Kansas Fly Fishing
Is Fly Fishing popular in Kansas?
Fly fishing is popular in Kansas, particularly in the western part of the state where there are many streams and rivers that are well-suited for the sport. The state is home to a variety of fish species such as smallmouth bass, walleye, and catfish that can be caught using fly fishing techniques. Additionally, Kansas has a strong community of fly fishing enthusiasts and organizations that support the sport.
What are the top targeted species for anglers in Kansas?
Kansas offers a variety of fly fishing opportunities for anglers, with several species being popular targets for fly fishing. Here are some of the top target species for fly fishermen in Kansas:
Trout: While not native to the state, trout are stocked in several of the state's coldwater streams, including the Blue River and the Mined Land Wildlife Area. Rainbow and brown trout are the most commonly stocked species, and fly fishing for trout in these streams can be very rewarding.
Bass: Largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass are all popular targets for fly fishermen in Kansas. These fish can be found in a variety of lakes and rivers throughout the state, and they can provide exciting action on the fly.
Carp: Carp may not be the most glamorous fish, but they are a challenging and fun target for fly fishermen. Kansas has several lakes and rivers where carp can be found, including the Kansas River and the Osage River.
Catfish: Channel and blue catfish can be found in many of the state's larger lakes and rivers, and they can be caught on the fly using a variety of techniques.
Panfish: Sunfish, crappie, and other panfish can provide fun and fast-paced action on the fly. They can be found in many of the state's lakes and ponds, as well as in smaller streams and creeks.
Overall, fly fishing in Kansas offers a diverse range of species to target, with something to suit anglers of all skill levels and interests. Whether you're looking for a challenging carp or a fast-cruising trout, there's a good chance you can find it on the fly in Kansas.
5 popular spots to fly fish in Kansas
Kansas offers a variety of fly fishing opportunities, with several popular destinations for anglers looking to cast a line on the fly. Here are some of the most popular places to fly fish in Kansas:
Trout streams: Kansas is not known for its trout streams, but the Blue River and Mined Land Wildlife Area in the southeast part of the state both receive regular stockings of rainbow and brown trout. These streams can provide exciting fly fishing for trout in a state not typically associated with trout fishing.
Lower Kansas River: The Lower Kansas River, located in northeast Kansas, offers good warmwater fly fishing opportunities for species such as bass, catfish, and carp. The river flows through scenic limestone bluffs and offers plenty of access points for wading and fishing from a boat.
Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area: Cheyenne Bottoms is a wetland complex located in central Kansas that offers excellent fly fishing opportunities for species such as carp and largemouth bass. The area is known for its scenic beauty and abundant wildlife, making it a popular destination for both anglers and birdwatchers.
Wilson Lake: Wilson Lake, located in central Kansas, is a popular destination for fly fishermen targeting bass and walleye. The lake has several areas of standing timber and rock formations that provide cover and structure for fish, as well as good shoreline access for wading and fishing from a boat.
Milford Reservoir: Milford Reservoir, located in northeast Kansas, is the state's largest lake and offers a variety of warmwater fly fishing opportunities. Anglers can target species such as bass, crappie, and catfish, and the lake also has a reputation for producing trophy-sized walleye.
These are just a few of the many popular places to fly fish in Kansas. Other notable destinations include the Arkansas River, Smoky Hill River, and various smaller lakes and ponds throughout the state.
What are Fly Fishing regulations for Kansas?
The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism regulates fly fishing in the state of Kansas. Here are some of the key regulations that fly fishermen should be aware of:
Fishing license: All anglers over the age of 16 are required to have a valid Kansas fishing license in order to fish in the state.
Trout fishing regulations: Kansas does not have a native trout population, but the state does stock several streams with rainbow and brown trout. There is a daily limit of five trout per person, and a minimum size limit of 15 inches for brown trout.
Length limits: Kansas has length limits for certain species of fish, including largemouth and smallmouth bass. For largemouth bass, there is a 15-inch minimum length limit and a daily creel limit of five fish. Smallmouth bass must be at least 18 inches long to be kept, with a daily creel limit of two fish.
Gear restrictions: Fly fishermen are allowed to use only artificial flies or lures when fishing in designated trout streams. In other waters, there are no gear restrictions, but snagging or using multiple hooks is prohibited.
Catch and release: Kansas encourages catch and release fishing for certain species, including paddlefish, blue catfish, and flathead catfish. Anglers are encouraged to release these fish unharmed, and the use of gaffs or other injurious devices is prohibited.
These are just a few of the key fly fishing regulations in the state of Kansas. It is important for all anglers to familiarize themselves with the specific regulations for the waters they plan to fish, as regulations can vary by location and species.
Popular Fly Shops in Kansas
K & K Flyfishers: K & K Flyfishers is located in Overland Park, Kansas and offers a wide selection of fly fishing gear, including rods, reels, lines, and flies. The shop also provides guided fly fishing trips and fly tying classes for anglers of all skill levels.
Ark River Anglers: Ark River Anglers is a full-service fly fishing shop located in Wichita, Kansas. The shop offers a range of fly fishing gear and accessories, as well as guided fly fishing trips on the Arkansas River and other nearby waters.
Angler's Bait & Tackle: Angler's Bait & Tackle is located in Lawrence, Kansas and offers a variety of fishing gear and tackle, including a selection of fly fishing gear. The shop also provides live bait and fishing licenses for anglers.
Minnesota Bait and Fly: Minnesota Bait and Fly is a fly fishing specialty shop located in Olathe, Kansas. The shop offers a range of fly fishing gear, as well as fly tying materials and classes.
Zeiner's Angler Supply: Zeiner's Angler Supply has several locations in Kansas, including Wichita, Topeka, and Great Bend. The shop offers a wide range of fly fishing gear, as well as a variety of other fishing gear and supplies. They also provide guided fly fishing trips and classes for anglers.
These fly fishing shops in Kansas are excellent resources for fly fishermen of all skill levels. Whether you need new gear, want to learn more about fly fishing, or are looking for a guided fly fishing trip, these shops can help you have a successful and enjoyable experience on the water.
What is the History of Fly Fishing in Kansas?
Fly fishing in Kansas has a rich and varied history. While the state is not typically thought of as a fly fishing destination, it has a number of streams and rivers that are home to a variety of fish species, including trout, bass, and catfish.
The earliest recorded fly fishing in Kansas dates back to the 19th century, when anglers used hand-crafted bamboo rods and silk lines to catch trout in the state's streams and rivers. At the time, Kansas was home to a native population of cutthroat trout, but the species was largely decimated by overfishing and habitat destruction.
In the 20th century, the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism began stocking several streams with rainbow and brown trout, and the state's fly fishing scene began to grow. Anglers began to flock to streams like the Arkansas River and the Mined Land Wildlife Area to try their luck with fly fishing.
Today, fly fishing in Kansas is a popular pastime for many anglers, with a number of fly fishing shops, guides, and outfitters operating throughout the state. While trout fishing is still a major draw for fly fishermen, the state's warm-water species like bass, catfish, and sunfish also provide exciting opportunities for fly fishing.
Overall, while the history of fly fishing in Kansas may not be as well-known as other fly fishing destinations, the state has a proud and growing fly fishing tradition that continues to attract anglers from around the country.
