Ducks
Most of the 27 species of ducks which frequent Kansas are produced in states and the Canadian provinces to the north. Although 14 species of ducks are known to have nested in Kansas, the major portion of the resident breeding population, estimated at about 20,000 pairs, is composed of wood ducks, blue-winged teal and mallards.
From 1984 through 2003 the total number of ducks reported during the 14 surveys conducted annually (two per month, September through March) on major waterfowl areas in Kansas varied from a high of 3,959,000 in 1998 to a low of 1,194,000 in 1991, and averaged approximately 2,081,000 annually. Generally speaking, duck numbers and harvest declined from levels experienced during the 1970’s, when an all time high of 10,015,000 ducks were reported during waterfowl surveys in 1972, and the average number observed each year (1970-79) was 5,820,000. This decline in Kansas duck numbers is largely due to loss of breeding habitat in Canada and states north of Kansas, aging of our reservoirs, and changing agricultural practices in our state.
The five most common ducks observed during the 14 annual surveys in Kansas include the mallard, northern pintail, green-winged teal, gadwall and blue-winged teal. Kansas is about half way down the Central Flyway’s eastern tier of states, an area crossed by some of the major migration routes of ducks. Of the five most common ducks, blue-winged teal are the first to arrive, peaking in September and early October. The next major influx of migrants occurs in late October and early November. Northern pintail begin a major buildup in late October, with green-winged teal and gadwall arriving and peaking during the first half of November. Mallards are the last of the top five to arrive, peaking in late December. The mallard is king in our state, with numbers observed commonly reaching 300,000 during the second half of December.
Although the migration chronology of Kansas ducks varies considerably from year to year, depending on weather, there is usually a gradual increase in duck numbers beginning in late August and peaking during December or early January. While data summarized on a statewide basis may show a gradual buildup of ducks, the numbers observed on a particular wetland may have migration characteristics quite different from the “state average”. A common misconception is that there is a gradual movement of ducks, north to south, during the fall and early winter periods. However, a shallow marsh near the Oklahoma border may have peak numbers in late October while a reservoir near the Nebraska border may not see maximum numbers until late December. Within Kansas, the type of habitat has a greater influence on the timing and species composition of the duck migration than does the location.
Over the long term, the fall and winter populations of ducks in Kansas should roughly correlate with the breeding population index for these species. However, numbers observed are influenced by habitat conditions in our state. Even in years of high flyway populations, poor habitat conditions in Kansas will lower fall populations and harvest in Kansas. Conversely, in years of low flyway populations, good habitat conditions in Kansas will raise Kansas fall populations and harvest.
Mallards - photo Mike Blair
During the past six years (1999-2004), Kansas duck hunters averaged approximately 119,000 duck hunting days, and harvested about 228,000 ducks annually. The highest Kansas duck harvest reported occurred in 1971, when an estimated 430,000 ducks were taken. In recent years, mallards have comprised about 50 percent of the total harvest, followed by gadwall at about 14 percent, and green-winged teal at 12 percent.
The future of ducks, unlike geese, is troubling. The long term degradation and loss of wetlands and native prairie on their breeding grounds is a serious problem that is difficult to address. The combination of the agricultural Conservation Reserve Program and record breaking rainfall allowed breeding numbers to rebound during the 1990’s to levels similar to those observed during 1970’s. However, discontinuance of the Conservation Reserve Program, or a return to normal rainfall levels on the breeding grounds, will have severe negative impacts on duck production and fall flights. Federal and state agencies, along with a number of private organizations are working to maintain quality breeding habitat, but the task is difficult and far from being accomplished.
CURRENT WATERFOWL NUMBERS ON WILDLIFE AREAS
For weekly updates on waterfowl numbers on Wildlife Areas during the fall and winter period go to the regional waterfowl reports.
REGULATIONS
Waterfowl Hunting regulations are set annually. Click here to view the latest Kansas Hunting & Furharvesting Regulations Summary.
Youth Waterfowl Seasons: In each of the duck zones, two days are set aside for youth waterfowl hunting (ducks and dark geese). Hunters 15 and younger may hunt under the supervision of an adult 18 or older. The adult may NOT hunt.
Youth Season Daily Bag Limit: 6 6 ducks, with species and sex restrictions as follows: 5 mallards (no more than 2 of which may be females), 3 wood ducks, 2 redheads, 2 canvasbacks, 1 pintail, and 1 scaup. The daily bag may comprise six of any other duck, such as six teal, six gadwall, or six wigeon.
Youth Season Possession Limit: Three times the daily bag limit.
Legal Methods of Taking Waterfowl
Bow and arrow, falconry, or shotgun no larger than 10-guage. Shotguns shall not be able to hold more than three shells.
Illegal Methods of Taking Waterfowl
No person shall take migratory game birds:
1) With a shotgun capable of holding more than three (3) shells, in the magazine and chamber combined.
2) With a trap, snare, fishhook, net, rifle, pistol, shotgun slug, shotgun larger than 10 gauge, poison, drug, or explosive.
3) With the use or aid of electronically amplified or recorded bird calls, or imitations of bird calls or sounds.
4) From a sink box (a low floating device, having a depression affording the hunter means of concealment beneath the surface of the water).
5) From or by means of any motor boat or sail boat unless the motor has been completely shut off and/or the sail furled, and its progress from there has ceased.
6) By the use or aid of live decoys. All tame, captive ducks and geese must be removed 10 days before hunting.
7) By driving, rallying, or chasing birds with any motorized conveyance or any sail boat to put them in range of the hunters.
Wanton Waste
By regulation, hunters must attempt to find any game crippled or killed. Retrieved animals must be kept until: 1) cleaned, 2) eaten, 3) taken home, 4) taken to a taxidermist or processor, or 5) given to another person.
Possession of Live Birds
Wounded waterfowl reduced to possession shall be immediately killed and included in the daily bag.
Transporting Harvested Waterfowl
One fully-feathered wing and /or head must remain attached to waterfowl when transported.
Shipment
No person shall ship migratory game birds unless the package is marked on the outside with: 1) the name and address of the person sending the birds, 2) the name and address of the person to whom the birds are being sent, and 3) the number of birds, by species, contained in the package.
Giving or Receiving Waterfowl
No person may receive, possess, or give to another, any freshly killed migratory game birds as a gift, except at the personal abodes of the donor or donee, unless such birds have a tag attached, signed by the hunter who took the birds, stating the hunter’s address, the total number and species of birds, and the date such birds were taken.
Tagging Requirements
No person shall put or leave any migratory game birds at any place (other than at his personal abode), or in the custody of another person for picking, cleaning, processing, shipping, transportation, or storage (including temporary storage), or for the purpose of having taxidermy services performed, unless such birds have a tag attached, signed by the hunter, stating his address, the total number and species of birds, and the date such birds were killed. Migratory game birds being transported in any vehicle as the personal baggage of the possessor are not considered as being in storage or temporary storage.
Electronic or Mechanically Operated Decoys
The use of electronic or mechanically operated decoys that do not produce bird sounds is legal.
Waterfowl Baiting Regulations
Baiting regulations differ between doves and waterfowl, and are among the most troublesome for hunters to understand. For detailed information on waterfowl baiting go to http://www.le.fws.gov/HuntFish/waterfowl_baiting.htm
Some general baiting rules that waterfowl hunters should remember:
- They may not place, expose, deposit, distribute or scatter salt, grain or other feed that could lure waterfowl to, on or over the area where they are hunting.
- They may not hunt a baited area until 10 days after all bait or feed has been completely removed.
- Hunters are responsible for ensuring that the area they plan on hunting has not been baited before they start hunting.
- Hunters may hunt all migratory game birds over natural vegetation that has been mowed or manipulated in other ways, or where seeds or grains have been scattered solely as a result of a normal agricultural planting or normal soil stabilization practice.
- Hunters may use natural vegetation to conceal or construct a blind.
- Hunters may hunt waterfowl over standing crops, standing flooded crops and flooded harvested cropland.
DUCK IDENTIFICATION
Duck regulations include species and sex specific restrictions. The ability of hunters to identify and select desired targets before shooting is important in managing the harvest and allowing maximum hunting opportunity without jeopardizing the future of our waterfowl resource. For help with duck identification go to -- http://www.npwrc.usgs.gov/resource/tools/waterfwl/waterfwl.htm
POPULATION AND HARVEST DATA
A number of population and harvest surveys are conducted annually that are utilized in the development of waterfowl management programs and regulations. To view data for Kansas and the Central Flyway, go to http://www.flyways.us/
REPORTING BANDS
Information obtained from band recoveries reported by hunters and other individuals is, along with harvest and population data, critical to the management of our waterfowl resources. Information derived from banding includes the distribution of the harvest from a particular banding area, the timing of the harvest and most importantly, the harvest rate. This information is utilized annually in the development of harvest frameworks and final regulations. To report a band call 1/800/327/2263 or go to http://www.pwrc.usgs.gov/bbl/homepage/call800.htm
THE FLYWAY PROCESS OF DEVELOPING REGULATIONS
Since most ducks are migratory birds crossing state and national boundaries, regulations and management practices that affect their population numbers must extend beyond our state and include other agencies. Establishing waterfowl regulations is an annual process that can be roughly divided into two areas. The first involves the activities of the states and provinces, working through their respective Flyway Councils in conjunction with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, to develop season frameworks. “Frameworks” set the limit on maximum season length and bag limit, shooting hours, and the earliest opening and latest closing dates of the season for a particular species. This process of developing frameworks begins in December and doesn’t end until August.
Once the frameworks are established by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which has the ultimate authority for the welfare of our migratory bird resources, the states begin the second part of the annual regulatory process. This second phase involves developing and adopting season dates, bag limits and shooting hours specific to their jurisdiction. A state can always be more restrictive than allowed by the frameworks, but it cannot be more liberal. The primary consideration when developing frameworks is the long-term welfare of the species or resource. Although this consideration is still present when states develop their specific hunting regulations, greater emphasis is placed on providing the greatest amount of hunter opportunity and satisfaction within the limits of the frameworks.
The basis for a rangewide approach to duck management was provided by Fredrick Lincoln, who initiated the first large-scale banding in the United States in 1922. As Lincoln received bands from his ducks, he became convinced that waterfowl management would have to be tailored to the different migration routes. In 1935, he suggested that four flyways be established across the United States and that management regulations be tuned to the situations that prevailed in those flyways. Adoption of his proposal was slow, and it was not until 1948 that the Flyway system was implemented.
Kansas is located within the Central Flyway, which is composed of ten states including Montana and North Dakota to the north, extending south through Texas and New Mexico. Only that area of the West Tier states east of the Continental Divide is currently included within the Central Flyway boundaries. Although the basic responsibility for the management of waterfowl rests with the Federal Government, the states must be involved. In order to transcend state borders, the ten Central Flyway states have joined administratively and formed the Central Flyway Council. The directors of the state fish and game agencies of the flyway states, or their designated representatives, constitute the official voting members of the Council. Delegates from the Canadian provinces participate in Council activities, but do not vote on regulatory recommendations. The Council provides an excellent forum for communication and understanding the problems throughout the flyway and attacking these problems in a cooperative, scientific way. Much of the information needed for the management of ducks is continuously being obtained through banding, survey, and research efforts, planned and conducted by the Flyway Council and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
MIGRATORY DOVE (Mourning, white-winged)
- Season: 09/01/2024 - 11/29/2024
- Area open: Statewide
- Daily bag limit: 15 (The daily bag limit applies to mourning and white-winged doves, single species or in combination.
- Possession limit: 45
- Stamps Required: Kansas HIP Permit
EXOTIC DOVE (Eurasian collared and ringed turtle doves only)
- Season: 01/01/2024 - 12/31/2024
- Area open: Statewide
- Daily bag limit: No limit
- Possession limit: No limit
- There is no limit on Eurasian collared and ringed turtle doves, but any taken in addition to a limit of mourning and white-winged doves during the migratory dove season must have a fully-feathered wing attached during transport.
RAIL (Sora and Virginia)
- Season: 09/01/2024 - 11/09/2024
- Area open: Statewide
- Daily bag limit: 25
- Possession limit: 75
- Stamps Required: Kansas HIP Permit
SNIPE
- Season: 09/01/2024 - 12/16/2024
- Area open: Statewide
- Daily bag limit: 8
- Possession limit: 24
- Stamps Required: Kansas HIP Stamp
WOODCOCK
- Season: 10/12/2024 - 11/25/2024
- Area open: Statewide
- Daily bag limit: 3
- Possession limit: 9
- Stamps Required: Kansas HIP Permit
TEAL, HIGH PLAINS ZONE
- Season: 09/21/2024 - 09/29/2024
- Area open: West of Hwy. U. S. 283
- Daily bag limit: 6 teal (any combination of teal: blue-winged, green-winged or cinnamon teal)
- Possession limit: 18 teal in possession (any combination of teal: blue-winged, green-winged or cinnamon teal)
- Stamps Required: Kansas HIP Permit, State Waterfowl Stamp, Federal Duck Stamp
TEAL, LOW PLAINS ZONE
- Season: 09/14/2024 - 09/29/2024
- Area open: East of Hwy. U. S. 283
- Daily bag limit: 6 teal (any combination of teal: blue-winged, green-winged or cinnamon teal)
- Possession limit: 18 teal in possession (any combination of teal: blue-winged, green-winged or cinnamon teal)
- Stamps Required: Kansas HIP Permit, State Waterfowl Stamp, Federal Duck Stamp
DUCKS, HIGH PLAINS UNIT
- Season: 10/12/2024 - 01/05/2025 and 01/17/2025 - 01/26/2025
- Area open: High Plains Zone (see map)
- Daily bag limit: 6 (Limit Info)
- Possession limit: Three times the daily limit
- Stamps Required: Kansas HIP Permit, State Waterfowl Stamp, Federal Duck Stamp
DUCKS, LOW PLAINS EARLY ZONE
- Season: 10/12/2024 - 12/08/2024 and 12/21/2024 - 01/05/2025
- Area open: Early Zone (see map)
- Daily bag limit: 6 (Limit Info)
- Possession limit: Three times the daily limit
- Stamps Required: Kansas HIP Permit, State Waterfowl Stamp, Federal Duck Stamp
DUCKS, LOW PLAINS LATE ZONE
- Season: 10/26/2024 - 12/29/2024 and 01/18/2025 - 01/26/2025
- Area open: Late Zone (see map)
- Daily bag limit: 6 (Limit Info)
- Possession limit: Three times the daily limit
- Stamps Required: Kansas HIP Permit, State Waterfowl Stamp, Federal Duck Stamp
DUCKS, LOW PLAINS SOUTHEAST ZONE
- Season: 11/09/2024 - 01/05/2025 and 01/11/2025 - 01/26/2025
- Area open: Southeast Zone (see map)
- Daily bag limit: 6 (Limit Info)
- Possession limit: Three times the daily limit
- Stamps Required: Kansas HIP Permit, State Waterfowl Stamp, Federal Duck Stamp
6 ducks, any combination of six ducks and/or mergansers which may include no more than five mallards (only two of which may be hens), three wood ducks, two redheads, two canvasbacks, one scaup and one pintail.
MERGANSERS
- Season: Same as duck seasons
- Area Open: Statewide
- Daily Bag Limit: 5, including no more than 2 hooded mergansers
- Possession Limit: 15
- Stamps Required: Kansas HIP Permit, State Waterfowl Stamp, Federal Duck Stamp
COOTS
- Season: Same as duck seasons
- Area Open: Statewide
- Daily Bag Limit: 15
- Possession Limit: 45
- Stamps Required: Kansas HIP Permit, State Waterfowl Stamp, Federal Duck Stamp
YOUTH, VETERAN AND ACTIVE MILITARY WATERFOWL SEASONS
(Youth 17 and younger)
- High Plains Unit: 10/05/2024 - 10/06/2024
- Low Plains Early Zone: 10/05/2024 - 10/06/2024
- Low Plains Late Zone: 10/19/2024 - 10/20/2024
- Low Plains Southeast Zone: 11/02/2024 - 11/03/2024
CANADA GEESE
- Season: 10/26/2024 - 10/27/2024 and 11/06/2024 - 02/16/2025
- Area open: Statewide
- Daily bag limit: 6 (including Brant)
- Possession limit: 18
- Stamps Required: Kansas HIP Permit, State Waterfowl Stamp, Federal Duck Stamp
WHITE-FRONTED GEESE
- Season: 10/26/2024 - 12/29/2024 and 01/25/2025 - 02/16/2025
- Area open: Statewide
- Daily bag limit: 2
- Possession limit: 6
- Stamps Required: Kansas HIP Permit, State Waterfowl Stamp, Federal Duck Stamp
LIGHT GEESE
- Season: 10/26/2024 - 10/27/2024 and 11/06/2024 - 02/16/2025
- Area open: Statewide
- Daily bag limit: 50
- Possession limit: No limit
- Stamps Required: Kansas HIP Permit, State Waterfowl Stamp, Federal Duck Stamp
LIGHT GEESE, CONSERVATION ORDER
- Season: 02/17/2025 - 04/30/2025
- Area Open: Statewide
- Daily Limit: Unlimited
- Possession Limit: Unlimited
- Stamps Required: Kansas HIP Permit, State Waterfowl Stamp, Federal Duck Stamp
- Equipment Restrictions: During the Conservation Order, unplugged shotguns and electronic calls may be used. Shooting hours are from one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset.
SANDHILL CRANE, CENTRAL ZONE
- Season: 11/06/2024 - 01/02/2025
- Daily bag limit: 3
- Possession limit: 9
- Stamps Required: Kansas HIP Permit, Sandhill Crane Permit
SANDHILL CRANE, WEST ZONE
- Season: 10/19/2024 - 12/15/2024
- Daily bag limit: 3
- Possession limit: 9
- Stamps Required: Kansas HIP Permit, Sandhill Crane Permit
To purchase your HIP Stamp online, CLICK HERE.
Migratory Game Bird Hunters – Why is it important to be “HIP”?
If you hunt doves, ducks, geese, sandhill cranes, coots, snipe, rail, or woodcock, you are required to participate in Harvest Information Program (HIP).
What is HIP?
Harvest Information Program (HIP) is a method by which state wildlife agencies and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) use to provide reliable estimates of the number of migratory game bird hunters, hunter activity and migratory game bird harvest. These estimates provide information needed to make sound decisions concerning hunting seasons, bag limits, and population management. HIP has been a federal requirement of those hunting migratory game birds since 1998.
Who needs to be HIP?
HIP, incorrectly, has become associated more closely with waterfowl hunters. HIP applies to all those who hunt any species of migratory game birds. This would include not only ducks and geese but also doves, woodcock, rails, snipe, sandhill cranes, moorhens, band-tailed pigeons, swans, brant, coots and gallinules, for which there is a set hunting season. If you are required to buy a Kansas hunting license and plan to hunt any migratory game birds in Kansas, you are required to acquire a Kansas Harvest Information Program (HIP) permit. Even if you hold a lifetime license, you still are required to acquire a HIP permit. Exemptions from HIP include those not required to have a Kansas hunting license such as people hunting their own land and residents 15 and younger and 75 and older. It is the hunter responsibility to fulfill their HIP requirement. Proof of HIP must be carried with the hunter in the field, and, like a hunting or fishing license, must be presented to a wildlife officer upon their request. Hunting migratory birds without HIP certification is like hunting without a license—you could be ticketed or fined. You must be HIP certified for each state for which you hunt migratory game birds. The HIP certification process varies from state to state. Please confer with your local wildlife agency regarding HIP in their state.
How does HIP work?
When you purchase your Kansas HIP permit, you first are identifying yourself as migratory game bird hunter. Secondly, the licensing vendor will ask you a series of short questions relating to your hunting experience during last year's season. These questions place you in a sampling stratum from which the USFWS selects small sample to complete a more detailed survey about this year’s upcoming hunting season. These short questions that you are asked about last year’s hunting experience when you become HIP-certified are not part of the survey, and are not used to compile harvest estimates, but are simply used to identify what types of birds you usually hunt. This allows the USFWS to target its surveys to the appropriate hunters. For example, most surveys about dove harvest are sent to hunters who usually hunt doves, while most waterfowl harvest surveys are sent to hunters who usually hunt ducks and/or geese. If you only hunt ducks and geese – no snipe or rails, no moorhens or gallinules – why is it that I have to answer questions about those species? The USFWS needs to be able to contact people who hunt various birds. This narrows the field and allows the USFWS to ask more detailed questions about what was harvested.
If your name is one of the few selected for the national harvest survey, you will receive a personal letter and a hunting record form and will be asked to voluntarily keep a record of the number of migratory birds you harvest during the season. You will be given an addressed, postage-paid envelope to return your hunting form at the end of the season. This survey provides the information used to develop nationwide harvest estimates for all migratory birds. A few select participants are asked to send in wings of migratory game birds they harvest to help determine species, age, sex, and other important harvest data. All HIP responses are kept strictly confidential and are not used for any other purpose. As soon as the survey is completed, the USFWS destroys all hunter names and address records.
As HIP information is gathered at the time a hunting license is purchased whether at a store or online. At the license counter, the license agent should ask the HIP questions as part of the licensing process; if they do not inquire, you should remind them of HIP’s requirement. Kansas charges a small fee to cover administrative costs. KDWP or USFWS receives no income from this program. HIP is strictly to gather information and is not a means of raising money for conservation programs.
What do hunters gain from HIP?
An understandable question is ‘What does HIP mean to me, as an individual asked to participate in this annual series of inquiries?’ The vast majority of hunters who participate are doing so because they know it’s important and understand why it’s important as hunters. Hunters are not just people answering a survey but are partners in data collection that directly affects hunting opportunities. As the threats and concerns for migratory bird populations continue to mount, it is essential to gather the best information possible about the factors affecting these populations. It is in the hunter's best interest to have wildlife management decisions based on scientific evidence, not on opinions, philosophies, or politics. It only takes a few moments to give wildlife managers the information they need to ensure that our migratory bird resources--and hunting tradition--will be around for future generations to enjoy.
To Purchase Your Kansas HIP Permit Online: https://license.gooutdoorskansas.com
For More Information
USFWS HIP: https://www.fws.gov/birds/surveys-and-data/harvest-surveys/harvest-information-program.php
USFWS Harvest and Hunter Survey Annual Reports: https://www.fws.gov/birds/surveys-and-data/reports-and-publications/hunting-activity-and-harvest.php
Explore Harvest Data visualization for your region: https://fws.gov/harvestsurvey/harvest-vis
Central Flyway Council: https://centralflyway.org/management/harvest-surveys/
27 Species of Ducks Recorded in Kansas
| Wood duck | Aix sponsa |
| Green-Winged Teal | Anas crecca |
| American Black Duck | Anas rubripes |
| Mottled Duck | Anas fulvigula |
| Mallard | Anas platyrhynchos |
| Northern Pintail | Anas acuta |
| Blue-winged Teal | Anas discors |
| Cinnamon Teal | Anas cyanoptera |
| Northern Shoveler | Anas clypeata |
| Gadwall | Anas strepera |
| Eurasian Wigeon | Anas Penelope |
| American Wigeon | Anas Americana |
| Canvasback | Aythya valisineria |
| Redhead | Aythya Americana |
| Ring-necked Duck | Aythya collaris |
| Greater Scaup | Aythya marila |
| Lesser Scaup | Aythya affinis |
| Common Eider | Somateria mollissima |
| King Eider | Somateria spectabilis |
| Oldsquaw | Clangula hyemalis |
| Black Scoter | Melanitta nigra |
| Surf Scoter | Melanitta perspicillata |
| White-winged Scoter | Melanitta fusca |
| Common Goldeneye | Bucephala clangula |
| Barrow’s Goldeneye | Bucephala islandica |
| Bufflehead | Bucephala albeola |
| Ruddy Duck | Oxyura jamaicensis |
Use the map below to pick a region you would like to look at Waterfowl Reports.
**Endangered whooping cranes have been observed in Northcentral and Northwest Kansas. Be cognizant of potential closures and restrictions, and as always, know your target before taking a shot. Shooting a whooping crane can carry fines up to $100,000 and/or up to one year in prison.**
**There have been outbreaks of disease among waterfowl in Northwest Kansas. While there appears to be low risk for human infection, domestic poultry and fowl are susceptible and extreme caution should be taken to reduce the risk of spreading disease. **
CEDAR BLUFF WILDLIFE AREA - Last Updated: 9/12/2024 Print
| 500 Teal No Hunting Allowed from the Dam *****REVIEW Kansas Boating Regulations if you are using a boat to hunt. ***** Refuge Boundaries are also displayed on OnX. NO ACCESS IN THE CLOSED PORTION OF THE LAND REFUGE SEPT. 1 - JAN. 31 NO ACCESS IN THE CLOSED PORTION OF THE WATER REFUGE NOV. 1 - JAN. 31 
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| Water level | Reservoir Elevation - 2122.9 - 21 ft. low |
| Hunting conditions | Mudflats at west end should attract some teal, very little flooded vegetation |
| Expected hunting success | Fair |
| Comments | Cedar Bluff Wildlife Area and Reservoir are in the Low Plains Late Duck Zone Contact Cedar Bluff Area Office 785-726-3212 for more information. Water Refuge is in effect November 1- January 31 Land Refuge is in effect September 1 - January 31 No Hunting Allowed from the Dam North Shore State Park is Closed to Hunting. Youth / Mentor hunting is also available. Zebra Mussels, Eurasian Milfoil, and Phragmites are present in Cedar Bluff Reservoir. Please clean and dry all equipment, decoys and boats before hunting other bodies of water. |
GLEN ELDER - Last Updated: 9/12/2024 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | ALL HUNTERS at Glen Elder WA are required to check-in AND check-out daily. Go to https://ksoutdoors.com/checkin or utilize the GoOutdoorsKS app and check-in using your licensing login credentials. It is YOUR responsibility to know a property's regulations, refuge(s) and duck zone boundaries, etc. BEFORE you hunt. Click here for a detailed map of the refuges, youth area, and State Park boundaries. Please be aware that the Low Plains Early Duck Zone and Low Plains Late Duck Zone boundary is HWY 24. This means Glen Elder WA North of Hwy 24 is in the Early Zone. The majority of the Glen Elder WA (South of HWY 24) is in the Late Zone. -- Very few teal on the lake, recent cold fronts pushed birds out, estimating around 100 blue wings on the property, Numbers may change dramatically day-to-day. --
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| Water level | Lake is currently 6.3 feet low and continuing to drop from evaporation. |
| Hunting conditions | Fair. Hunters still need to be cautious of DANGEROUS MUD CONDITIONS on the river areas. |
| Expected hunting success | Poor to fair for teal. Season is still over 3 weeks away. |
| Comments | Granite Creek boat ramp is closed November 1 through January 31, 2021. The following boat ramps are now UNUSABLE due to low water levels: Granite Creek, North Fork River, Carr Creek, Schoen's Cove and Walnut Creek. Low Plains Early Duck Zone (North of Highway 24) season is CLOSED Low Plains Late Duck Zone (South of Highway 24) season is CLOSED Dark geese season is CLOSED Whitefront season is CLOSED Light geese season is CLOSED. Cawker City and Granite Creek Refuge closure dates are November 1st - January 31st. The Youth/ Mentor hunting area is located in the Granite Creek Refuge and is in effect from October 1 - January 31. Waterfowl hunting from the shoreline area is allowed in the Youth-Mentor Area as long as EACH adult is hunting with a youth 17 years or younger. Boats of any sort are prohibited in the Granite Creek Refuge. Zebra Mussels have been confirmed in Waconda Lake. Be sure to dry boats and equipment before moving to other waters. |
JAMESTOWN WILDLIFE AREA - Last Updated: 9/9/2024 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Good numbers of Teal on the area, very high numbers of Wood Ducks as well. REMEMBER: Hunters are REQUIRED to check-in / check-out here, https://ksoutdoors.com/checkin using your licensing login credentials. |
| Water levels | We have moved all of the water we can from Gamekeeper Marsh into the Gun Club Marshes. We have missed out on a lot of the big rains recently, so water levels will be lower than teal opener last year. We are unable to move water into Marsh Creek Marsh or pump from Marsh Creek Marsh into Buffalo Creek Marsh due to water right restrictions. Puddler Marsh: Dry. Gamekeeper Marsh: Some sheet water, cannot access from Gamekeeper Dam, only access from West Marsh Creek will be at the mouth of the creek where it dumps into Gamekeeper Marsh; Gun Club West Marsh: A little over half full; avg. depth of 14" Gun Club East: Same elevation as Gun Club West, avg. depth of 14" Greenwing Marsh; Good huntable water with areas that were mowed prior to flooding. Marsh Creek Marsh: Dry due to water right restrictions Buffalo Creek Marshes: Dry due to water right restrictions Pintail Marsh: Dry |
| Hunting conditions | Excellent moist soil production and abundant flooded vegetation. Gun Club West has very high abundance of cattails that will be sprayed prior to teal opener. Expect those to brown up and break down throughout the fall. Remember: NO ATV's are allowed on department lands and roads. THIS INCLUDES ARGO'S AND E-BIKES There is a no trash policy: If you take it in with you, please bring it out. This includes spent shotgun shells. THIS REGULATION WILL BE ENFORCED. ALL vehicles must remain on designated roads and parking areas. REFUGE IS OPEN
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| Expected hunting success | Fair to good. Hunters need to be aware of the Wood Ducks on the area. Be sure of your target. With all of the vegetation, downed birds will be difficult to find. Be selective with shots and have patience with other hunters. As always, a good rain will really help as we have only been able to hold water at 35% full capacity since 2020. |
| Comments | We had issues last season with reckless boating in the early morning hours. Please remember to be cautious while running the boat channels, as there is little to no room for more than one boat at a time. We have had several near collisions and mishaps. Also remember, ALL boating regulations will be enforced. Navigation lights (red and green bow lights along with an all around white stern light, light bars and headlamps do not qualify), life jackets, passenger capacities and boat registrations (even lay-out boats with a motor) ARE required. We have also had issues with hunters playing loud music while motoring out and setting up. Please remember to be courteous of other hunters on the area. Not everyone wants to hear it. The MANDATORY electronic check system can be found on the GoOutdoorsKS app. or by following the link below and using your licensing login credentials.
Waterfowl Seasons Low Plains Early Teal Season: 9/14/24 - 9/29/24 Low Plains Youth, Veteran and Active Military Waterfowl Season: 10/5/24 - 10/6/24 Low Plains Early Duck Season (First Segment): 10/12/24 - 12/8/24 Low Plains Early Duck Season (Second Segment): 12/21/24 - 1/5/25 Canada Geese: 10/26/24 - 10/27/24 and 11/6/24 - 2/16/25 White-Fronted Geese: 10/26/24 - 12/26/24 and 1/25/25 - 2/16/25 Light Geese: 10/26/24 - 10/27/24 and 11/6/24 - 2/16/25 Light Geese Conservation Order: 2/17/25 - 4/30/25 Hunters are REQUIRED to check in AND OUT using the electronic permitting system. Hunters need to check-in / check-out by going to https://ksoutdoors.com/checkin using your licensing login credentials. Hunters need to make sure they have all the appropriate licenses and stamps for hunting waterfowl. The following are required: Kansas hunting license State waterfowl stamp Federal waterfowl stamp Kansas Harvest Information Program Stamp (HIP) RINGNECK MARSH IS DESIGNATED FOR YOUTH AND MENTORS ONLY. EACH HUNTER 16 YEARS AND OLDER MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY ONE OR MORE YOUTH UNDER 16 YEARS OLD. Marsh Creek Marsh and the West Gamekeeper Marsh is for non-gasoline powered boats or paddle-in / Walk-in only, this includes electric motor boats and boats with no motors. Gasoline engines are prohibited. Buffalo Creek & Pintail Marshes are for non-motorized boats and walk-in hunting only. HUNTERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO :
THE REFUGE IS OPEN Please introduce youth and novice hunters to the outdoors. Pass it on! |
LOVEWELL RESERVOIR - Last Updated: 9/12/2024 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | A few teal . Resident Canada geese. |
| Mallard Migration Ranking | |
| Water level | Lovewell Reservoir is at 1574.03 or 8.57 feet below Conservation Pool,( 39.6% full). The BOR and Kansas Bostwick Irrigation District are releasing 180.2 cfs. Inflows of 126.o cfs from the Guide Rock Diversion Canal from the Republican River is being used to refill the reservoir. Irrigation season to end on 9/16. |
| Hunting condition | LOVEWELL RESERVOIR HAS NO WATCHES OR WARNINGS FOR HARMFUL ALGAE BLOOMS. USERS SHOULD STILL BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR POCKETS OF HARMFUL ALGAE BLOOMS. CONTACT WITH THE DRIED ALGAE AND POCKETS OF VISIBLE ALGAE BLOOM AREAS IS NOT RECOMMENDED AND SHOULD BE AVOIDED, ESPECIALLY FOR DOGS. Mudflats are ringing the entire reservoir and the water is a away from the normal shorelinE. Japanese millet was seeded. There is sparse concealing vegetation close to the water. ONLY THE CEDAR POINT BOATS RAMP IN LOVEWELL STATE PARK IS USEABLE AT THIS TIME. ALL OTHER BOAT RAMPS ARE NOT USEABLE. ALL BOATS ARE REQUIRED TO USE NAVIGATION LIGHTS WHILE OPERATING BETWEEN THE HOURS OF SUNSET AND SUNRISE. PFD'S MUST NOT BE STOWED IN ANY COMPARTMENT WHILE THE BOAT IS UNDER POWER. KEEP THEM OUT OR BETTER YET ...ON! NON-MOTORIZED BOAT NEED SOME FLASHLIGHT OR LANTERN. |
| Expected hunting success | POOR ON THE WILDLIFE AREA. WATERFOWL ARE USING THE WILDLIFE AREA TO ROOST. DUCK AND DARK GOOSE SEASON OPENS STATURDAY, 9/14. |
| Comments | PARK PERMIT REQUIRED TO ENTER THE STATE PARK. NO HUNTING IS ALLOWED FROM THE SHORELINE OF THE STATE PARK. REFUGE REGULATIONS: The land refuge closed to hunting and other activities year-round. Water refuge in effect November 1 through April 15 on the NORTHEAST half of the reservoir and Wildlife Area from 1/8th mile west of the south end of the dam and following a buoy line northwest to the western boundary of the Cabin Area of the State Park. This area open to fishing south and east of the buoy line from the north end of the dam to the Lovewell State Park Twin Coves trailer area. Inlet canal closed to fishing September 15 through April 15. BOAT RAMPS: SEE HUNTING CONDITION FOR BOAT RAMP STATUS. The State Park boat ramps require a Kansas State Park Permit. The Wildlife Area Boat Ramps are Pawnee Point, Oak Hill and White Rock Creek do not require a permit. CAMPING CABINS are available in Lovewell State Park. Make reservations HERE HUNTERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO :
FOLLOWING SAFE AND ETHICAL PRACTICES WILL ENSURE THAT EVERYONE HUNTING PUBLIC LANDS ENJOYS A HIGH-QUALITY EXPERIENCE. Hunters can check-in / check-out here, https://license.gooutdoorskansas.com using your licensing login credentials. Contact the office for other arrangements. We thank you for your patience. Please introduce youth and novice hunters to the outdoors. Pass it on! |
NORTON - Last Updated: 9/11/2024 Print
SMOKY HILL/KANOPOLIS - Last Updated: 9/13/2024 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Some early season ducks showing up; teal numbers low, but there are scattered groups on area |
| Water level | 1462.9' - reservoir is at winter conservation level |
| Hunting conditions | Poor with no cover/flooded vegetation on shorelines; |
| Comments | Refuge is CLOSED to all access from September 1st through January 31st. Teal Season - Low Plains September 14, 2024- September 29, 2024 Duck Season on Webster Reservoir - Low Plains Late Zone October 26, 2024 - December 29, 2024 and January 18-26, 2025 Youth Weekend, Duck and Goose October 19-20, 2024 Goose Season on Webster Reservoir CANADA GEESE October 26-27, 2024 and November 6, 2024 - February 16, 2025 WHITE-FRONTED October 26, 2024 - December 29, 2024 and January 25 - February 16, 2025 LIGHT GEESE October 26-27, 2024 and November 6, 2024 - February 16, 2025 Sandhill Crane Season on Webster Reservoir - Central Crane Zone November 6, 2024 - January 2, 2025 LIGHT GOOSE CONSERVATION ORDER February 17 - April 30, 2025 |
TALMO - Last Updated: 2/29/2024 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | No ducks observed on the area this week. but lots of geese in the area.
REMINDER: ALL HUNTERS NEED TO CHECK-IN / CHECK-OUT. Click here, https://ksoutdoors.com/checkin using your licensing |
| Water level | THE WARREN MARSH ON THE WEST SIDE OF 200 RD HAS HUNTABLE WATER. |
| Hunting conditions | Warren Marsh has water. Some of the other marshes have some sheet waterMoist Soil Conditions are excellent. Bird use dependent upon water levels. |
| Expected hunting success | Will depend upon rainfall. DUCK AND DARK GOOSE SEASON SEASON CLOSED. |
| Comments | Remember: - TALMO IS IN THE LOW PLAINS LATE ZONE TALMO IS IN THE CLOSED SANDHILL CRANE ZONE Low Plains Late Zone Duck Season 10/28/23 - 12/31/23 and 1/20/24 - 1/28/24
- Hunters can Check-in / Check-out here, https://ksoutdoors.com/checkin using your licensing login credentials. - No ATV's are allowed on Department land and maintained roads. -ALL shotgun hunters must use NON-TOXIC shot -No motorized boats allowed. Hunters wanting to utilize boats must carry/paddle them in. -The area has a no trash policy. If you take it in, please bring it back out with you. This includes spent shotgun shells. -ALL vehicles MUST remain on the roads and designated parking areas only. |
WEBSTER - Last Updated: 9/11/2024 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Teal numbers are very low for Webster WA as of 9/11. |
| Water level | 1867.4'; 25.1' below conservation pool. |
| Hunting conditions | Irrigation resulted in drastically lower lake levels again in 2024. There are vast mudflats or bare ground surrounding the entire reservoir. |
| Expected hunting success | Poor Boaters: Please be aware of shallow water if using a boat for waterfowl hunting. Many areas near shorelines are very shallow. There are also some humps and high spots that are just out of visibility right below the surface. |
| Comments | Refuge and non-motorized boat area dates: Nov. 1 through Jan. 31. Morel boat ramp is currently dry. The Rockpoint boat ramp within the State Park is accessible. Hunters need a park pass to access boat ramps in the state park. Hunting in or from the shoreline inside the State Park or along the face of the dam is prohibited. Please see the attached PDF and Google Earth file to see updated refuge boundaries and dates. Closed areas will be marked with buoys. REMINDER: Camping is not permitted on the wildlife area, including in parking lots, except for in designated campgrounds. Ground fires are also not permitted except in provided fire rings within campgrounds. Blue/Green Algae There are currently no blue-green algae advisories for the lake. Webster Reservoir currently does not have zebra mussels. Please be sure equipment is cleaned and dry before coming to Webster from other places. Teal Season - Low Plains September 14, 2024- September 29, 2024 Duck Season on Webster Reservoir - Low Plains Late Zone October 26, 2024 - December 29, 2024 and January 18-26, 2025 Youth Weekend, Duck and Goose October 19-20, 2024 Goose Season on Webster Reservoir CANADA GEESE October 26-27, 2024 and November 6, 2024 - February 16, 2025 WHITE-FRONTED October 26, 2024 - December 29, 2024 and January 25 - February 16, 2025 LIGHT GEESE October 26-27, 2024 and November 6, 2024 - February 16, 2025 Sandhill Crane Season on Webster Reservoir - Central Crane Zone November 6, 2024 - January 2, 2025 LIGHT GOOSE CONSERVATION ORDER February 17 - April 30, 2025
Webster Wildlife Area and Refuge Map |
WILSON - Last Updated: 9/13/2024 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Small groups of teal near Horseshoe Bend; overall teal numbers low |
| Water level | 4 ft low; Current elevation: 1512.07; Conservation pool is 1516.0 ft |
| Hunting conditions | Cedar Creek boat ramp is dry and inaccessible; Elm Creek boat ramp is open and usable; declining lake levels resulting in exposed shoreline and minimal flooded vegetation |
| Expected hunting success | |
| Comments | Refuges are closed Sept 1-Jan 31 to all access except by special permit. This includes land and water refuge areas. Teal Season - Low Plains September 14, 2024- September 29, 2024 Duck Season on Webster Reservoir - Low Plains Late Zone October 26, 2024 - December 29, 2024 and January 18-26, 2025 Youth Weekend, Duck and Goose October 19-20, 2024 Goose Season on Webster Reservoir CANADA GEESE October 26-27, 2024 and November 6, 2024 - February 16, 2025 WHITE-FRONTED October 26, 2024 - December 29, 2024 and January 25 - February 16, 2025 LIGHT GEESE October 26-27, 2024 and November 6, 2024 - February 16, 2025 Sandhill Crane Season on Webster Reservoir - Central Crane Zone November 6, 2024 - January 2, 2025 LIGHT GOOSE CONSERVATION ORDER February 17 - April 30, 2025 |
This is a collection of all the Northeast Waterfowl Reports
BENEDICTINE WILDLIFE AREA - Last Updated: 9/9/2024 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Mallard Migration Rank: 1 (Estimate of potential mallard numbers. 1=lowest, 10=highest) Some Teal are on the Wildlife Area |
| Water level | A map of our wetlands is now available under the Wetland Map tab to the right. The wetlands have great habitat such as, Giant Foxtail, Annual Smartweed, Barnyard grass, and sunflowers. We are currently pumping the small wetland complex southwest of the shop. Refuge (NOT open to hunting) October 1 through March 31 the area can only be accessed with a special permit obtained through a drawing. Look for "Special Hunts" on our home page under "HUNTING". |
| Hunting conditions | Native vegetation such as annual smart weeds, barnyard grass, foxtail, and sunflowers are the most common vegetation. |
| Expected hunting success | No Teal on the area at this time. |
| Comments | Small wetland being pumped for Teal season. |
CLINTON - Last Updated: 9/12/2024 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Updated 9-12-24 Bi-weekly Waterfowl surveys are conducted on Clinton Reservoir every year from Sept. to March. 09/11/24 Survey Results: Mallard- 20 Green/Blue-winged Teal- 21 Pintail- 1 Hooded Merganser- 1 Canada Geese -158 Total waterfowl- 203 |
| Lake level | Lake Level is 876.63 (1.13 feet high) Conservation Pool is 875.50 Clinton Wildlife Area Refuge is OPEN (Closed October 1-January 15) |
| Hunting conditions | Wetland Pools Coblentz - All pools are currently dry; standing corn. Start pumping in October. East Coblentz- Mostly dry, water on the North end. Shadden- Dry- filled by rainfall only. Elk Creek- Elk Creek pools 1 & 2 have been pumped to less than 25% full; pool 3 is dry. The Refuge pool is full. Elk creek marsh pools are numbered West to East, with pool 1 next to boat ramp and parking lot. Lake- Lake level is just above normal pool. There are many shallow areas of the lake that offer mudflats for waterfowl hunting opportunities. The majority of teal observed have been on the shallow portions of the reservoir or dry ponds. REFUGE CLOSED FROM OCTOBER 1ST TO JANUARY 15TH. Clinton contains miles of creeks, rivers and oxbows on the wildlife area; each of which has unique conditions and frequently hold waterfowl when weather and/or hunting pressure pushes them from marsh pools.
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| Expected hunting success | Poor |
| Comments | IMPORTANT! Clinton Wildlife Area is utilizing an electronic check-in system required of all hunters. To check-in / check-out, please go to https://ksoutdoors.com/checkin using your licensing login credentials. Please remember that trapping is also allowed on the Wildlife Area. Elk Creek (Wakarusa River) and Coon Creek (Lake) boat ramps are open. Rock Creek Boat ramp is closed; a gravel launch area for canoes and kayaks is available when lake is near normal pool. |
HILLSDALE - Last Updated: 1/19/2023 Print
| Waterfowl Numbers | The Hillsdale Wildlife Area has experienced a relatively dry year in regards to water levels in 2022. The reservoir currently sits 1/2 foot below conservation pool. We have had some successful moist soil vegetation growth in all wetland pools this year. Japanese millet, proso millet, and golden millet were all planted in all of the wetland pools and are doing well. Strips of milo were also planted in Brown's wetland especially in the upper reaches as well as Antioch Marsh. On top of the agriculture, there has been plenty of production from moist soil vegetation throughout all of the pools. Pumping efforts were successful in covering most of each marsh pool with huntable water. Rains over the last month have brought marsh levels to a near maximum level. Waterfowl counts given on this report are based on what was observed on the day the report is updated. Waterfowl numbers vary greatly from day to day and weather conditions and hunting pressure will affect the numbers of waterfowl on the area. This week has been warm for the season with some highs in the upper 50's. Some rain, snow and cold wind has moved into the area and temperature look to be cool with possible snow in the coming days. There is currently no ice on any of the marsh pools and the lake is all open. The most recent survey showed mostly mallards and canada geese in the area. groups of 50-250 mallards were counted on all marsh pools. Groups of 20-200 canada geese were also counted using all of the marsh pools. There are still ducks and geese using the main body of the lake, and most of them are using the coves to stay protected from the wind. Groups of 100-200 goldeneye were also counted on the main body of the lake. 6 tundra swans were seen using Brown's wetland this week, so hunters should be aware and be sure of their target. |
| Water Level | Antioch Wetland - Full Browns Wetland, Upper pool - Full Browns Wetland, Lower pool - Full Youth-Mentor Wetland - Full Wade Branch Wetlands - North 1/2, South 1/4 Hillsdale Lake - See Army Corps Daily Report ICE CONDITION - 0% ice cover on lake. 0% ice cover on wetlands |
| Comments | Reminder - check-in / check-out is required for all hunting on Hillsdale Wildlife Area. This can be done here, https://ksoutdoors.com/checkin using your licensing login credentials. The information and harvest data collected, along with comments received are very useful in establishing future management goals for the Hillsdale State Wildlife Area. https://www.ksoutdoors.com/Hunting/Migratory-Birds/Ducks for more information on seasons and limits. |
JEFFREY ENERGY CENTER - Last Updated: 9/10/2024 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Ducks: Less than 50 teal on area mostly on Auxillary lake. |
| Water level | Normal |
| Hunting conditions | Poor-fair |
| Expected hunting success | Poor-fair |
| Comments | Make-up Lake is closed to waterfowl hunting during waterfowl season. Boats are not allowed on Auxillary lake during waterfowl season. Individuals wishing to hunt Unit #2 of the wildlife area must enter through the main gate and sign in at the guard house. Be sure to have a photo I.D. with you when checking in. Hunters are required to drive maintained roads only. A map will be provided to all hunters showing open roads as well as parking areas. Vehicles are allowed to park in parking areas only. |
MILFORD WILDLIFE AREA - Last Updated: 1/18/2024 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Waterfowl counts given on this report are based on what was observed on the day the report is updated. Waterfowl numbers vary greatly from day to day and weather conditions and hunting pressure will affect the numbers of waterfowl on the area. The waterfowl survey this week resulted in an average number of waterfowl viewed at the specific points of the waterfowl survey. Throughout the week, a low number of waterfowl have been viewed due to no open water. |
| Lake level | Current Lake Level is 1140.99 and Conservation Pool is 1144.4 The dam is releasing 50 CFS. The inflow into the lake is 130 CFS. |
| Hunting conditions | Vegetation growth and seed production has been above average this year. Pockets of thick vegetation present in some wetlands that could result in difficulty finding down birds. Lower Smith has a decent amount of water in the wetland. ALL OTHER WETLANDS have no water being pumped at this time, due the drought and low water levels for the pumps to be functional. No activities/hunting allowed in the Steve Lloyd Wetland/Refuge. Motorized boats are only allowed in the Mall Creek wetland, electric motors are considered "motorized". All other public hunting wetlands are open to NON motorized boats and walk in hunting. |
| Expected hunting success | Poor, very little water in the river and the lake is currently 3' below conservation pool. All of the open water is frozen, including wetlands, lake and river. Will take some good scouting for a successful hunt. |
| Comments | Waterfowl Season Split: Low Plains Late Zone (Milford Wildlife Area) is closed from January 1, 2024 to January 19, 2024. Low Plains Late Zone (Milford Wildlife Area) re-opens from January 20, 2024 to January 28, 2024. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Do NOT drive on dikes. Vehicles disrupt and discourage waterfowl from using the wetland areas. We have had several dikes being damaged due to unauthorized vehicles driving on them. Scouting is best done on foot to evaluate bird numbers and habitat conditions. Please report any vehicles on dikes and anyone seen disturbing our pumps. Without the pumps in optimal condition we are unable to pump the wetlands to their greatest potential. Do NOT block gates, and pay attention to No Parking signs in the wetland parking lots. Hunter's need to be aware of their targets before shooting. The area is a no trash policy, so if you take it in, please bring it back out with you. This includes spent shotgun shells Fires are not permitted anywhere on the wildlife area. Violators will be ticketed Remember - Hunters can check-in / check-out here, https://license.gooutdoorskansas.com/. All hunters (youth included) must first register online. The information collected and comments received are very useful in establishing future management goals for the area. https://www.ksoutdoors.com/Hunting/Migratory-Birds/Ducks for more information on seasons and limits. |
PERRY WILDLIFE AREA - Last Updated: 9/11/2024 Print
| Waterfowl Updates | ATTENTION TEAL SEASON HUNTERS - WE HAVE A VARIETY OF OTHER SPECIES OF DUCKS IN THE AREA SO BE SURE TO IDENTIFY YOUR TARGET AND WHAT LIES BEYOND IT BEFORE SHOOTING. A waterfowl survey was conducted on 9/11/24 and both Blue and Green-winged teal were observed. We do have a good number of Wood Ducks on the area as well as a few other big ducks. Delaware River Level is normal and both river boat ramps are clear. ATTENTION WATERFOWL HUNTERS - LEGAL SHOOTING LIGHT IS FROM 3O MINUTES BEFORE SUNRISE TO SUNSET. *DON'T FORGET TO CHECK-IN / CHECK-OUT HERE, https://ksoutdoors.com/checkin using your licensing login credentials. Mallard Migration Rank = 0 (0 = no mallards 10 = peak migration)
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| Lake level | 1.9 Feet Above Conservation Pool |
| Habitat conditions | Mild flooding in the spring, followed by a wetter than normal summer allowed for minimal pool work to be completed, however native moist soil response was good overall.
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| Comments | Habitat Condition Rating (HCR): 1-10; 1-Poor habitat, 5-quality habitat, 10-Exceptional habitat Reminder: Gas powered boats are only allowed on the River, Lake, Sunset Ridge, Kyle East and West and Rucker wetland pools. Electric powered boats are allowed in all marsh pools. Kyle: West unit is full and launching boats should be no problem. Early summer flooding led to no mechanical pool disturbance, however it did allow the West unit to fill 100% full and the water was held. East unit currently has no water as we are allowing moist soil vegetation to establish before flooding. HCR-6 West River: Early summer flooding led to no mechanical pool disturbance and some water was held in the upper and lower units. Native moist soil vegetation is good with areas of river bullrush becoming fairly thick with no opportunity to get in and remove any this year. Pumping will begin closer to regular duck season. HCR-6 Upper Ferguson: This wetland grew mostly native smartweed and has little water currently. The water control structure is currently removed from the wetland and we do not have a timeline on when we will have the new one installed yet. The refuge is closed Oct 1st thru Jan 15th to ALL Activity HCR-6. Lassiter: Late summer heavy rain allowed for some water to collect in both the East and West Units. Some of the wetland vegetation is fairly thick in this wetland as some disking was done very early spring, but then conditions didn't allow us to get back in this pool. HCR-5 Northwest: This unit was managed for native moist soil this season. Moist soil vegetation did well and late summer rains allowed for collection of some water already. Pumping will begin closer to regular waterfowl season. HCR-7 Headquarters: Corn was planted in this marsh and most of it on the South end flooded out and water was held. 75% of the remainder of the corn will be harvested when ready. HCR-5 Mitigation: Minimal Water. Moist soil vegetation is very good in this unit and boards are in to hopefully collect more water as the season progresses. HCR-7 Hayward: Water was caught and held in this unit very early this spring, leading to minimal food available . HCR-5 Reichart: Most of this wetland was planted to corn and once ready, 75% will be harvested and pumping will begin closer to regular duck season. HCR-8. Zebra Mussels have been confirmed in the lake. Be sure to dry boats and equipment before moving to other waters. Please remember to fill out the permit with accurate information. THIS INFORMATION IS VERY IMPORTANT TO THE CURRENT AND FUTURE MANAGEMENT OF THE AREA. FILL OUT ONLY YOUR INDIVIDUAL HARVEST EFFORTS, i.e., NOT A GROUP HARVEST TOTAL. |
TUTTLE CREEK WILDLIFE AREA - Last Updated: 9/10/2024 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 700 ducks Mallard Migration Rank (0-10) =0 |
| Water level | The lake is currently at 1072 and holding steady |
| Hunting conditions | Fair |
| Expected hunting success | Fair |
| Comments | Please check in using https://ksoutdoors.com/checkin prior to hunting Tuttle Creek Wildlife Area. The bridge on Rolander Rd. has been shut down as it did not pass inspections for safe travel. As of now Olsburg Marsh will not be able to be pumped do to low water levels and mechanical issues on the wetland pump. We have been pumping the Black Vermillion Marsh since 9/1/24. We have pumped around 71 acre feet. There are a good number of pools of water around the Fancy Creek Area and along Rolander road. |
This is a collection of all the Southwest Waterfowl Report
CHEYENNE BOTTOMS - Last Updated: 9/12/2024 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Teal numbers are a little on the low side. More big ducks than expected this time of the year. Bluewings, greenwings, pintails, mallards, wood ducks, shoveler, and ruddy are the most common ducks on the area. If the report has not been updated in a few days, please assume that conditions and bird numbers are the same as the last update. |
| Water level | Pool 1A-20", Pool 1B-minimal sheet water, Pool 1C-dry Pool 2-dry Pool 3A-11", Pool 3B-dry, Pool 4A-dry, Pool 4B-dry, Pool 5-narrow area of water against the dike. Cheyenne Bottoms has no ground water pumps to fill pools. |
| Hunting conditions | Pool 2- A total of 996 acres of cattails and Phragmites were sprayed August 2023. Blind islands are being rebuilt. Pool 3B- 34 acres of wheat planted in the fall of 2023, about 5 acres of milo planted. Pool 3A- 4A- 4B- 5- Habitat in the pools look fair at this time with decent amounts of smartweed and barnyard grass along with other annuals scattered throughout. All blind islands in 3A, 3B, 4A, and 4B have been rebuilt. Pool 5 will be open for teal season only |
| Expected hunting success | Poor. Less flooded acres than last year. |
| Comments | ISPORTSMAN IS NO LONGER IN USE. HUNTERS CAN CHECK IN VIA THE GOOUTDOORSKS APP OR THE WEBSITE https://license.gooutdoorskansas.com/Licensing/CustomerLookup.aspx ALL BOATS MUST BE OPERATED AT NO WAKE SPEEDS. REGARDLESS OF THE TIME OR SCENERIO, ALL BOATS MUST BE OPERATED AT NO WAKE SPEEDS 100% OF THE TIME, NO EXCEPTIONS. POOL 4A IS CLOSED AT 1 P.M. DAILY TO MOTORIZED BOATS. ANY BOAT WITH A MOTOR ON IT MUST BE OUT OF THE WATER AT 1 P.M. NO MOTORING OUT PRIOR TO 1 P.M. THEN ROWING OR DRAGGING BOAT BACK IN AFTER 1 P.M. 3A IS CLOSED TO MOTORIZED BOATS MOTORIZED BOATS ALLOWED ONLY DURING OPEN WATERFOWL SEASON. THIS MEANS NO SCOUTING FROM A MOTOR BOAT PRIOR TO SEASON. ALL WATERCRAFT ARE PROHIBITED FROM APRIL 15-AUGUST 15 TO PROTECT NESTING BIRDS ON THE WILDLIFE AREA. DURING THE YOUTH/VETERANS/MILITARY WEEKEND, POOL 4B IS DESIGNATED AS A YOUTH ONLY POOL. LEGAL SHOOTING HOURS ARE 30 MINUTES BEFORE SUNRISE TO SUNSET. UNLAWFUL TO SHOOT FROM ROADS OR DIKES ON THE WILDLIFE AREA. DO NOT PARK BLOCKING ROADS, GATES, BOAT RAMPS, FOOT CROSSINGS, ETC. DO NOT LAUNCH TRAILERED BOATS FROM DIKES OR FOOT CROSSINGS. ANY BOATS ON A TRAILER MUST USE DESIGNATED BOAT RAMPS. NO TRASH POLICY ON THE WILDLIFE AREA. CAMP IN DESIGNATED CAMPGROUND ONLY Use footcrossings in Pools 2, 3A, 3B, 4A, and 4B as the ditches have been cleaned out and are very deep. No Special Hunts for the 2023-2024 season due to dry conditions. For waterfowl season dates, Cheyenne Bottoms is in the Low Plains Early Zone. |
ISABEL - Last Updated: 9/12/2024 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | No waterfowl observed on the area 9/12. |
| Water level | The main lake has some water with a lot of standing vegetation. All other pools on the area are dry. |
| Hunting conditions | |
| Expected hunting success | |
| Comments | Teal Season (Low Plains Zone): September 14-September 29, 2024 Youth, Veteran, Active Military Waterfowl (Low Plains Late Zone): October 19-20, 2024 Ducks (Low Plains Late Zone): October 26, 2024 - December 29, 2024 (first segment) and January 18 - January 26, 2025 (second segment) Daily check-in and harvest reporting is required Check-in/Check-out on The Web
Check-in/Check-out on The App
Only non-toxic shot is allowed on Isabel Wetland Wildlife Area for all species. |
TEXAS LAKE - Last Updated: 9/12/2024 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Very few teal have been observed during the week (approximately 25). |
| Water levels | Currently, pool 1 is approximately 75% full and is mostly open water. Pool 2 has water with thick vegetation - mostly smartweed. Pool 6 is nearly full and is mostly open water. Pool 8 is full with disked openings in smartweed. There is some water north of pool 6. The remaining pools are currently dry, but conditions will change as pumping progresses. |
| Hunting conditions | |
| Expected hunting success | |
| Comments | Teal Season (Low Plains Zone): 9/14/24 - 9/29/24 Youth, Veteran, Active Military Waterfowl (Low Plains Early Zone): 10/5/24 - 10/6/24 Regular Ducks (Low Plains Early Zone): 10/12/24 - 12/8/24 and 12/21/24 -1/5/25 Daily check-in and harvest reporting is required Check-in/Check-out on The Web
Check-in/Check-out on The App
Only non-toxic shot is allowed for all shotgun hunting at Texas Lake Wildlife Area. |
This is a collection of all the South Central Waterfowl Reports
CHENEY - Last Updated: 9/16/2024 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | There has been very little waterfowl observed |
| Water level | 8 feet below Conservation Pool |
| Hunting conditions | Poor There is ample food and habitat on the lakebed for waterfowl use. If we get rain for the lake level to come up it could be a great hunting season. However, if we keep missing the rains the hunting conditions will be similar to last season. There is currently no flooded vegetation and 50 yards or more between vegetation and water. The river is no longer connected to the reservoir, there is no water north of Sun City Road. |
| Expected hunting success | Poor |
| Comments | Vehicles are not to be driven on the lakebed. This includes UTV, ATV, and E-Bikes. Cheney Wildlife Area is located in the Low Plains Late Zone Daily bag limit: 6 Six ducks is the daily bag limit, with species and sex restrictions as follows: 5 mallards (no more than 2 of which may be females), 3 wood ducks, 2 redheads, 2 canvasbacks, 1 pintail, and 1 scaup. The daily bag may comprise six of any other duck, such as six teal, six gadwall, six merganser or six wigeon. Possession limit: Three times the daily limit. The refuge at Cheney Wildlife Area, located on the south side of Pretty Prairie Rd between Obee Rd and Kent Rd, extends out from the shoreline 100 yards into the water. What this means is that water along the shoreline of the refuge is included in the restricted access area and is off limits to hunting. Accessing the refuge by boat or hunting near the refuge shoreline is not permitted. Remember Cheney Reservoir has ZEBRA MUSSELS. Make sure to Clean, Drain and Dry your equipment. Clean all visible vegetation and mud from decoys, bags, waders, etc. Drain water from decoy bags and boats. Allow equipment to Dry for a five day period before using it at another area, OR wash with high-pressure hot water. Many of the roads around the reservoir can get very greasy after rain, or melting snow, please use good judgement about which roads you try to travel on. Area roads have been upgraded with gravel. Please keep vehicles on maintained road and parking areas. Off road vehicle use is strictly prohibited. Please report all wildlife and public lands violations that you witness by calling the area headquarters at (620) 459-6922. Please leave a detailed message with violation specifics. In the event of an emergency, please call 911. |
BYRON WALKER - Last Updated: 9/5/2024 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | |
| Water level | Kingman State Lake is still ~36 inches low. There is limited water in the huntable portion of the lake. There is no water coming in from the west drainage, thus there is no water in the marshes west and north of the lake at this time. It will take significant rain in the drainage or leaf drop to get water flowing in this drought. |
| Hunting conditions | Water levels in the lake decreased through out the spring and summer. Dry conditions have continued and prospects of any change in these conditions are not on the foreseeable horizon. The available water will not hold but 1 or 2 groups of hunters without conflict. The oxbows and river may provide more space.
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| Expected hunting success | Very limited. Teal, wood ducks, and some large ducks are on the area. |
| Comments | Please rain! |
COUNCIL GROVE - Last Updated: 9/13/2024 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | No teal observed on 9/13/24. |
| Water levels | 0.8 feet below conservation elevation (1,274') on 9/13/24. |
| Hunting conditions | The lake remained relatively full through August. Moist soil plants are largely absent along lake fringes. As such, few food resources will be available for waterfowl this fall. |
| Expected hunting success | Poor for teal. |
| Comments | Low Plains September Teal Season is September 14-29. |
EL DORADO - Last Updated: 1/22/2024 Print
| Waterfowl Numbers | No Ducks observed. Approximately 2500 geese observed using the reservoir. |
| Water level | 99% Ice coverage. At 1334.06', approximately 4.94' below conservation elevation (1339'). |
| Hunting conditions | Poor- Very low lake levels. Cover is limited due to the low lake level. Moist soil vegetation established over the summer on exposed lake bed. If we get rain to raise lake levels expect improved hunting conditions. |
| Expected hunting success | Poor |
| 4Comments | NOTE: El Dorado Lake is located within the Low Plains Southeast Zone. |
KAW WILDLIFE AREA. - Last Updated: 9/12/2024 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Just a few teal present on the area. |
| Water level | Low |
| Hunting conditions | Poor |
| Expected hunting success | Poor |
| Comments | TEAL, LOW PLAINS ZONE Season: Sept. 14-29, 2024 Area open: East of Hwy. U. S. 283 Daily bag limit:6 Possession limit:18 Stamps Required: Kansas HIP Stamp, State Waterfowl Stamp, Federal Waterfowl Stamp DUCKS, LOW PLAINS SOUTHEAST ZONE Season: November 09, 2024 - January 5, 2025, AND January 11-26, 2025 Area open: Southeast Zone (see map) Daily bag limit:6 Possession limit: Three times the daily limit |
MCPHERSON VALLEY WETLANDS - Last Updated: 9/10/2024 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | ATTENTION: All hunters MUST check-in / check-out when hunting. Visit https://ksoutdoors.com/checkin using your licensing login credentials to check in and out. 10 September 2024: Waterfowl species observed this week include blue-winged teal, green-winged teal, wood ducks, mallards, and pintails. The overall number for this time of year is below average due to limited water. See water level information below. All activities in the south refuge in the Big Basin are prohibited. The north refuge is open to public access until September 30th. |
| Current Information | Be aware of three new regulations in effect at McPherson Valley Wetlands: (1) The Big Basin has been designated as "youth only" during the youth and military waterfowl weekend, (2) the use of motorized boats is prohibited, and (3) centerfire rifles and handguns are prohibited. |
| Water levels | The wetlands have received some beneficial rainfall this summer; however, we are a long way from being out of drought conditions. Scouting will be critical in determining which wetlands have water, as the majority of the wetlands are still dry, and the few that have huntable water are scattered across all three units. Groundwater pumping efforts are currently underway in the Big Basin and Little Sinkhole units. Big Basin: Limited water in the wetlands that are open to public hunting, and very limited water in the south refuge. Chain of Lakes: This unit is almost completely dry. Be aware that the vast majority of Steel's Pond on the east boundary is privately owned. Little Sinkhole Marshes: Very limited water. |
| Hunting conditions | We will continue to roller chop / manipulate vegetation to create hunting spots as the season moves forward. Waterfowl food production (native moist soil vegetation) has been exceptionally good across the area this year. The food is here, so if we get some good rains conditions will improve. |
| Expected hunting success | Fair, until we get abundant rainfall. Limited water and crowded conditions will negatively impact waterfowl numbers and hunter success at this point. |
| Comments | ATTENTION: **THERE IS A "NO TRASH POLICY" IN EFFECT AT MCPHERSON VALLEY WETLANDS. PLEASE CARRY OUT WHATEVER YOU CARRY IN, INCLUDING EMPTY HULLS AND OTHER TRASH. PLEASE TRY TO LEAVE YOUR HUNTING SPOT AS CLEAN OR CLEANER THAN IT WAS WHEN YOU ARRIVED. THANKS!!! REFUGE AREAS: THE SOUTH REFUGE AREA IN THE BIG BASIN IS OFF-LIMITS TO ALL ACTIVITIES, AND THIS INCLUDES DUCK HUNTING. THERE IS NO HUNTING OR PUBLIC ACCESS OF ANY KIND ALLOWED IN THE REFUGE!! The Little Sinkhole/Farland Lake marsh unit is included in the EARLY low-plains duck zone (as is the rest of MPWL). All shotgun hunters at McPherson Wetlands are required to use non-toxic shot for all hunting. This includes upland birds. Throughout all units, please be mindful of farmers and big equipment operators needing to access and maintain roads. Park in designated parking areas when possible, and not on the roadsides. |
SLATE CREEK WETLAND - Last Updated: 9/12/2024 Print
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Waterfowl numbers | There is no teal on the area at this time. Pool 1 has a little bit of water, but the rest of the pools on the area are dry. |
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Water level | None |
| Hunting conditions | Poor |
| Expected hunting success | Poor |
| Comments | Slate Creek Wetland Hunters can check-in / check-out here, using your licensing login credentials. https://license.gooutdoorskansas.com/ TEAL, LOW PLAINS ZONE
DUCKS, LOW PLAINS LATE ZONE
Also, all shotgun hunters at Slate Creek Wetlands are required to use non-toxic shot for all hunting. This includes upland birds.
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https://license.gooutdoorskansas.com/
MARION - Last Updated: 12/22/2023 Print
| Migration | Numbers of geese remain steady. Numbers can change daily |
| Ice | 0% |
| Water level | Lake level is at 1346.0 (Conservation pool is 1350.50) |
| Hunting conditions | Fair. The reservoir has been low for the entire growing season and has a large amount of exposed shore and lake bed that is covered with moist soil vegetation. There is a lot of yellow nut sedge and smartweed along with some barnyard grass. So, there is a lot of food for waterfowl around the reservoir but the water remains low and is a good distance from this food, and cover. |
| Expected hunting success | Poor. |
| Comments | The boat ramp at Broken Bridge on the North Cottonwood river has been repaired. The refuge at Marion Wildlife area, located on the south west part of the reservoir along French creek, extends out from the shoreline 100 yards into the water. What this means is that approximately 110 acres of water along the shoreline of the refuge are included in the restricted access area, and are off limits to hunting. Accessing the refuge by boat or hunting near the refuge shoreline is not permitted. Remember Marion Reservoir has ZEBRA MUSSELS. Make sure to Clean, Drain and Dry your equipment. Clean all visible vegetation and mud from decoys, bags, waders, etc. Drain water from decoy bags and boats. Allow equipment to Dry for a five day period before using it at another area, OR wash with high-pressure hot water. Many of the roads around the reservoir can get very greasy after rain, or melting snow, please use good judgement about which roads you try to travel on. |
This a collection of all the Southeast Waterfowl Reports.
ELK CITY RESERVOIR/WILDLIFE AREA - Last Updated: 9/12/2024 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Waterfowl numbers fluctuate with migration, hunting pressure, and changing habitat conditions. Very few teal have been seen. |
| Water level | The marshes are dry. The Lake is 1.3 ft. low. We do not have the capability to pump any of the marshes on the wildlife area. Heavy rains will be required to get runoff to fill the marshes. For current Reservoir levels visit http://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/ELKC.lakepage.html |
| Hunting conditions | The water situation in the wetlands is poor. There was pretty decent vegetative growth in a lot of the wetlands and around the edge of the lake. |
| Expected hunting success | Variable. TEAL SEASON IS SEPT. 14-29 REGULAR DUCK SEASON IS NOV. 9-JAN. 5 AND JAN. 11-26 |
| Comments | Please do not leave trash on the public ground including empty shells. Individuals utilizing the wildlife area need to be aware of the refuge boundaries. Boats cannot drive through the refuge area on the water. Maps can be obtained at the Fisheries & Wildlife office (below the dam), at the State Park (on the lake side), and online at https://ksoutdoors.com/content/download/20944/140278/file/ELK%20CITY%20RES%20&%20WA.pdf |
FALL RIVER RESERVOIR - Last Updated: 1/9/2024 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 01/09/24 Decent numbers of dabblers on the lake at any given time along with small groups of divers. Area pasture ponds have been holding some small groups of birds but not many. |
| Water level | Lake level is 1.35 feet above normal pool. Many area marshes are dry. |
| Hunting conditions | Conditions are going to be promising around the lake due to recent water rises that flooded the heavily vegetated mudflats. |
| Expected hunting success | Moderate |
| Comments | Waterfowl reports will be updated on a bi-weekly basis during the fall and winter waterfowl seasons. Updates will be made when significant changes in waterfowl numbers are observed. For information pertaining to the Fall River Wildlife Area call 620-583-6783. |
JOHN REDMOND - Last Updated: 1/5/2024 Print
2023 Regulations and Seasons
TEAL, LOW PLAINS ZONE
Season: 09/10/2023 - 09/24/2023
Area open: East of Hwy. U. S. 283
Daily bag limit: 6 teal (any combination of teal: blue-winged, green-winged or cinnamon teal)
Possession limit: 18 teal in possession (any combination of teal: blue-winged, green-winged or cinnamon teal)
Stamps Required: Kansas HIP Permit, State Waterfowl Stamp, Federal Waterfowl Stamp
YOUTH, VETERAN AND ACTIVE MILITARY WATERFOWL SEASONS (Youth 17 and younger) Stamps/Permits Required: Resident youth hunters under 16 years of age do not need any stamps or permits. Nonresident youth need a nonresident hunting license, a Kansas HIP Permit and State Waterfowl Permit
Southeast Zone: 11/04/2023 - 11/5/2023
DUCKS, LOW PLAINS SOUTHEAST ZONE
Season: 11/11/2023 - 01/07/2024 and 01/13/2023 - 01/28/2024
Daily bag limit: 6
Possession limit: Three times the daily limit
Stamps Required: Kansas HIP Permit, State Waterfowl Stamp, Federal Waterfowl Stamp
DUCK LIMITS- 6 ducks, with species and sex restrictions as follows: 5 mallards (no more than 2 of which may be females), 3 wood ducks, 2 redheads, 2 canvasbacks, 1 pintail, and 1 scaup.
DARK GEESE: Canada, Cackling and Brant
Season: 10/28/2023 - 10/29/2023 and 11/01/2023 - 02/11/2024
Area open: Statewide
Daily bag limit: 6 (including Brant)
Possession limit: 18
Stamps Required: Kansas HIP Permit, State Waterfowl Stamp, Federal Waterfowl Stamp
WHITE-FRONTED GEESE
Season: 10/28/2023 - 12/31/2023 and 01/20/2024 - 02/11/2024
Area open: Statewide
Daily bag limit: 2
Possession limit: 6
Stamps Required: Kansas HIP Permit, State Waterfowl Stamp, Federal Waterfowl Stamp
LIGHT GEESE
Season: 10/28/2023 - 10/29/2023 and 11/01/2023 - 02/11/2024
Area open: Statewide
Daily bag limit: 50
Possession limit: No limit
Stamps Required: Kansas HIP Permit, State Waterfowl Stamp, Federal Waterfowl Stamp
LIGHT GEESE, CONSERVATION ORDER
Season: 02/12/2024 - 04/30/2024
Area Open: Statewide
Daily Limit: Unlimited
Possession Limit: Unlimited
Stamps Required: Kansas HIP Permit, State Waterfowl Stamp, Federal Waterfowl Stamp
Equipment Restrictions: During the Conservation Order, unplugged shotguns and electronic calls may be used. Shooting hours are from one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset.
MARAIS DES CYGNES - Last Updated: 9/12/2024 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | ATTENTION HUNTERS: There is a new check-in system All hunters must check-in daily To check-in / check-out. Hunters, go to this site: https://ksoutdoors.com/checkin Use your licensing login credentials to access the check-in / check-out functions. LEGAL SHOOTING TIME FOR WATERFOWL ENDS AT SUNSET! Waterfowl species observed: teal and wood ducks.
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| Water levels | For teal season: There will be some water in the lowest elevations of F-West, F-South, F-East, and Unit E. Mid elevations of A-North and A-East will have water. The north refuge unit has water in the low to mid elevations.
Water Level Gauges: A-North (Reese Lake/north structure): dry A-North (middle structure): 32.5" A-North (boat ramp): A-East at ramp: 15" A-East at outlet: 29.5" C-South at outlet: dry Unit D wetlands: dry Unit E wetlands: lowest elevations F-East at outlet: 15" F-South at outlet: 11" F-West at outlet: 7.5" Unit G: almost dry, fish kill in lowest elevations Unit H: Refuge Units: B-North: 12.5" B-South: C-North: Staff use these gauges to help manage water levels through both pumping and drawdowns. We will try to provide the level of water as it reads on the gauge. Hunters should keep in mind this value should be used as an index. If the gauge reads 15", it doesn't mean there's 15" of water across the whole unit the gauge reading should be used as a reference. Over time it should help provide a better answer to one of the most common questions we get. "How much water is in _____ unit?" |
| Hunting/ Habitat conditions | Moist soil food production was below average to average this growing season. It was a little too wet early and then the summer heat and dry conditions had the cocklebur growing really well. We have dedicated lots of time to controlling it, but hunters should expect it throughout the area. Army worms have devastated large areas on the Wildlife Area. A mix of millets were planted in A-East, F-West, F-South and C-North, but hasn't produced yet. Most of it was wiped out by worms, a few areas have recovered. Corn will be left in wide strips through C-South. Summer vegetation was good: F-East and A-North. There will be some large areas of cocklebur in the lower elevations of F-East. Summer vegetation was fair: in F-South, and F-West Summer vegetation was poor to fair: Unit G Summer vegetation was very poor in A-East. The entire unit was aerial seeded with Jap Millet and almost completely consumed by army worms. If you like the habitat or water levels in wetlands, be sure to thank the following staff: Seasonal technicians: Cody, Simon, Ron, and Blake. Habitat Specialist: Sam or Assistant Manager: Joe. If there's something you don't like on the area, be sure to tell the Area Manager, Jacob. Hope everyone has a great season. Enjoy your time in the field!
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| Season Dates | LOW PLAINS TEAL: Sept. 14-29, 2024 SOUTHEAST ZONE YOUTH/MILITARY: Nov. 2-3, 2024 SOUTHESAT LATE ZONE DUCK SEASON OPENS Nov. 9, 2024 - Jan. 5, 2024 and Jan 11-26, 2025 WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE OPENS Oct. 26, - Dec. 29, 2024 and Jan. 25 - Feb. 16, 2025 CANADA GOOSE SEASON OPENS Oct. 27-28, 2024 and Nov. 6 - Feb. 16, 2025 Light GOOSE SEASON OPENS Oct. 26-27, 2024 and Nov. 6 - Feb. 16, 2025 Conservation Light Goose season is from February 17 - April 30, 2025 |
| Comments | Please report all banded waterfowl to the appropriate agencies. Gas motors are restricted to Unit G and the boat lane in Unit A-East. Outboards cannot be used in any other wetland units. Electric trolling motors are unrestricted. Atv's of any kind are not allowed on the area (side by sides, utv's, amphibious vehicles, "argos", this also means no electric bicycles) Campgrounds on the area are primitive. (No electric, No water) Take your trash with you! Please remember to fill out the daily permit with accurate information. THIS INFORMATION IS VERY IMPORTANT TO THE CURRENT AND FUTURE MANAGEMENT OF THE AREA. FILL OUT ONLY YOUR INDIVIDUAL HARVEST EFFORTS, each individual hunter needs to check in/out and report his/her harvest totals. i.e., NOT A GROUP HARVEST TOTAL. |
MELVERN LAKE/WILDLIFE AREA - Last Updated: 9/16/2024 Print
| Waterfowl Observed | Waterfowl observed on this report are based on what was observed on the day the report is updated. Waterfowl numbers vary greatly from day to day and weather conditions and hunting pressure will affect the number of waterfowl on the area. Date: 9/16/24 Very poor numbers of bluewing teal. Some local wood ducks. Mallard Migration Rank = 0 (0 = no mallards and 10 = peak migration) |
| Water level | Lake level = 1035.62; Conservation pool = 1036.00; Target goal for the lake is 1036.00. |
| Hunting conditions | Melvern Lake and the Wildlife Area fall within the Low Plains Late Zone. Currently Melvern staff is restricted to minimal pumping capabilities due to the reservoir being below pool level and very little inflows coming from the Marais des Cygnes River. 3 Duck Marsh- Dry, okay moist soil vegetation. Willow Marsh- Some water, moderate moist soil vegetation. Sundance Marsh- Dry, poor to moderate moist soil vegetation Lowman's Cove- Water was left in these pools all summer. Poor moist soil production. Shoveler Slough- Good shallow water for early migrants, still pumping. Good moist soil vegetation in much of the unit. The parking lot for this wetland is located at the intersection of 317th and S. Davis Rd. Price Marsh- Very little water in lowest elevations of the unit. Poor to moderate moist soil vegetation. The levee on Price has been significantly damaged in some areas by flood water. This will impact the amount of water held in the unit for this season. Please be patient while we work on solutions to the damage and ways to prevent damage in the future. The parking lot for this wetland is at 309th & Crawford. NO DRIVING ON THE LEVEE. Refuge-The refuge is on the west end of the lake and directly east of Willow Marsh. It produced moderate moist soil vegetation. The Refuge Area is CLOSED October 1st through January 15th. |
| Expected hunting success | good |
| Comments | All hunters utilizing Melvern Wildlife Area are required to obtain a free daily hunt permit through the new electronic permit system. Hunters can register now to begin using the electronic system at https://ksoutdoors.com/checkin using your licensing login credentials. Waterfowl hunters utilizing the main lake are only required to obtain a permit when hunting west of Hoch Road. Please remember to fill out the permit with accurate information. THIS INFORMATION IS VERY IMPORTANT TO THE CURRENT AND FUTURE MANAGEMENT OF THE AREA. FILL OUT ONLY YOUR INDIVIDUAL HARVEST EFFORTS, i.e., NOT A GROUP HARVEST TOTAL. TEAL, LOW PLAINS ZONE Season: 09/14/2024 - 09/29/2024 Area open: East of Hwy. U. S. 283 Daily bag limit: 6 teal (any combination of teal: blue-winged, green-winged or cinnamon teal) Possession limit: 18 teal in possession (any combination of teal: blue-winged, green-winged or cinnamon teal) Stamps Required: Kansas HIP Permit, State Waterfowl Stamp, Federal Waterfowl Stamp YOUTH, VETERAN AND ACTIVE MILITARY WATERFOWL SEASONS (Youth 17 and younger) Low Plains Late Zone: 10/19/2024 - 10/20/2024 DUCKS, LOW PLAINS LATE ZONE Season: 10/26/2023 - 12/29/2024 and 01/18/2024 - 01/26/2025 Area open: Late Zone (see map) Daily bag limit: 6 (Limit Info) Possession limit: Three times the daily limit Stamps Required: Kansas HIP Permit, State Waterfowl Stamp, Federal Waterfowl Stamp DUCK LIMITS
CANADA GEESE Season: 10/26/2024 - 10/27/2024 and 11/06/2024 - 02/16/2025 Area open: Statewide Daily bag limit: 6 (including Brant) Possession limit: 18 Stamps Required: Kansas HIP Permit, State Waterfowl Stamp, Federal Waterfowl Stamp WHITE-FRONTED GEESE Season: 10/26/2024 - 12/29/2024 and 01/25/2025 - 02/16/2025 Area open: Statewide Daily bag limit: 2 Possession limit: 6 Stamps Required: Kansas HIP Permit, State Waterfowl Stamp, Federal Waterfowl Stamp LIGHT GEESE Season: 10/26/2024 - 10/27/2024 and 11/06/2024 - 02/16/2025 Area open: Statewide Daily bag limit: 50 Possession limit: No limit Stamps Required: Kansas HIP Permit, State Waterfowl Stamp, Federal Waterfowl Stamp The Refuge Area is CLOSED October 1st through January 15th. |
NEOSHO WILDLIFE AREA - Last Updated: 9/10/2024 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Hunters can check in here, https://ksoutdoors.com/checkin using your licensing login credentials or download the "GoOutdoors KS" app. Check-in / check-out is required for all hunters! NO ENTRY (by foot, boat, etc) INTO THE MARSH (water) BY ANY HUNTER UNTIL 5:00AM AND MUST BE OUT OF THE MARSH BY 1 HOUR AFTER SUNSET (LEGAL SHOOTING TIME). Duck species present Wood Ducks, Blue and Green-Winged Teal. |
| Water level | The SE part of the state is still in need of some rain, it has become very dry over the last month. Flood irrigation began in the hunting pools on July 29th and finished up August 8th. This was done to help preserve habitat, promote seed production, invertebrate production and keep moist soil plants from burning up. Pump is currently on in preparation for Early Teal Season as most of the water pumped in late July has evaporated off. Please see area news for habitat conditions Boats are NOT required to hunt Neosho. Walk-in hunting is readily available with very few areas over knee deep. Hunters should take caution during the regular waterfowl season wading the boat lane (south end) in Pool 1 (tractor roads/foot crossings are in place); the very east side of 2A, and the oxbow area of 2B. Pool 1- 50 Acres Pool 2A- 50 Acres Pool 2B- 25 acres Pool 3 (Refuge)- 475 acres Pool 4A- 20 Acres Walk in and non-motorized boat hunting only Pool 4B- 15 Acres Walk in and non-motorized boat hunting only Pool 5- Dry Pool 6- Dry Pool 7- Dry Pool 8- 2 Acres Please remember that this pool is youth/mentor ONLY on weekends and holidays. Pool 9- Dry South Unit- Dry
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| Hunting conditions | Early Teal Season is CURRENTLY CLOSED will Sept. 14th to 29th There is water in ditches and into some of the hunting pools. Habitat is looks extremely good, seed production for moist soil and row crops was good and the vegetation is tall and rank, so what water we have will be hard to see until vegetation begins to break down. Pool elevations are good as can be expected for this time of year with 6"water in portions of pools. Plants are still trying to finish up their growing cycle and we have pushed water as far as we can for now.
Please see the area news page for a breakdown of habitat types within each pool.
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| Expected hunting success | SE ZONE REGULAR SEASON CURRENTLY CLOSED Early Teal Season will open Sept. 14 to Sept. 29th Fair to Poor success expected Please be respectful of other hunters and allow space between hunting parties. We want to thank everyone for the continued cooperation with utilizing our new electronic check-in/out system. The agency continues to work diligently on improving the new system and are confident it will be working for the upcoming waterfowl season. Area staff look at and sort this data in many different ways to make management decisions for upcoming years and to also look at what management strategies worked during the hunting season. |
| Comments | ATTENTION: Federal waterfowl stamps purchased online are only valid for 45 days after purchase. After 45 days of being purchased the actual stamp must be in your possession, signed across the face of the stamp, while hunting! Reminder: Motorized watercraft are prohibited on the wildlife area until the day season opens. (5:00am, November 5,2022 for regular duck season.) DAILY REGULATION: NO ENTRY INTO THE MARSH (water) BY ANY HUNTER UNTIL 5:00AM AND MUST BE OUT OF THE MARSH BY 1 HOUR AFTER LEGAL SHOOTING TIME. DRONES ARE NOT ALLOWED ON PUBLIC LAND IN KANSAS All Boating regulations are enforced! (Lifejackets must be out and accessible, navigation lights, etc.) All boats must operate at no wake speeds within boating canals (signs are posted) No shooting is allowed from interior dikes Legal shooting hours are 1/2 hr before sunrise to SUNSET! Required Licenses/stamps: Hunting License, Federal Waterfowl Stamp, Kansas State Stamp, and Kansas H.I.P. Stamp. It is your responsibility to make sure you have the required licenses/stamps. You MUST also check in and check out here, https://ksoutdoors.com/checkin using your licensing login credentials or download the "GoOutdoors KS" app. Waterfowl hunting in Pool 8 is restricted to youth hunters and their mentor on weekends and holidays. There must be at least one youth per adult if the adult is hunting. (You can't have 5 adults and one youth). This applies during the Youth and Veterans season, this pool is for youth only during youth and veterans season, unless the veteran is taking a youth hunting. Atv's of any kind are not allowed on the area (side by sides, utv's, amphibious vehicles, "argos"; this includes electric bicycles) Campgrounds on the area are Primitive campground. (No electric, No water) Take your trash with you!! Please remember to fill out the permit with accurate information. THIS INFORMATION IS VERY IMPORTANT TO THE CURRENT AND FUTURE MANAGEMENT OF THE AREA. FILL OUT ONLY YOUR INDIVIDUAL HARVEST EFFORTS, each individual hunter needs to check in/out and report his/her harvest totals. i.e., NOT A GROUP HARVEST TOTAL. |
TORONTO RESERVOIR - Last Updated: 1/9/2024 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 01/09/24 Moderate numbers of dabblers on the lake at any given time along with smaller groups of divers. Area pasture ponds have been holding some small groups of birds but not many. Lots of geese in the area but almost exclusively on private land. |
| Water level | Lake is 1.40 ft. above normal pool level. Many area marshes are dry. |
| Hunting conditions | The lake has come up and submerged the mudflat vegetation. Hunting conditions will heavily dependent on weather. |
| Expected hunting success | Moderate |
| Comments | Waterfowl reports will be posted on a bi-weekly basis throughout the fall and winter waterfowl seasons. Updates will be made when a significant change in bird numbers is observed. For information pertaining to the Toronto Wildlife Area call 620-583-6783. |