Trout fishing is set to begin reatively soon, and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks has adjusted the season after input from anglers.
The 2023-24 season will actually begin Dec. 1, along with stocking of fishing areas, and will close at the end of March instead of April 15. Typically, the season begins Nov. 1, but Wildlife and Parks says there are concerns about fish health when waters are warmer. Trout fishing also drops off drastically in April.
Also, trout fishing areas will be stocked when the most fishing activity happens as opposed to “indiscriminate” times throughout the season. Wildlife and Parks says it will stock less often but will add “higher densities” of trout.
Most trout will be of the rainbow variety, but Wildlife and Parks plans to add palomino or golden rainbow trout as well.
Residents ages 16 and older need a trout permit and fishing license unless exempt. Trout permits for adults are $14.50. Residents ages 15 and under can get a youth trout permit for $7 and can fish for trout without a license.
For more information, go online to gooutdoorskansas.com. Trout fishing locations areawide include King Lake in north Emporia and Eisenhower State Park in Osage County.
