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.
Doves - Management Unit, Hunting Season, Shooting Hours, and Bag and Possession Limits
Sandhill Crane - Management Unit, Hunting Season, Shooting Hours, and Bag and Possession Limits
Migratory Bird Harvest Information Program - Requirements, Exemptions.
Retrieval and possession of game animals and migratory game birds - Requirements
To purchase your HIP Stamp online, CLICK HERE.
Migratory Game Bird Hunters – Why is it important to be “HIP”?
If you hunt doves, ducks, geese, sandhill cranes, coots, snipe, rail, or woodcock, you are required to participate in Harvest Information Program (HIP).
What is HIP?
Harvest Information Program (HIP) is a method by which state wildlife agencies and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) use to provide reliable estimates of the number of migratory game bird hunters, hunter activity and migratory game bird harvest. These estimates provide information needed to make sound decisions concerning hunting seasons, bag limits, and population management. HIP has been a federal requirement of those hunting migratory game birds since 1998.
Who needs to be HIP?
HIP, incorrectly, has become associated more closely with waterfowl hunters. HIP applies to all those who hunt any species of migratory game birds. This would include not only ducks and geese but also doves, woodcock, rails, snipe, sandhill cranes, moorhens, band-tailed pigeons, swans, brant, coots and gallinules, for which there is a set hunting season. If you are required to buy a Kansas hunting license and plan to hunt any migratory game birds in Kansas, you are required to acquire a Kansas Harvest Information Program (HIP) permit. Even if you hold a lifetime license, you still are required to acquire a HIP permit. Exemptions from HIP include those not required to have a Kansas hunting license such as people hunting their own land and residents 15 and younger and 75 and older. It is the hunter responsibility to fulfill their HIP requirement. Proof of HIP must be carried with the hunter in the field, and, like a hunting or fishing license, must be presented to a wildlife officer upon their request. Hunting migratory birds without HIP certification is like hunting without a license—you could be ticketed or fined. You must be HIP certified for each state for which you hunt migratory game birds. The HIP certification process varies from state to state. Please confer with your local wildlife agency regarding HIP in their state.
How does HIP work?
When you purchase your Kansas HIP permit, you first are identifying yourself as migratory game bird hunter. Secondly, the licensing vendor will ask you a series of short questions relating to your hunting experience during last year's season. These questions place you in a sampling stratum from which the USFWS selects small sample to complete a more detailed survey about this year’s upcoming hunting season. These short questions that you are asked about last year’s hunting experience when you become HIP-certified are not part of the survey, and are not used to compile harvest estimates, but are simply used to identify what types of birds you usually hunt. This allows the USFWS to target its surveys to the appropriate hunters. For example, most surveys about dove harvest are sent to hunters who usually hunt doves, while most waterfowl harvest surveys are sent to hunters who usually hunt ducks and/or geese. If you only hunt ducks and geese – no snipe or rails, no moorhens or gallinules – why is it that I have to answer questions about those species? The USFWS needs to be able to contact people who hunt various birds. This narrows the field and allows the USFWS to ask more detailed questions about what was harvested.
If your name is one of the few selected for the national harvest survey, you will receive a personal letter and a hunting record form and will be asked to voluntarily keep a record of the number of migratory birds you harvest during the season. You will be given an addressed, postage-paid envelope to return your hunting form at the end of the season. This survey provides the information used to develop nationwide harvest estimates for all migratory birds. A few select participants are asked to send in wings of migratory game birds they harvest to help determine species, age, sex, and other important harvest data. All HIP responses are kept strictly confidential and are not used for any other purpose. As soon as the survey is completed, the USFWS destroys all hunter names and address records.
As HIP information is gathered at the time a hunting license is purchased whether at a store or online. At the license counter, the license agent should ask the HIP questions as part of the licensing process; if they do not inquire, you should remind them of HIP’s requirement. Kansas charges a small fee to cover administrative costs. KDWPT or USFWS receives no income from this program. HIP is strictly to gather information and is not a means of raising money for conservation programs.
What do hunters gain from HIP?
An understandable question is ‘What does HIP mean to me, as an individual asked to participate in this annual series of inquiries?’ The vast majority of hunters who participate are doing so because they know it’s important and understand why it’s important as hunters. Hunters are not just people answering a survey but are partners in data collection that directly affects hunting opportunities. As the threats and concerns for migratory bird populations continue to mount, it is essential to gather the best information possible about the factors affecting these populations. It is in the hunter's best interest to have wildlife management decisions based on scientific evidence, not on opinions, philosophies, or politics. It only takes a few moments to give wildlife managers the information they need to ensure that our migratory bird resources--and hunting tradition--will be around for future generations to enjoy.
To Purchase Your Kansas HIP Permit Online: https://license.gooutdoorskansas.com
For More Information
USFWS HIP: https://www.fws.gov/birds/surveys-and-data/harvest-surveys/harvest-information-program.php
USFWS Harvest and Hunter Survey Annual Reports: https://www.fws.gov/birds/surveys-and-data/reports-and-publications/hunting-activity-and-harvest.php
Explore Harvest Data visualization for your region: https://fws.gov/harvestsurvey/harvest-vis
Central Flyway Council: https://centralflyway.org/management/harvest-surveys/
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: 3/16/2022 Print
| Waterfowl Numbers | DUCK SEASON is CLOSED. Most of the geese have left. Numbers changing daily. *****REVIEW Kansas Boating Regulations if you are using a boat to hunt. ***** NO ACCESS IN THE CLOSED PORTION OF THE LAND REFUGE SEPT. 1 - JAN. 31 NO ACCESS IN THE CLOSED PORTION OF THE WATER REFUGE NOV. 1 - JAN. 31 
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| Water level | Reservoir Elevation - 2131 (13 ft. low) |
| Hunting conditions | |
| Expected hunting success | Fair. |
| Comments | Cedar Bluff Wildlife Area and Reservoir are in the Low Plains Late Duck Zone Low Plains Late Duck Zone Season Dates Teal - Sept 11-26 Duck - Oct. 30-Jan. 2 and Jan. 22-30 Dark and Light Geese - Oct. 30-31 and Nov. 2-Feb 13 White-fronted Geese - Oct 30-Jan. 2 and Jan.22-Feb 13 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, Eurasian Milfoil, and Phragmites are present in Cedar Bluff Reservoir. Please clean and dry all equipment, decoys and boats before hunting other bodies of water. |
GLEN ELDER - Last Updated: 3/2/2022 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. Go to https://kdwpt.isportsman.net/ for more information. It is YOUR responsibility to know a property's regulations, refuge(s) and duck zone boundaries, etc. BEFORE you hunt. Click here for a detailed map of the refuges, youth area, and State Park boundaries. Open Light Geese Conservation season 2/14/2022- 4/30/2022 Survey run 2/23/2022 150,000 Snow Geese. Geese are moving around a lot and numbers are highly variable day to day.
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| Water level | Lake is about a foot low. Lots of bare mudflats around the entire lake. |
| Hunting conditions | Poor |
| Expected hunting success | Poor. Duck Season is closed. Dark Geese Seasons are closed Light Geese Conservation Order - 2/14/2022- 4/30/2022 Large numbers of snow geese are using Glen Elder. |
| Comments | Granite Creek boat ramp is closed November 1 through January 31, 2021. The Carr Creek boat ramp may be challenging to utilize while water levels are low as there is a lot of silt buildup in that creek. Low Plains Early Zone season is closed for the season. This zone includes the area NORTH of US Hwy 24. Low Plains Late Duck Zone season Re-opens 1/22/22 to 1/30/22. This zone includes the area SOUTH of Hwy 24. Dark geese season will remain open thru 2/13/22. Whitefront season will be 10/30/21 to 1/2/22 and 1/22/22 thru 2/13/22 Light geese season will remain open thru 2/13/22. Conservation season will run 2/14/22 thru 4/30/22. 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: 3/2/2022 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Some snow geese in the area, but are not using the marshes due to ice cover. OPEN LIGHT GOOSE CONSERVATION SEASON - 2/14-4/30/22. REMEMBER: Hunters are REQUIRED to check in and check out using iSportsman electronic daily hunt permit system when they hunt the area. This important information gathered from hunt permits helps managers tailor management practices specific to an area and hunter preference. |
| Water levels | 100% ice cover at this time. The area has experienced an extremely dry summer and the managers moved water from storage so less than 60% of the area has huntable water. With that being said, marshes that are open to boats, have lower water levels than in years past. Hunters that plan to utilize boats (especially motorized boats) need to use extreme caution. Puddler Marsh: Dry Gamekeeper Marsh: 10% full with mostly sheet water with areas of one to four inches; Gun Club West Marsh: 70% full with an average depth of 15 inches. Boating will be difficult in spots until water levels increase; Gun Club East: 60% full at the same elevation as Gun Club West Marsh, average depth of 10 inches. Boating may be difficult in this marsh as well; Greenwing Marsh; 60% full with an average depth of 9"; Marsh Creek Marsh: 35% full as water was pumped out of this marsh to fill Buffalo Creek North Marsh. The creek channel itself is around six feet deep. Buffalo Creek Marshes: The north marsh is 40% full with an average depth of 8", The south Marsh is dry and we will need some rain to have sufficient water to fill; Pintail Marsh: Dry and will need significant rains to fill. All marshes have excellent moist soil habitat and cover. Several areas have been planted to millet, corn and milo during the summer to increase resources for waterfowl. |
| Hunting conditions | Fair depending on ice conditions and bird activity. With the snow line up in the Dakotas, the Snow Goose Migration looks to be quick. Remember: NO ATV's are allowed on department lands and roads. There is a no trash policy: If you take it in with you, please bring it out. This includes spent shotgun shells. ALL vehicles must remain on designated roads and parking areas. REFUGE IS NOW OPEN
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| Expected hunting success | Poor, depending on ice conditions and bird numbers which will fluctuate daily. |
| Comments | REMINDER - REFUGE BOUNDARY CHANGE FROM 2019 YEAR The NW corner of the Gamekeeper Marsh area that was open for hunting prior to 2020 will continue to be included as refuge this year. Puddler marsh was a youth/mentor marsh up until the fall of 2019 when managers opened it up to all hunting. That change, along with the additional 18 inch raise on Gamekeeper Dam will allow managers to move the youth mentor area to a special hunt area starting in the fall of 2021. The new refuge line is along Highway 148 from the marsh creek bridge, north and east to the east boundary of the Wildlife Area. Click here for pdf map of the new area. Waterfowl Seasons Light Geese Conservation Order 02/14/2022 - 04/30/2022 Hunters are REQUIRED to check in AND OUT 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 and the West Gamekeeper Marsh is for non-gasoline powered boats or paddle-in / Walk-in only, this includes electric motor boats and boats with no motors. Gasoline engines are prohibited. Buffalo Creek & Pintail Marshes are for non-motorized boats and walk-in hunting only. HUNTERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO :
THE REFUGE WILL BE CLOSED FRIDAY, OCTOBER 1 - JANUARY 31, 2022 on the north half of Gamekeeper Marsh. REFUGE WILL CLOSE ON OCT. 1, 2021 AND REMAIN CLOSED THRU - JANUARY 31, 2022. The refuge boundary has shifted northwest to Highway 148. Please introduce youth and novice hunters to the outdoors. Pass it on! |
LOVEWELL RESERVOIR - Last Updated: 3/21/2022 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | NOTICE - A significant number of light geese, have died or are sick. Birds were collected and sent to the Southeast Center for Wildlife Diseases to determine the cause of death. Avian influenza and Avian Cholera has been detected in other nearby areas. Avoid handling sick or dead waterfowl. Follow this link to see more information: KDWP Cautions Light Goose Hunters to Be Vigilant as Avian Influenza Cases Rise / 3-15-22 KDWP Cautions Light Goose Hunters to Be Vigilant as Avian Influenza Cases Rise / Weekly News / News / KDWP Info / KDWP - KDWP (ksoutdoors.com) Less than 10,000 thousand light geese using the reservoir today (3/121). Daily numbers vary widely Medium sized group of mallards and other ducks on the reservoir. About 500 Canada geese. Lots of bald eagles! |
| Mallard Migration Ranking | |
| Water level | Lovewell Reservoir is at 1581.2 or 1.4 feet below Conservation Pool, (91.0% full) and holding steady or slowly rising due to some runoff form snow melt. The BOR and Kansas Bostwick Irrigation are bringing 29.5 cfs of water into Guide Rock Diversion from the Republican River that is being used to refill the reservoir and is being released. |
| Hunting condition | Mudflats are ringing the entire reservoir and the water is a close to most shoreline and concealing vegetation. OPEN - LIGHT GOOSE SPRING CONSERVATION ORDER FEB.14 - APR. 30, 2022 CLOSED - LPLZ Duck OCT. 30, 2021 - JAN. 2,2022 and JAN. 22 - 30, 2022 CLOSED- DARK GEESE (Canada, cackling, brant and all other geese except whitefronts) - OCT. 30 - 31, 2021 and NOV. 3, 2021 - FEB. 13, 2022 CLOSED -WHITE-FRONTED GEESE - OCT. 30, 2021 - JAN. 2, 2022, and JAN. 22 - FEB. 13, 2022 CLOSED - LIGHT GEESE (White and Blue Phase and Ross' geese) - OCT30 -31, 2021 and NOV. 3, 2021 - FEB 13, 2022 ALL Boat ramps open in Lovewell State Park Marina and Cedar Point. All boat ramps open on the Wildlife Area at Oak Hill, Pawnee Point and White Rock Creek are iced in and are useable at this time. ALL BOATS ARE REQUIRED TO USE NAVIGATION LIGHTS WHILE OPERATING BETWEEN THE HOURS OF SUNSET AND SUNRISE. NON-MOTORIZED BOAT NEED SOME FLASHLIGHT OR LANTERN. |
| Expected hunting success | POOR. Most light geese being harvested on private land in Nebraska |
| Comments | PARK PERMIT REQUIRED TO ENTER THE STATE PARK. NO HUNTING IS ALLOWED FROM THE SHORELINE OF THE STATE PARK. REFUGE REGULATIONS: The land refuge closed to hunting and other activities year-round. Water refuge in effect November 1 through April 15 on the NORTHEAST half of the reservoir and Wildlife Area from 1/8th mile west of the south end of the dam and following a buoy line northwest to the western boundary of the Cabin Area of the State Park. This area open to fishing south and east of the buoy line from the north end of the dam to the Lovewell State Park Twin Coves trailer area. Inlet canal closed to fishing September 15 through April 15. BOAT RAMPS: SEE HUNTING CONDITION FOR BOAT RAMP STATUS. The State Park boat ramps require a Kansas State Park Permit. The Wildlife Area Boat Ramps are Pawnee Point, Oak Hill and White Rock Creek do not require a permit. CAMPING CABINS are available in Lovewell State Park. Make reservations HERE HUNTERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO :
FOLLOWING SAFE AND ETHICAL PRACTICES WILL ENSURE THAT EVERYONE HUNTING PUBLIC LANDS ENJOYS A HIGH-QUALITY EXPERIENCE. FREE daily hunt permits are REQUIRED for ALL HUNTING on the area. Electronic permits now available. Follow this link to get registered: https://kdwpt.isportsman.net/ PAPER PERMITS ARE NO LONGER AVAILABLE. Contact the office for other arrangements. We thank you for your patience. Please introduce youth and novice hunters to the outdoors. Pass it on! |
NORTON - Last Updated: 3/4/2022 Print
SMOKY HILL/KANOPOLIS - Last Updated: 1/28/2022 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 2200-2700 total ducks with approx 2/3 Mallards remainder mix of divers; 900+ Canada geese |
| Water level | 1464.8 ft and declining. Summer conservation level is 1467 ft. Winter conservation level is 1463; |
| Hunting conditions | Fair; limited vegetation along shorelines; waterfowl hanging along ice lines and open pockets of water on main body of reservoir. |
| Comments | Refuge is CLOSED to all access from September 1st through January 31st. Waterfowl Seasons: Teal (low plains): September 11-26, 2021 Duck (low plains late zone): October 30, 2021 - January 2, 2022 and January 22-30, 2022 Dark Geese: October 30-31, 2021 and November 3, 2021 - February 13, 2022 White-Fronted Geese: October 30, 2021 - January 2, 2022 and January 22 - February 13, 2022 Light Geese: October 30-31, 2021 and November 3, 2021 - February 13, 2022 Light Geese Conservation Order: February 14 - April 30, 2022 Click HERE for duck season, regulation, and research information. Additional information about hunting at Kanopolis Reservoir can be found HERE |
TALMO - Last Updated: 2/25/2022 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | No geese on the area as it is dry REMINDER: ALL HUNTERS NEED TO CHECK IN TO HUNT USING iSPORTSMAN |
| Water level | All pools are dry, there is some sheet water present on the area, but no ducks have been observed using it. |
| Hunting conditions | Moist Soil Conditions are excellent, however all pools are dry. Bird use dependent upon water levels |
| Expected hunting success | Will depend upon rainfall. |
| Comments | Remember: - TALMO IS IN THE LOW PLAINS LATE ZONE Low Plains Late Zone Youth/Military Duck Season 10/23/2021 - 10/24/2021 Low Plains Late Zone Duck Season 10/30/2021 - 01/02/2022 and 01/22/2022 - 01/30/2022
- 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. -The area has a no trash policy. If you take it in, please bring it back out with you. This includes spent shotgun shells. -ALL vehicles MUST remain on the roads and designated parking areas only. |
WEBSTER - Last Updated: 2/22/2022 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Snow goose numbers have decreased; good variety of ducks around |
| Water level | 1889.34'; 3.11' below conservation pool; water levels are rising slowly. |
| Hunting conditions | Lowered lake level has resulted in large amounts of exposed shoreline and large expanses of mud. There is very little vegetation to conceal large groups of hunters or boats. Most of the reservoir is ice free, although portions are expected to freeze if the wind dies down. |
| Expected hunting success | Poor on the wildlife area; all birds are on the refuge. People have been having some success field hunting. |
| Comments | Refuge and non-motorized boat area dates: Nov. 1 through Jan. 31. An updated refuge map has been posted. There is a non-motorized boat area at Webster that is walk-in only that is intended for shore hunters. The area starts at the southeast corner of the reservoir and goes west to Morel boat ramp. This regulation is in effect from Nov. 1 through Jan. 31. Hunting in or from the shoreline inside the State Park or along the face of the dam is prohibited. Please see the attached PDF and Google Earth file to see updated refuge boundaries and dates. Closed areas will be marked with buoys. REMINDER: Camping is not permitted on the wildlife area, including in parking lots, except for in designated campgrounds. Ground fires are also not permitted except in provided fire rings within campgrounds. Blue/Green Algae There are currently no blue-green algae advisories for the lake. Webster Reservoir currently does not have zebra mussels. Please be sure equipment is cleaned and dry before coming to Webster from other places. Teal Season September 11-26, 2021 Duck Season on Webster Reservoir October 30, 2021 - January 2, 2022 and January 22-30, 2022 Youth Weekend, Duck and Goose October 23-24, 2021 Goose Season on Webster Reservoir CANADA GEESE October 30 - October 31, 2021 and November 3, 2021 - February 13, 2022 WHITE-FRONTED October 30, 2021 - January 2, 2022 and January 22 - February 13, 2022 LIGHT GEESE October 30 - October 31, 2021 and November 3, 2021 - February 13, 2022 LIGHT GOOSE CONSERVATION ORDER February 14 - April 30, 2022
Webster Wildlife Area and Refuge Map |
WILSON - Last Updated: 1/28/2022 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Survey ran on 01/28; 9490 total ducks with 7,600 mallards; remainder a mix of gadwall, pintail, wigeon, goldeneye; ~ 730 Canada Geese |
| Water level | 1515.64 ft and steady; (Conservation pool is 1516.0 ft) |
| Hunting conditions | Cedar Creek boat ramp and Elm Creek boat ramp closed due to ICE. Ice line is east of Elm Creek boat ramp. |
| Expected hunting success | Fair |
| Comments | Waterfowl Seasons: Low Plains Late Zone: October 30-January 2; January 22-30, 2022 Refuges are closed Sept 1-Jan 31 to all access except by special permit. Zebra mussels are in Wilson Lake, so be sure to drain/dry/clean boats and equipment before moving to other areas. 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: 1/24/2022 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. The wetlands have great habitat, such as, Giant Foxtail, Annual Smartweed, and Barnyard Grass. All the wetlands are holding water fairly well. The west wetland pump is going again and is pumping the southern complex. All of the wetlands are having trouble holding water this year due to dry conditions/low water table. Mallards have been seen and heard using the large wetland west of the shop. Lots of geese have been seen flying over the wildlife area. Refuge(NOT open to hunting) October 1 through March 31 the area can only be accessed with a special permit obtained through a drawing. Look for "Special Hunts" on our home page under "HUNTING". |
| Hunting conditions | Native vegetation such as annual smart weeds, barnyard grass, foxtail, and sunflowers are the most common vegetation. |
| Expected hunting success | About 1000 Canada Geese and 1000 Mallard Ducks are using the refuge area. The cold air mass and snow potential should increase duck numbers and hunting success. |
| Comments | The wetlands have a good variety of vegetation. REFUGE IS CLOSED TO HUNTING. |
CLINTON - Last Updated: 1/31/2022 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Updated 1/31/22- ICE! Waterfowl numbers are lower with the cold temps and very limited open water. Waterfowl survey conducted on 1-28-22. Waterfowl survey results: Canada geese- 1,800 White-fronted geese- 350 Mallard- 670 Bufflehead- 128 Goldeneye- 350 Scaup- 18 Redhead- 52 Hooded Merganser- 125 Common Merganser- 500 Ducks counted but not identified-750 Total waterfowl counted- 5,033 --------- Clinton WA marshes I-Sportsman info from 10/30 to 12/31- 714 waterfowl check-outs/686 birds harvested Average harvest was just under 1 bird per hunter (0.96) |
| Lake level | ICE Lake level is 875.49 as of 1-31-22 (conservation pool is 875.50)
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| Hunting conditions | All Shallow water is currently frozen. Lake- Frozen Large mixed-species rafts of geese and ducks have been using the open areas of the lake. Areas protected from the wind often hold small numbers of waterfowl. Coblentz & East Coblentz- Frozen. All the Coblentz marsh pools are less than 25% full and frozen. East Coblentz project is completed. KDWPT staff has completed marsh pumping for the waterfowl season. Shadden marsh is full, hunting space is limited. Elk Creek- Pool 1 is full, pools 2, 3, and 4 (Refuge pool) are less than 25% full and iced up. KDWPT food plots throughout the complex will provide plenty of food and a variety of water levels. THE REFUGE AND REFUGE MARSH POOL ARE OPEN TO HUNTING AND OTHER ACTIVITIES Clinton contains miles of creeks, rivers and oxbows on the wildlife area; each of which has unique conditions and frequently hold waterfowl when weather and/or pressure pushes them from marsh pools. The refuge is OPEN.
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| Expected hunting success | Poor |
| Comments | IMPORTANT! Clinton Wildlife Area is utilizing an electronic check-in system required of all hunters. To register, please go to https://kdwpt.isportsman.net. This is 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. Elk Creek (Wakarusa River) and Coon Creek (Lake) boat ramps are open. Rock Creek Boat ramp is closed; a gravel launch area for canoes and kayaks is available when lake is near normal pool. |
HILLSDALE - Last Updated: 3/22/2022 Print
| Waterfowl Numbers | The Hillsdale Wildlife Area has experienced a normal year in regards to water levels in 2021. The reservoir currently sits at conservation pool. We have had some successful moist soil vegetation growth in all wetland pools this year. Japanese millet was also planted along side some milo in the Youth-Mentor Wetland and Antioch Wetland. The upper reaches of Brown's Wetland were planted into Japanese Millet. A fair amount of seed has been produced which should make good forage and cover for waterfowl this season. Water levels began being brought down on 3/21/2022. They will continue to be brought down slowly throughout the spring and into the growing season. The youth-mentor wetland has been drained to near-completion to prepare for dike repairs. Waterfowl counts given on this report are based on what was observed on the day the report is updated. Waterfowl numbers vary greatly from day to day and weather conditions and hunting pressure will affect the numbers of waterfowl on the area. The weather has been warm throughout the week with rains moving in. The large numbers of mallards and pintails have moved out of the area. There are now large groups of northern shovelers, blue-winged teal, and coots using the wetland pools. There are starting to be large dark geese forming pairs in the marshes and along the lake shore. |
| Water Level | Antioch Wetland - Full and draining slowly Browns Wetland, Upper pool - Full and draining slowly Browns Wetland, Lower pool - Full and draining slowly Youth-Mentor Wetland - 1/6 Wade Branch Wetlands - Full, Full Hillsdale Lake - See Army Corps Daily Report ICE CONDITION - 0% ice cover on lake. 0% ice cover on wetlands |
| 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: 3/14/2022 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Ducks: 150+ ducks observed on Auxillary lake. Mix of mostly goldeneye and scaup. Geese: Less than 50 Canadas on Auxillary lake. 30,000-200,000 snow geese on the lake with the population fluctuating quite drastically this time of year |
| Water level | Normal |
| Hunting conditions | Poor-fair |
| Expected hunting success | Poor-fair |
| Comments | Make-up Lake is closed to waterfowl hunting during waterfowl season. Boats are not allowed on Auxillary lake during waterfowl season. Individuals wishing to hunt Unit #2 of the wildlife area must enter through the main gate and sign in at the guard house. Be sure to have a photo I.D. with you when checking in. Hunters are required to drive maintained roads only. A map will be provided to all hunters showing open roads as well as parking areas. Vehicles are allowed to park in parking areas only. |
MILFORD WILDLIFE AREA - Last Updated: 1/19/2022 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Waterfowl counts given on this report are based on what was observed on the day the report is updated. Waterfowl numbers vary greatly from day to day and weather conditions and hunting pressure will affect the numbers of waterfowl on the area. Throughout the week and waterfowl survey, around 1155 mallards, 2 redheads, 50 gadwall, 20 buffleheads, 336 goldeneyes, 1150 canada geese and 4,500 light geese were observed. |
| Lake level | Current Lake Level is 1145.78 and Conservation Pool is 1144.4 The dam is releasing 1500 CFS. The inflow into the lake is 200 CFS. |
| Hunting conditions | Vegetation growth and seed production has been above average this year. We are working at getting the pumps (North Smith and Beichter) still repaired and going for the waterfowl season, due to flooding in the past years and ability to get parts for the pumps. Mall Creek and Lower Smith/Gatesville boat ramps are open. Wetlands that have water are Mall Creek, Sugarbowl, Lower Smith and Quimby. The pumps for Beichter/Martin and North Smith are in the process of getting fixed. 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 | Fair, Bird numbers were observed throughout the reservoir. Wetlands are frozen, with a few small open areas. Use caution when hunting around ice. |
| 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. Hunter's need to be aware of their targets before shooting. The area is a no trash policy, so if you take it in, please bring it back out with you. This includes spent shotgun shells 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 WILDLIFE AREA - Last Updated: 2/8/2022 Print
TUTTLE CREEK WILDLIFE AREA - Last Updated: 1/25/2022 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 35 ducks 1000 Canada Geese Mallard Migration Rank (0-10) =9 |
| 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. |
This is a collection of all the Southwest Waterfowl Report
CHEYENNE BOTTOMS - Last Updated: 4/29/2022 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Low 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 | 1A-8", 1B-8", 1C-8", 2-3", 3A-dry, 3B-dry, 4A-dry, 4B-dry, 5-dry. No way to replenish water levels due to ongoing construction and dry weather. As soon as construction of the new pump station in the west hub is complete, water will be brought in if available. |
| Hunting conditions | Pool 2- Pool 3A- Pool 3B- 1,000 acres of cattails have been disked multiple times. All blind islands have been rebuilt. Pool 4A- Pool 4B- Pool 5- |
| Expected hunting success | Poor |
| Comments | ALL BOATS MUST BE OPERATED AT NO WAKE SPEEDS. REGARDLESS OF THE TIME OR SCENERIO, ALL BOATS MUST BE OPERATED AT NO WAKE SPEEDS 100% OF THE TIME, NO EXCEPTIONS. POOL 4A IS CLOSED AT 1 P.M. DAILY TO MOTORIZED BOATS. ANY BOAT WITH A MOTOR ON IT MUST BE OUT OF THE WATER AT 1 P.M. NO MOTORING OUT PRIOR TO 1 P.M. THEN ROWING OR DRAGGING BOAT BACK IN AFTER 1 P.M. 3A IS CLOSED TO MOTORIZED BOATS MOTORIZED BOATS ALLOWED ONLY DURING OPEN WATERFOWL SEASON. THIS MEANS NO SCOUTING FROM A MOTOR BOAT PRIOR TO SEASON. ALL WATERCRAFT ARE PROHIBITED FROM APRIL 15-AUGUST 15 TO PROTECT NESTING BIRDS ON THE WILDLIFE AREA. DURING THE YOUTH/VETERANS/MILITARY WEEKEND, POOL 4B IS DESIGNATED AS A YOUTH ONLY POOL. LEGAL SHOOTING HOURS ARE 30 MINUTES BEFORE SUNRISE TO SUNSET. UNLAWFUL TO SHOOT FROM ROADS OR DIKES ON THE WILDLIFE AREA. DO NOT PARK BLOCKING ROADS, GATES, BOAT RAMPS, FOOT CROSSINGS, ETC. DO NOT LAUNCH TRAILERED BOATS FROM DIKES OR FOOT CROSSINGS. ANY BOATS ON A TRAILER MUST USE DESIGNATED BOAT RAMPS. NO TRASH POLICY ON THE WILDLIFE AREA. CAMP IN DESIGNATED CAMPGROUND ONLY Use footcrossings in Pools 3A, 3B, 4A, and 4B as the ditches have been cleaned out and are very deep. 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 - Youth/Military/Veteran - Ducks, Low Plains Early Zone - Goose Seasons: Canada - Whitefront - Light - Light goose conservation order - 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: 1/27/2022 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | No waterfowl observed 1/27 |
| Water level | The pool adjacent to Hwy. 42 is approximately 75% full. The main lake is approximately 75% full and there is no water Northwest of the main lake. The pool south of the main lake is nearly full. |
| Hunting conditions | 100% ice-covered |
| Expected hunting success | |
| Comments | Teal Season (Low Plains Zone): September 11-September 26, 2021 Youth Waterfowl (Low Plains Late Zone): October 23-24, 2021 Ducks (Low Plains Late Zone): October 30, 2021 - January 2, (first segment) and January 22 - January 30 (second segment) 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 2020-2021. Only non-toxic shot is allowed on Isabel Wetland Wildlife Area for all species. |
TEXAS LAKE - Last Updated: 12/30/2021 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Less than 25 mallards observed periodically over the last few days. |
| Water levels | Currently pools 1, 2, and 3B are full. Pools 4, 6, 8, and 9 have some water. Pool 7 is dry. There is some water north of pool 6. |
| Hunting conditions | |
| Expected hunting success | |
| Comments | Teal Season (Low Plains Zone): 9/11/20-9/26/20 Youth Waterfowl (Low Plains Early Zone): 10/2/21 - 10/3/21 Regular Ducks (Low Plains Early Zone): 10/9/21 - 12/5/21 and 12/18/21 -1/2/22 KDWPT IS CONTINUING AN ELECTRONIC PERMIT SYSTEM FOR THE 2020-2021 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: 1/24/2022 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 196 dabbling ducks were seen with majority being Mallards, 650 divers were seen majority being Goldeneye and around 50 Mergansers were seen. There were also 345 Canada Geese seen using the reservoir. |
| Water level | 2 feet below Conservation Pool on reservoir. |
| Hunting conditions | Poor The reservoir was at a nearly full level most of the summer, so very few native food producing plants were able to establish along the shoreline. The recent drop in water level has left a large stretch of bare ground between concealment cover and water around most of the wildlife area. Despite the lack of food plants, hunting should improve if the reservoir comes back up. |
| Expected hunting success | Poor |
| Comments | Cheney Wildlife Area is located in the Low Plains Late Zone Low Plains Late Zone Youth/Veteran/Military Season is Oct. 23-24, 2021. Low Plains Late Zone Duck Season is Oct 30, 2021-Jan 2rd, 2022, and Jan 22-30, 2022. Daily bag limit: 6 Six ducks is the daily bag limit, with species and sex restrictions as follows: 5 mallards (no more than 2 of which may be females), 3 wood ducks, 2 redheads, 2 canvasbacks, 1 pintail, and 1 scaup. The daily bag may comprise six of any other duck, such as six teal, six gadwall, 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, please call 911. |
BYRON WALKER - Last Updated: 1/19/2022 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | We are now carrying around 150 ducks and at times 250 geese on the area. With the duck season closed currently. The water is open today (Wednesday) but may close up again tonight if the wind lays down. |
| Water level | Kingman State Fishing Lake is full. All 8 marshes just north and west of the lake are full. The west 2 of the 3 marshes south of the highway are holding huntable water. During this week's cold nights, most of the marshes froze over at least partially. |
| Hunting conditions | Hunting conditions are dominated by closed ice conditions on the marshes, ponds, and lake. There is limited open water available on the river and some of its oxbows.
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| Expected hunting success | Limited by number of birds in the area. |
| Comments |
COUNCIL GROVE - Last Updated: 3/11/2022 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | No snow geese. Approximately 600 Canada geese, 275 ducks (primarily mallard, pintail, and goldeneye), and 475 mergansers observed on 3/11/22. |
| Water levels | 0.4 feet below conservation elevation (1,274') on 3/11/22. |
| Hunting conditions | Full lake levels persisted through the summer and prevented the establishment of food producing plants along lake edges. As such, food resources are diminished within lake environments. |
| Expected hunting success | Poor. |
| Comments | Low Plains Late Zone Duck Season and Dark Goose seasons are CLOSED. Light Goose Conservation Order is open thru April 30. |
EL DORADO - Last Updated: 1/27/2022 Print
| Waterfowl Numbers | Approximately 3500 ducks (mostly diver ducks and a few Mallards) and 2900 Canada geese observed on 1/27/22. |
| Water level | At 1338.66' approximately .34' below conservation elevation (1339'). |
| Hunting conditions | Most of the summer the lake was at or slightly above conservation pool. Food producing plants in the reservoir were limited due to the higher water. |
| Expected hunting success | Fair |
| Comments | NOTE: El Dorado Lake is located within the Low Plains Southeast Zone. DUCKS, LOW PLAINS SOUTHEAST ZONE Season: January 15-30, 2022 |
KAW WILDLIFE AREA. - Last Updated: 1/27/2022 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | There are some waterfowl in the area at this time. Mostly flying around. |
| Water level | Low |
| Hunting conditions | Fair |
| Expected hunting success | Fair |
| Comments | TEAL, LOW PLAINS ZONE Season: Sept. 11-26, 2021 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 6, 2021 - January 2, 2022 AND January 15-30, 2022 Area open: Southeast Zone (see map) Daily bag limit:6 Possession limit: Three times the daily limit |
MCPHERSON VALLEY WETLANDS - Last Updated: 2/10/2022 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. THURSDAY, 10 FEBRUARY 2022: ***THE LOW PLAINS EARLY ZONE DUCK SEASON IS CLOSED*** ***GOOSE SEASON IS OPEN UNTIL FEBRUARY 13TH, 2022*** At the time of this posting, the wetlands were approximately 25% frozen. Goose numbers have increased a little with the recent thaw. Approximately 2,500 geese were observed on the area Thursday morning. Remember that all activities in the north and south refuges in the Big Basin are prohibited. |
| Current Information | Be aware of new regulations in effect for the 2021 season: The use of motorized boats is prohibited, and centerfire rifles and handguns are prohibited. |
| Water levels | The wetlands are in serious need of abundant rainfall! Water levels continue to decline, but all three units have at least some huntable water. Scouting will be critical in determining which wetlands have water. Pumping efforts are complete for the 2021 season. Big Basin: Decent water in some of the wetlands that are open to public hunting, and good water in the refuge. Chain of Lakes: Water is very limited in this unit. Be aware that the majority of the pond on the east boundary is privately owned. Little Sinkhole Unit: Huntable water in a few of the wetlands. |
| Hunting conditions | We have treated approximately 500 acres of cattails, Lotus, and other undesirable vegetation this growing season. As the treated vegetation dies off and the desirable moist soil vegetation completes seed production, we will continue to roller chop / manipulate vegetation as the season moves forward. Waterfowl food production (native moist soil vegetation) has been fairly good across the area this year, and approximately 400 acres of millet was planted in various wetlands. The rain before teal season was a tremendous help, but the area needs more rain to hold water all season. |
| Expected hunting success | Fair if significant thawing occurs. |
| 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 2020 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: 1/27/2022 Print
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Waterfowl numbers | There are no waterfowl present on the area at this time. Ice coverage is 100%. Water might open up with the warmer temps this weekend. |
|
Water level | Low |
| Hunting conditions | Poor |
| Expected hunting success | Poor |
| Comments | Slate Creek Wetland Public Announcement Due to some erosion problems at the wetland, we will not be able to hold water for the 2021-22 waterfowl season. There will be some water in the pools, it will be just in the low-lying areas. But all of this will depend on rain fall. The low water levels will allow us time to get some valuable imagery/survey of the area. This will help us resolve current erosion issues and help us map the whole wetland system for future development. We thank you for your understanding and patience. 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. |
MARION - Last Updated: 2/25/2022 Print
| Waterfowl Numbers | The reservoir has approximately 16,500 geese consisting mostly of Snow's Canada and a few White-Fronted Geese mixed in. Approximately 300 ducks were observed with a mix of Mallard, Pintail, and Goldeneye. Numbers and conditions can change daily. |
| Ice | The reservoir currently has approximately 95% ice coverage. |
| Water level | Lake level is at 1348.66 (Conservation pool is 1350.50) |
| Hunting conditions | Fair. The reservoir was at or near conservation pool most of 2021. There was very little natural food production along the shoreline this year in the way of moist soil vegetation like barnyard grass and yellow nut sedge. Crops on the area look good. Water levels are dropping leaving behind exposed mud between the water and shoreline. |
| 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: 1/26/2022 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Ducks appear to have dispersed off of the lake after season opened again. Still quite a few mergansers (hooded and common) and snow geese using the main lake, but the mallard numbers seem to have declined from last week. The waterfowl numbers are expected to fluctuate with migration, hunting pressure, and changing habitat conditions. |
| Water level | The water levels in the marshes vary across the area. Some have huntable water and some are empty, but none of the marshes are full. We do not have the capability to pump any of the marshes on the wildlife area. Heavy rains will be required to get runoff to fill the marshes. Today, the reservoir is 0.41 ft above pool level. For current Reservoir levels visit http://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/ELKC.lakepage.html |
| Hunting conditions | The water situation in the wetlands is still poor. Heavy rain is still needed to improve hunting conditions. |
| Expected hunting success | Poor to Fair. Opportunities are limited with the current conditions. REGULAR DUCK SEASON IS NOV. 6-JAN. 2 AND JAN. 15-30 |
| Comments | Individuals utilizing the wildlife area need to be aware of the refuge boundaries. Boats cannot drive through the refuge area on the water. Maps can be obtained at the Fisheries & Wildlife office (below the dam), at the State Park (on the lake side), and online at https://ksoutdoors.com/content/download/20944/140278/file/ELK%20CITY%20RES%20&%20WA.pdf |
FALL RIVER RESERVOIR - Last Updated: 1/14/2022 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 1/14/22 Descent amount of divers on the lake and some of the small ponds in the area. Still seeing a few small groups of big ducks in the area. If conditions get cold and smaller bodies of water ice over you can expect to see much better numbers on the reservoir. Geese are present in good numbers on fields in the area but not many using the wildlife area as of yet. Birds continue to move in and then out very quickly so scouting a day before any hunt would be advantageous. |
| Water level | Reservoir is at conservation pool. |
| Hunting conditions | Conditions have been mild but frontal system should bring some colder temps and new birds in. |
| Expected hunting success | Limited |
| Comments | Waterfowl reports will be updated on a bi-weekly basis during the fall and winter waterfowl seasons. Updates will be made when significant changes in waterfowl numbers are observed. For information pertaining to the Fall River Wildlife Area call 620-583-6783. |
JOHN REDMOND - Last Updated: 1/4/2022 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 1000 mixed divers, 1000 mixed pudlers, and 3000 dark geese, and some 3,500 snow geese. |
| Water level | Current Level: 1041.2 Conservation Pool Level: 1041 |
| Hunting conditions | TEAL, LOW PLAINS ZONE
YOUTH, VETERAN AND ACTIVE MILITARY WATERFOWL SEASONS (Youth 17 and younger) Southeast Zone: Oct. 30-31, 2021 DUCKS, LOW PLAINS SOUTHEAST ZONE
DUCK LIMITS 6 ducks, with species and sex restrictions as follows: 5 mallards (no more than 2 of which may be females), 3 wood ducks, 2 redheads, 2 canvasbacks, 1 pintail, and 1 scaup. Geese CANADA GEESE
WHITE-FRONTED GEESE
LIGHT GEESE
LIGHT GEESE, CONSERVATION ORDER
John Redmond and Otter Creek Wildlife Area Fall 2021 Conditions- I expect average habitat conditions this year for waterfowl on John Redmond Reservoir. Otter Creek Marshes, located below John Redmond Dam- Only the upper marsh will have water this year. It has excellent vegetation, and is currently full. The Sedimentation Basins located on west side, below dam, are not open for hunting, and are privately owned and operated. |
| Expected hunting success | Shallow water, and shorlines starting to ice up. Boat ramps are currently open but could lock up with below average temperatures. I expect above average success for boat hunters out on the reservoir. |
| 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: 1/27/2022 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | NOTE: Legal shooting hours are 1/2-hour before sunrise to SUNSET. Late shooters (shooting after sunset) will be prosecuted. All hunters must check-in daily using iSportsman electronic check-in from a PC, smartphone, or by phone before hunting and check out before midnight regardless of harvest. We have a zero tolerance policy on failure to comply with iSportsman 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. If you are having issues with iSportsman, call the office and leave a message. Low numbers of ducks in the refuge. Hunting success was good for the second opener and until marshes froze up. |
| Water levels | Ice Report: Morning of 01/27/22. 90% ice. Some natural open water can be found. More ice likely thawing in the the next couple days. Most the ice that is remaining is soft and rotten. Ice is not thick enough to walk on. Be careful. Some ice will likely build back at night. Due to shorter vegetation height, hunters can expect to have slightly shallower water than previous years. Boats may be difficult to launch and use in the majority of units. Water levels are good in the following units: A-North, A-East, F-West, F-South, F-East, C-South and Unit G. Stage ups will occur through out the remainder of the season. All refuge units have good water. Most smaller units that can be pumped, have been pumped. Unit E has very little water in it and will require a large rain event for that to change. With a little scouting, hunters should be able to find opportunities. |
| Hunting/ Habitat conditions | Early flooding and late droughts made for an adverse growing season. In addition, there were several cycles of army worms that destroyed hundreds of acres of desirable vegetation, with Unit G being hit the hardest. In spite of these factors, wetland food production across the area was only slightly below average. Hunters should expect shorter vegetation and more shallow water than typical. With the late season heat and drought, hunters may also have to deal with a little extra cocklebur. Japanese Millet was planted in a few small areas. Milo was planted in C-South and F-East. |
| Season Dates | SOUTHESAT LATE ZONE DUCK SEASON OPENS Nov. 6,2021 - Jan. 2, 2022 and Jan 15 - Jan. 30, 2022 WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE OPENS Oct. 30,2021 - Jan 2, 2022 and Jan. 22 - Feb. 13, 2022 DARK GOOSE SEASON OPENS Oct. 30 - 31,2021 and Nov. 3 - Feb. 13, 2022 Light GOOSE SEASON OPENS Oct. 30 - 31,2021 and Nov. 3 - Feb. 13, 2022 Conservation Light Goose season is from February 14 - April , 2022 |
| Comments | Gas motors are restricted to Unit G and the boat lane in Unit A-East. Outboards cannot be used in any other wetland units. Electric trolling motors are unrestricted. Waterfowl report is updated only if there are significant changes in waterfowl numbers or hunting conditions. Atv's of any kind are not allowed on the area (side by sides, utv's, amphibious vehicles, "argos", this also means no electric bicycles) Campgrounds on the area are primitive. (No electric, No water) Take your trash with you! If you are having trouble logging into iSportsman, PLEASE DO NOT create a new account! Please contact our office prior to hunting, (913) 352-8941, and leave a detailed message with your name and number and we will get back with you to assist with retrieving your log in information. Please do not wait until the morning of to make sure you can check in; take the time to ensure you can sign in and sign out before coming to hunt. Please remember to fill out the daily permit with accurate information. THIS INFORMATION IS VERY IMPORTANT TO THE CURRENT AND FUTURE MANAGEMENT OF THE AREA. FILL OUT ONLY YOUR INDIVIDUAL HARVEST EFFORTS, each individual hunter needs to check in/out and report his/her harvest totals. i.e., NOT A GROUP HARVEST TOTAL. Marais des Cygnes WA requires all hunters to utilize the daily permit system called iSportsman. Hunters will need to register via PC prior to hunting at Marais des Cygnes WA. Hunters will be able to check in via PC, smartphone, or call in from cell phone or landline phone each day prior to hunting. Please visit https://kdwpt.isportsman.net to register prior to hunting season. |
MELVERN LAKE/WILDLIFE AREA - Last Updated: 1/19/2022 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. 84 Mallards 27 Common Goldeneye 64 Common Merganser 4 Canada Geese 400 Snow Geese Mallard Migration Rank = 5 (0 = no mallards and 10 = peak migration) |
| Water level | Lake level = 1034.92; Conservation pool = 1036.00; Target goal for the lake is 1034.00. 30% Ice cover on Melvern Lake. |
| Hunting conditions | Melvern Lake and the Wildlife Area fall within the Low Plains Late Zone. Duck Season is CLOSED until the second split: January 22nd-30th. 3 Duck Marsh- The wetland is a mix of corn and moist-soil production. Both units are full. Willow Marsh- This wetland is full of moist soil vegetation and will provide excellent habitat. This wetland is full. Sundance Marsh- This wetland remained underwater until early August due to high lake levels. There was some response by moist soil vegetation and the wetland is 100% full. Lowman's Cove- Due to high rainfall totals this wetland remained full and produced little food within the marsh. There will be plenty of cover around the edges but lots of open water within the wetland. Shoveler Slough- This wetland is a mix of corn and moist-soil production. Habitat conditions are looking excellent. This wetland is full. The parking lot for this wetland is located at the intersection of 317th and S. Davis Rd. Refuge-The refuge is on the west end of the lake and directly east of Willow Marsh. It produced good moist soil vegetation but due to dropping lake levels there is very little habitat available. The Refuge Area is CLOSED October 1st through January 15th. |
| Expected hunting success | Moderate |
| 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: 3/1/2022 Print
TORONTO RESERVOIR - Last Updated: 1/14/2022 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 1/14/22 Descent amount of divers on the lake and some of the small ponds and marshes in the area. Still seeing a few small groups of big ducks in the area. If conditions get cold and smaller bodies of water ice over you can expect to see much better numbers on the reservoir. Geese are present in good numbers on fields in the area but not many using the wildlife area as of yet. Birds continue to move in and then out very quickly so scouting a day before any hunt would be advantageous. |
| Water level | Lake is at conservation pool and all marshes in the area are full. |
| Hunting conditions | With recent warmer weather the ponds and other smaller bodies of water have opened up. Smaller bodies of water will ice over with some colder weather. |
| Expected hunting success | Moderate |
| Comments | Waterfowl reports will be posted on a bi-weekly basis throughout the fall and winter waterfowl seasons. Updates will be made when a significant change in bird numbers is observed. For information pertaining to the Toronto Wildlife Area call 620-583-6783. |