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.
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.
43WEBSTER - Last Updated: 3/15/2019 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 1,000 ducks, primarily mallards, 3,000 Canada geese, 3,000 snow geese. Mallard Migration Rank 2 (3 = Worst 10 = Best) |
| Water level | At conservation level. |
| Hunting conditions | Inflows in 2018 raised the reservoir to 7 feet above conservation level. Releases to maintain the reservoir at this level and then irrigation releases have resulted in the reservoir being presently at conservation level. Due to the slow drawdown and above average rainfall, the shoreline has a lot of vegetative growth on it with limited areas of exposed bare mudflats. The vegetation along the shoreline may be beneficial for duck hunters but reduces the amount of loafing areas for geese. Boat hunters will find many areas of flooded timber. 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 | Poor. |
| 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. Teal Season Sept. 9 - 24, 2017 Blue/Green Algae The reservoir has been removed from a blue/green algae watch. Teal Season Sept. 8-23, 2018 Duck Season on Webster Reservoir Duck Season Oct. 27-Dec. 30, 2018 and Jan. 19-27, 2019 Goose Season on Webster Reservoir CANADA GEESE Oct. 27-28, 2018 and Nov. 7, 2018-Feb. 17, 2019 WHITE-FRONTED Oct. 27-Dec. 30, 2018 and Jan. 26-Feb. 17, 2019 LIGHT GEESE Oct. 27-28, 2018 and Nov. 7, 2018-Feb. 17, 2019 LIGHT GOOSE CONSERVATION ORDER Feb. 18 - April 30, 2019 ICE CONDITIONS 5% ice present on reservoir. Ice only in coves. Boat Ramps are beginning to open up.
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CEDAR BLUFF - Last Updated: 3/25/2019 Print
| Waterfowl Numbers | No Snow Geese |
| Water level | 19.0 |
| Hunting conditions | |
| Expected hunting success | |
| Comments | Cedar Bluff Wildlife Area and Reservoir are in the Low Plains Late Zone Season Dates: Youth Season - Oct. 20-21, 2018. Regular Season - Oct. 27-Dec. 30, 2018 and Jan. 19-27, 2019. 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: 3/15/2019 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. After the big storm, snow geese are coming back to the Lake. 70,000 and increasing. Mallard Migration Index (1) |
| Water level | 3' above Conservation pool. Snow melt. |
| Hunting conditions | Fair. With warmer temperatures and high winds the ice is almost gone off the lake. Boat ramps are open now. Lake level is coming up rapidly. |
| Expected hunting success | Fair. Very wet and roads are muddy. |
| Comments | Light goose Conservation Order is in effect February 18 - April 30, 2019. 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: 3/15/2019 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Light geese numbers are building and estimates are 100K in the area. Lots of Other brightly plumed ducks on the area also. REMEMBER: Hunters are REQUIRED to check in and check out using iSportsman electronic daily hunt permit system when they hunt the area. |
| Mallard Migration Rank | |
| Water levels | The entire area is currently at flood stage. Once the 1st spring thaw and flood passes, Managers will again be dropping water levels in Marsh Creek, Gun Club and Gamekeeper Marshes for the final phase of the Gamekeeper berm and Dam construction. |
| Hunting conditions | Everything is thawing out from winter storm Ulmer. As things thaw out, field and road conditions will be extremely muddy. 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 OPEN |
| Expected hunting success | Fair to Good - With the warm weather in the forecast snow goose migration looks to be ON!. Finally! |
| Comments | Waterfowl Seasons Conservation Order - February 18, 2019 - April 30, 2019 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) PUDDLER AND RINGNECK MARSHES ARE 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. HUNTERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO :
THE REFUGE IS OPEN on the north half of Gamekeeper Marsh. Please introduce youth and novice hunters to the outdoors. Pass it on! |
LOVEWELL RESERVOIR - Last Updated: 3/19/2019 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 100 mallards, 50 pintails, 50 Canada and white-fronted geese, no light geese.Spring migration is late and waterfowl numbers will fluctuate daily as they push north against the snowline. |
| Mallard Migration Ranking | |
| Water level | Reservoir is ice free. Reservoir is at 1585.3 or 2.7 feet ABOVE conservation pool (1582.6) and dropping as inflows to Lovewell from the White Rock Creek have decreased to 173 cfs. Releases are at 500 cfs. Releases may be scheduled throughout the rest of the winter to keep the water at the winter management elevation. Summer irrigation Drawdown was later this season so not much vegetation on the bare mudflats. |
| Hunting condition | Poor. VERY MUDDY. No snow cover. |
| Expected hunting success | Poor for field hunting due lack of birds and muddy field conditions for access. The conservation season for Light Geese open February 18 - April 30, 2019. |
| 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: All boat ramps open and usable at this reservoir elevation and this includes boat ramps in the State Park, Cedar Point and Cabin Area. 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. Pawnee Point, Oak Hill and White Rock Creek boat ramps are useable. 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! PLEASE DO NOT PICK UP DEAD GEESE OR DUCKS YOU FIND ALONG THE SHORELINE. WILDLIFE DIE FROM NATURAL CAUSES LIKE DISEASE, OTHER HEALTH ISSUES AND SOMETIMES FROM THE RIGORS OF MIGRATION. PARK AND WILDLIFE AREA STAFF MONITOR THE SHORELINES AND PERIODICALLY SAMPLE WILDLIFE FOR SIGNS OF DISEASE. IF YOU SEE EVIDENCE OF ANY LARGE DIE-OFFS OF MIGRATORY BIRDS IN YOUR AREA PLEASE NOTIFY A KANSAS WILDLIFE AND PARKS OFFICE OR EMPLOYEE. THANKS |
NORTON - Last Updated: 3/12/2019 Print
SMOKY HILL/KANOPOLIS - Last Updated: 3/12/2019 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 4500+ divers mostly mergansers and goldeneyes; few Mallards; 100 Canada geese; |
| Water level | 1465 ft |
| Mallard Migration Rank | Current rank is 1 This Mallard Migration Rank is subjective and ranges from 0 (no mallards) to 10 (Peak mallard numbers). |
| Hunting conditions | |
| Comments | Kanopolis Reservoir is in the Low Plains Late Duck Zone. Duck season is open Oct. 27-Dec. 30, 2018 & Jan 19-27, 2019 Refuge is CLOSED to all access from September 1st through January 31st. Click HERE for duck season, regulation, and research information. Additional information about hunting at Kanopolis Reservoir can be found HERE |
TALMO - Last Updated: 3/1/2019 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | No Snow Geese Observed 2.28.19 |
| Water level | All marshes are full and will remain full until later in the spring. 100% ice as of now. |
| Hunting conditions | Poor with everything being froze and lack of migration. |
| Expected hunting success | Poor - With the lack of migration and the forecast, snow goose migration might be later than normal. |
| Comments | Remember: - 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. Hunting wanting to utilize boats must carry/paddle them in. -ALL vehicles MUST remain on the roads and designated parking areas only. |
WILSON - Last Updated: 3/12/2019 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Duck and dark goose season is now closed for the 2018-2019 season. Approximately 2,000 snows |
| Mallard Migration Rank | Mallard Migration Rank = The Mallard Migration Rank is subjective and ranges from 0 (no mallards) to 10 (Peak Mallard Numbers) |
| Water level | 1516.00; at conservation |
| Hunting conditions | Fair. The lake has opened up considerably. |
| Expected hunting success | Poor. Snow goose use of the area is light with relatively low numbers of geese utilizing the area. |
| Comments | Reminders: Wilson Reservoir is in the Low Plains Late duck zone. This season closes Dec. 30 and then reopens Jan. 19-Jan. 27, 2019. Dark goose (except white-fronts) and light goose seasons are open Nov. 7, 2018-Feb. 17, 2019. White-fronted goose season is open Oct. 27-Dec. 30, 2018 and reopens Jan 26-Feb. 17, 2019. The light goose spring conservation season runs from Feb. 18-Apr. 30, 2019. All access (including hunters, fishermen, and boating) is prohibited Sept. 1, 2018-Jan. 31, 2019 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
31PERRY - Last Updated: 1/31/2019 Print
BENEDICTINE WILDLIFE AREA - Last Updated: 1/15/2019 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Mallard Migration Rank: 1 (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. All wetlands are being pumped at this time and are mostly full. We will be turning the pumps on at this time just to keep open water in the marshes due to colder temperatures later this week. 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. Japanese millet has been planted with good success in pool #4. |
| Expected hunting success | Currently there are very few ducks using the wetland areas throughout the property that are open to hunting. |
| Comments | Few ducks using the area. REFUGE IS NOT OPEN TO HUNTING |
CLINTON - Last Updated: 12/14/2018 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 12/14/18 Duck numbers were down slightly during the waterfowl survey conducted on 12/14. The largest group of ducks was again observed in the refuge area, but they were consistently moving west toward the marsh complexes and throughout the lake. The vast majority of all ducks observed were mallards. Other species observed were pintail, common merganser, hooded merganser, goldeneye, bufflehead, and coots. There were 300 Canada geese observed as well. Waterfowl numbers in the marshes are sporadic, but fair numbers of hunters have had success and have continued to record harvest on I-Sportsman.
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| Lake level | 875.62 - 0.12 feet above pool |
| Hunting conditions | The marshes have begun to thaw out and the ice is melting. They have some areas with open water or thin ice, but the warm temperatures in the forecast should decrease the ice. Mud flats and shorelines in the shallower portions of the reservoir have shown a fair rate of hunter success and more species of waterfowl than the marsh pools so far. These groups have up to 250 birds observed in a group. The pump has been shut off at Coblentz marsh- all pools are full, including East Coblentz. Elk Creek - We will continue pumping as long as water levels allow. Pool one is 80% full, pool two is about 90% full and should rise over the next week. Pool three is full. Currently, all water pumped is moving to pool 2 to gain quality flooded acres. The refuge marsh pool is dry. (and closed) Shadden marsh does not have water this year. |
| 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. Rock Creek Boat Ramp is CLOSED
The REFUGE is closed to all activities from Oct. 1 to Jan. 15 |
HILLSDALE - Last Updated: 9/7/2018 Print
| Waterfowl Numbers | We are currently without a Manager for Hillsdale. Pumping will be minimal for waterfowl season most likely. |
| Water Level | Antioch Wetland - Minimal Browns Wetland, Upper pool - Minimal Browns Wetland, Lower pool - Minimal Youth-Mentor Wetland - Minimal Wade Branch Wetlands - Minimal Hillsdale Lake - See Army Corps Daily Report ICE CONDITION - None |
| Comments | Remember to check-in to iSportsman prior to each hunt. |
JEFFREY ENERGY CENTER - Last Updated: 1/30/2019 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Ducks: <150 Geese: Goose numbers on the area this time of year fluctuate greatly, added with the freezing temperatures and ice, numbers fluctuate with observations of snow geese <5,000 and a small number of Canada geese, many located on the refuge areas. Waterfowl numbers on the area are fair right now and as a reminder boats or any other watercraft are NOT allowed during waterfowl season. |
| Water level | Normal |
| Hunting conditions | Fair |
| Expected hunting success | Fair |
| Comments | Make-up Lake is Closed to waterfowl hunting. 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: 1/25/2019 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | We've now had 4 flood events this fall. The river crested 6 feet above flood stage in early September and 1 foot above in early October and 3 feet above in early December and again in late December. The boat ramps on Gatesville/Lower Smith and Mall Creek are not accessible due to ice. All wetlands, river and the north end of the lake are currently iced over. The COE is hoping to reach their target elevation of 3 feet below pool soon. This will make it extremely difficult to hold water in the wetland pools. The youth area and Zach Hudec may be able to be maintained by pumping if conditions permit (no ice). If the river/lake is too low the North Smith and Beichter/Martin pumps are not operational. 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. No ducks and 1,000 geese (mix of canadas and snows) were observed on the area.
REMINDER: Late duck season is January 19th-27th. For more information, visit https://ksoutdoors.com/Hunting/Migratory-Birds/Ducks.
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| Lake level | Current Level is 1141.57 and Conservation Pool is 1144.4 The dam is releasing 2,000 CFS. The inflow into the lake is 3,050 CFS. |
| Hunting conditions | Vegetation growth and seed production was desirable in many of the wetland areas due to early dry conditions, prior to the flooding caused by the river and lake. All managed wetlands currently have either pumped water or flood water in them. The high flood waters have damaged the quality and food value of the vegetation in the wetlands. 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 | Poor |
| 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. 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. |
TUTTLE CREEK WILDLIFE AREA - Last Updated: 2/4/2019 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 150 ducks 4 Canada Geese Mallard Migration Rank (0-10) =9 |
| Water level | The lake is currently at 1072 and increasing slowly. |
| Hunting conditions | Poor |
| Expected hunting success | Poor |
| Comments | A permit/survey is required to hunt the Tuttle Creek Wildlife Area. The roads are back open, Redbud boat ramp is not usable until repairs can be completed, Swede Crk. Boat ramp parking area is still covered with mud. |
This is a collection of all the Southwest Waterfowl Report
CHEYENNE BOTTOMS - Last Updated: 4/12/2019 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Few nesting pair of Canada geese. 50,000 ducks, mix of all species. 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 is 53", 1B and 1C are around 43", 2 has about 25", 3A has 18", 3B has 15", 4A has 14", 4B has 4", 5 has 5". |
| Hunting conditions | All hunting pools are being drawn down at this time. |
| Expected hunting success | Poor. For the 2018-2019 regular duck season, hunters averaged 2.58 ducks per hunter. |
| Comments | 3A IS CLOSED TO MOTORIZED BOATS MOTORIZED BOATS ALLOWED ONLY DURING OPEN WATERFOWL 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 BOATS FROM FOOT CROSSINGS. NO TRASH POLICY ON THE WILDLIFE AREA. Teal - Youth - Regular Ducks, Low Plains Early Zone - Goose Seasons: Canada - Whitefront - Light - 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: 2/7/2019 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Approximately 100 Canada Geese mixed in with approximately 500 ducks. |
| Water level | All mapped pools are full from heavy rains 10/6 - 10/9. |
| Hunting conditions | |
| Expected hunting success | |
| Comments | Teal Season (Low Plains Zone): September 8-23, 2018 Youth Waterfowl (Low Plains Late Zone): October 20-21, 2018 Ducks (Low Plains Late Zone): October 27 - December 30, 2018, and January 19-27, 2018 Canada Geese: October 27-28, 2018 and November 7, 2018 - February 17, 2019 White-Fronted Geese: October 27 - December 30, 2018 and January 26 - February 17, 2019 Light Geese: October 27-28, 2018 and November 7, 2018 - February 17, 2019 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: 1/3/2019 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | No waterfowl observed 1/3/19. 100% ice-covered. |
| Water levels | Pools 1, 2, 3A, 3B, 6, and 8 are full. There is water north of Pool 6. Pool 7 has been mowed and is full. Pools 3E and 3F are now nearly dry. Pool 9 has some water with heavy vegetation. |
| Hunting conditons | |
| Expected hunting success | |
| Comments | Teal Season (Low Plains Zone): 9/8/18 - 9/23/18 Youth Waterfowl (Low Plains Early Zone): 10/6/18 - 10/7/18 Regular Ducks (Low Plains Early Zone): 10/13/18 - 12/16/18 and 12/22/18 -12/30/18 Goose Seasons: Canada: 10/27/18 - 10/28/18 and 11/7/18 - 2/17/19 Whitefront: 10/27/18 - 12/30/18 and 1/26/19 - 2/17/19 Light: 10/27/18 - 10/28/18 and 11/7/18 - 2/17/19 KDWPT IS CONTINUING AN ELECTRONIC PERMIT SYSTEM FOR THE 2018-2019 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
2BYRON WALKER - Last Updated: 2/11/2019 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Duck numbers from this past weekend are: 200 ducks, and 50 geese. |
| Water level | Kingman State Fishing Lake is full. All marshes are planted to Japanese Millet and are full. |
| Hunting conditions | Poor on the lake, marshes, and ponds due to freeze up. 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 | Poor. |
| Comments | Hunters! Bids closed for the NAWCA wetland project as of 10/17/2017. We started moving dirt the week of November 13, 2017 and the north project was completed last winter. We will be flooding those marshes west and north of the lake with a shallow depth in order to not threaten the integrity of the dikes while perennial vegetation is being established. Also, 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. We will be adding a hardened surface beside it to better facilitate launching. The south part of the NAWCA project in the old Bison Marsh was not started in 2018 due to wet conditions, however, it will be flooded and the work put off until 2019. |
CHENEY - Last Updated: 9/18/2018 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | No water fowl observed at this time |
| Water level | Above Conservation Pool |
| Hunting conditions | poor on the reservoir |
| Expected hunting success | poor |
| Comments |
COUNCIL GROVE - Last Updated: 3/7/2019 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Although present earlier in the week, no snow geese were observed on 3/7/19. Dark geese and ducks (primarily mallards and pintail) remain abundant. |
| Water levels | 0.2 feet below conservation elevation (1,274') on 3/7/19. |
| Hunting conditions | Difficult. The lake was approximately 99% ice covered on 3/7/19. Habitat conditions are slightly improved as compared to most years. Food producing vegetation became established on lake fringes as a result of drought conditions and declining lake levels. In mid-August rains returned and gradually filled the lake in early September. Flooding in October, November, and December has diminished the quality of this vegetation however. |
| Expected hunting success | Poor. |
| Comments | Light Geese Conservation Order is open through April 30. Low Plains Late Zone Duck Season is CLOSED. Dark Geese seasons are CLOSED. |
EL DORADO - Last Updated: 2/7/2019 Print
| Waterfowl Numbers | Approximately 700 Canada geese observed on 02/07. Lake is approximately 10% ice covered. |
| Water level | Approximately 0.23' above conservation elevation (1339') on 02/07. |
| Hunting conditions | Most of the summer the lake was approximately 4.5' below conservation pool. Good moist soil production of vegetation has occurred along the exposed shore line and mud flat areas throughout the summer due to the low water levels. With a fall raise in water level improved habitat conditions may enhance opportunities for waterfowl hunters. |
| Expected hunting success | Fair |
| Comments | NOTE: El Dorado Lake is located within the Low Plains Southeast Zone. Canada Geese: Nov. 7, 2018- Feb. 17, 2019 White-Fronted Geese: Jan. 26-Feb. 17, 2019 Light Geese: Nov. 7, 2018-Feb. 17, 2019 Light Geese, Conservation Order: Feb. 18-April 20, 2019 |
KAW WILDLIFE AREA - Last Updated: 1/24/2019 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | There are approximately 200 waterfowl using the river at this time. |
| Mallard Migration Rank=8 | The rank is subjective and is from (0= No Mallards, 1=Very few Mallards, 5=Moderate numbers, 10= Peak numbers). |
| Water level | Good |
| Hunting conditions | Fair |
| Expected hunting success | Fair/Good |
| Comments | TEAL, LOW PLAINS ZONE Season: Sept. 8-23, 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 10, 2018 - January 6, 2019 AND January 12-27, 2019 Area open:Southeast Zone (see map) Daily bag limit:6 Possession limit:Three times the daily limit |
MCPHERSON VALLEY WETLANDS - Last Updated: 3/8/2019 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. Spring conservation order snow goose season: 18 February - 30 April 2019. Friday, 08 March 2019: The recent trend of warmer temperatures has some of the ice cover finally melting away; however, as of Friday morning the wetlands were still approximately 90% frozen. During the last week the spring migration has really picked up, with good numbers of ducks and geese arriving across the area. Approximately 3,000 - 3,500 geese were observed on the property Thursday morning. About half of the geese were snow geese. Goose numbers are highly variable, and have been changing daily. Scouting will be the key to finding a spot to shoot a few snow geese. See "Water Levels" below for more information. Remember that all activities in the refuge areas are prohibited, AND THE NORTH REFUGE UNIT IS NOW IN EFFECT, along with the south refuge in the Big Basin. |
| Current Information | The roads around the wildlife area are in decent condition. Be prepared for changing road conditions as the next storm system approaches. |
| Water levels | Big Basin: Most public hunting marshes are full. Chain of Lakes: The boards have been pulled in the southwest unit to prep for cattail treatment. The Southwestern College tract will not be dewatered until after the close of goose season. Little Sinkhole Unit: Most public hunting marshes are full. |
| Hunting conditions | Now that duck season has closed, the geese are beginning to use more of the wetlands, which should improve hunter success. |
| 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 2018 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: 1/24/2019 Print
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Waterfowl numbers | There are approximately 80 waterfowl present on the area at this time. Most of the waterfowl consist of mostly mallards. |
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Mallard Migration Rank | Current rank:8 This rank is subjective and ranges from 0 (no mallards) to 10 (peak numbers) |
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Water level | All pools have water in them. Some are frozen shut. |
| Hunting conditions | Fair |
| Expected hunting success | 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: 2/10/2019 Print
| Waterfowl Numbers | Current Duck Numbers: approximately 300 - primarily Mallard along with a few Ring-neck. Current Goose Numbers: somewhere between 4000-5000 depending on the time of day, mostly Snow with a few Canada geese mixed in. |
| Mallard Migration Rating | Current Rating=6 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 1350.74 (Conservation pool is 1350.50) |
| Hunting conditions | Good. Lake levels have been below conservation pool for all of 2018. Some of the boat ramps are still closed. There has been very good moist soil production on the shoreline and mudflats (yellow nut sedge, smartweed, barnyard grass), and this vegetation is starting to see significant flooding now that the water levels have started to rise. Crops in the areas surrounding the reservoir have been poor due to drought this year. |
| Expected hunting success | Fair. Waterfowl numbers and conditions will change daily. |
| Comments | 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.
NEOSHO WILDLIFE AREA - Last Updated: 2/12/2019 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Duck Season is CLOSED!!! iSportsman (electronic daily hunt permit system) is required for all hunters, We now have a zero tolerance policy on failure to comply with iSportsman and check station requirements. 25,000 ducks; mainly Mallards and mixed divers. 2000 Canada Geese, 3500 White-fronted Geese and Snow Geese are varying daily. |
| Mallard Migration Rank | MMR=5 0= No Mallards, 1= Very Few Mallards, 5= Moderate Numbers, 10= Peak |
| Water level | All BOATS MUST OPERATE AT NO-WAKE SPEEDS WITHIN BOATING CANALS Pool 1- FULL Pool 2A- FULL Pool 2B- 95% full Pool 4B- FULL Pool 4A- FULL Pool 5- Middle and lower pool are both FULL. The upper end structure is leaking, staff have attempted to fix twice with no luck. Pool will be dry this season. Pool 6- FULL Pool 7-FULL Pool 8- 75% full Refuge - roughly 12" low South Unit- Dry and will remain dry for 2018-2019 seasons for renovation work (see "Area News"). All pools are between 18 and 24 inch average depth. For more information on the water level conditions for upcoming season please see the area news by clicking link below and clicking on the "NEWS" icon. |
| Hunting conditions | Duck Season is CLOSED!! Fair. Area is 99% iced up as of 2/10/2019. Expected to thaw based on forecasted temperatures Corn and millet production was exceptional this year. Moist soil seed production was some of the best we have seen on the area and we are extremely pleased. Habitat and water levels are excellent for this time of year. Please see the area news page for a breakdown of habitat types within each pool.
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| Expected hunting success | Southeast Zone Regular Duck Season is CLOSED!! Dark Goose Season Closes February 17, 2019 Duck Season totals for 2018-2019 2758 Hunters harvested 4720 ducks for a 1.71 BPH average; 81% (3823) Mallards; 8% (378) Green-winged teal; and 3% (127) Pintail. Number of hunters ranks 19th, Harvest ranks 17th and BPH ranks 11th out of the last 33 duck seasons on Neosho Wildlife Area November (21 days): 1142 Hunters harvested 2259 ducks (48% of the total harvest) for a 1.98 BPH average; 70% (1584) Mallards; 15% (347) Green-winged Teal; and 4% (100) Pintail. December (31 Days): 1093 Hunters harvested 1387 ducks (29% of the total harvest) for a 1.27 BPH average; 93% (1289) Mallards; 2% (24) Green-winged Teal; and 1% (19) Ring-necked ducks. January (22 Days): 523 Hunters harvested 1074 ducks (23% of the total harvest) for a 2.05 BPH average, 92% (991) Mallards; 3% (33) Gadwall; and 3% (33) Ring-necked ducks. We still have 50 hunters that have not checked out of the iSportsman system. Please check to make sure it is not you and please remember to check out by 11:59pm daily. Thank You!!! |
| Comments | If the red check out sign is out at check station all hunters are required to stop. Thanks Neosho WA requires all hunters to utilize the daily permit system called isportsman. Hunters will need to register via PC prior to hunting at Neosho WA. Hunters will be able to login via PC, smartphone, or call in from cell phone or landline phone each day prior to hunting to get a daily permit, and report back similar to the paper daily permits. Please visit https://kdwpt.isportsman.net/to register prior to hunting season. 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. Waterfowl hunting in Pool 8 is restricted to youth hunters and their mentor on weekends and holidays. For additional area news please visit the area website at: http://kdwp.state.ks.us/news/KDWP-Info/Locations/Wildlife-Areas/Region-5/Neosho/Area-News. |
TORONTO RESERVOIR - Last Updated: 1/24/2019 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 1/24/19 There were no ducks seen using the reservoir early this week. Waterfowl is currently mostly absent. Duck season for the Low Plains Southeast Zone is from Nov. 10, 2018 – Jan. 6, 2019 and Jan. 12-27, 2019. The season for Canada geese and light geese opens initially for two days Oct. 27 and 28, 2018. It then opens again Nov. 7, 2018 and runs until Feb. 17, 2019. The season for white-fronted geese opens Oct. 27 through Dec. 30, 2018 and Jan. 26 through Feb. 17, 2019. The light geese, conservation order season will be from Feb. 18 to Apr. 30, 2019. |
| Water level | The reservoir is 1.1 ft. above conservation pool. Wetlands are full. |
| Hunting conditions | The reservoir is approximately 90% frozen over. Open spots in the middle of the reservoir may hold small numbers of ducks. |
| Expected hunting success | Based on observations, hunting success may be slow. |
| Comments | A new report will be posted weekly during the fall and winter waterfowl seasons. For information pertaining to the Toronto Wildlife Area call 620-583-6783. |
ELK CITY RESERVOIR/WILDLIFE AREA - Last Updated: 2/28/2019 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Duck season is closed. There are a good number of waterfowl using the area as they migrate back north. The numbers and species vary greatly from day to day. Less than 1,000 snow geese have been seen using the reservoir this week. The light goose numbers are also fluctuating a lot. |
| Water level | The reservoir is currently 0.7 ft high and slowly dropping. Wetlands are full. |
| Hunting conditions | The lake edge is primarily mud bank now due to repeated flooding. |
| Expected hunting success | Fair to Good. |
| Comment | 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). |
FALL RIVER RESERVOIR - Last Updated: 1/24/2019 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 1/24/19 About 1,000 ducks were using the reservoir this week, as well as about 300 Canada geese. Ducks were using an open pool out in the middle of the reservoir. Duck season for the Low Plains Southeast Zone is from Nov. 10, 2018 – Jan. 6, 2019 and Jan. 12-27, 2019. The season for Canada geese and light geese opens initially for two days Oct. 27 and 28, 2018. It then opens again Nov. 7, 2018 and runs until Feb. 17, 2019. The season for white-fronted geese opens Oct. 27 through Dec. 30, 2018 and Jan. 26 through Feb. 17, 2019. The light geese, conservation order season will be from Feb. 18 to Apr. 30, 2019. |
| Water level | The reservoir is 0.56 ft. above conservation pool. Wetlands are full. |
| Hunting conditions | The reservoir is approximately 90% frozen over. |
| Expected hunting success | Based on observations, hunting success may be slow. Although open water is limited, ducks and geese have been using crop fields. |
| Comments | A new report will 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: 2/6/2019 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 1500 Dark Geese, 2000 Light Geese |
| Water level | Current Level: 1041.72 Conservation Pool Level: 1042.78 |
| Hunting conditions | Dark Geese- Oct. 27-28, 2018 and Nov. 7, 2018-Feb. 17, 2019 Light Geese- Oct. 27-28, 2018 and Nov. 7, 2018-Feb. 17, 2019 Spring Conservation Order: Feb. 18, 2019-April 30, 2019 Boats ramps on reservoir are weather dependent, and conditions are day to day. Ramps on creeks are starting to get iffy. Some are open, some of the creeks are iced up in places. 50 degree days have opened up lake, but cooler temps should start seeing more ice. Birds are scattered around lake, but concentrations can be found at major creek entrances, such as mouth of Otter Creek. Birds are rafting up in middle of lake during most of the day. Lower marsh is currently 100% full, and consist of some millet and moist soil annuals. Upper Marsh below dam is 100% full. 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. |
| Expected hunting success | Average 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: 2/8/2019 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Few geese. |
| Water levels | Good water levels in all units. |
| Hunting/ Habitat conditions | Frozen. |
| Hunting success | Season: 4,965 ducks / 3,391 hunters = 1.5 success. Season dark goose harvest = 78. |
| Comments | The Southeast Zone duck season CLOSED January 27th. 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: 2/22/2019 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) 02/22/2019 ( 10:00 AM )--- 3 Duck Marsh- Both units fully pumped. Willow Marsh- North and South units are pumped and full. Sundance Marsh- No waterfowl was observed on the survey. Lowman's Cove- Full of water. No waterfowl was observed on the survey. Shoveler Slough- LOCATION: South parking lot for Shoveler Slough is at the intersection of W 317th St. & S Davies Rd. No waterfowl observed during the survey. (NOTE: Motorized boats are prohibited) We are currently drawing down the water at Shoveler Slough for levee repair. Refuge- Canada geese observed coming off the lake to search for fields to feed in, and about 30 mixed waterfowl, largely Mallards, and diving ducks. |
| Water level | Lake level = 1034.64; Conservation pool = 1036.00; Target goal for the lake is 1034.00. 65% Ice cover on Melvern Lake. |
| Hunting conditions | Japanese and German millet (50/50 mix) has been drilled in all 5 of our wetlands and is limited due to drought conditions throughout the summer. Millet as well as Milo was planted in alternating strips throughout all of our wetlands to provide varying structure heights as well as options for ducks to feed on moist soil vegetation and grains. Varying food sources an abundance of invertebrates should provide enough food for the ducks to hang around all season. |
| Expected hunting success | Poor. Spring conservation season for light geese runs from February 18 to April 30, 2019. ALL other waterfowl seasons are closed. |
| 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. |