Catch-and-Release FishingTallgrass Prairie National preserve allows fishing as a means of providing for public enjoyment, and the customary and traditional use. The preserve regulates fishing to ensure that it is managed in a manner that avoids unacceptable impacts to park resources. Three preserve ponds are open to the public for catch and release fishing under the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Park and Tourism's Fishing Impoundments and Stream Habitats (F.I.S.H.) program. The fishing program is available year-round. Additional permits, regulations, and maps are posted below and at the parking area kiosk. Fishing on Two-Section PondsThe fishing ponds are located northeast of Strong City. From Strong City, travel east on U.S. 50 for 1.5 miles, turning north on U-Road at the Kansas historic marker. Travel approximately one mile on gravel road. The parking lot is on the west side of the road. The ponds are accessible via a short hike from the parking area. Fishing on Fox CreekFishing is available on Fox Creek from the Bottomland Trail (south end) to the low-water crossing located approximately 2 miles north. The creek has only walk-in access. Park your vehicle in the Bottomland Trail parking lot located 1/3-mile east of St. Anthony Cemetery on the County Road 227. The gravel road is not marked, so watch carefully as you approach the cemetery. Fishing is catch-and-release. Anglers must possess a valid Kansas fishing license. Fishing RegulationsKansas residents age 16 through 74 must possess a valid Kansas fishing license. All nonresidents 16 and older must have a valid nonresident license to fish in Kansas. Apply for a Kansas Fishing License. The fishing regulations apply to all "finfish" found in the park, falling under regulations for "fishing" (36CFR2.3). Other taxa, including amphibians, mollusks and crustaceans (e.g. waterdogs, crayfish) are not considered "fish" for the purpose of NPS fishing regulations and addresses by NPS regulations governing "wildlife protection" (36CFR2.2). These fishing regulations apply, regardless of land ownership, on all lands and waters within the park that are under the legislative jurisdiction of the United States. The following are prohibited:
In addition to the NPS General Regulations above, the following park specific regulations apply:
Fish Consumption Advisories in National Park WatersThe Environmental Protection Agency, states, territories, and tribes provide advice on fish and shellfish caught in the waters in their jurisdiction to help people make informed decisions about eating fish. Advisories are recommendations to limit your consumption of, or avoid eating entirely, certain species of fish or shellfish from specific bodies of water due to chemical or biological contamination. Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve Fish Consumption Advisories
To learn more about this topic, the National Park Service maintains information about Fish Consumption Advisories and Mercury and Toxins in Nature. Aquatic Invasive SpeciesImagine your favorite fishing spot and the wonderful memories. Things may look fine but underneath the surface there is a serious threat. Everything you remember is now cemented together in a sharp, smelly mess. Invaders have wiped out the fish species you used to catch. How You Can Help - Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers
Fishing Throughout the National Park ServiceWe invite you to visit the Fish & Fishing website for more information about conservation, different fish species, and parks that offer fishing. |
Last updated: February 20, 2022