Sandhill Crane
Online Test for Sandhill Crane Hunters and Other Sandhill Crane Information
To buy your Sandhill Crane permit, CLICK HERE.
General Information
Sandhill Crane - photo by Mike Blair, KDWP
Sandhill cranes have been hunted in Kansas since 1993 and in the Central Flyway since 1961. Hunting is permitted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in nine of the 10 states in the Central Flyway. Although crane hunting is opposed by some people, crane hunting is done on a sustainable basis under a population management plan approved by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Sport hunting also is justified for maintaining reasonable distributions of sandhill cranes. If concentrations become too high in some areas, crop depredation can occur and risk of disease to cranes increases. Crane hunting is extremely challenging because cranes are very wary and crane meat is considered excellent table fare, probably the best of all migratory game birds.
The sandhill cranes that migrate through Kansas, and sometimes winter here, are part of the Mid-continent Population. This population is one of nine in North America and by far the largest with about 500,000 birds. The next largest populations number about 20-25,000 birds.
Hunting regulations have been formulated and contingency plans utilized to minimize the chance of endangered whooping cranes being accidentally shot by sandhill crane hunters. Although sandhill cranes start concentrating in huntable numbers during late October, the start of the hunting season was delayed to the Wednesday following the first Saturday in November to allow most of the whooping cranes to migrate through the state. Shooting hours for sandhill cranes begin at sunrise rather than one-half hour before sunrise to minimize the chance of a sandhill crane hunter mistakenly shooting a whooping crane due to low light conditions. (Kansas is the only state in the Central Flyway to have delayed shooting hours to protect whooping cranes.) The federal-state, Quivira National Wildlife Refuge, and Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area contingency plans provide guidance as to what actions to take if whooping cranes are present during hunting seasons.
Whooping Crane - photo by Mike Blair, KDWP
Sandhill crane and waterfowl hunters need to be aware that whooping cranes are occurring more frequently in Kansas, especially in the Cheyenne Bottoms and Quivira areas, and be able to identify whooping cranes. Whooping cranes and sandhill cranes are similar in size and shape, but whooping cranes are white with black wing tips. The penalty for shooting a whooping crane is a fine of up to $100,000 and/or up to one year in prison. For more information, go to:
Online Test for Sandhill Crane Hunters - This test is mandatory for all sandhill crane hunters. The test is 378k in size and will take a few minutes to download if you have a modem. Flash 6 is required, which most computers have. If yours doesn't, then you will be asked to download Flash 6.
Whooping Crane Brochure - Information on whooping cranes and how to distinguish them from species that look similar to them.
USFWS Information for Waterfowl and Sandhill Crane Hunters - The purpose of this web site is to provide waterfowl and sandhill crane hunters with information that will reduce the likelihood of shooting illegally at migratory birds that may look like sandhill cranes, but for which there is no open season and are protected by Federal law.
Dates: 01/17/2029 - 01/26/2020
- Area open: High Plains Zone (see map)
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Daily bag limit: 6
Six ducks is the daily bag limit, which may include no more than two canvasbacks, two redheads, one pintail, three wood ducks, three scaup and five mallards (only two of which may be hens). The daily bag may comprise six of any other duck, such as six teal, six gadwall, or six wigeon. - Possession limit: Three times the daily limit
Migratory Bird Harvest Information Program - Requirements, Exemptions.
Sandhill Crane - Management Unit, Hunting Season, Shooting Hours, and Bag and Possession Limits
Doves - Management Unit, Hunting Season, Shooting Hours, and Bag and Possession Limits
Retrieval and possession of game animals and migratory game birds - Requirements
Other Information
Whooping Crane Brochure - Information on whooping cranes and how to distinguish them from species that are similar in appearance.
http://migratorybirds.fws.gov/issues/SandhillCrane/SandhillCraneHunters.htm.
Use the map below to pick a region you would like to look at Waterfowl Reports.
CEDAR BLUFF - Last Updated: 1/24/2020 Print
| Approximately 10,000 ducks - Mostly Mallards - Pintail, Wigeon, Teal and Divers are also present 5000 Canada Geese 200 Snows and a few Whitefronts. Last Day of Duck Season is Jan. 26. | |
| Water level | 10.2 ft low |
| Hunting conditions | Shorelines are flooded Phragmites Grass which will make shoreline and walk in hunting very difficult. There is ice in all coves and west of the Bluffs. 40% ice. Boat Ramp access due to ice varies daily with wind. |
| Expected hunting success | Good - Ducks have redistributed throughout the reservoir. Morning hunts will provide the best opportunity for success. |
| Comments | Cedar Bluff Wildlife Area and Reservoir are in the Low Plains Late Duck Zone Duck Season Dates: Youth Season - Oct. 19-20, 2019. Regular Season - Oct. 26-Dec. 29, 2019 and Jan. 18-26, 2020. 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 North Shore State Park is Closed to Hunting. Youth / Mentor hunting is also available Zebra Mussels 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: 1/24/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | ALL HUNTERS at Glen Elder WA are required to check in and out daily. This regulation went into effect on September 1, 2017. Users are encouraged to utilize the ISportsman electronic daily hunting permit system, but may also use the phone system or the 3 paper card stations that are on the property. Go to https://kdwpt.isportsman.net/ for more information. Puddle ducks - SURVEY CONDUCTED ON 1/24= 14,000. Mostly mallards. Divers - estimating 15,000. Redheads, ringnecks, goldeyes, buffleheads. Also lots of mergansers Canada geese -7,500 Snows - 160,000 Varies some day-to-day. Mallard Migration Index (6) |
| Water level | 1 foot below Conservation pool. Has increased a couple inches this week. |
| Hunting conditions | Poor, cover is increasingly harder to find as the water goes down, lots of mudflats. Ice = Most boat ramps and shallow areas are froze. Most of the main lake is still free of ice. |
| Expected hunting success | Duck season is currently closed, but will reopen Jan. 18. The mallard numbers are good throughout the area and they are going out to feed in local fields. Good - Goose numbers are steady. Small flocks of Canadas can be found throughout the area and there is still large numbers of snows on the main lake and the refuges. |
| Comments | Granite Creek boat ramp is closed November 1 through January 31, 2020. Low Plains Early Duck Zone is closed for remainder of the season. This zone includes the area north of Hwy 24. Low Plains Late Duck Zone will reopen Jan. 18 - 26, 2020. This zone includes the area south of Hwy 24. Dark geese season remains open until Feb. 16, 2020. Whitefront season is currently closed and reopens Jan. 25 - Feb. 16, 2020. Light geese season remains open until Feb. 16, 2020. Conservation Order season begins Feb. 17, 2020. Both 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: 1/24/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 550 Canada Geese. 2,000 ducks REMINDER: Duck Season is CLOSED at Jamestown Wildlife Area as it is in the Low Plains Early Zone. REMEMBER: Hunters are REQUIRED to check in and check out using iSportsman electronic daily hunt permit system when they hunt the area. |
| Water levels | 97% Ice cover. SHELF ICE in Gun Club and Marsh Creek Marsh. Managers have started releasing water in order to begin making repairs on damaged infrastructure from the flooding in 2018-2019. Some water will be available through the rest of the goose season but will be receding. The are will have sufficient water for spring migration. Buffalo Creek Marshes have excellent moist soil and have been pumped with huntable water. Pintail Marsh is down to sheet water, Puddler marsh is sheet water. Bluewing Marsh is dry. |
| Hunting conditions | Poor to Fair: Geese are scattered on the area. White-Fronted Goose season is currently closed. It will open back up on 1/25/20 REMINDER: THE DUCK LOW PLAINS EARLY ZONE IS CLOSED FOR THE SEASON. CANADA GOOSE SEASON WILL REMAIN OPEN UNTIL FEB. 16, 2020. Remember: NO ATV's are allowed on department lands and roads. ALL vehicles must remain on designated roads and parking areas. REMINDER: iSportsman is in use. ALL hunters are REQUIRED to check in and check out when they hunt the area. This important information gathered from hunt permits helps managers tailor management practices specific to an area and hunter preference. REFUGE IS CLOSED UNTIL JANUARY 31, 2020. |
| Expected hunting success | Will be dependent on the ice conditions and bird use. |
| Comments | Waterfowl Seasons Duck (low plains early zone): 10/12/19 - 12/8/19 & 12/14/19 - 12/29/19 Canada Geese: 10/26/19 - 10/27/19 & 11/6/19 - 2/16/20 White-Fronted Geese: 10/26/19 - 12/29/19 & 1/25/20 - 2/16/20 Light Geese: 10/26/19 - 10/27/19 & 11/6/19 - 2/16/20 Light Geese Conservation Order: 2/17/20 - 4/30/20 Hunters are REQUIRED to check in using the electronic permitting system. HUNTERS NEED TO CREATE AN ACCOUNT IN iSportsman BY GOING TO https://kdwpt.isportsman.net AND FOLLOW THESE SIMPLE DIRECTIONS:
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 is for non-gasoline powered boats 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 CLOSED on the north half of Gamekeeper Marsh. REFUGE WILL BE CLOSED OCTOBER 1, 2019 - JANUARY 31, 2020 Please introduce youth and novice hunters to the outdoors. Pass it on! |
LOVEWELL RESERVOIR - Last Updated: 1/23/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 2,500 ducks - 200 teal, 2,300 mallards, a few other diving ducks and other large ducks, 1,100 Canada and a few Whitefronts and 800 light geese. |
| Mallard Migration Ranking | |
| Water level | Reservoir is at 1581.7 or 0.9 feet BELOW conservation pool (1582.6) or 92.3 % full. Reservoir inflows from the White Rock and other creeks are at 64.6 cfs. Outflows from the flood gates are at 50 cfs. The reservoir level is fairly stable and releases will slow when the planned, winter level is reached soon. Summer irrigation Drawdown was later this season so not much vegetation on the bare mudflats. |
| Hunting condition | DUCK SEASON OPEN UNTIL JANUARY 26,2020. WHITE_FRONTED GOOSE SEASON CLOSED. REOPENS JANUARY 25-FEBRUARY, 16,2020. DARK AND LIGHT GOOSE SEASON OPEN THROUGH FEBRAURY 16, 2020.SPRING CONSERVATION ORDER FOR LIGHT GEESE OPEN FEBRUARY 17-APRIL 30, 2020. 99% ICE. ALL boat ramps are iced in 1/23/2020. Shorelines iced covered. Some spots may open due to the wind and warmer temperatures. Reservoir levels are close to the shoreline vegetation to conceal hunters. Most private ponds frozen over. |
| Expected hunting success | Good to fair on private land surrounding the reservoir. Moderate ice and crusty snow cover of up to 3 inches will hinder waterfowl foraging in private cropland fields suurounding the reservoir. Area county roads very muddy. |
| Comments | PARK PERMIT REQUIRED TO ENTER THE STATE PARK PARK. NO HUNTING IS ALLOWED FROM THE SHORELINE OF THE STATE PARK. NEW REFUGE REGULATIONS:THE LAND REFUGE CLOSED TO HUNTING YEAR ROUND. CLOSED TO OTHER ACTIVITIES SEPTEMBER 1 THROUGH MARCH 31. 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. INLET CANAL CLOSED TO FISHING SEPTEMBER 15 THROUGH APRIL 15. BOAT RAMPS: WILDLIFE AREA BOATS RAMPS ICED IN.THE STAE PARK BOAT RAMPS ICED IN. The boat ramp at Cedar Point, (WHEN ICE FREE) is usable AT YOUR OWN RISK DUE TO ONGOING CONSTRUCTION. 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. White Rock Creek Area is closed until repairs to the area are completed later this winter. 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. FREE DAILY HUNT PERMITS REQUIRED FOR ALL HUNTING ON THE AREA. ELECTRONIC PERMITS NOW AVAILABLE. REGISTER AT THE i-SPORTSMAN LINK ON THE KDWPT WEBSITE. Follow this link to get registered. https://kdwpt.isportsman.net/ PAPER PERMITS AVAILABLE ONLY AT THE LOVEWELL STATE PARK INFORMATION CENTER IN FRONT OF OR DIRECTLY WEST OF THE LOVEWELL OFFICE under the concrete shelter. We thank you for your patience. Please introduce youth and novice hunters to the outdoors. Pass it on! |
NORTON - Last Updated: 1/27/2020 Print
SMOKY HILL/KANOPOLIS - Last Updated: 1/24/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 1200-1500 ducks; 400 Canada geese |
| Water level | .5 ft below conservation pool; 1462.40 ft |
| Hunting conditions | Poor. No flooded vegetation. |
| Comments | Refuge is CLOSED to all access from September 1st through January 31st. Waterfowl Seasons: Teal (low plains): 9/14/19 - 9/29/19 Duck (low plains late zone): 10/26/19-12/29/19 & 01/18/19-01/26/19 Canada Geese: 10/26/19 - 10/27/19 & 11/6/19 - 2/16/20 White-Fronted Geese: 10/26/19 - 10/27/19 & 11/6/19 - 2/16/20 Light Geese: 10/26/19 - 10/27/19 & 11/6/19 - 2/16/20 Light Geese Conservation Order: 2/17/20 - 4/30/20 Click HERE for duck season, regulation, and research information. Additional information about hunting at Kanopolis Reservoir can be found HERE |
TALMO - Last Updated: 1/24/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 40 Mallards, 12 Canada Geese |
| Water level | 99% ice covered. All pools are full. |
| Hunting conditions | Good water levels but not much flooded food. Summer heavy rains and flooded conditions did not allow moist soil plants to grow. |
| Expected hunting success | Fair, depending on the ice, the pressure and the weather. Scouting is a must! LPLZ Duck Season opens back up on 1/18/20 - 1/26/20 |
| Comments | Remember: - TALMO IS IN THE LOW PLAINS LATE ZONE - Hunters MUST check in DAILY with iSportsman when doing any hunting on the area - 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. -ALL vehicles MUST remain on the roads and designated parking areas only. |
WEBSTER - Last Updated: 1/24/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 20,000 Ducks - mostly mallards with a few divers mixed in. 5,800 Canada Geese, 70,000 Snow Geese |
| Water level | Currently 2 inches above conservation level. Inflow 138 cfs. Currently releasing 100 cfs. |
| Hunting conditions | Lake has 10% ice cover. Boat ramps freeze up overnight but hunters have been breaking through. Inflows in 2019 raised the reservoir to 7 1/2 feet above conservation level and releases were not made until October. Webster is presently releasing to match inflow thus keeping the reservoir at Conservation Pool level. Due to the high water levels earlier, most of the shoreline is bare mudflats and no cover. Because of the late summer drawdown, there is no vegetation along the shorelines for food or hunter concealment. The bare shorelines are attractive to as loafing areas for geese. The south road (N Road) is closed at the kiosk at the intersection of the south road and 258 Highway (Zurich Blacktop). County roads ( 9, 8, 7, and 6) coming in from the south from County Road P have been impassable most of the summer. The area from the southeast corner of the reservoir west to 9 Road is designated as "No Motorized Boats" and is intended for use by walk-in hunters. |
| Expected hunting success | Fair. Geese are flying out to private land north of the reservoir Mallards are staying off the face of the dam in no hunting area. |
| Comments |
Refuge dates: Nov. 1 through Jan.31. The Refuge on the water ends on Jan. 31. However, hunting in or from the shoreline inside the State Park or along the face of the dam is prohibited. Blue/Green Algae The reservoir has been removed from a blue/green algae watch. Teal Season Sept. 14-29, 2019 Duck Season on Webster Reservoir Duck Season Oct. 26-Dec. 29, 2019 and Jan. 18-26, 2020 Youth Weekend, Dusk and Goose Oct. 19-20, 2019 Goose Season on Webster Reservoir CANADA GEESE Oct. 26-27, 2019 and Nov. 6, 2019-Feb. 16, 2020 WHITE-FRONTED Oct. 26-Dec. 29, 2019 and Jan. 25-Feb. 16, 2020 LIGHT GEESE Oct. 26-27, 2019 and Nov. 6, 2019-Feb. 16, 2020 LIGHT GOOSE CONSERVATION ORDER Feb. 17 - April 30, 2020 ICE CONDITIONS 0%
Webster Wildlife Area and Refuge Map 
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WILSON - Last Updated: 1/23/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 12,000 ducks. Mix of mallards and common goldeneyes. Good variety of other species also present. Approximately 200-500 geese on the area. Most are Canada but some white-fronts and snows are mixed in. |
| Water level | 1515.35; 2/3' below conservation and increasing slightly. |
| Hunting conditions | Fair, but little vegetation to hide in. |
| Expected hunting success | Fair. Success opportunities exist for birds if hunters can find spots to hide. |
| Comments | Boat ramps: Cedar Creek boat ramp has ice, but it can be broken. At times, much of the river next to the ramp is frozen. Due to the lower water levels, the Cedar Creek boat ramp may be hard to use. Use caution around the Cedar Creek ramp as numerous trees were washed in during the flood and are now exposed as water levels drop. Elm Creek boat ramp has fairly thick ice, but it appears the ice could be broken. Reminders: Wilson Reservoir is in the Low Plains Late duck zone. Teal season in this zone runs from Sept. 14-29. The regular duck season opens Oct. 26 and closes Dec. 29, 2019. It then reopens Jan. 18-26, 2020. Dark goose (except white-fronts) and light goose seasons run from Oct. 26-27, 2019 and Nov. 6, 2019 - Feb. 16, 2020. White-fronted goose season is open Oct. 26-Dec. 29, 2019 and reopens Jan 25-Feb. 16, 2020. The light goose spring conservation season runs from Feb. 17-Apr. 30, 2020. Zebra mussels are in Wilson Lake, so be sure to drain/dry/clean boats and equipment before moving to other areas. All access (including hunters, fishermen, and boating) is prohibited Sept. 1, 2019-Jan. 31, 2020 on the mid-lake refuge and the refuge located at the west end of the lake. Click HERE for Duck Season, Regulation, and Research information. Click HERE for hunting regulations in Lucas Park, Minooka Park, and Sylvan Park. |
This is a collection of all the Northeast Waterfowl Reports
BENEDICTINE WILDLIFE AREA - Last Updated: 1/21/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Mallard Migration Rank: 3 (Estimate of potential mallard numbers. 1=lowest, 10=highest) |
| Water level | A map of our wetlands is now available under the Wetland Map tab to the right. Wetlands are full in addition to other flooded pools outside the levee. Ice is present as of Monday but may thaw as temperatures rise throughout the week. Waterfowl have been seen using the wildlife area in very small numbers. Refuge(NOT open to hunting) October 1 through March 31 the area can only be accessed with a special permit obtained through a drawing. The application and drawing will take place online only in 2017. Look for "Special Hunts" on our home page under "HUNTING". |
| Hunting conditions | Good quality wetland vegetation persists in all wetland complexes. Native vegetation such as annual smartweeds, barnyard grass, and arrow leaf are the most common vegetation. |
| Expected hunting success | Currently there are very few ducks using the wetland areas throughout the property that are open to hunting. Small groups of ducks spread throughout the wildlife area. |
| Comments | The majority of ducks seen on the wildlife area have been outside the levee. REFUGE IS NOT OPEN TO HUNTING |
CLINTON - Last Updated: 12/20/2019 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 12/20/19 Waterfowl numbers have increased again. Both puddle and diving ducks have been observed in the marshes and river, as well as the shoreline and open water of the reservoir. The following waterfowl were observed during the last waterfowl survey: Mallards, Goldeneye, Mergansers- both common and hooded, Canada Geese, Bufflehead, and Redhead. Several thousand Snow Geese have been moving through the area, though none reported On 12-20-19 over 3,000 Mallards and 4,000 Canada Geese were on or adjacent to Clinton Reservoir. |
| Lake level | 875.64 -0.14 feet above pool, releasing 7 c.f.s. The water level is back at normal pool. |
| Hunting conditions |
---ICE--- The marshes and shallow water on the reservoir are covered in ice. Warming forecast w/expected rain will open up the marshes. Coblentz & East Coblentz- There is very little water in the north pool of Coblentz; the parking lot is accessible. The three south pools and the East Coblentz pool are full. The road to East Coblentz (E100 rd.) is no longer flooded and the marsh parking lot is now accessible. The road beyond the parking lot is extremely muddy. Please beware of muddy or water covered roads and tread lightly on newly opened roads. The final phase of the wetland grant for Coblentz is nearly completed. We have placed an additional structure on the north pool to allow us the option to use an adjacent stream to fill the north and middle pools. This is in addition to the electric pump, which was completed in 2018. Shadden marsh (10 acres) is full and has good vegetation. It should provide hunting opportunity for a limited number of hunters. Elk Creek wetlands are open for hunting. The road to the wetlands (E100) was flooded for months, as well as all pools, dikes, and structures and parking lot. Please use caution when driving on muddy roads. Pool 1 and pool 3 are nearly half full, pool 2 is full. There are currently no plans to run the marsh pumps this fall due to the extensive flooding. The refuge marsh pool is CLOSED to all activities until January 16th. Ducks and Canada Geese were observed loafing in open water around the main body of the lake, as well as shallow floodwater in the upper reaches of the tributaries, and on harvested corn fields. Good numbers of geese have been seen on harvested grain fields as well as rocky shorelines, and on ice. As the weather warms, the amount of ice in marshes and on the reservoir will decrease, greatly increasing utilization by waterfowl and hunters alike. Breaking ice will likely stay open for several days. |
| Expected hunting success | Good |
| Comments | IMPORTANT! Clinton Wildlife Area is utilizing an electronic check-in system required of all hunters. To register, please go to https://kdwpt.isportsman.net. This will be mandatory for everyone hunting the wildlife area, not just waterfowl hunters. The card survey stations have been removed. Plan ahead and sign up for I-sportsman now. Please remember that trapping is also allowed on the Wildlife Area. BOTH Coon Creek and Elk Creek BOAT RAMPS ON THE WILDLIFE AREA ARE OPEN.
The REFUGE is currently CLOSED to all activities from Oct. 1st to Jan. 15th |
HILLSDALE - Last Updated: 1/23/2020 Print
| Waterfowl Numbers | The Hillsdale Wildlife Area has experienced very high flood levels throughout the spring and summer. Because of the flooding, many of the wetlands and marshes remained submerged throughout the growing season. This has prevented the growth of moist soil vegetation as well as seed production. Some successful moist soil vegetation growth has occurred in the upper ends of the Youth-Mentor Wetland and the upper pool of Browns Wetland. This will provide some food for waterfowl but not at levels that could be expected in a normal water-level year.
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. Mallards, wood ducks, gadwalls, American wigeon, Northern shovelers, pintails, blue-winged teal, and green-winged teal have all been surveyed in the area. Large groups of geese with numbers in the 500's have been seen in flight over the area. Recent weather conditions have covered all wetland pools with ice. No waterfowl were surveyed on the wetland pools this week due to ice. The birds that were using the area seem to have stayed in the area but are now using the open water pockets on the main body of the lake. Around 1000 mallards were surveyed on the main body of the lake. American wigeon and pintails were also surveyed on the main body of the lake. Large numbers of divers are still being seen all across the main body of the lake. Groups with at least 100 birds have been common. These groups have been primarily made up of goldeneye with the occasional redhead, bufflehead, and scaup. Canvas back and common mergansers have also been surveyed on the main body of the lake. Around 200 Canada geese were surveyed along with a few white-fronted geese on the main body of the lake. Waterfowl have been consistently harvested across all wetland pools so far this season. Hunters have also seen success on parts of the main lake. Filled bag limits have not been uncommon when conditions have been favorable. |
| Water Level | Antioch Wetland - Full and Stabilized Browns Wetland, Upper pool - Full with flooded vegetation Browns Wetland, Lower pool - Full Youth-Mentor Wetland - 3/4 and stabilized with flooded vegetation Wade Branch Wetlands - Full Hillsdale Lake - See Army Corps Daily Report ICE CONDITION - Wetlands have near 95-100% ice coverage. Much of the main body of the lake is frozen with large open areas spread across the lake. |
| Comments | Reminder - an electronic permit/sign-in on Isportsman is required for all hunting on Hillsdale Wildlife Area. All hunters (youth included) must register online and create an individual account. Hunters can then check in using the I-sportsman system from any phone or internet device. This can be done immediately before the hunt or the night before the hunt. 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: 1/7/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Ducks: 200+ mixed ducks. Mixed bag of teal, scaup, goldeneye, and mallards. A reminder that no boats are allowed on Auxillary Lake during waterfowl season. Geese: 6,000 + snow geese are using the area and the surrounding private agricultural fields. |
| Water level | High |
| Hunting conditions | Fair |
| Expected hunting success | 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: 1/23/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Duck season is open January 18-26. 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. Approximately 2,500 ducks and 300 Canada Geese were observed using the reservoir. All wetlands have been frozen with the temperature change.
For more information, visit https://ksoutdoors.com/Hunting/Migratory-Birds/Ducks.
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| Lake level | Current Lake Level is 1141.55 and Conservation Pool is 1144.4 The dam is releasing 1,500 CFS. The inflow into the lake is unknown due to ice. |
| Hunting conditions | Vegetation growth and seed production was not permitted this year due to the extent and duration of flooding we've experienced this past year. The majority of the wetlands are still under water with little or no cover to provide favorable hunting conditions. This will be a very difficult waterfowl season at Milford Wildlife Area. Mall creek and Lower smith/Gatesville boat ramps are now open, most of the wildlife area roads are open, but use caution in some soft areas around the wildlife area due to silt and the ground moisture. Be mindful of the silt that has moved into many of the flooded areas. Even in areas where the water appears shallow the silt may be very soft and very deep. Use caution in these areas. No activites/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 | Average. |
| Comments | 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 drive on barricaded roadways. Remember - an electronic permit/sign-in on Isportsman is required for all hunting on Milford Wildlife Area. All hunters (youth included) must first register online by creating an account. Hunters can then check in using the I-sportsman system from any phone or internet device. 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 - Last Updated: 1/27/2020 Print
TUTTLE CREEK WILDLIFE AREA - Last Updated: 1/27/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 50 ducks 350 Canada Geese Mallard Migration Rank (0-10) =10 |
| Water level | The lake is currently at 1072 and holding. |
| Hunting conditions | Poor |
| Expected hunting success | Poor |
| Comments | A permit/survey is required to hunt the Tuttle Creek Wildlife Area. Due to the flooding expected success is very low due to the lack of food and cover. |
This is a collection of all the Southwest Waterfowl Report
CHEYENNE BOTTOMS - Last Updated: 1/28/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | DUCK SEASON IS CLOSED FOR 2019-20220 On 1/27/20 there were about 150,000 snows, 5,000 Canadas and 2,500 whitefronts on the area. Goose numbers have been highly variable over the last couple weeks ranging from only a couple thousand geese to close to two hundred thousand. Goose numbers will continue to fluctuate depending on the day and time of day. Around 7,000 ducks, mostly mallards. 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 | About 33% frozen. 1A-63", 1B-29", 1C-29", 2-23", 3A-dry, 3B-15", 4A-3", 4B-15", 5-17". |
| Hunting conditions | All cattails in 4A and 60 acres in 3B were sprayed on 9/4/19. All cattails in 3A have been disked 3 times. Blind islands are being repaired in 3A. 70 acres of 3A was planted to winter wheat. |
| Expected hunting success | Poor. Teal season average was 2.62 teal per hunter, regular duck season average was 2.26 ducks per hunter. |
| Comments | Due to the wet weather and volume of dump trucks and heavy machinery traveling wildlife area roads for silt removal, some of the roads are in poor shape. Once work is complete, roads will be repaired. Please be patient as work progresses. Use footcrossings in Pool 3B and 4B as the ditches have been cleaned out and are very deep. 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 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. 1 DRAWN SPECIAL HUNT FOR 1 PARTY OF 3 YOUTH WILL BE HELD EACH SATURDAY MORNING OF REGULAR DUCK SEASON IN POOL 5. CHECK OUT KSOUTDOORS.COM TO APPLY AND MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE SPECIAL HUNTS PROGRAM. Teal - Sept. 14-29, 2019 Youth - Oct. 5-6, 2019 Ducks, Low Plains Early Zone - Oct. 12-Dec. 8 and Dec. 14-29, 2019 Goose Seasons: Canada - Oct. 26-27, 2019 and Nov.6, 2019-Feb. 16, 2020 Whitefront - Oct. 26-Dec. 29, 2019 and Jan. 25-Feb. 16, 2020 Light - Oct. 26-27, 2019 and Nov. 6, 2019-Feb. 16, 2020 Light goose conservation order - Feb. 17-April 30, 2020 iSportsman (electronic daily hunt permit system) will be required of all hunters this fall. There will not be any cards available this year, so please set up an iSportsman account prior to this hunting season. Hunters are required to use the electronic Daily Hunt Permit system. HUNTERS NEED TO CREATE AN ACCOUNT IN iSportsman BY GOING TO https://kdwpt.isportsman.net AND FOLLOW THESE SIMPLE DIRECTIONS: 1. Scroll down the left side of the page to the blue "register" button. 2. Provide hunter information. ONCE REGISTERED, HUNTERS WILL BE ABLE TO CALL OR LOG ONTO THE SYSTEM SEPTEMBER 1 AND GET THEIR PERMIT FOR THE DOVE OPENER. THEY CAN ALSO VISIT THE CHEYENNE BOTTOMS WILDLIFE AREA PAGE ON iSPORTSMAN AT https://kdwpt.isportsman.net/Locations/Cheyenne_Bottoms.aspx |
ISABEL - Last Updated: 1/23/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Approximately 150 ducks - mostly mallards 1/23/20. |
| Water level | The pool adjacent to Hwy. 42 is 75% full. The main lake is full. The pools South and East of the main lake have water. There is also standing water on other portions of the area that remain from heavy rains. |
| Hunting conditions | |
| Expected hunting success | |
| Comments | Teal Season (Low Plains Zone): September 14-29, 2019 Youth Waterfowl (Low Plains Late Zone): October 19-20, 2019 Ducks (Low Plains Late Zone): October 26 - December 29, 2019, and January 18-26, 2020 Canada Geese: October 26-27, 2019 and November 6, 2019 - February 16, 2020 White-Fronted Geese: October 26 - December 29, 2019 and January 25 - February 16, 2020 Light Geese: October 26-27, 2019 and November 6, 2019 - February 16, 2020 Hunters are encouraged to use the electronic Daily Hunt Permit system this year. KDWPT IMPLEMENTED AN ELECTRONIC PERMIT SYSTEM STARTING THE 2015-2016 HUNTING SEASONS HUNTERS NEED TO CREATE AN ACCOUNT IN iSportsman BY GOING TO https://kdwpt.isportsman.net AND FOLLOW THESE SIMPLE DIRECTIONS: 1. Scroll down the left side of the page to the blue "register" button. 2. Provide hunter information. ONCE REGISTERED, HUNTERS WILL BE ABLE TO CALL OR LOG ONTO THE SYSTEM SEPTEMBER 1 AND GET THEIR PERMIT FOR THE DOVE OPENER. PAPER PERMITS ARE NO LONGER AVAILABLE AT ISABEL WETLANDS. iSportsman WILL BE USED EXCLUSIVELY ON THIS AREA IN 2018-2019. Only non-toxic shot is allowed on Isabel Wetland Wildlife Area for all species. |
TEXAS LAKE - Last Updated: 12/27/2019 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | No waterfowl observed 12/27. |
| Water levels | Pools 1 and 2 are full. Pool 9 is approximately 25% full. Pool 6 has some water and there is water north of pool 6. Pool 3F is dry. |
| Hunting conditions | |
| Expected hunting success | |
| Comments | Teal Season (Low Plains Zone): 9/14/19 - 9/29/19 Youth Waterfowl (Low Plains Early Zone): 10/5/19 - 10/6/19 Regular Ducks (Low Plains Early Zone): 10/12/19 - 12/8/19 and 12/14/19 -12/29/19 Goose Seasons: Canada: 10/26/19 - 10/27/19 and 11/6/19 - 2/16/20 Whitefront: 10/26/19 - 12/29/19 and 1/25/20 - 2/16/20 Light: 10/26/19 - 10/27/19 and 11/6/19 - 2/16/20 KDWPT IS CONTINUING AN ELECTRONIC PERMIT SYSTEM FOR THE 2019-2020 HUNTING SEASONS HUNTERS NEED TO CREATE AN ACCOUNT IN iSportsman BY GOING TO https://kdwpt.isportsman.net AND FOLLOW THESE SIMPLE DIRECTIONS: 1. Scroll down the left side of the page to the blue "register" button. 2. Provide hunter information. ONCE REGISTERED, HUNTERS WILL BE ABLE TO CALL OR LOG ONTO THE SYSTEM SEPTEMBER 1 AND GET THEIR PERMIT FOR THE DOVE OPENER. PAPER PERMITS MAY STILL BE AVAILABLE AT SOME OF THE INFORMATION CENTERS, HOWEVER, WE ENCOURAGE YOU TO USE THE iSPORTSMAN ELECTRONIC CHECK-IN SYSTEM AS IT WILL BE USED EXCLUSIVELY IN FOLLOWING YEARS. 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: 11/22/2019 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Small groups of diving ducks on the reservoir. Very few dabbling ducks and geese present. Can change daily with weather conditions. |
| Water level | 0.49 feet below Conservation Pool on reservoir. Area ponds are mostly dry. |
| Hunting conditions | Fair. Water is present, but food is limited due to large flood event over summer months preventing annual food plants establishing along coves and shoreline, as well as damaging area crops. |
| Expected hunting success | Poor |
| Comments | Cheney Wildlife Area is located in the Low Plains Late Zone Low Plains Late Zone Youth Season is Oct. 19-20. Low Plains Late Zone Duck Season is Oct. 26-Dec. 29, and Jan. 18-26, 2020. Daily bag limit: 6 Six ducks is the daily bag limit, which may include no more than two canvasbacks, two redheads, one pintail, three wood ducks, three scaup and five mallards (only two of which may be hens). The daily bag may comprise six of any other duck, such as six teal, six gadwall, 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 are in the process of being upgraded - please use caution as some gravel may not have been fully spread. 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 or extremely unsafe behavior, please call 911. |
BYRON WALKER - Last Updated: 1/17/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Welcome to 2019 waterfowl! 500ducks and geese on the area this morning. |
| Water level | Kingman State Fishing Lake is full. No millet was planted this year. All marshes were managed moist-soil. The 4 marshes on the west end of the lake have water. Two of the three marshes south of highway 54 are dry. NAWCA construction in those marshes was completed 10/21/19. Cover crops and grass will be seeded on the denuded dikes yet this fall, so no flooding will be attempted in the west marsh this fall. |
| Hunting conditions | Good! Most ponds and marshes are not frozen over. Currently 11 marshes are flooded and the lake is full! WARNING-New rip rap has been added to the Kingman State Lake dam and until the metal has been removed, it poses a hazard to hunters, fishermen, and their dogs. |
| Expected hunting success | Fair. |
| Comments | Hunters! A new kayak/canoe launch has been installed on the dam just west of the refuge line to aid launching boats across the rip rap. The south part of the NAWCA project in the old Bison Marsh was not started in 2018 due to wet conditions, however, it started October 14, 2019 and was completed on 10/21. The west marsh will probably not be flooded in 2019/2020. The east marsh will be flooded as the construction project winds down if the dike side slopes are not exposed. |
COUNCIL GROVE - Last Updated: 1/23/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Approximately 910 ducks (primarily mallard with some goldeneye), 300 Canada geese, and 605 mergansers were observed on 1/23/20. |
| Water levels | 0.28 feet above conservation elevation (1,274') on 1/23/20. |
| Hunting conditions | Difficult. Lake was approximately 95% ice covered on 1/23. Ice conditions changing daily. Full lake levels will provide waterfowl hunting opportunities and improved access, but hunters should be aware that food resources will be diminished within the wildlife area this year. Significant flooding (15.6' above conservation elevation) that began in May and persisted into August prevented the establishment of food producing plants along lake edges. In addition flooding prevented or removed planted crops throughout the wildlife area. |
| Expected hunting success | Fair. |
| Comments | The remainder of the Low Plains Late Zone Duck season is Jan. 18-26, 2020. |
EL DORADO - Last Updated: 1/22/2020 Print
| Waterfowl Numbers | Approximately 650 ducks and 470 Canada Geese observed on 01/22. |
| Water level | At 1339.40' approximately .40' above conservation elevation (1339') on 01/22. |
| Hunting conditions | Poor. Approximately 10% of the reservoir covered in Ice. Most of the summer the lake was above conservation pool allowing for very little food resources. 01/22 |
| Expected hunting success | Fair |
| Comments | NOTE: El Dorado Lake is located within the Low Plains Southeast Zone. Low Plains Southeast Zone Duck Southeast Duck Season: Jan 11-26, 2020 Dark Geese Nov 6, 2019-Feb 16, 2020 White-fronted Geese Jan. 25-Feb 16, 2020 Light Geese Nov. 6 2019-Feb. 16, 2020 |
KAW WILDLIFE AREA. - Last Updated: 1/23/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | There are approximately 50 ducks using the river at this time. There also some geese flying around the area. |
| Water level | Little High |
| Hunting conditions | Poor/Fair |
| Expected hunting success | Poor |
| Comments | TEAL, LOW PLAINS ZONE Season: Sept. 14-29, 2018 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 9, 2019 - January 5, 2020 AND January 11-26, 2020 Area open:Southeast Zone (see map) Daily bag limit:6 Possession limit:Three times the daily limit |
MCPHERSON VALLEY WETLANDS - Last Updated: 1/24/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | ATTENTION: i-Sportsman is REQUIRED to hunt this area. All hunters MUST use the electronic daily hunt permit system! Please check in, report your harvest, and check out using i-Sportsman for each and every hunt. Friday, 24 January 2020: Duck season is CLOSED. The second split of white-front season opens Saturday, 25 January. Snow and Canada goose seasons are OPEN. With near 100% ice cover the last week, goose numbers dropped significantly. Goose numbers have climbed a little with the thawing conditions the last couple of days. Approximately 500 geese were observed on the area Friday, and there is about 50% ice cover, depending upon location. Goose numbers continue to be highly variable, and fluctuate depending on weather and time of day. See "Water Levels" below for more information. Remember that all activities in the refuge areas are prohibited. |
| Current Information | With the recent rain and snow, the roads are now slick and muddy. |
| Water levels | Big Basin: Most public hunting marshes have a huntable amount of water. Pool 14 will be kept dry during the 2019-2020 season for a renovation project in the spring of 2020, and the Kubin Marshes north of Mohawk Road will be kept dry to complete a current construction project at 9th and Navajo. Chain of Lakes: Other than Steel's Pond, this unit is now dry. Be mindful of the private property east of the wildlife area. The west unit of the Chain of Lakes will be kept dry during the 2019-2020 season for a major renovation project in the early spring of 2020. Little Sinkhole Unit: Most public hunting marshes have a huntable amount of water. |
| Hunting conditions | Late season geese and abundant ice make for tough conditions. |
| Expected hunting success | Fair |
| Comments | ATTENTION: MPWL has transitioned to a new daily permit system called Isportsman. Hunters will need to register with i-Sportsman prior to hunting at MPWL. Hunters will login (or call) each day prior to hunting to get a daily permit, and report harvest similar to the paper daily permits. Please visit https://kdwpt.isportsman.net/ to register prior to hunting season. Kansas hunters should be aware that iSportsman Electronic Daily Hunt Permits are required on 25 wildlife areas, including McPherson Valley Wetlands (check the 2019 Kansas Hunting and Furharvesting Regulations Summary or kdwpt.isportsman.net for a list). iSportsman replaces the old paper permits and allows hunters to conveniently check in and out using a telephone, smartphone or home computer. As with the old paper system, information gathered helps area managers tailor management practices specific to an area and hunter preference. The paper system was inconvenient for hunters and labor intensive for managers. **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. |
SLATE CREEK WETLAND - Last Updated: 1/23/2020 Print
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Waterfowl numbers | There are approximately 25 ducks present on the area at this time. Most of the ducks are mallards. |
|
Water level | All pools have water in them. |
| Hunting conditions | Fair |
| Expected hunting success | Poor/Fair |
| Comments | SCWL is using a new daily permit system called Isportsman. Hunters will need to register prior to hunting at SCWL. Hunters will login (or call) each day prior to hunting to get a daily permit, and report back harvest similar to the paper daily permits. Please visit https://kdwpt.isportsman.net/ to register prior to hunting season. 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. Keep in mind, during and after rain events, area roads become very greasy. Please use caution and good judgment before entering these roadways. Please report all wildlife and public lands violations that you witness by calling the area headquarters at (620)-876-5730. Please leave a detailed message with violation specifics. |
MARION - Last Updated: 1/23/2020 Print
| Waterfowl Numbers | Current waterfowl numbers are approximately 1500, mostly Canada geese along with approximately 150 Goldeneye and close to 100 Mallard. Numbers can change daily. |
| Mallard Migration Rating | Current Rating=1 The rank is subjective and is from (0= No Mallards, 1=Very few Mallards, 5=Moderate numbers, 10= Peak numbers). |
| Water level | Lake level is at 1350.48 (Conservation pool is 1350.50) |
| Hunting conditions | Fair. Lake levels have been above conservation pool for most of 2019. Some of the boat ramps are still closed. The reservoir was at or near max flood pool for several months this summer and much of the vegetation was flooded out. Now that the water has receded moist soil plants like yellow nut sedge and barnyard grass have come in on the flooded acres near the shore, however the shoreline and coves still lack cover. |
| Expected hunting success | Fair. |
| Comments | 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: 1/21/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 6,000-8,000 ducks have been seen on the reservoir and wildlife area. Most ducks were seen on the reservoir and are expected to disperse as shallow water thaws. 15-20 thousand light geese using the reservoir. More precipitation and warmer temps in the forecast will affect duck numbers and duck use on the wildlife area. |
| Water level | The Wetlands are full. Reservoir is 2.3ft above conservation pool and fluctuating with inflow and release rates. For current Reservoir levels visit http://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/ELKC.lakepage.html |
| Hunting conditions | ELK CITY RESERVOIR WAS FULL FOR OVER 60 DAYS THIS SUMMER. The lake edge is primarily mud bank now due to summer flooding and small elevation changes early this fall. Wetlands are in Fair to Good shape. See Comments Section. |
| Expected hunting success | Fair. REGULAR DUCK SEASON IS NOV. 9-JAN.5 AND JAN.11-26 |
| Comments | For updated waterfowl numbers and weather conditions call (620) 331-6820. Individuals utilizing the wildlife area need to be aware of the refuge boundaries. Maps can be obtained at the Fisheries & Wildlife office (below the dam) or at the State Park (on the lake side). Wetland water levels and vegetation vary greatly this year due to the duration and extent of the reservoir flood. Some wetlands were not drained at all and some were drained late to attempt to grow some moist soil vegetation. The wetlands that did not flood have good production but vegetation is thick and we were not able to do much mowing. Finding open areas may be difficult, especially in the early parts of the season. |
FALL RIVER RESERVOIR - Last Updated: 1/24/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 1/23/20 About 500 mallards and a couple hundred mergansers were using Fall River Reservoir later in the week. Canada geese have been using harvested crop fields and possibly open portions of the river; a few hundred have been seen in the area. Duck season for the Low Plains Southeast Zone is from Nov. 9, 2019 – Jan. 5, 2020 and Jan. 11-26, 2020. The season for Canada geese and light geese opens initially for two days Oct. 26 and 27, 2019. It then re-opens Nov. 6, 2019 and continues through Feb. 16, 2020. The season for white-fronted geese opens Oct. 26 through Dec. 29, 2019 and Jan. 25 through Feb. 16, 2020. The light geese, conservation order season will be from Feb. 17 to Apr. 30, 2020. |
| Water level | The reservoir is about 3.9 ft. above conservation pool level. |
| Hunting conditions | Fall River Reservoir is about 2% frozen over. Area ponds are frozen. Creeks are frozen over, but the river is still mostly open. Spring flooding and fluctuating summer water levels prevented good growth of vegetation for waterfowl food sources around the reservoir edge. Flooding also hindered normal crop production and harvest in the wildlife area, leaving many Ag fields unavailable for waterfowl food sources. |
| Expected hunting success | Irregular winter conditions and limited food sources may cause waterfowl activity in the area to be somewhat unpredictable, but with increased numbers of ducks and geese using the area, good hunting opportunities may exist. |
| Comments | A new report will normally be posted weekly during the fall and winter waterfowl seasons. For information pertaining to the Fall River Wildlife Area call 620-583-6783. |
JOHN REDMOND - Last Updated: 1/24/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 2,000 divers, 1,500 dark geese and 30,000 Light geese. |
| Water level | Current Level: 1043.1 Conservation Pool Level: 1041 |
| Hunting conditions | Teal ----Sept. 14-29. 2019 Youth Duck---- Nov. 2-3 2019 Duck---- Nov. 9, 2019- Jan. 5, 2020, and Jan. 11-26, 2020 Dark Geese- Oct. 26-27, 2019 and Nov. 6, 2019 through Feb. 12, 2020 Light Geese- Oct. 26-27, 2019 and Nov. 6, 2019 through Feb. 16, 2020 Due to extreme high water throughout much of the summer months, vegetation is exceedingly poor on the reservoir this year. Watch out for submerged timber and flood debris, throughout the lake. Edges and creeks are starting to ice, and conditions are changing daily, dependent on weather. Below Dam- Lower marsh is 85% full, and vegetation looks pretty good. Upper marsh is approx. 100% full, and also looks above average. The DU Marsh on the east corner, has been planted to millet, and wheat on upper edges. This areas is currently only 40% flooded. All department managed marshes are open for public waterfowl hunting, and are located below John Redmond Dam south of spillway. Beware, both the upper and lower marsh's contain some deep water in lower portions, well over 6 feet in depth. The large sedimentation basins located below damn are not open to public hunting and are under private ownership. The smaller ponds and watersheds around county are iced up, and reservoir is starting to stack up with birds. Birds are loafing and resting in rafts in middle of lake. |
| Expected hunting successFair | Fair To see real time John Redmond elevations please visit---- http://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/JOHN.lakepage.html |
| Comments | For information on Flint Hills National Wildlife Area and the marshes on the upper end of the lake please contact FHNWR @ 620-392-5553. |
MARAIS DES CYGNES - Last Updated: 1/27/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 1,000 dark geese. Number of geese varying day to day. |
| Water levels | Adequate to abundant water in all units. |
| Hunting/ Habitat conditions | Vegetation = fair to good moist-soil (millet, smartweed, etc.) in most pools. Unit G is mostly open water due to summer flooding. Still mostly frozen, but ice is getting weaker and a few slashes of open water. |
| Hunting success | Season: 4,536 ducks / 3,371 hunters = 1.3 success. Season goose harvest: 52 dark geese, 2 snow geese. |
| Comments | NOTE: Legal shooting hours are 1/2-hour before sunrise to SUNSET. Late shooters (shooting after sunset) will be prosecuted. Road along the north side of Unit G will be closed just east of Queens Road to allow undisturbed hunting in the north end of the marsh. All hunters must check-in daily using iSportsman electronic check-in from a PC, smartphone, or by phone before hunting and check out at the end of the hunt regardless of harvest. We now have a zero tolerance policy on failure to comply with iSportsman and check station requirements. Please remember to fill out the check-out report 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. Go to: Outboard motors are restricted on this wildlife area and are allowed in Unit G and in the boat lane only in Unit A-East. Outboards are not allowed in any other wetland units. Electric trolling motors are unrestricted. Boats must be operated at wakeless speed. Boats must have sufficient PFDs for occupants. Go to MDCWA and click the "News" icon near the top for more information on general waterfowl habitat. Waterfowl report is updated only if there are significant changes in waterfowl numbers or hunting conditions. |
MELVERN LAKE/WILDLIFE AREA - Last Updated: 1/24/2020 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 number of waterfowl on the area. Mallard Migration Rank = 1 (0 = no mallards and 10 = peak migration) 1/24/2020 ( 11:00 a.m. )--- 3 Duck Marsh- Both units are pumped, approximately 2 Mallards and 2 Hooded mergansers were observed at the time of the survey. Willow Marsh- North and South units are pumped. Approximately 15 unidentified ducks observed at the time of the survey with one hunter present. Sundance Marsh- This unit is pumped, 7 Hooded mergansers and 2 Mallards were observed at the time of the survey. Lowman's Cove- All units are completely full. No waterfowl were observed at the time of the survey with one hunter present. Shoveler Slough- LOCATION: South parking lot for Shoveler Slough is at the intersection of W 317th St. & S Davies Rd. No waterfowl were observed at the time of the survey. (NOTE: Motorized boats are prohibited) Refuge- There were approximately 150 ducks and 50 Canada geese observed at the time of the survey. |
| Water level | Lake level = 1035.81; Conservation pool = 1036.00; Target goal for the lake is 1034.00. 60% Ice cover on Melvern Lake. |
| Hunting conditions | Due to the excessive amounts of rain and flooding, there is very little food in the managed units. The majority of impoundments held water all summer long not allowing for regrowth of vegetation, as the entire reservoir was above normal pool. |
| Expected hunting success | Poor to Fair. |
| 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://kdwpt.isportsman.net/ For more information (click here). 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. The Refuge Area is CLOSED October 1st through January 15th. |
NEOSHO WILDLIFE AREA - Last Updated: 1/27/2020 Print
TORONTO RESERVOIR - Last Updated: 1/24/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 1/21/20 Close to 5,000 ducks, almost entirely mallards, were seen using the Toronto Reservoir area this week as well as a couple hundred Canada geese. Duck season for the Low Plains Southeast Zone is from Nov. 9, 2019 – Jan. 5, 2020 and Jan. 11-26, 2020. The season for Canada geese and light geese opens initially for two days Oct. 26 and 27, 2019. It then re-opens Nov. 6, 2019 and continues through Feb. 16, 2020. The season for white-fronted geese opens Oct. 26 through Dec. 29, 2019 and Jan. 25 through Feb. 16, 2020. The light geese, conservation order season will be from Feb. 17 to Apr. 30, 2020. |
| Water level | The reservoir is about 4.9 ft. above conservation pool level. Wetlands are full. |
| Hunting conditions | Toronto Reservoir is approximately 2% frozen over. Area ponds are mostly frozen. Creeks are frozen over, but the river is still mostly open. Spring flooding and fluctuating summer water levels prevented good growth of vegetation for waterfowl food sources around the reservoir edge. Flooding also hindered normal crop production and harvest in the wildlife area, leaving many Ag fields unavailable for waterfowl food sources. |
| Expected hunting success | Irregular winter conditions and limited food sources may cause waterfowl activity in the area to be somewhat unpredictable, but with good numbers of ducks and geese using the area, there may be some good hunting opportunities to be found. |
| Comments | A new report will normally be posted weekly during the fall and winter waterfowl seasons. For information pertaining to the Toronto Wildlife Area call 620-583-6783. |