BULLFROG SEASON TIME TO PURSUE NATURE'S TUBAS
Season runs July 1-Oct. 31; fishing license required
PRATT -- Bullfrogs have been bellowing from farm ponds, streams, and lakes since the Kansas weather warmed up, and many campers and anglers are anxious to target a few of these amphibious "tubas" and put some fine eating on the table. They'll get their chance on July 1, when the bullfrog season begins.
Bullfrog hunting, or "frogging," as many people call it, is a great way to beat the heat on a sweltering Kansas summer night. With days running 100 degrees or more in late June this year, many outdoor enthusiasts have been staying close to the air conditioning, but the freedom of summer nights beckons with the call of the bullfrog. At this time, shorts and a T-shirt are all that's needed to cool off in the water and pursue this popular quarry.
Froggers can enjoy a season that runs July 1 through Oct. 31 although most frogging activity is in the hotter months of July and August. The daily creel limit is eight, with a possession limit of 24. A valid fishing license is required, and while bullfrogs may be taken by hook and line, dip net, gig, bow and arrow, or crossbow (firearms not allowed), many froggers prefer to take them by hand. All that's needed is a flashlight, a sack, an old pair of tennis shoes, and some stealth. The only other necessary ingredient is access to a local pond, lake, or stream.
The best method is to walk quietly through the water at night and shine a bright light along the bank until a pair of glowing eyes appear. Temporarily blinded by the light, frogs can be grabbed or netted.
The fruits of this effort are not only fun times but good food. Frog legs are regarded as a delicacy and have a taste and texture resembling a cross of shrimp and fish. A popular way to cook them is to dip the legs in egg and then into a mixture of flour and corn meal, seasoning salt, and pepper. Then the legs are fried to a golden brown in about 1/2 inch of oil. This gourmet meal is a bonus to a great summer evening that both kids and adults will always remember.
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