.50 for both residents and nonresidents .
Discounts and Exemptions
Kansas offers several discounts and exemptions for certain groups. For example, Kansas residents aged 65-74 can purchase a senior Lifetime Pass, which is a combination hunting/fishing license valid for the lifetime of the holder, for $42.50 .
Active members of the Kansas National Guard and resident Disabled Veterans with at least 30% disability are eligible for free fishing and hunting licenses .
Purchasing a License
Fishing licenses can be purchased online, from licensed agents, or from any Kansas Department Wildlife, Parks and Tourism office .
Remember, all licenses expire 365 days from the date of purchase, except for multi-year, five-day, lifetime, and one-day fishing licenses .
Whether you’re a resident or a non-resident, a seasoned angler or a beginner, Kansas offers a variety of fishing licenses to suit your needs. Always ensure you have the correct license and are aware of any regulations before you start fishing.
| License Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Resident 1-Day Fish License | $8.50 |
| Resident Fishing License | $27.50 |
| Resident Combination Fish & Hunt License | $47.50 |
| Nonresident 1-Day Fish License | $14.50 |
| Nonresident Fishing License | $52.50 |
| Trout Permit (Resident/Nonresident) | $14.50 |
| Senior Lifetime Pass (Resident, 65-74) | $42.50 |
| Free License (Kansas National Guard/Disabled Veterans) | Free |
Fishing Regulations
Fishing regulations are essential for maintaining healthy fish populations and ensuring the sustainability of our natural resources. In this article, we will delve into specific fishing regulations including bait fish size limit, creel limits, floatline regulations, and walleye regulations.
Bait Fish Size Limit
Bait fish, as defined by the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT), are used for noncommercial purposes. The size of bait fish may not exceed 12 inches. The limit is 500 per person, and these can be caught in legal waters statewide, except that seining is prohibited on department-owned waters . It’s important to note that baitfish taken, except gizzard shad, silver carp, and bighead carp, shall not exceed 12 inches in total length .
Creel Limits
Creel limits refer to the maximum number of a particular species that an angler can keep in a day. In Kansas, the daily creel limits vary depending on the species. For instance, the daily creel limit for Black Bass is 6, for Channel Catfish it’s 10, and for Blue Catfish, it’s 5 . It’s important to note that individual waters may have different length and creel limits than those listed, so always check the specific regulations for the waters you plan to fish .
Floatline Regulations
Floatline fishing is allowed year-round, 24 hours per day at specific locations in Kansas including Council Grove, Elk City, Fall River, Glen Elder, Hillsdale, John Redmond, Kanopolis, Lovewell, Tuttle Creek, Pomona, Toronto, Wilson reservoirs. Anglers are allowed no more than eight floatlines. All floatlines must be under the immediate supervision of the angler and must be removed from the water when fishing ceases .
Walleye Regulations
The statewide 15-inch length limit on walleye does not apply to rivers, streams, and tailwaters. This means that in these specific bodies of water, walleyes of any size may be caught and kept . However, in other waters, the minimum length of walleye, sauger, and their hybrids that can be kept is 15 inches .
Remember, these regulations are in place to protect our fish populations and ensure that future generations can also enjoy the sport of fishing. Always check the current regulations before you go fishing, as they can change from year to year. Happy fishing!
Fishing Regulations
| Fishing Regulation | Details |
|---|---|
| Bait Fish Size Limit | Not to exceed 12 inches |
| Creel Limits | Varies by species (e.g., Black Bass: 6, Channel Catfish: 10) |
| Floatline Regulations | Allowed year-round, 24 hours per day at specific locations, no more than eight floatlines |
| Walleye Regulations | 15-inch length limit, does not apply to rivers, streams, and tailwaters |
In conclusion, while a fishing license is generally required in Kansas, there are several exemptions. The cost of the license varies, and it can be easily purchased online or from a licensed vendor. Always remember to follow the state’s fishing regulations to ensure a legal and enjoyable fishing experience.
