First handfishing season in full swing in Kansas
Fishermen can take on a new challenge in the elusive world of catching fish — handfishing.
The state's first handfishing season opened June 15 and will continue through Aug. 31.
A regulation was passed last year by Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission to allow fishing flathead catfish by hand in certain locations in the state.
The Arkansas River from the John Mack Bridge on Broadway Street in Wichita, downstream to the Kansas-Oklahoma line and the Kansas River from its origin downstream to its confluence with the Missouri River are the specified locations.
Fishing hours are from sunrise to sunset.
A special $27.15 permit is required with a regular fishing license.
Handfishermen cannot 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 man-made object can be used to attract fish.
Handfishing permits may be purchased online or at select locations.
