Hand Fishing

HAND FISHING

(PERMIT REQUIRED FOR ALL AGES)

Handfishing, for flathead catfish only, is legal from sunrise to sunset June 15 through August 31 at these locations:

  • The entire length of the Arkansas River in Kansas
  • All federal reservoirs from beyond 150 yards of the dam to the upper end of the federal property
  • On the Kansas River from its origin downstream to its confluence with the Missouri River.

A special permit ($27.50) is required in addition to a fishing license. Anyone handfishing may not use hooks, snorkeling or scuba gear, or any other man-made device OR possess any fishing gear except a stringer. Stringers may not be used until the fish are caught by hand and are at or above the surface of the water. No manmade object — such as a barrel, box, or bathtub — may be used to attract fish.