Anyone can fish for free in Kansas for this weekend only: What to know
If you’ve been looking forward to fishing season but have yet to purchase a license, you might be able to delay a little longer.
That’s because next weekend, June 1 and 2, fishing is free in Kansas — meaning no licenses are required to fish in the state.
Fishing license costs vary depending on the type. The five-year resident fishing license fee is $102.50, while the one-day fishing license for residents is only $6. The regular annual resident fishing license is $27.50. Licenses for nonresidents are a little pricier — $77.50 for the annual one and $12.50 for a one-day license.
Fishers can purchase licenses multiple ways: Either online, at a KDWP office or by calling the department at 1-833-587-2164.
The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks announced that it will continue with the free fishing weekend tradition this year through a social media post.
“While other fishing regulations apply, such as length and creel limits, anglers can enjoy fishing public waters without a license during this annual two-day event,” the post read.
You can find the list of fishing regulations, like limits and fish you have to throw back, on the department’s website.
Where can I fish near Wichita?
Here’s a list of some popular fishing spots in South Central Kansas, from KDWP’s website:
Reservoirs
- Cheney
- Council Grove
- El Dorado
- Marion
Fishing Lakes
- Black Kettle State Fishing Lake
- Butler State Lake
- Chase State Lake
- Cowley State Fishing Lake
- Kingman State Fishing Lake
- McPherson State Fishing Lake
A full list of fishing spots in the area, and the whole state, can be found on KDWP’s website. You can use their map tool to see fishing spots in every region in Kansas.
