New fishing method will begin in summer of 2009 on eight Kansas reservoirs

The Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission has approved a pilot project to allow floatline fishing at eight reservoirs, beginning next summer. The Commission authorized the new fishing method at a public hearing in Tonganoxie Oct. 24.

Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks staff recommended the addition of this new fishing method to provide more angling opportunities on reservoirs with underutilized channel catfish populations. Floatline fishing, sometimes called “jug fishing,” will allow Kansas anglers to use no more than eight floatlines or setlines with not more than two hooks attached to each line. Anglers will be allowed to use floatlines during daylight hours from July 15 through September 15 at eight Kansas reservoirs: Hillsdale, Council Grove, Tuttle Creek, Kanopolis, John Redmond, Toronto, Wilson, and Pomona.

A floatline permit (available for a $2.50 issuance fee) will be required, enabling department staff to survey floatline anglers during a three-year pilot program.

All floatlines will need to be under immediate supervision of the angler, and must be removed from the water when fishing ceases. Material used for floats will be restricted to “closed cell” devices made of plastic, wood, or foam; metal or glass floats will not be allowed. Closed-cell floats do not hold water, which will help prevent the spread of zebra mussels. Floats must be marked with the angler’s name and address.

Prior to the commission’s approval of the measure, floatline fishing was not a legal method of take in Kansas although it is allowed in Missouri, Colorado, Oklahoma, and Arkansas.

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