Kansas offers diverse fishing opportunities across its lakes, reservoirs, and rivers. Anglers can target a variety of species including bass, catfish, crappie, and walleye. The state boasts over 280,000 acres of public waters, providing ample space for both novice and experienced fishermen to cast their lines.

Fishing licenses are required for most anglers aged 16 to 74. These can be purchased online or from authorized vendors throughout the state. Kansas fishing regulations vary by location and species, so it’s important to check current rules before heading out.

Popular fishing destinations in Kansas include Milford Lake, El Dorado Reservoir, and Wilson Lake. Each offers unique experiences and fish populations. With proper planning and knowledge of local conditions, fishing in Kansas can be a rewarding and enjoyable outdoor activity year-round.

Kansas Fishing Overview

Kansas offers diverse fishing opportunities across its lakes, rivers, and reservoirs. Anglers can pursue a variety of species year-round, with well-managed waters and accessible public areas throughout the state.

Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks

The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) oversees fishing regulations, licenses, and conservation efforts. They manage over 24 state fishing lakes and more than 40 community lakes.

KDWP stocks waters with popular game fish like channel catfish, largemouth bass, and walleye. They also maintain fish habitats and conduct population surveys.

Fishing licenses are required for anglers 16-74 years old. Residents must have lived in Kansas for 60 days to qualify for resident rates. Non-residents need a valid license regardless of age.

State Fishing Lakes

Kansas boasts numerous state fishing lakes, offering prime angling opportunities. These lakes range from small 50-acre impoundments to larger 400-acre bodies of water.

Popular state fishing lakes include:

• Meade State Lake (80 acres)
• Scott State Lake (100 acres)
• Leavenworth State Lake (160 acres)
• Wilson State Lake (9,000 acres)

Many state lakes have boat ramps, fish cleaning stations, and camping facilities. Some feature hiking trails and picnic areas for additional recreation.

Fishing Atlas and Reports

KDWP provides a comprehensive online Fishing Atlas. This tool helps anglers locate fishing spots, boat ramps, and facilities across Kansas.

The atlas includes:

• Lake and river maps
• Species information
• Depth contours
• Access points

KDWP also publishes regular fishing reports. These updates cover water conditions, catch rates, and fishing hotspots for major lakes and reservoirs.

Anglers can find reports on the KDWP website or through their mobile app. This information helps fishermen plan successful trips and target specific species.

Species Guide

Kansas offers diverse fishing opportunities with several popular game fish species. Anglers can target a variety of fish throughout the state’s lakes, rivers, and reservoirs.

Largemouth and Black Bass

Largemouth bass thrive in Kansas waters, providing exciting action for anglers. These predatory fish are found in lakes and ponds across the state. Black bass, including smallmouth and spotted bass, also inhabit many Kansas waterways.

Largemouth bass prefer structures like submerged logs and weed beds. Anglers often use plastic worms, crankbaits, and topwater lures to catch them.

Black bass tend to favor rocky areas and current. Jigs, soft plastics, and small crankbaits are effective lures for these species.

The state record largemouth bass weighed 11.80 pounds, caught in a private pond in 2008.

Catfish Varieties

Kansas boasts excellent catfish fishing opportunities. Channel catfish, blue catfish, and flathead catfish are the main species found in the state’s waters.

Channel catfish are the most common, inhabiting nearly every body of water in Kansas. They respond well to baits like chicken liver, nightcrawlers, and prepared stink baits.

Blue catfish grow to impressive sizes in larger reservoirs. Cut bait and live shad are top choices for targeting trophy blues.

Flathead catfish prefer live bait such as bluegill or shad. They are often caught in rivers and around submerged structure in lakes.

Walleye and Northern Pike

Walleye fishing is popular in Kansas, with many lakes and reservoirs supporting healthy populations. These tasty gamefish are often caught using jigs tipped with nightcrawlers or minnows.

Northern pike, while less common, offer exciting fishing in select Kansas waters. These toothy predators strike aggressively at large minnow imitations and flashy spoons.

Top walleye lakes include Cheney Reservoir, El Dorado Lake, and Wilson Reservoir. For northern pike, Sebelius Reservoir is a prime destination.

Crappie and White Bass

Crappie fishing is a favorite pastime for many Kansas anglers. Both black and white crappie are found throughout the state. Small jigs and minnows fished around brush piles and standing timber are effective tactics.

White bass provide fast-paced action during their spring spawning runs. Anglers target them in rivers and reservoir tributaries using small jigs, spinners, and live minnows.

Some of the best crappie lakes include Hillsdale, Perry, and Clinton Reservoirs. For white bass, try the Kansas River and its tributaries during the spring.

Trout Season Details

Kansas offers seasonal trout fishing opportunities from November through April. The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks stocks rainbow trout in select waters across the state.

Popular trout fishing locations include:

• Mined Land Wildlife Area in southeast Kansas
• Tuttle Creek State Park Willow Lake near Manhattan
• Sedgwick County Park Lake in Wichita

Anglers must purchase a trout permit in addition to their fishing license to keep trout. The daily creel limit is typically five trout per day.

Powerbait, small spinners, and flies are effective for catching stocked trout in Kansas waters.

Top Fishing Lakes and Reservoirs

Kansas boasts numerous excellent fishing spots across its diverse landscape. Several lakes and reservoirs stand out for their abundant fish populations and variety of species, offering anglers prime opportunities for memorable catches.

Glen Elder Reservoir

Glen Elder Reservoir, also known as Waconda Lake, spans 12,500 acres in north-central Kansas. This large impoundment is renowned for its walleye fishing, consistently producing trophy-sized catches.

Anglers also target white bass, crappie, and channel catfish here. The reservoir’s rocky shorelines and submerged timber provide ideal habitats for various fish species.

Spring and fall are particularly productive seasons for fishing at Glen Elder. Boat ramps and fishing docks offer easy access to prime fishing areas.

Clinton and Melvern

Clinton Lake, located near Lawrence, covers 7,000 acres and is a popular destination for largemouth bass and crappie fishing. The lake’s numerous coves and standing timber create excellent fish habitats.

Melvern Lake, southeast of Topeka, is known for its quality crappie fishing. The 6,930-acre reservoir also supports healthy populations of walleye, white bass, and channel catfish.

Both lakes feature well-maintained facilities, including boat ramps, campgrounds, and fishing piers. Spring and early summer are prime times for fishing these reservoirs.

El Dorado and John Redmond

El Dorado Lake, east of Wichita, spans 8,000 acres and is a favorite among bass anglers. The lake holds impressive populations of largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass.

John Redmond Reservoir, in east-central Kansas, covers 9,400 acres and is known for its catfish and crappie fishing. The reservoir’s shallow, murky waters create ideal conditions for these species.

Both lakes offer ample shoreline access and boat ramps. Fall is an excellent time to fish these waters, as cooler temperatures bring fish closer to the surface.

Cedar Bluff and Webster Reservoir

Cedar Bluff Reservoir, in western Kansas, covers 6,869 acres and is prized for its walleye and white bass fishing. The lake’s clear waters and rocky shorelines create ideal conditions for these species.

Webster Reservoir, northwest of Hays, spans 3,766 acres and is known for its excellent crappie and walleye fishing. The reservoir’s standing timber provides excellent fish habitat.

Both lakes offer scenic views of the surrounding prairie landscape. Late spring and early summer are prime fishing seasons at these western Kansas reservoirs.

Cowley State Fishing Lake

Cowley State Fishing Lake, a 84-acre impoundment in southeastern Kansas, offers excellent bank fishing opportunities. The lake is stocked with channel catfish, largemouth bass, and bluegill.

Its small size makes it ideal for kayak and canoe fishing. Cowley State Fishing Lake features a fishing jetty and is surrounded by wooded areas, providing a serene atmosphere for anglers.

Spring and fall are particularly productive seasons at this compact lake. The lake’s intimate setting makes it an excellent option for family fishing outings.

Fishing Techniques and Tips

Kansas offers diverse fishing opportunities across its lakes, reservoirs, and rivers. Anglers can employ various techniques to target popular species like bass and catfish throughout the year.

Bass Fishing Methods

Largemouth bass are a prized catch in Kansas waters. Topwater lures like buzzbaits and poppers work well in early mornings and evenings. Soft plastic worms rigged Texas-style excel for fishing near cover.

Crankbaits and spinnerbaits are effective when bass are actively feeding. For deeper water, try Carolina-rigged soft plastics or deep-diving crankbaits. Jigs tipped with trailers can entice big bass around submerged structures.

In smaller ponds, wacky-rigged Senkos and small swimbaits resembling local forage fish often produce strikes. During summer, focus on shaded areas and deeper water where bass seek cooler temperatures.

Catfish Tactics

Channel catfish and flatheads are common targets for Kansas anglers. For channel cats, use cut bait, chicken livers, or prepared stinkbaits fished on the bottom. Nightcrawlers and minnows also work well.

Flathead catfish prefer live bait like sunfish or shad. Use heavy tackle and fish near cover such as fallen trees or deep holes. Night fishing can be productive for both species.

Set up multiple rods with different baits to determine preferences. Use sliding sinker rigs to allow catfish to take bait without feeling resistance. In rivers, focus on deep pools, eddies, and areas below dams.

Seasonal Fishing Strategies

Spring offers excellent bass fishing as fish move shallow to spawn. Target areas near shoreline cover. Summer calls for early morning or late evening fishing, focusing on deeper water during midday heat.

Fall brings cooling water temperatures, triggering feeding activity. Use faster-moving lures to cover water. For catfish, spring and fall often provide peak action in shallower areas.

Winter fishing can be productive, especially for catfish in deeper holes. Slow down presentations and downsize lures for cold-water bass. Ice fishing is possible on some Kansas lakes, offering a unique winter angling experience.

Conservation and Ecology

Kansas emphasizes protecting fish populations and their habitats through targeted initiatives. These efforts focus on managing invasive species, enhancing wildlife habitats, and promoting sustainable angling practices.

Invasive Species Management

Zebra mussels pose a significant threat to Kansas waterways. These small mollusks attach to surfaces and rapidly reproduce, disrupting ecosystems and damaging infrastructure. Anglers play a crucial role in preventing their spread by thoroughly cleaning boats and equipment.

Kansas officials conduct regular monitoring and public education campaigns to combat zebra mussels. Early detection allows for swift action to limit their impact on native species and water quality.

Other invasive species, such as Asian carp, also require vigilant management. Fisheries biologists employ various techniques, including targeted removal and habitat modification, to control their populations and protect native fish species.

Wildlife Habitat Enhancement

Kansas actively works to improve aquatic habitats for fish and wildlife. This includes restoring wetlands, planting native vegetation along shorelines, and creating fish structures in lakes and streams.

Habitat enhancement projects benefit a wide range of species, from game fish to waterfowl. These efforts often involve partnerships between state agencies, conservation organizations, and local communities.

Improved habitats support healthier fish populations, leading to better angling opportunities. Enhanced ecosystems also provide natural filtration, improving water quality for both wildlife and human use.

Sustainable Angling Practices

Responsible fishing practices are essential for maintaining healthy fish populations in Kansas. Anglers are encouraged to follow size and catch limits, properly handle and release fish, and use appropriate tackle to minimize harm.

Catch-and-release fishing is promoted for certain species and in specific areas to ensure long-term sustainability. This practice allows fish to grow larger and reproduce, benefiting future generations of anglers.

Kansas also stocks certain waters with hybrid striped bass, known as wipers. These fish provide exciting angling opportunities while helping to manage other fish populations. Anglers targeting wipers should familiarize themselves with specific regulations for this species.

Access and Amenities

Kansas offers diverse fishing access points and amenities to enhance anglers’ experiences. From well-maintained boat ramps to prime shoreline spots and comfortable lodging options, the state caters to various fishing preferences and needs.

Boat Ramps and Dock Facilities

Kansas lakes and reservoirs feature numerous boat ramps for easy water access. Popular locations like Milford Lake and El Dorado Lake provide multiple concrete ramps suitable for various watercraft sizes. Many ramps include courtesy docks for convenient loading and unloading.

Clinton Lake offers four boat ramps with adjacent parking areas. Perry Lake boasts six ramps spread around its shoreline, ensuring ample access during peak seasons.

Some smaller lakes, such as Leavenworth State Fishing Lake, have single-lane ramps ideal for smaller boats and kayaks. Always check water levels before launching, as some ramps may be unusable during drought conditions.

Shoreline Fishing Spots

Kansas abounds with excellent shoreline fishing opportunities. Many state parks and wildlife areas offer designated fishing piers and platforms. Tuttle Creek State Park features wheelchair-accessible fishing docks, while El Dorado State Park provides jetties for bank anglers.

The Arkansas River National Water Trail offers numerous access points along its 192-mile stretch. Anglers can fish from the banks at Great Bend, Hutchinson, and Wichita.

Walk-In Fishing Access (WIFA) areas provide anglers entry to privately-owned ponds and streams. These spots are clearly marked and offer unique fishing experiences across the state.

Camping and Lodging Nearby

Many Kansas fishing spots offer on-site or nearby camping options. El Dorado State Park provides over 1,000 campsites, ranging from primitive to full-hookup RV spots. Milford State Park features cabins and yurts for those seeking more comfort.

For anglers preferring indoor accommodations, towns near popular fishing areas often have hotels and motels. Emporia, close to Council Grove Lake, offers various lodging options.

Some lakes, like Wilson Lake, have resorts with cabin rentals and boat slips. These provide convenient bases for multi-day fishing trips.

Licensing and Regulations

The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks oversees fishing regulations in the state. All anglers aged 16 and older must possess a valid Kansas fishing license, except when fishing on private property not leased for public use.

Resident licenses are available for Kansas residents, while nonresidents must purchase a nonresident license. Most licenses expire 365 days from the date of purchase or from the expiration date of the current license.

Special licensing considerations exist for certain groups. Active members of the Kansas Army or Air National Guard may qualify for free fishing licenses. Veterans with service-connected disabilities certified by the Kansas Commission on Veterans Affairs may also be eligible for free licenses.

Bowfishing enthusiasts must adhere to specific rules. They must carry a valid Kansas fishing license and use arrows with barbed heads attached to the bow by a line. Certain areas are off-limits for bowfishing, including within 50 yards of occupied boat docks, swimming areas, and other public-use spaces.

Kansas offers diverse fishing opportunities across its lakes, rivers, and reservoirs. Anglers should familiarize themselves with specific regulations for different water bodies and fish species to ensure compliance and conservation of aquatic resources.