Kansas License Price Calculator
How Much Is a Fishing License in Kansas?
A Kansas resident annual fishing license costs $27.50. Non-residents pay $52.50 for the same annual license.
Kansas ties its trout permit requirement to location, not intent: on "Type 1" trout waters between December 1 and March 31, every angler on the water needs a $20 trout permit — even someone fishing only for bass or catfish. On "Type 2" waters, only anglers actually targeting trout need it. (Kansas Dept. of Wildlife & Parks)
Kansas Fishing License Price Table (2026)
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $27.50 | $52.50 | Resident annual |
| 1-Day (Non-Res) | N/A | $14.50 | Short-term option |
| 5-Year Resident License | $50.00 flat | N/A | See notes below |
| Youth (Under 16) | Free | Free | Most states exempt young anglers |
The 5-Year Resident License Is a Genuine Deal
Kansas residents can buy a 5-year license for a flat $50 — compared to $27.50 × 5 = $137.50 if bought as five separate annual licenses. That's roughly $87.50 in savings for anyone confident they'll keep fishing in Kansas for the next five years.
Both Ends of the Age Range Fish Free
Kansas residents 15 and under, and residents 75 and older, both fish completely free — with a reduced $15.50 rate for the 65-74 bracket in between. Few states extend the free tier as far as 75.
Kansas Fishing Seasons & Bag Limits (2026)
These are Kansas's default statewide season windows and bag/size limits for the most commonly targeted species. Many individual lakes, rivers, and reservoirs carry their own special regulations that override these defaults — always confirm the rules for your specific water before you fish.
| Species | Season | Min. Size | Daily Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walleye | Year-round, statewide default | 21" min. (up to 2 of 5 may be 15–18") | 5/day |
| Largemouth Bass | Year-round, statewide default | 18" min. | 2/day |
| Spotted Bass | Year-round, statewide default | 15" min. | 5/day |
| Catfish (Channel/Flathead) | Year-round, statewide default | No statewide min. | 2/day (channel); 5/day (flathead) |
Where to Buy a Kansas Fishing License Locally
In addition to the official state portal linked above, Kansas fishing licenses are typically available at Walmart, Bass Pro Shops, Cabela's, and Dick's Sporting Goods locations statewide, along with independent bait & tackle shops. Call ahead if you need a specific license type (combination, lifetime, or trout stamp) since not every retail counter carries every product.
Kansas Fishing License — FAQs
How much is a Kansas fishing license?
A resident annual license costs $27.50. Non-residents pay $52.50 for the annual license, or $14.50 for a 1-day license.
What does the 5-year Kansas resident license cost?
$50.00 flat, versus $137.50 if bought as five separate annual licenses — a real discount for long-term residents.
Do Kansas seniors fish free?
Residents 75 and older fish free. Residents 65-74 pay a reduced $15.50 annual rate.
How long is a Kansas fishing license valid?
Most annual licenses are valid for 365 days from the date of purchase, not a fixed calendar year.
Where can I buy a Kansas fishing license?
Through GoOutdoorsKansas.com, at KDWP offices, or at 400+ retail agents statewide.