New fishing method will begin in summer of 2009 on eight reservoirs
PRATT -- The Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission approved a pilot project to allow floatline fishing at eight reservoirs beginning next summer. Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) staff recommended the addition of this new fishing method to provide more angling opportunities on reservoirs with untapped channel catfish populations. Floatline fishing, sometimes called “jug fishing,” will allow Kansas anglers to use no more than eight floatlines, or eight setlines, with no more than two hooks attached to each line. Anglers will be allowed to use floatlines during daylight hours from July 15 through Sept. 15 at eight Kansas reservoirs: Hillsdale, Council Grove, Tuttle Creek, Kanopolis, John Redmond, Toronto, Wilson, and Pomona.

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

All floatlines must be under immediate supervision of the angler and must be removed from the water when fishing ceases. Material used for floats are restricted to “closed cell” devices made of plastic, wood, or foam; metal or glass floats are not 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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