Sandhill Crane
Online Test for Sandhill Crane Hunters and Other Sandhill Crane Information
To buy your Sandhill Crane permit, CLICK HERE.
General Information
Sandhill Crane - photo by Mike Blair, KDWP
Sandhill cranes have been hunted in Kansas since 1993 and in the Central Flyway since 1961. Hunting is permitted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in nine of the 10 states in the Central Flyway. Although crane hunting is opposed by some people, crane hunting is done on a sustainable basis under a population management plan approved by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Sport hunting also is justified for maintaining reasonable distributions of sandhill cranes. If concentrations become too high in some areas, crop depredation can occur and risk of disease to cranes increases. Crane hunting is extremely challenging because cranes are very wary and crane meat is considered excellent table fare, probably the best of all migratory game birds.
The sandhill cranes that migrate through Kansas, and sometimes winter here, are part of the Mid-continent Population. This population is one of nine in North America and by far the largest with about 500,000 birds. The next largest populations number about 20-25,000 birds.
Hunting regulations have been formulated and contingency plans utilized to minimize the chance of endangered whooping cranes being accidentally shot by sandhill crane hunters. Although sandhill cranes start concentrating in huntable numbers during late October, the start of the hunting season was delayed to the Wednesday following the first Saturday in November to allow most of the whooping cranes to migrate through the state. Shooting hours for sandhill cranes begin at sunrise rather than one-half hour before sunrise to minimize the chance of a sandhill crane hunter mistakenly shooting a whooping crane due to low light conditions. (Kansas is the only state in the Central Flyway to have delayed shooting hours to protect whooping cranes.) The federal-state, Quivira National Wildlife Refuge, and Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area contingency plans provide guidance as to what actions to take if whooping cranes are present during hunting seasons.
Whooping Crane - photo by Mike Blair, KDWP
Sandhill crane and waterfowl hunters need to be aware that whooping cranes are occurring more frequently in Kansas, especially in the Cheyenne Bottoms and Quivira areas, and be able to identify whooping cranes. Whooping cranes and sandhill cranes are similar in size and shape, but whooping cranes are white with black wing tips. The penalty for shooting a whooping crane is a fine of up to $100,000 and/or up to one year in prison. For more information, go to:
Online Test for Sandhill Crane Hunters - This test is mandatory for all sandhill crane hunters. The test is 378k in size and will take a few minutes to download if you have a modem. Flash 6 is required, which most computers have. If yours doesn't, then you will be asked to download Flash 6.
Whooping Crane Brochure - Information on whooping cranes and how to distinguish them from species that look similar to them.
USFWS Information for Waterfowl and Sandhill Crane Hunters - The purpose of this web site is to provide waterfowl and sandhill crane hunters with information that will reduce the likelihood of shooting illegally at migratory birds that may look like sandhill cranes, but for which there is no open season and are protected by Federal law.
Dates: 10/10/2020 - 01/03/2021
- Area open: High Plains Zone (see map)
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Daily bag limit: 6
Six ducks is the daily bag limit, which may include no more than two canvasbacks, two redheads, one pintail, three wood ducks, three scaup and five mallards (only two of which may be hens). The daily bag may comprise six of any other duck, such as six teal, six gadwall, or six wigeon. - Possession limit: Three times the daily limit
Dates: 10/17/2020 - 12/13/2020
- Daily bag limit: 3
- Possession limit: 6
Dates: 01/09/2021 - 01/31/2021
- Area open: Southeast Zone (see map)
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Daily bag limit: 6
Six ducks is the daily bag limit, which may include no more than two canvasbacks, two redheads, one pintail, three wood ducks, three scaup and five mallards (only two of which may be hens). The daily bag may comprise six of any other duck, such as six teal, six gadwall, or six wigeon. - Possession limit: Three times the daily limit
Dates: 01/22/2021 - 01/31/2021
- Area open: High Plains Zone (see map)
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Daily bag limit: 6
Six ducks is the daily bag limit, which may include no more than two canvasbacks, two redheads, one pintail, three wood ducks, three scaup and five mallards (only two of which may be hens). The daily bag may comprise six of any other duck, such as six teal, six gadwall, or six wigeon. - Possession limit: Three times the daily limit
Dates: 10/31/2020 - 01/03/2021
- Area open: Low Plains Late Zone (see map)
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Daily bag limit: 6
Six ducks is the daily bag limit, which may include no more than two canvasbacks, two redheads, one pintail, three wood ducks, three scaup and five mallards (only two of which may be hens). The daily bag may comprise six of any other duck, such as six teal, six gadwall, or six wigeon. - Possession limit: Three times the daily limit
Dates: 11/11/2020 - 01/07/2021
- Daily bag limit: 3
- Possession limit: 6
Dates: 11/14/2020 - 01/03/2021
- Area open: Southeast Zone (see map)
-
Daily bag limit: 6
Six ducks is the daily bag limit, which may include no more than two canvasbacks, two redheads, one pintail, three wood ducks, three scaup and five mallards (only two of which may be hens). The daily bag may comprise six of any other duck, such as six teal, six gadwall, or six wigeon. - Possession limit: Three times the daily limit
Retrieval and possession of game animals and migratory game birds - Requirements
Migratory Bird Harvest Information Program - Requirements, Exemptions.
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
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: 10/23/2020 Print
| Waterfowl Numbers | 500-600 Teal - Blue and Greenwings, 1000 Mallards, 500 Widgeon, a few Gadwalls, Pintails, Wood Ducks, Shovelers, Ringnecks and Ruddy. Estimated Total Ducks - 4000 Approx. 400 Canada Geese, a few Whitefronts and Snows Mallard Migration Report (2) 1 = poor 10 = best |
| Water level | Reservoir Elevation - 2133.7 (10.8 ft. low) |
| Hunting conditions | Shoreline hunting will be very difficult with flooded shoreline vegetation. |
| Expected hunting success | Fair to Good |
| Comments | Cedar Bluff Wildlife Area and Reservoir are in the Low Plains Late Duck Zone Duck Season Dates: Youth Season - October 24, 2020 - October 25, 2020. Regular Season - October 31, 2020 - January 3, 2021 and January 23-31, 2021. 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: 10/21/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | ALL HUNTERS at Glen Elder WA are required to check in AND OUT daily. This regulation went into effect on September 1, 2017. Users are encouraged to utilize the iSportsman electronic daily hunting permit system. Go to https://kdwpt.isportsman.net/ for more information. Only areas NORTH of Highway 24 in the Low Plains Early Zone are open for hunting right now. 10,000 - 12,000 ducks Ducks have definitely moved in with the cooler weather. Be sure to get youth out for the youth/veteran's season this weekend! Loads of coots, cormorants, pelicans, and gulls. Also a few sandhill cranes spotted this week (season is closed until 11-11-20) Mallard Migration Index (1) |
| Water level | Currently holding steady at about 1 foot above conservation pool. |
| Hunting conditions | Fair. Not much flooded food or vegetation. |
| Expected hunting success | Fair to good if you do your scouting. |
| Comments | Granite Creek boat ramp is closed November 1 through January 31, 2021. Low Plains Teal season is September 12 - 27, 2020 Low Plains Early Duck Zone season is October 10 - December 6, 2020 and December 19 - January 3, 2021. This zone includes the area north of Hwy 24. Low Plains Late Duck Zone season is October 31 - January 3, 2021 and January 23-31, 2021. This zone includes the area south of Hwy 24. Dark geese season is October 31 - November 1 and November 4 - February 14, 2021. Whitefront season is October 31 - January 3 and January 23 - February 14, 2021. Light geese season is October 31 - November 1 and November 4 - February 14, 2021. Conservation Order season is open Feb. 15 - April 30, 2021. 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: 10/23/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Duck numbers have slightly increased over the last week. However, the hunting pressure has been high, resulting in the birds becoming more nocturnal while utilizing the area. They are leaving the area during the day and return a dusk to feed during the night. Best estimates at the front end of this latest front are 1,000 to 2,000 ducks. Seems to be a good variety of divers and puddle ducks. The forecast looks promising for an increase of birds. Remember, the refuge closed October 1. 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 | All the major projects are finished and the area is holding good water levels for the upcoming waterfowl season. Gamekeeper Marsh is 100% full with an average water depth of 16 inches. Gun Club Marsh is 80% full with an average water depth of 12" to 14". Marsh Creek Marsh is just over 70% full and slowly rising. Buffalo Creek Marshes are 75% full with an average water depth of 12" with a lot of sheet water along the margins of the wetland units. Pumping will continue this week to make up for some evaporative losses and to inundate some new moist soil resources. Pintail Marsh is approximately 30% full with an average water depth of 4". Puddler and Bluewing marshes are dry. A rain would be beneficial. |
| Hunting conditions | Moist soil production was excellent this growing season. A major flood event in late July eliminated much of the Japanese millet that was planted, however there are excellent stands of smart weed and wild millet. Managers were unable to mow decoy holes in some of the units, so hunters need to scout to find natural open holes in the moist soil. Gamekeeper Marsh dam raise is allowing managers to inundate an additional 490 acres in Gamekeeper Marsh, creating excellent habitat in the refuge. Buffalo Creek Marshes have been pumped and several Marsh Creek off storage pools will be pumped throughout teal season. 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 CLOSED
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| Expected hunting success | The cooler weather should help, however hunting pressure is pushing the birds either off the property or up to the refuge. Hunters averaged 1.2 birds per hunter this past week. |
| Comments | REFUGE BOUNDARY CHANGE STARTING OCT 1, 2020 The NW corner of the Gamekeeper Marsh area that was open for hunting will now be included as refuge starting October 1, 2020. 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 will be 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 Low Plains Early Zone Duck Season 10/10/2020 - 12/06/2020 & 12/19/2020 - 01/03/2021 Canada Geese 10/31/2020 - 11/01/2020 & 11/04/2020 - 02/14/2021 White-Fronted Geese 10/31/2020 - 01/3/2021 & 01/23/2021 - 02/14/2021 Light Geese 10/31/2020 - 11/01/2020 & 11/04/2020 - 02/14/2021 Light Geese Conservation Order 02/15/2021 - 04/30/2021 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 IS CLOSED on the north half of Gamekeeper Marsh. REFUGE WILL REMAIN CLOSED THRU - JANUARY 31, 2021. 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: 10/23/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 90 Canada geese, lots of coots. 350 divers, 150 teal some gadwalls, wigeon, mallards and pintail. White-fronted geese moving through but not stopping for long. |
| Mallard Migration Ranking | |
| Water level | Lovewell Reservoir is 2.17 feet below Conservation Pool, (82.7% full) and holding as the BOR and Kansas Bostwick Irrigation District have reached the winter target elevation of 2 foot below Conservation Pool elevation. Irrigation season releases ended 9/15/20. The Guide Rock Diversion canal inflows (0.2cfs) from the Republican River were being used to refill the reservoir. |
| Hunting condition | Mudflats are ringing the entire reservoir and the water is a closer to the shoreline and concealing vegetation. LOW PLAINS LATE ZONE VETERANS/YOUTH WATERFOWL WEEKEND OCTOBER 24-25,2020 LOW PLAINS DUCK SEASON October 31, 2020 - January 3, 2021 and January 23-31, 2021 DARK AND REGULAR LIGHT GOOSE SEASON October 31 - November 1, 2020 and November 4, 2020 - February 14, 2021 SPRING CONSERVATION ORDER FOR LIGHT GEESE February 15 - April 30, 2021 ALL boat ramps are open in Lovewell State Park at this water level but on the Wildlife Area access is limited at Oak Hill and Pawnee Point and White Rock Creek boat ramp is too low for use by large boats but kayaks and small layout boats can be launched. Reservoir levels are rising and getting closer to the shoreline vegetation to conceal hunters and some mudflats are still visible. |
| Expected hunting success | Fair to good at this time |
| 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 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: 10/19/2020 Print
SMOKY HILL/KANOPOLIS - Last Updated: 10/22/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 400 ducks observed. Mix of ducks with mallards, gadwall, widgeon, pintail, green-winged teal, and shovelers observed |
| Water level | 1462.22 ft and slowly rising. 1463 ft is target winter conservation pool |
| Hunting conditions | poor -low lake level result in no flooded vegetation |
| Comments | Refuge is CLOSED to all access from September 1st through January 31st. Waterfowl Seasons: Teal (low plains): September 12-27, 2020 Duck (low plains late zone): October 31, 2020 - January 3, 2021 and January 23-31, 2021 Canada Geese: October 31 - November 1, 2020 and November 4, 2020 - February 14, 2021 White-Fronted Geese: October 31, 2020 - January 3, 2021 and January 23 - February 14, 2021 Light Geese: October 31 - November 1, 2020 and November 4, 2020 - February 14, 2021 Light Geese Conservation Order: February 15 - April 30, 2021 Click HERE for duck season, regulation, and research information. Additional information about hunting at Kanopolis Reservoir can be found HERE |
TALMO - Last Updated: 10/23/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 800 to 1,500 ducks on the area. 350 White-Fronted Geese observed 10/22/20. REMEMBER: Talmo is in the Low Plains Late Zone and is CLOSED TO WATERFOWL HUNTING The Low Plains Late Zone Youth/Military Season is this upcoming weekend. REMINDER: ALL HUNTERS NEED TO CHECK IN TO HUNT USING iSPORTSMAN |
| Water level | All pools are at or near full. |
| Hunting conditions | Things are looking good with excellent moist soil and good bird use over the past several weeks. |
| Expected hunting success | Things are looking good for the Youth/Military weekend on October 24 - 25. |
| Comments | Remember: - TALMO IS IN THE LOW PLAINS LATE ZONE Youth/ Veteran/Active Military - 10/24/20 - 10/25/20 Duck Season (first segment) - 10/31/20 - 1/3/2021 - 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: 10/22/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 200-300 ducks; mix of species: mallards, teal, ruddy ducks, redheads, and wood ducks. 100 Canada geese |
| Water level | 1889.6'; 2.9' below conservation pool |
| Hunting conditions | Lowered lake level has resulted in exposed shorelines with little vegetation; some mud flats present |
| Expected hunting success | Fair. More birds will likely show up as the weather cools. |
| Comments | Click HERE to download a PDF of the waterfowl area. Click HERE for a Google Earth map of the waterfowl area. Refuge and non-motorized boat area dates: Nov. 1 through Feb. 14. 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. See the attached PDF and Google Earth file for boundaries. This regulation is in effect from Nov. 1 through Feb. 14. 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. Be advised that the refuge will be closed to hunting until the end of dark goose season. Blue/Green Algae Webster is not currently on the blue-green algae watch/warning list. 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 12-27, 2020 Duck Season on Webster Reservoir October 31, 2020 - January 3, 2021 and January 23-31, 2021 Youth Weekend, Duck and Goose October 24-25, 2020 Goose Season on Webster Reservoir CANADA GEESE October 31 - November 1, 2020 and November 4, 2020 - February 14, 2021 WHITE-FRONTED October 31, 2020 - January 3, 2021 and January 23 - February 14, 2021 LIGHT GEESE October 31 - November 1, 2020 and November 4, 2020 - February 14, 2021 LIGHT GOOSE CONSERVATION ORDER February 15 - April 30, 2021 ICE CONDITIONS 0%
Webster Wildlife Area and Refuge Map 
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WILSON - Last Updated: 10/22/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 250-400 ducks and 50 Canada geese. Combination of dabblers (wood ducks, gadwall and teal) and divers (red heads). |
| Water level | 1515.3 ft and steady; lake is 3/4 foot low. (Conservation pool is 1516.0 ft) |
| Hunting conditions | Some flooded vegetation along shorelines and coves on west end may provide good opportunities. Multiple rafts concentrated in open water. |
| Expected hunting success | fair |
| Comments | Boat ramps: Cedar Creek and Elm Creek boat ramps are open. Low Plains Late: October 31-January 3; January 23-31, 2020 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: 10/19/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Mallard Migration Rank: 0 (Estimate of potential mallard numbers. 1=lowest, 10=highest) No Teal on the area at this time. Sept.28,2020 |
| Water level | A map of our wetlands is now available under the Wetland Map tab to the right. The wetlands are being pumped at this time for Teal season. Waterfowl have been seen using the wildlife area in very small numbers, a few groups of teal have been seen in the surrounding areas. Dry conditions and low river level is making it difficult to keep wetlands full, although pumping is still going on at the large wetland by the shop and the wetland by the west parking lot. 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 | Very good wetland vegetation in all complexes. Native vegetation such as annual smart weeds, barnyard grass, and sunflowers are the most common vegetation. |
| Expected hunting success | Currently there are very few ducks using the wetland areas throughout the property that are open to hunting. Some waterfowl have been using the large wetland southwest of the shop. |
| Comments | The wetlands have some of the best food source vegetation possible. |
CLINTON - Last Updated: 10/15/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Waterfowl numbers are improving with the recent cold front. On 10-14-20, over 200 teal were observed utilizing the large and expanding mudflats at the mouth of the Wakarusa river. Teal have been observed on shallow areas of the reservoir, and occasionally in the small flooded areas of Elk Creek and Coblentz marshes. The majority of Teal were Blue-winged, only a handful of Green-winged teal were identified. A few dozen Mallards and Wood ducks, as well as 250 Canada geese were observed on parts of the reservoir with open mudflats near tributaries flowing into the lake. Nearly 1,000 Coots were also observed on open water, primarily close to the dam. |
| Lake level | 875.13 elevation, releasing 7 c.f.s. The reservoir is .37 feet below normal pool. |
| Hunting conditions | At this time, we cannot pump water into any of the marshes unless Clinton reservoir and the Wakarusa river levels both rise. A fair amount will be able to be pumped into the Coblentz complex prior to opening of waterfowl season- 10/31 . KDWPT staff have mowed all marsh dikes and a portion of all marsh pools for hunter access and open water(when flooded). ALL water control structures have boards in them so no water can flow out. Wetland vegetation had excellent conditions for growth and seed production. Many drier areas have ragweed and sunflowers 7-12 feet tall. The wettest marsh areas generated heavy seed production from millet, smartweed, and beggar's ticks. Coblentz & East Coblentz- We will be turning on the electric Coblentz pump very soon, after a minor electrical repair is completed. All water control structures have boards in them and will be holding water after a rainfall/runoff event. The North pool of Coblentz and the NE corner of East Coblentz are the only place water can be currently found in the Coblentz/East Coblentz complex. Warm and dry weather has caused the small pools in the lowest spots to dry up over the last weeks. The corn in the North and East pools has been harvested(10% left standing for waterfowl). There are strips of corn planted in the middle and southeast pools that will remain standing. The final phase of the wetland grant for Coblentz is completed. We have placed an additional structure on the north pool to allow us the option to use an adjacent stream to fill the north and middle pools. This is in addition to the electric pump, which was completed in 2018. Shadden marsh (about 10 acres) is almost dry but will fill with runoff and has good wetland vegetation. It should provide good hunting opportunity for an extremely limited number of hunters. Elk Creek- wetlands are open for hunting. The extreme flooding in 2019 destroyed the marsh pump and we are in the process of replacing it. Until the pump is replaced, the only way to fill the pools is rainfall. Pools 2,3, and 4 (refuge pool) have a small amount of water in them, primarily close to water control structures and marsh dikes. KDWPT staff planted strips of corn in pools 2 & 3, which will not be harvested. The refuge marsh pool is CLOSED to ALL ACTIVITIES from October 1st to January 15th. |
| Expected hunting success | Fair |
| 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. The Coon Creek and Elk Creek/Wakarusa river BOAT RAMPS ON THE WILDLIFE AREA ARE OPEN.
The REFUGE will close to all activities from Oct. 1st to Jan. 15th |
HILLSDALE - Last Updated: 10/22/2020 Print
| Waterfowl Numbers | The Hillsdale Wildlife Area has experienced a much more normal year in regards to water levels in 2020 in comparison to 2019. All marshes were able to be gradually drained in order to provide a growing environment for moist soil vegetation throughout the year. A fair amount of natural moist soil vegetation has grown throughout all of the marshes on the Hillsdale Wildlife Area. Japanese millet and buckwheat have also grown with high success in the Big Bull Wetland along with the Antioch Wetland. All of these factors should provide ample feeding opportunities for migrating waterfowl throughout the season. All marshes will begin to be filled with water gradually, leading up to the beginning of waterfowl season. At this time, the current Hillsdale Lake water level is at it's conservation pool level. Due to there being no flood pool available, pumping efforts have come to a halt. As we receive precipitation, we may then be able to continue with our wetland pumping efforts. Brown's wetland was able to be successfully flooded before we were required to stop pumping.
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. Blue wing teal, Green wing teal, Northern Shoveler, Mallards, Pintails, Gadwall, and American Wigeon have been surveyed on the wildlife area this year. Large groups of Coots have also been surveyed. Groups of up to 200 Mallards have been surveyed on Brown's wetland. The Mallards have also been surveyed using the Big Bull Wetland. Other species have been surveyed in small groups of 2-10 in various areas around the wetlands and the main body of the lake. Small groups of 10-15 redheads have also been observed in the area. The weather has been consistently in the 40's to 50's in the day time. Cooler weather seems to be coming as we near the Youth Waterfowl weekend. |
| Water Level | Antioch Wetland - 1/8 Browns Wetland, Upper pool - Full Browns Wetland, Lower pool - Full Youth-Mentor Wetland - 1/4 Wade Branch Wetlands - Full Hillsdale Lake - See Army Corps Daily Report ICE CONDITION - 0% ice cover |
| 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: 10/15/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Ducks: A mix of less than 200 ducks on the area including shoveler, teal, and redheads are frequenting Auxillary lake. A handful of geese are also starting to utilize the area on a regular basis. A reminder that no boats are allowed on Auxillary Lake during waterfowl season. |
| Water level | High |
| Hunting conditions | Fair |
| Expected hunting success | Fair |
| Comments | Make-up Lake is closed to waterfowl hunting during waterfowl season. Boats are not allowed on Auxillary lake during waterfowl season. Individuals wishing to hunt Unit #2 of the wildlife area must enter through the main gate and sign in at the guard house. Be sure to have a photo I.D. with you when checking in. Hunters are required to drive maintained roads only. A map will be provided to all hunters showing open roads as well as parking areas. Vehicles are allowed to park in parking areas only. |
MILFORD WILDLIFE AREA - Last Updated: 10/22/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Youth/Veteran & Active Military Duck Season is October 24th and 25th 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 waterfowl survey, 175 Mallards, 25 Gadwall, 40 Shovelers, 100 Pintails, 180 Blue-winged teal, 210 Green-winged teal and 600 unidentified ducks were observed during the route. Also, throughout the week a good number of Pintails, Shovelers, and Teal were observed. Hunter's need to be aware of their targets before shooting.
For more information, visit https://ksoutdoors.com/Hunting/Migratory-Birds/Ducks.
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| Lake level | Current Lake Level is 1145.40 and Conservation Pool is 1144.4 The dam is releasing 600 CFS. The inflow into the lake is 266 CFS. |
| Hunting conditions | Vegetation growth and seed production has been average this year with amount of rainfall and flooding the wetlands have received. Mall Creek and Lower Smith/Gatesville boat ramps are open. Wetlands being pumped this year include: Youth/Mentor Area, Zach Hudec, Lower smith and Quimby. The pumps for Beichter/Martin and North Smith are still damaged from the 2019 flooding and most likely will not be operating this year. Mall Creek is currently holding good water but levels are dependent on the creek flow. Be mindful of the silt that has moved into many of the flooded areas. Even in areas where the water appears shallow the silt may be very soft and very deep. Use caution in these areas. No activites/hunting allowed in the Steve Lloyd Wetland/Refuge. Motorized boats are only allowed in the Mall Creek wetland, electric motors are considered "motorized". All other public hunting wetlands are open to NON motorized boats and walk in hunting. |
| Expected hunting success | Average to Good |
| Comments | Do NOT drive on dikes. Vehicles disrupt and discourage waterfowl from using the wetland areas. We have had several dikes being damaged due to unauthorized vehicles driving on them. Scouting is best done on foot to evaluate bird numbers and habitat conditions. Please report any vehicles on dikes and anyone seen disturbing our pumps. Without the pumps in optimal condition we are unable to pump the wetlands to their greatest potential. Do NOT drive on barricaded roadways. Remember - an electronic permit/sign-in on Isportsman is required for all hunting on Milford Wildlife Area. All hunters (youth included) must first register online by creating an account. Hunters can then check in using the I-sportsman system from any phone or internet device. The information collected and comments received are very useful in establishing future management goals for the area. https://www.ksoutdoors.com/Hunting/Migratory-Birds/Ducks for more information on seasons and limits. |
PERRY - Last Updated: 10/16/2020 Print
TUTTLE CREEK WILDLIFE AREA - Last Updated: 10/21/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 4400 ducks 0 Canada Geese Mallard Migration Rank (0-10) =0 |
| Water level | The lake is currently at 1077 and increasing slowly. |
| Hunting conditions | Poor |
| Expected hunting success | Poor |
| Comments | A permit/survey is required to hunt the Tuttle Creek Wildlife Area. Plagued with mechanical issues, the Black Vermillion Marsh does not have as much water in it as we had hoped. Red Bud Boat Ramp is usable again. |
This is a collection of all the Southwest Waterfowl Report
CHEYENNE BOTTOMS - Last Updated: 10/20/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 30,000 - 40,000 ducks, mix of all species. Huge concentration of ducks in the refuge, limited number of ducks in the hunting pools during daylight hours. 15,000-20,000 geese, mostly whitefronts, wiha a few thousand snows and a few Canadas. Few sandhill cranes have been staying on the area. If the report has not been updated in a few days, please assume that conditions and bird numbers are the same as the last update. |
| Water level | 1A-24", 1B-24", 1C-24", 2-19", 3A-17", 3B-17", 4A-3", 4B-17", 5-17". |
| Hunting conditions | Pool 2-multiple holes have been sprayed out, 733 acres of phragmites was sprayed. Pool 3A-all blind islands repaired, cattail control complete, 67 acres milo, 70 acres wheat, 534 acres millet. Pool 3B-small areas of millet planted, some moist soil plants. Pool 4A all cattails were sprayed last year, burned almost all dead cattails, some moist soil plants, currently discing about 400 acres in the back of the pool. 4B- disked around 120 acres of cattails, 24 acres milo, 145 acres millet, good moist soil plants. Pool 5-Good moist soil plant production. |
| Expected hunting success | Good. Most pools will offer improved conditions from last year. Hunters averaged 3.77 birds per hunter during teal season, 3.91 birds per hunter during the youth/military weekend, and averaging 3.18 duck per hunter during regular duck season. |
| Comments | Use footcrossings in Pools 3A, 3B, 4A, and 4B as the ditches have been cleaned out and are very deep. 3A IS CLOSED TO MOTORIZED BOATS MOTORIZED BOATS ALLOWED ONLY DURING OPEN WATERFOWL SEASON. THIS MEANS NO SCOUTING FROM A MOTOR BOAT PRIOR TO SEASON LEGAL SHOOTING HOURS ARE 30 MINUTES BEFORE SUNRISE TO SUNSET. UNLAWFUL TO SHOOT FROM ROADS OR DIKES ON THE WILDLIFE AREA. DO NOT PARK BLOCKING ROADS, GATES, BOAT RAMPS, FOOT CROSSINGS, ETC. DO NOT LAUNCH TRAILERED BOATS FROM DIKES OR FOOT CROSSINGS. ANY BOATS ON A TRAILER MUST USE DESIGNATED BOAT RAMPS. NO TRASH POLICY ON THE WILDLIFE AREA. CAMP IN DESIGNATED CAMPGROUND ONLY 1 DRAWN SPECIAL HUNT FOR 1 PARTY OF 3 YOUTH WILL BE HELD EACH SATURDAY MORNING OF REGULAR DUCK SEASON IN POOL 5. CHECK OUT KSOUTDOORS.COM TO APPLY AND MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE SPECIAL HUNTS PROGRAM. Teal - Sept. 12-27, 2020 Youth/Military/Veteran - Oct. 3-4, 2020 Ducks, Low Plains Early Zone - Oct. 10-Dec. 6 and Dec. 19- Jan. 3, 2021 Goose Seasons: Canada - Oct. 31- Nov. 1, 2020 and Nov.4, 2020-Feb. 14, 2021 Whitefront - Oct. 31-Jan. 3, 2021 and Jan. 23-Feb. 14, 2021 Light - Oct. 31- Nov. 1, 2020 and Nov.4, 2020-Feb. 14, 2021 Light goose conservation order - Feb. 15-April 30, 2021 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: 10/19/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Approximately 100 - 150 ducks. Species observed - Blue-winged teal, mallard, pintail, wigeon, and wood ducks. |
| Water level | The pool adjacent to Hwy. 42 is full. The main lake is 75% full with shallow open water. The pool south of the main lake has some water. |
| Hunting conditions | |
| Expected hunting success | |
| Comments | Teal Season (Low Plains Zone): September 12-27, 2020 Youth Waterfowl (Low Plains Late Zone): October 24-25, 2020 Ducks (Low Plains Late Zone): October 31, 2020 - January 3, 2021, and January 23-31, 2021 Canada Geese: October 31 - November 1, 2020 and November 4, 2020 - February 14, 2021 White-Fronted Geese: October 31, 2020 - January 3, 2021 and January 23 - February 14, 2021 Light Geese: October 31 - November 1, 2020 and November 4, 2020 - February 14, 2021 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: 10/22/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Approximately 200 ducks. Mostly teal. Also pintail, wigeon, shoveler, mallards, wood ducks observed. |
| Water levels | Currently, pool 1 is approximately 90% full, pool 2 is nearly full, pool 3B is nearly full, pools 4, 5, 6, 7, & 8 are full. Pool 9 is approximately 50% full. There is water north of pool 6. The remaining pools are dry. |
| Hunting conditions | |
| Expected hunting success | |
| Comments | Teal Season (Low Plains Zone): 9/12/20-9/27/20 Youth Waterfowl (Low Plains Early Zone): 10/3/20 - 10/4/20 Regular Ducks (Low Plains Early Zone): 10/10/20 - 12/6/20 and 12/19/20 -1/3/21 Goose Seasons: Canada: 10/31/20 - 11/1/20 and 11/4/20 - 2/14/21 Whitefront: 10/31/20 - 1/3/21 and 1/23/21 - 2/14/21 Light: 10/31/20 - 11/1/20 and 11/4/20 - 2/14/20 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: 10/5/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Small numbers of teal and other early season waterfowl on area. Can change daily with weather conditions. |
| Water level | 1.45 feet below Conservation Pool on reservoir. Area ponds are mostly dry. |
| 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 decent 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. 24-25, 2020. Low Plains Late Zone Duck Season is Oct 31, 2020-Jan 3rd, 2021, and Jan 23-31, 2021. 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: 10/20/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Welcome to 2020-2021 waterfowl! 100-200 ducks, mostly teal, wood ducks and some mallards on the area this morning. |
| Water level | Kingman State Fishing Lake is full. Millet was planted in all marshes this year. Due to dry weather through August and into September we have only 3 marshes flooded at the current time. We are very dry. The potential for a killing frost in the coming week may help with water inflow. |
| Hunting conditions | Limited. The lake, river, 3 marshes and several ponds have water that could be hunted. 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 | Limited. |
| Comments | Hunters! A kayak/canoe launch is available on the dam just west of the refuge line to aid launching boats across the rip rap. Also, we have a heavy equipment contractor removing trees below the dam this week. The dam road may be closed during the week to keep our visitors safe from falling trees and the heavy equipment. |
COUNCIL GROVE - Last Updated: 10/23/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Approximately 40 ducks (mixed species) observed on 10/23/20. 110 coots were also observed. |
| Water levels | 1.1 feet below conservation elevation (1,274') on 10/23/20. |
| Hunting conditions | Full lake levels persisted through the summer and prevented the establishment of food producing plants along lake edges. As such, food resources will be diminished within lake environments. Dry conditions have prevailed this fall. Lake levels are slowly declining. Hunters should be prepared to find water pulled away from cover edges within portions of upper reaches of the lake. |
| Expected hunting success | Poor. |
| Comments | Low Plains Late Zone Youth, Veteran, and Active Military Season is Oct. 24-25. |
KAW WILDLIFE AREA. - Last Updated: 10/22/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | There is not too many waterfowl using the river at this time. |
| Water level | Low |
| Hunting conditions | Poor |
| Expected hunting success | Poor |
| Comments | TEAL, LOW PLAINS ZONE Season: Sept. 14-27, 2020 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 14, 2020 - January 3, 2021 AND January 9-31, 2021 Area open: Southeast Zone (see map) Daily bag limit:6 Possession limit: Three times the daily limit |
MCPHERSON VALLEY WETLANDS - Last Updated: 10/22/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | ATTENTION: i-Sportsman is REQUIRED to hunt this area. All hunters MUST use the electronic daily hunt permit system! Please check in, report your harvest, and check out using i-Sportsman for each and every hunt. Thursday, 22 October 2020: The first split of the Low Plains Early Zone duck season closes 06 December 2020. Approximately 725 ducks were observed on the area Thursday afternoon. The three most abundant species were greenwings, pintail, and gadwall. The majority of the ducks were in the Big Basin Refuge. See "Water Levels" below for more information. Remember that all activities in both the north and south refuges are prohibited. |
| Current Information | I would certainly like to report something different, but the wetlands continue to suffer from the hot, windy weather and a serious absence of rain. Many of the pools now have little to no water in them. The water allotment for the groundwater pumps is nearing completion, and the remainder is being pumped now. |
| Water levels | Big Basin: The wetlands north of Moccasin Road are looking the best at this time. The center complex (Pools 7, 9 and 10) is almost completely dry, and Pool 8 is at about 25% capacity. The area needs to see a good runoff rain event! Chain of Lakes: The west unit of the Chain of Lakes will likely be kept dry during the 2020 - 2021 season for continued cattail control and replacement of a water control structure. Little Sinkhole Unit: The south and west sides of this unit are looking the best relative to water, although a few of the other wetlands have a huntable amount of water at the time of this update. |
| Hunting conditions | Waterfowl food production (native moist soil vegetation) has been fairly good across the area this year, and approximately 240 acres of millet was planted in various wetlands. The wetlands are in serious need of a good rain with abundant runoff! The roads were in good shape at the time of this update. |
| Expected hunting success | Fair if water levels stabilize. |
| 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. |
NO EL DORADO - Last Updated: 9/24/2020 Print
| Waterfowl Numbers | No Ducks were observed on 9/24. |
| Water level | At 1338.31' approximately .69' below conservation elevation (1339') on 09/24. |
| Hunting conditions | Fair. Most of the summer the lake was at or slightly above conservation pool creating a significant amount of shoreline cover. |
| Expected hunting success | Fair |
| Comments | NOTE: El Dorado Lake is located within the Low Plains Southeast Zone. Teal- Low Plains 09/12/2020- 09/27/2020 Youth, Veteran, and Active Military Waterfowl Seasons -Southeast Zone Nov. 7-8, 2020 Duck, Low Plains Southeast Zone Nov. 14, 2020-Jan. 3, 2021 and Jan 9-31, 2021 Canada Geese , Statewide Oct. 31-Nov 1, 2020 and Nov. 4, 2020-Feb. 14, 2021 White-fronted Geese, Statewide Oct. 31, 2020-Jan. 3, 2021 and Jan 23-Feb. 14, 2021 Light Geese, Statewide Oct. 31-Nov. 1, 2020 and Nov. 4, 2020-Feb.14, 2021 |
SLATE CREEK WETLAND - Last Updated: 10/22/2020 Print
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Waterfowl numbers | There are approximately 75 ducks present on the area at this time. Mostly teal with some big ducks included |
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Water level | All pools have some water in them. |
| 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: 10/22/2020 Print
| Waterfowl Numbers | Several species of duck are starting to move through the area including Blue-wing Teal, Mallard, Northern Shoveler and Gadwall. The reservoir also still has large numbers of Coot as well as other migratory birds like Pelicans, Cormorant, and American Avocet. Numbers can change daily. |
| Mallard Migration Rating | Current Rating=0 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 1349.21 (Conservation pool is 1350.50) |
| Hunting conditions | Fair. The reservoir was at or near conservation pool most of 2020. 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. Some of the acres close to the shore that were flooded in 2019 do have ample production, and crops on the area look good. Corn harvest was about three weeks behind, area wide, so there should be ample amounts of scrap corn on the ground that won't get a chance to germinate. There is also good cover along the shoreline and in the smaller coves. Water levels are going down leaving quite a bit of bare ground between shoreline cover and the waters edge. |
| Expected hunting success | Poor. |
| 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.
NFJOHN REDMOND - Last Updated: 10/2/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 250 mixed teal, handful of puddelrs and divers, few dark geese. |
| Water level | Current Level: 1041.1 Conservation Pool Level: 1041 |
| Hunting conditions |
Teal - Low Plains 09/12/2020 - 09/27/2020 Location: East of Hwy. U. S. 283 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
Duck Season - Youth/Veteran/Active Military (Low Plains Southeast) 11/07/2020 - 11/08/2020 Daily Bag Limit: Youth may hunt ducks, geese, coots, and mergansers with same daily bag limits as during the regular seasons. Possession Limit: same as regular seasons. Stamps/Permits Required: Resident youth hunters do not need any stamps or permits. Nonresident youth need a nonresident hunting license, a Kansas HIP Permit and State Waterfowl Permit.
Ducks - Low Plains Southeast Zone 11/14/2020 -01/03/2021 Daily bag limit: 6 Six ducks is the daily bag limit, which may include no more than two canvasbacks, two redheads, one pintail, three wood ducks, three scaup and five mallards (only two of which may be hens). The daily bag may comprise six of any other duck, such as six teal, six gadwall, or six wigeon. Possession limit: Three times the daily limit.
Dark Geese Season (First Segment) 10/31/2020 - 11/01/2020 (Second Segment) 11/04/2020 -02/14/2021 Area open: Statewide Daily bag limit: 6 (including Brant) Possession limit: 18 Kansas HIP Stamp, State Waterfowl Stamp, Federal Waterfowl Stamp Required
White-fronted Geese Season (First Segment) 10/31/2020- 01/03/2021 (Second Segment) 01/23/2021 – 02/14/2021 Location: Statewide Daily bag limit: 2 Possession limit: 6 Kansas HIP Stamp, State Waterfowl Stamp, Federal Waterfowl Stamp Required
Light Geese Season (First Segment) 10/31/2020- 11/01/2020 (Second Segment) 11/04/2020- 02/14/2021 Location: Statewide Daily bag limit: 50 Possession limit: Unlimited Kansas HIP Stamp, State Waterfowl Stamp, Federal Waterfowl Stamp Required
Light Geese Conservation Order NOTE - During this period, there will be no bag or possession limit on light geese. In addition, participants will be allowed to use unplugged shotguns and electronic calls and take light geese from one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset during the period of the conservation order. 02/15/2021- 04/30/2021 Location: Statewide Possession Limit: Unlimited Stamps Required: Kansas HIP Stamp, State, Waterfowl Stamp, Federal Waterfowl Stamp John Redmond and Otter Creek Wildlife Area Fall 2020 Conditions- There was no spring flooding issues this year, and vegetation around reservoir looks superb. I expect excellent habitat conditions this year for waterfowl. Otter Creek Marshes, located below John Redmond Dam- excellent vegetation, but no water. Water control structures are closed and ready to hold water, but we have not been able to catch any substantial precipitation events as of yet. Will keep page updated if conditions change. The Sedimentation Basins located on west side, below dam, are not open for hunting, and are privately owned and operated. |
| Expected hunting success | 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. |
ELK CITY RESERVOIR/WILDLIFE AREA - Last Updated: 10/22/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | We still have basically no water in the marshes. A couple thousand ducks have been on and around the reservoir this week. A few mallards have showed up but mostly shovelers and GW teal. Also several thousand whitefronts using the reservoir the last couple of days along with a few snow geese. Looks like some extreme changes in the weather coming soon. The waterfowl numbers are expected to fluctuate with migration and changing habitat conditions. |
| Water level | The Wetlands still have very little or no water in them. The reservoir is currently about a half a foot below conservation pool. For current Reservoir levels visit http://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/ELKC.lakepage.html |
| Hunting conditions | There is a lot of sesbania on the lake edge this year. It will provide some cover but please try not to transport the plants or seeds away from the reservoir because it is a non-native, invasive species that we spend a lot of time trying to control in the wetlands. Wetland food production was great this year. We just need water! |
| Expected hunting success | Fair depending on water levels. Teal season is Sept. 12-27. REGULAR DUCK SEASON IS NOV. 14-JAN. 3 AND JAN. 9-31 |
| Comments | For updated waterfowl numbers and weather conditions call (620) 331-6820. Individuals utilizing the wildlife area need to be aware of the refuge boundaries. Maps can be obtained at the Fisheries & Wildlife office (below the dam) or at the State Park (on the lake side). Japanese Millet was planted around the area wetlands with good results, and there was a very good natural response of wild millet (barnyard grass) and smartweed in most wetlands. Overall, there should be plenty of food to attract waterfowl if we get water in the wetlands. |
FALL RIVER RESERVOIR - Last Updated: 2/21/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 2/21/20 Duck season is closed for the Low Plains Southeast Zone. Seasons for Canada and white-fronted geese, as well as the regular season for light geese, ended on Feb. 16. The Conservation Order Light Geese Season runs from Feb. 17 to April 30. Light geese are not commonly found in large numbers in the Fall River Reservoir area. |
| Water level | |
| Hunting conditions | |
| Expected hunting success | |
| Comments | Waterfowl reports are expected to continue next fall. A new report will normally be posted weekly during the fall and winter waterfowl seasons. For information pertaining to the Fall River Wildlife Area call 620-583-6783. |
MARAIS DES CYGNES - Last Updated: 10/14/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Several hundred teal and wood ducks. Very few other ducks. |
| Water levels | Pumping is slow. Limited water in the river to pump. We are pumping 24/7 at low rates. With the rank vegetation, very little water is visible. Some water in A-East, A-North, F-West, F-East, C South and Unit G. We anticipate adequate water by duck season. WARNING: Harmful bluegreen algae may be present in the southeast corner of Unit G. DO NOT hunt in this area or let pets drink or come in contact with the water. Bluegreen algae toxins can be deadly! |
| Hunting/ Habitat conditions | Very good moist-soil vegetation in major wetlands, Japanese millet planted in A North, very little corn in small wetlands. |
| Hunting success | |
| Comments | 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 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: 10/22/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Waterfowl counts given on this report are based on what was observed on the day the report is updated. Waterfowl numbers vary greatly from day to day and weather conditions and hunting pressure will affect the number of waterfowl on the area. Mallard Migration Rank = 0 (0 = no mallards and 10 = peak migration) 10/22/2020 ( 11:00 a.m. )--- 3 Duck Marsh- Unit is filling with water. 2 wood ducks. Willow Marsh- Both the North and South units are pumped. 20 mallards, 3 wood duck, 63 unknown and 20 coots. Sundance Marsh- This unit is not pumped. Lowman's Cove- All units are completely full. 1 mallard. Shoveler Slough- THIS MARSH WILL BE CLOSED ON OCT 31th TILL 12pm (NOON) TO ALL HUNTING ACTIVITIES FOR A SPECIAL WOMENS HUNT. LOCATION: South parking lot for Shoveler Slough is at the intersection of W 317th St. & S Davies Rd. (NOTE: Motorized boats are prohibited) 200 pintails, 150 mallards, 150 blue wings. Refuge- 500 unknown. |
| Water level | Lake level = 1035.12; Conservation pool = 1036.00; Target goal for the lake is 1034.00. 0% Ice cover on Melvern Lake. |
| Hunting conditions | Moist soil vegetation had great production in all units providing ample amounts of natural food for waterfowl once flooded. |
| Expected hunting success | Fair |
| Comments | All hunters utilizing Melvern Wildlife Area are required to obtain a free daily hunt permit through the new electronic permit system. Hunters can register now to begin using the electronic system at https://kdwpt.isportsman.net/ For more information (click here). Waterfowl hunters utilizing the main lake are only required to obtain a permit when hunting west of Hoch Road. Please remember to fill out the permit with accurate information. THIS INFORMATION IS VERY IMPORTANT TO THE CURRENT AND FUTURE MANAGEMENT OF THE AREA. FILL OUT ONLY YOUR INDIVIDUAL HARVEST EFFORTS, i.e., NOT A GROUP HARVEST TOTAL. The Refuge Area is CLOSED October 1st through January 15th. |
NEOSHO WILDLIFE AREA - Last Updated: 10/22/2020 Print
TORONTO RESERVOIR - Last Updated: 2/21/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 2/21/20 Duck season is closed for the Low Plains Southeast Zone. Seasons for Canada and white-fronted geese, as well as the regular season for light geese, ended on Feb. 16. The Conservation Order Light Geese Season runs from Feb. 17 to April 30, 2020. Light geese are not commonly found in large numbers in the Toronto Reservoir area. |
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| Comments | Waterfowl reports are expected to continue next fall. A new report will normally be posted weekly during the fall and winter waterfowl seasons. For information pertaining to the Toronto Wildlife Area call 620-583-6783. |