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& BOATING GUIDE

MARCH 2021 - FEBRUARY 2022

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FISH & WILDLIFE: 1-800-858-1549 • fw.ky.gov Report Game Violations and Kills: Rick Hill illustration 1-800-25-ALERT

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KENTUCKY DEPARTMENT OF FISH & WILDLIFE RESOURCES #1 Sportsman’s Lane, Frankfort, KY 40601 Get a GEICO quote for your boat and, in just 15 minutes, you’ll know how much you could be saving. If you like what you hear, you can buy your policy right on the spot. Then let us do the rest while you enjoy your free time with peace of mind.

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Some discounts, coverages, payment plans, and features are not available in all states, in all GEICO companies, or in all situations. Boat and PWC coverages are underwritten by GEICO Marine Insurance Company. In the state of CA, program provided through Boat Association Insurance Services, license #0H87086. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, DC 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. © 2020 GEICO ® Big Names....Low Prices!

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(301 KAR 1:201, KRS 150.010) sunrise and end one-half hour after sunset. Release means return of the fish, in the best Fishing-related definitions not listed Daily limit is the maximum number possible condition, immediately after re- here are included in appropriate sections of of a particular species or group of species a moving the hook, to the water from which this guide. person may legally keep in a day or have in it was taken in a place where the fish’s im- possession while fishing. mediate escape shall not be prevented. means taking or attempting to Fishing is taking or attempting to take fish Resident is anyone who has established take fish by hook and line in hand, rod in in any manner, whether or not fish are in permanent and legal residence in Kentucky hand, , set line or sport fishing trot- possession. and residing here at least 30 days. line. Lake means impounded waters, from the are those fish species not listed as Artificial baits are lures or made of upstream to the first riffle on the main sport fish in the regulation 301 KAR 1:060. wood, metal, plastic, hair, feathers, pre- stem river and tributary streams or as speci- Size limit is the legal length a fish must be served pork rind or similar inert materi- fied in regulation. if it is in possession. (Fish length is mea- als and having no organic baits including Length means the distance from the front sured from the tip of the closed lower jaw bait, putty or paste type baits de- tip of a fish’s lower jaw with mouth closed to the tip of the tail with fish laid flat on signed to attract fish by taste or smell. to the tip of its tail with the fish laid flat on rule and tail lobes squeezed together.) Authorization number is the number as- a rule with its tail lobes squeezed together. means fish within a specified signed to a person in lieu of fishing or Organic baits are , , fish minimum and maximum size range must license when the license is pur- eggs, worms, corn, cheese, cut bait or simi- be released. chased over the phone or Internet. lar substances used as a lure. Single hook is a hook with only one point. Black includes largemouth, small- Possession limit is the maximum number Tenant is any resident sharecropper or mouth, Kentucky (spotted) and Coosa bass. of unprocessed fish a person may hold after lessee who lives and works on farmland Culling: Replacing a live fish in the daily two days or more of fishing. owned by his/her landlord. creel limit with another fish of the same Regulation is a written document adopted Trophy is a blue or species. and approved by the KDFWR Commission 35 inches or longer or a channel catfish 28 Daylight hours begin one-half hour before and approved by legislative committees. inches or longer.

QUICK REFERENCE

FISHING Measuring Fish...... �����3 Navigating Asian ...... 22 New Laws...... �����2 Crossing...... 34 Bordering Waters...... 15 Nuisance Species...... 22 Meeting...... 34 Brook Streams...... 26 Parasites and Grubs in Fish...... 17 Overtaking...... 34 Bullfrogs...... 9 Possession Limits...... �����3 Equipment Consumption Advisories...... 17 Size and Creel Limits...... �����3 Fire Extinguishers...... 35 Didymo...... 25 Special Regulations...... �����4 Marine Sanitation Devices...... 36 FINS Lakes...... 4 State Record Fish...... 28 Muffling Devices...... 36 Fish Species Identification...... 19 Trophy Fish/Master Angler Program...... 27 Navigation Lights...... 36 Fishing Methods Trout Seasonal ...... 23 Personal Flotation Devices...... 35 , Jugging and Set Lines...... 10 Trout ...... 23 Signaling Devices...... 36 and ...... 11 Turtles...... 9 Ventilation...... 36 Tickling and ...... 11 Zebra Mussels...... 22 Idle Speed...... 33 Bow Fishing...... 11 Inflatables...... 32 Spear Fishing...... 11 Locks and ...... 33 Fishing Tournaments...... 16 BOATING Personal Watercraft...... 32 ...... 10 Accidents Prohibited Riding...... 34 Licenses First Aid...... 37 Reckless Operation...... 32 Fees...... 12 Hypothermia...... 37 Registration Requirements and Exemptions...... 13 Rendering Aid...... 37 Display of Numbers and Decals...... 30 Senior/Disabled License...... 14 Reporting Requirements...... 37 Fees...... 30 Trout Permit...... 13 Age Restrictions...... 31 Transfers...... 30 Pay Lakes...... 13 Airborne Devices...... 31 Restricted Zones...... 33 Free Fishing Days...... 14 Alcohol...... 33 Scuba Diving...... 32 Littering...... 32 Boat, Motor and Lake Restrictions...... 31 Swimming...... 32 Live Bait...... 10 Buoys...... 34 Waterway Markers...... 34 Water Skiing ...... 31 March 2021 - February 2022

KENTUCKY FISHING & BOATING GUIDE

Kevin Kelly photo

ABOUT THIS GUIDE This is a SUMMARY of the laws regarding fishing and boating. FISHING REGULATIONS This guide is intended solely for informational use. It is not a 3 reprint of any referenced statute or regulation in its entirety and should not be used as such. Questions about the information con- tained in this guide should be directed to the Kentucky Department 16 GENERAL INFORMATION of Fish and Wildlife Resources BEFORE engaging in the activities referenced. Actual wording of any Kentucky Revised Statute (KRS) or Kentucky Administrative Regulation (KAR) can be viewed at TROUT WATERS legislature.ky.gov. 23

OTHER GUIDES AVAILABLE Kentucky Fish and Wildlife also produces regulation guides for 27 TROPHY FISH spring and fall hunting and . Call 1-800-858-1549 week- days, look for a copy of these regulation guides where hunting licenses are sold, or log on to fw.ky.gov. 30 BOATING

1 FISHING REGULATIONS Commonwealth of Kentucky Andy Beshear, Governor

FISH AND WILDLIFE COMMISSION 1st District: David L. Jones, Barlow 2nd District: Brian Fisher, Bowling Green NEW THIS YEAR 3rd District: Ralph Swallows, Louisville 4th District: Kenny Knott, Glasgow 5th District: Josh Lillard, Hebron The items highlighted in bright blue each October. 6th District: Rob Lear, Versailles 7th District: Paul Horn, Prestonsburg throughout this guide are a quick overview 8th District: Doug Morgan, Morehead of the changes to this year’s regulations. • Left Fork, Beaver Creek (Floyd Coun- 9th District: Dr. Karl Clinard, Somerset ty): Trout are discontinued. • Chimney Creek (Wolfe County): Department of The brown and stockings • Wolf Creek (Martin County): Rainbow FISH AND WILDLIFE RESOURCES are discontinued in the stream. Chim- trout will now be stocked each April Commissioner: vacant ney Top Creek will now receive 450 and November. Deputy Commissioner: Brian Clark Wildlife Director: Chris Garland Director: Dave Dreves (acting) Law Enforcement Director: Col. Eric Gibson Information & Education Director: Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources Gabe Jenkins (acting) Administrative Services Director: Lisa Cox Engineering, Infrastructure and Technology Director: Michael Scott Department History Department’s Role in Marketing Director: Brian V. Blank The Kentucky Department of Fish Conservation and Wildlife Resources is a state agency Kentucky Fish and Wildlife does FISHING AND BOATING GUIDE within the Tourism, Arts & Heritage much more than just restore species once Editor: Lee McClellan Cabinet. The department was originally es- decimated from the state’s landscape. The Art/Design Director: Adrienne Yancy department is a research-intensive agency Contributors: Dane Balsman, Shane Carrier, tablished in 1912 as the Kentucky Game Dave Dreves, Mike Hardin and Jeff Ross and Fish Commission to protect the state’s staffed with professional biologists who dwindling fish and game populations. To- help guide decisions that benefit all fish and day, Kentucky has more deer and bald ea- wildlife species. The department’s outreach gles than during Daniel Boone’s day. programs help educate youth about conser- KENTUCKY FISHING vation. Employees work to improve hunter & BOATING GUIDE Department Funding MARCH 2021 - FEBRUARY 2022 and angler opportunities through boat ramp During the height of the Great De- construction, public land acquisition, stream Take Someone Fishing! pression, hunters asked Congress to im- restoration and more. Conservation officers pose a tax on their sporting equipment and enforce laws and help protect the public. ammunition to help pay for conservation. A nine-member citizen board ap- FISH & WILDLIFE: 1-800-858-1549 • fw.ky.gov Report Game Violations and Fish Kills: Rick Hill illustration 1-800-25-ALERT Following World War II, anglers supported pointed by the governor and confirmed similar excise taxes on fishing equipment by the state Senate receives input from the

Para Español and boat fuel. public, biologists and other interested par- KENTUCKY DEPARTMENT OF FISH & WILDLIFE RESOURCES #1 Sportsman’s Lane, Frankfort, KY 40601 Today, Kentucky Fish and Wildlife ties to recommend regulations governing ABOUT THE COVER relies on these federal funding sources fish and wildlife. Regulations proposed by The spotted or Kentucky bass is the official to complement its own revenue raised the Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Commis- state fish of Kentucky, enacted by the legis- through the sale of hunting and fishing li- sion must be approved by the Kentucky lature in 1956. They inhabit reservoirs and censes to support the department and its General Assembly. Go online to fw.ky.gov flowing rivers which they often share with programs. for meeting dates and agendas. the eastern hellbender, seen at the bottom of this painting by Kentucky Fish and Wildlife artist Rick Hill.

FISH & WILDLIFE MISSION STATEMENT Landowner permission required for hunting and fishing To conserve and enhance fish and wildlife A person shall not enter upon the lands of another to hunt, fish or trap without the oral resources and provide opportunity for hunt- or written permission of the landowner, tenant or person who has authority to grant ing, fishing, trapping, boating and other permission. Those who fail to obtain permission are subject to arrest and prosecution. wildlife-related activities. Railroad tracks and rights of way are privately owned property and permission to hunt, 2 fish or trap must be obtained prior to entry. (KRS 150:092) FISHING REGULATIONS FISHING REGULATIONS

STATEWIDE REGULATIONS

Some waterbodies have different size and daily creel limits, please refer to the “Special Fishing Regulations” section for more details. There are no size or daily creel limits for rough fish, unless statewide or special regulations apply. For daily creel limit and fishing license purposes, one fishing day equals one calendar day. Except for trout, anglers may cull fish of a particular species until reaching the daily creel limit. Any additional fish caught in excess of the daily creel limit must be released immediately. Trophy catfish regulations in effect: anglers may only keep one trophy catfish per species per day, whether using traditional or non-traditional fishing methods (see Trophy catfish definition for more details).

FISH SPECIES Daily Creel Limit Possession Limit Minimum Size Limit 6* 12* 12” Smallmouth Bass 6* 12* 12” 6* 12* none

BASS Kentucky (Spotted) Bass BLACK Coosa Bass 6* 12* none Rock Bass 15 30 none Redear Sunfish 20 40 none , Sauger and their Hybrids 6* 12* 14” 1 2 30” 5 10 none none none none White & Hybrid 15** 30** none** Striped Bass 5 10 15” Yellow Bass none none none (Black & White) 20* 40* none Paddlefish 2 4 none Rainbow Trout 8 16 none 1 2 16” 1 2 20” Brook Trout Catch and release only*** Lake Sturgeon Catch and release only * Singly or combined; a total of these species ** No more than 5 fish in the daily creel limit may be more than 15 inches long. *** Except for the downstream of and the upper section of Hatchery Creek, see Special Regulations section for details.

STATEWIDE SIZE and DAILY MEASURING FISH (301 KAR 1:201) waters from which they were taken in CREEL LIMITS (301 KAR 1:060, Measure all fish from the tip of the the best possible physical condition. 1:201; KRS 150.010) lower jaw (closed) to the tip of the tail Fishing is open year-round with fish laid flat on rule with tail lobes in Kentucky, except on waterfowl refug- squeezed together. Fish not of legal size Q: How is a daily creel limit es and as otherwise noted in this guide. must be returned immediately to the different than a possession limit? Statewide size and creel limits apply to all Kentucky waters, public and private, The daily creel limit is the Squeezed tail A: except some waters have number of a particular sport fish different limits (see species you may keep in one day’s “Special Fishing fishing. A possession limit is two Regulations”). times the daily creel limit for all fish species with a daily creel limit and excludes processed fish. length 3 SPECIAL FISHING REGULATIONS

(301 KAR 1:080, 1:180, 1:201, 2:222 Mills Park Long Pond and Shelterhouse Lake (Hardin County), General Butler 4:100, KRS 150.010, 150.025) Ponds (Kenton County), Mike Miller State Park Lake (Carroll County), Grants Park Lake (Marshall County), Miles Park Branch Lake (Pike County), Greenbo SPECIAL REGULATION WATERS Lakes ( Jefferson County), Millennium Lake (Greenup County), Guist Creek LISTED ALPHABETICALLY Park Pond (Boyle County), Panther Creek Lake (Shelby County), Higginson-Henry The public waters listed below have Park Lake, (Daviess County), Prisoner’s WMA lakes (Union County), Highsplint different size and/or daily creel limits Lake (Kenton County), Rotary Park Lake Lake (Harlan County), Jenkins City Res- than statewide regulations allow. State- (Hickman County), Scott County Park ervoir (Letcher County), Jericho Lake wide size and daily creel limits apply un- Lake (Scott County), Southgate Lake (Henry County), WMA, less otherwise mentioned below. Spe- (Campbell County), Southland Christian Boone Tract: Prather Pond and 6-acre cial boating regulations are listed in the Church Lake ( Jessamine County), Three pond, (Pendleton County), Boating section of this guide. Springs Lake (Warren County), Tom Kingfisher Lakes (Daviess County), Kle- Some privately owned waters may Wallace Park Lake ( Jefferson County), ber WMA Lake (Franklin County), Lake have special size and daily creel limits as Upper Sportsman’s Lake (Franklin Coun- Beshear (Caldwell County), Lake Chum- posted by signs. ty), Waverly Park Lake ( Jefferson Coun- ley (Lincoln County), Lake George (Crit- ty), Waymond Morris Park Lake (Daviess tenden County), (Rockcas- FINs LAKES: County), Whitehall Park Lake (Madison tle County), Lake Luzerne (Muhlenberg Lakes in the Fishing In Neighbor- County), Yellow Creek Park Lake (Da- County), (Muhlenberg hoods (FINs) program have viess County) County), Lake Pennyrile (Christian regulations for daily creel and size limits: There is now a 12-inch minimum County), Lake Reba (Madison Coun- • Rainbow Trout: 5-fish daily limit. size limit on catfish on the following ty), Lake Shelby (Shelby County), Lau- • Catfish: 4-fish daily limit. lakes stocked by Kentucky Fish and rel Creek Reservoir (McCreary County), • Sunfish: 15-fish daily limit. Wildlife: Liberty City Reservoir (Casey County), • Largemouth Bass: 15-inch minimum A.J. Jolly Lake (Campbell County), Lincoln Homestead Lake (Washington size limit, 1 fish daily limit. Audubon State Park Lake (Henderson County), Long Run Park Lake ( Jeffer- FISHING REGULATIONS • Possession or use of live shad for bait County), Ballard WMA Gravel Pit Pond son County), Lower Thomas Lake (Owen is prohibited. (Ballard County), (Ander- County), Marion County Lake (Marion The following FINs lakes are now son County), Benjy Kinman Lake (Hen- County), Milo Lake (Martin County), under these special regulations: ry County), Bert T. Combs Lake (Clay Martin County Reservoir (Martin Coun- Alexandria Community Park Lake County), Beulah Lake ( Jackson County), ty), (Harlan County), (Campbell County), Anderson Coun- Lake (Boone McDougal Lake (Larue County), Mc- ty Community Park Lake (Anderson County), Blackberry Creek Park Pond Neely Lake ( Jefferson County), Metcal- County), Bloomfield Park Lake (Nelson (Pike County), (Grant Coun- fe County Park Lake (Metcalfe County), County), Brickyard Pond (Knox Coun- ty), Briggs Lake (Logan County), Bull- Mill Creek Lake (Monroe County), Mill ty), Camp Ernst Lake (Boone County), ock Pen Lake (Grant County), (Powell County), New Hav- Carlson Lake (Ft. Knox, Meade County), Creek Lake (Bell County), Carnico Lake en Optimist Club Lake (Nelson County), Cherokee Park Lake ( Jefferson County), (Nicholas County), Carpenter Lake (Da- Olive Hill Lake (Carter County), Pan- Easy Walker Park Pond (Montgomery viess County), Carter Caves (Smoky Val- bowl Lake (Breathitt County), Peabody County), ’s Park Lakes ( Jeffer- ley Lake) (Carter County), Cedar Creek WMA Lakes (Muhlenberg, Hopkins, son County), Flemingsburg Old Reservoir Lake (Lincoln County), Central Ken- Ohio counties), Pikeville City Lake (Pike (Fleming County), Jacobson Park Lake tucky WMA Lake (Madison Coun- County), Rebel Trace Lake (Menifee (Fayette County), James D. Beville Park ty), Chenoa Lake (Bell County), Clear County), Reformatory Lake (Oldham Lake (Grayson County), Kentucky Horse Creek Lake (Bath County), Corinth Lake County), Shanty Hollow Lake (War- Park Lakes (Fayette County), Kess Creek (Grant County), Cranks Creek Lake ren County), Spurlington Lake (Taylor Park Lake (Graves County), Kingdom (Harlan County), Doe Run Lake (Ken- County), Sympson Lake (Nelson Coun- Come State Park Lake (Harlan Coun- ton County), Eagle Lake (Rowan Coun- ty), Taylorsville WMA ponds ( ty), Lake Mingo ( Jessamine County), ty), Elk Horn Park Pond (Floyd County), County), Thurman Hutchins Park ( Jeffer- Lake Montgomery (McCracken Coun- (Owen County), Fagan son County), Vastwood Park Lake (Han- ty), Lake Pollywog (Grant County), Branch Lake (Marion County), Fishpond cock County), Washburn Lake (Ohio Leary Lake (Grant County), Logan Hub- Lake (Letcher County), Fleming WMA County), Watterson Park Lake ( Jeffer- ble Park Lake (Lincoln County), Low- Lake (Fleming County), Flemingsburg son County), West Fork Drakes Creek er Sportman’s Lake (Franklin County), New City Reservoir (Fleming County), Lake (Simpson County), West Kentucky Lusby Lake (Scott County), Madison- Fort Knox Crystal Lake (Hardin County), WMA Lakes (McCracken County), ville City Park Lakes (Hopkins Coun- Fort Knox Lower Douglas Lake (Hardin Wilburn Park Lake (Oldham County), ty), Maysville-Mason County Recreation County), Fort Knox Sanders Lake (Har- (Madison County), Wil- 4 Park Lake (Mason County), Middleton din County), Fort Knox Upper Douglas lisburg Lake (Washington County), Wil- FISHING REGULATIONS lisburg Park Pond (Washington Coun- BEAVER LAKE Anderson County ty), (Laurel County), • Crappie: 9-inch minimum size limit. Yellowbank WMA Ponds (Breckinridge Possession or use of live shad for • Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass: County) bait is prohibited. 15-inch minimum size limit.

BARK CAMP CREEK BEECH FORK RESERVOIR CARTER CAVES STATE PARK LAKE Whitley County Powell County (also called Smoky Valley Lake) All trout caught from October 1 • : 15-fish daily creel limit. Fishing during daylight hours only. through March 31 must be immediately • Largemouth Bass: 15-inch minimum Possession or use of live shad for released and only artificial baits shall be size limit. bait is prohibited. used during this period. • Largemouth Bass: 12- to 15-inch BERT COMBS LAKE protective slot limit. All largemouth BARKLEY, KENTUCKY LAKES Clay County bass caught between 12 and 15 inch- (and their connecting canal) Possession or use of live shad for es in length must be immediately re- • Crappie: 10-inch minimum size limit. bait is prohibited. leased; 6 fish daily creel limit, only 1 • Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass: fish may be longer than 15 inches. 15-inch minimum size limit. BIG BONE CREEK Boone County CASEY CREEK BARKLEY – See Cum- All trout caught from October 1 Trigg County berland River through March 31 must be immediately All trout caught from October 1 released and only artificial baits shall be through March 31 must be immediately BARREN RIVER and all tributaries used during this period. released and only artificial baits shall be upstream of ; used during this period. downstream of the lake to Lock and BOLTZ LAKE Dam 1 and all tributaries Grant County • Walleye: 2 fish daily creel limit; 18- to Possession or use of live shad for Gigging and snagging prohibited 26-inch protective slot limit. All wall- bait is prohibited. in the main lake and all tributaries up eye caught from 18 to 26 inches long to the first riffle. Lake upper boundar- BRIGGS LAKE must be immediately released. ies: Scott’s Creek to the KY 801 culvert; Logan County Beaver Creek to the KY 1274 culvert; BARREN RIVER LAKE Possession or use of live shad for North Fork Creek to the confluence of The boundaries of Barren Riv- bait is prohibited. Craney Creek; Ramey Creek to include er Lake are from the dam upstream to pool of water north of KY 801. the KY 100 bridge, Long Creek to the • Largemouth Bass: 13- to 16-inch pro- KY 100 bridge, Beaver Creek to the KY • Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass: tective slot limit. All largemouth bass 1297 bridge, Skaggs Creek to the Mat- 15-inch minimum size limit. caught between 13 and 16 inches in thews Mill Road bridge and Peter Creek • Muskellunge: 40-inch minimum size length must be released immediately. to the Peter Creek Road bridge. limit. • Smallmouth Bass: 18-inch minimum • Blue and Channel Catfish: 15-fish • Crappie: 9-inch minimum size limit. size limit. daily creel limit, only 1 fish may be • Muskellunge: 36-inch minimum size CANE CREEK longer than 25 inches. limit. • Crappie: 10-inch minimum size limit. Laurel County • Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass: All trout caught from October 1 15-inch minimum size limit except 1 through March 31 must be immediately Q: Is fishing allowed around a fish in the daily creel limit or 2 in the released and only artificial baits shall be dock or a marina? possession limit may be less than 15 used during this period. inches long. It depends. Public marinas CARNICO LAKE A: • Walleye: 2 fish daily creel limit; 18- to on U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Nicholas County 26-inch protective slot limit. All wall- Lakes have contractual agreements eye caught from 18 to 26 inches long • Largemouth Bass: 15-inch minimum that address lease space on public must be immediately released. size limit. waters. The Corps presently allows • Bluegill and other sunfish: 15-fish the marina owners or operators to BEAVER CREEK from the KY 90 daily creel limit. post signs that prohibit fishing with- bridge upstream to the KY 200 bridge in 150 feet of their floating struc- Wayne County tures. These agreements do not pro- All trout caught from October 1 hibit a person from fishing in their through March 31 must be immediately Did you know? boat rental . This policy does not released and only artificial baits shall be Camping is prohibited on KDFWR apply to privately owned boat docks used during this period. owned or managed lakes. on Corps lakes. 5 CEDAR CREEK LAKE • Rainbow Trout: 15- to 20-inch pro- • Muskellunge: 36-inch minimum size Lincoln County tective slot limit. All trout caught be- limit. • Largemouth Bass: 20-inch minimum tween 15 and 20 inches in length DIX RIVER from size limit, 1 fish daily creel limit. must be immediately released. Five fish daily limit, only one rainbow Dam downstream for two miles CHIMNEY TOP CREEK trout may be longer than 20 inches. Only artificial baits shall be used. Wolfe County Also applies to all tributary streams, DOE RUN LAKE Only artificial baits may be used. except Hatchery Creek. • Brook Trout: 1 fish daily creel lim- Kenton County CLEAR CREEK it with a 15-inch minimum size limit. Possession or use of live shad for Bell County Also applies to all tributary streams, bait is prohibited. All trout caught from October 1 except Hatchery Creek. • Largemouth Bass: 15-inch minimum through March 31 must be immediately size limit, 3 fish daily creel limit. CUMBERLAND RIVER from Lake released and only artificial baits shall be • Channel Catfish: Four fish daily creel Barkley Dam downstream to conflu- used during this period. limit. ence with Ohio River

CORINTH LAKE Gigging and snagging only permit- DOG FORK Grant County ted downstream of U.S. 62 bridge with a Wolfe County Possession or use of live shad for daily creel limit of 8 fish. Harvesting of Only artificial baits with a single bait is prohibited. sportfish by gigging or snagging is pro- hook shall be used. Brook trout must be hibited. All snagged or gigged rough fish immediately released. NATIONAL including paddlefish, with the exception HISTORICAL PARK of shad, or Asian carp, shall be EAST FORK INDIAN CREEK Menifee County (301 KAR 1:035) taken into possession and not be culled. Special fishing regulations are in Snagged or gigged fish must not be dis- All trout caught from October 1 effect on Cumberland Gap Nation- posed of on the bank. Disposing of fish through March 31 must be immediately al Historical Park. For complete fishing on the bank is littering and subject to a released and only artificial baits shall be information on this area contact: Cum- fine. See the gigging and snagging sec- used during this period. berland Gap National Historical Park, tion on page 11 of this guide for addi- FISHING REGULATIONS ELKHORN CREEK in Franklin P.O. Box 1848, Middlesboro, KY 40965, tional information. Snagged paddlefish County from confluence of North phone (606) 248-2817. or their cannot be sold. Fishing pro- hibited at the mouth of the lock chamber and South forks downstream to CUMBERLAND RIVER upstream at Barkley Dam as designated by signs. Kentucky River from and all • Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass: tributaries: DALE HOLLOW LAKE 12- to 16-inch protective slot lim- • Walleye: 2 fish daily creel limit; 18- to • Crappie: 10-inch minimum size limit, it. Largemouth and smallmouth bass 26-inch protective slot limit. All wall- 15 fish daily creel limit. caught between 12 and 16 inch- eye caught from 18 to 26 inches long • Black Bass creel: includes largemouth, es in length must be immediately re- must be immediately released. smallmouth and Kentucky (spotted) leased. Daily creel limit of 6 may in- • Lake Sturgeon: Catch and release only. bass – 5 fish daily creel limit on black clude no more than 2 fish longer than bass singly or combined, only two of 16 inches. CUMBERLAND RIVER from Wolf which may be smallmouth bass. • For regulatory purposes, the bound- Creek Dam to the state line • Largemouth Bass: 15-inch minimum ary of Elkhorn Creek is a permanent All licensed anglers must possess size limit. marker just below the first shoal up- a trout permit on this portion of Cum- • Smallmouth Bass: 16- to 21-inch stream from its confluence with the berland River. This includes Hatchery protective slot limit. One fish over 21 Kentucky River. Creek and all tributaries up to the first inches and one fish under 16 inches ELK SPRING CREEK riffle. may be kept daily. Wayne County Anglers may not attract or chum • Sauger: 10 fish daily creel limit. trout with bait, corn or other attractants • Rainbow and Brown Trout: 7-fish All trout caught from October 1 designed to draw numbers of trout to a aggregate daily creel limit. through March 31 must be immediately specific area. This includes all tributar- • Walleye: 16-inch minimum size limit, released and only artificial baits shall be ies up to the first riffle and in Hatch- 5 fish daily creel limit. used during this period. ery Creek. For additional regulations on ELMER DAVIS LAKE Hatchery Creek, refer to the Hatchery Owen County Creek section on page 7. • Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass: • Brown Trout or Cutthroat Trout: 20- 15-inch minimum size limit. Possession or use of live shad for inch minimum size limit, 1 fish daily • Blue and Channel Catfish: 15 fish bait is prohibited. creel limit, also applies to all tributary daily creel limit, only 1 fish may be • Largemouth Bass: 12- to 15-inch pro- 6 streams, except Hatchery Creek. longer than 25 inches. tective slot limit. All largemouth REGULATIONS caught between 12 and 15 inches in near the Jesse Stuart Lodge are peri- Prather Pond and 6-acre pond: length must be immediately released. odically closed to fishing. • Catfish: 12-inch minimum size limit, 4 fish daily creel limit. FAGAN BRANCH LAKE (also called LAKE Prather Pond, 6-acre pond and Lebanon City Lake) Lake upper boundaries: Green Riv- 15-acre pond Marion County er to Snake Creek Boat Ramp; Robinson • Largemouth Bass: 15-inch minimum • Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass: Creek to KY 76 bridge; Casey Creek to size limit; 1 fish daily creel limit. 12- to 15-inch protective slot limit. Arnolds Landing Boat Ramp. • Bluegill and other sunfish: 15 fish All largemouth and smallmouth bass • Crappie: 9-inch minimum size limit. daily creel limit. caught between 12 and 15 inches in • Muskellunge: 36-inch minimum size • motor only. length must be released immediately. limit. LAKE BLYTHE GUNPOWDER CREEK Christian County Boone County • Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass: • Largemouth Bass: 12- to 15-inch pro- 15-inch minimum size limit. All trout caught from October 1 tective slot limit. All largemouth bass • Crappie: 9-inch minimum size limit. through March 31 must be immediately caught between 12 and 15 inches in • Blue and Channel Catfish: 15 fish daily released and only artificial baits shall be length must be immediately released. creel limit, only 1 fish in the daily creel used during this period. limit may be longer than 25 inches. LAKE CHUMLEY • Walleye: 2 fish daily creel limit; 18- to HATCHERY CREEK Lincoln County Russell County 26-inch protective slot limit. All wall- Fishing during daylight hours only. eye caught from 18 to 26 inches long All licensed anglers must possess a must be immediately released. trout permit to Creek. • Brook, Rainbow, Cutthroat and The boundaries of Lake Cumber- FLOYD’S FORK from U.S. 60 bridge Brown Trout: Upper section: As des- land are defined as Cumberland Falls downstream to U.S. 150 bridge ignated by signs, 5 trout aggregate dai- on the Cumberland River, Devils Jump Jefferson County ly creel limit, no minimum size limit. on the Big South Fork, the Narrows of • Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass: Lower section: Catch and release Rockcastle River and Lake 15-inch minimum size limit, 1 fish only and only artificial baits may be Dam on Laurel River. daily creel limit. used. The lower boundary of Hatch- • Crappie: 10-inch minimum size limit. • Rainbow Trout: All trout caught from ery Creek is delineated as a straight • Lake Sturgeon: Catch and release only. Oct. 1 through Mar. 31 must be im- line between opposite points where • Largemouth Bass: 15-inch minimum mediately released and only artificial Hatchery Creek meets the main stem size limit. baits shall be used during this period. of the Cumberland River. • Smallmouth Bass: 18-inch minimum size limit. GENERAL BUTLER STATE PARK KENTUCKY, BARKLEY LAKES • Striped Bass: 22-inch minimum size LAKE (and their connecting canal) limit, 2 fish daily creel limit. Carroll County • Crappie: 10-inch minimum size limit. Possession or use of live shad for • Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass: LAKE JERICHO bait is prohibited. 15-inch minimum size limit. Henry County • Largemouth Bass: 15-inch minimum Possession or use of live shad for TAILWATER – size limit, 3 fish daily creel limit. bait is prohibited. see Tennessee River • Channel Catfish: 4 fish daily creel limit. • Largemouth Bass: 15-inch minimum size limit. GOLDEN POND (Land Between The KENTUCKY RIVER, upstream of Lock Lakes National Recreation Area) and Dam 14, the North Fork and tribu- LAKE MALONE taries including Carr Fork below Carr • Channel Catfish: 15-inch minimum • Largemouth Bass: 12- to 15-inch pro- Creek Lake along with the Middle and size limit, 5 fish daily creel limit. tective slot limit. All largemouth bass South Forks and all tributaries caught between 12 and 15 inches in • Walleye: 2 fish daily creel limit, an 18- length must be immediately released. • Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass: to 26-inch protective slot limit. All 15-inch minimum size limit. walleye caught from 18 to 26 inches LAKE REBA long must be immediately released. Madison County Possession or use of live shad for Greenup County KENTUCKY RIVER WMA BOONE bait is prohibited. Possession or use of live shad for TRACT, Henry County bait is prohibited. Benjy Kinman Lake: LAKE SHELBY • Bluegill and other sunfish: 15 fish • Catfish: 12-inch minimum size limit, Shelby County daily creel limit. no daily creel limit. • Largemouth Bass: 15-inch minimum • Areas marked by signage and buoys • Idle speed only. size limit, 3 fish daily creel limit. 7 • Channel Catfish: 4 fish daily creel limit. • Largemouth Bass: 15-inch minimum All trout caught in Fort Knox Mili- size limit. tary Reservation and in Otter Creek Park LAND BETWEEN THE LAKES from Oct. 1 through Mar. 31 must be im- NATIONAL RECREATION AREA MARTIN’S FORK LAKE and all mediately released and only artificial baits (301 KAR 1:031) tributaries shall be used during this period. There is a Special fishing regulations are in • Walleye: 2 fish daily creel limit; 18- to one-mile section of Otter Creek as post- effect for ponds and small lakes within 26-inch protective slot limit. All wall- ed by signs in Fort Knox Military Res- Land Between The Lakes National Rec- eye caught from 18 to 26 inches long ervation where trout fishing is open to reation Area. For complete fishing in- must be immediately released. statewide regulations. Fort Knox Military formation on this area, anglers should Reservation requires the purchase of a contact: Land Between The Lakes Na- McNEELY LAKE $10 permit to fish and is closed to fishing tional Recreation Area, Golden Pond, Jefferson County on Tuesdays. Anglers must check-in with KY 42231, phone (270) 924-2000. Possession or use of live shad for the Fort Knox Hunt Control Office at bait is prohibited. (502) 624-2712 before each day’s fishing. • Largemouth Bass: 15-inch minimum MILL CREEK LAKE size limit. Powell and Wolfe counties • Smallmouth Bass: 18-inch minimum • Smallmouth Bass: 18-inch minimum Possession or use of live shad for size limit. size limit, 2 fish daily creel limit. bait is prohibited. • Crappie: 9-inch minimum size limit, • Largemouth Bass: 15-inch minimum PAINTSVILLE LAKE TAILWATER 15 fish daily creel limit. size limit; 3 fish daily creel limit. from the KY 40 bridge downstream to first U.S. 460 bridge LEARY LAKE NEW HAVEN OPTIMIST LAKE Johnson County Grant County Nelson County 16-inch minimum size limit and 1 Fishing during daylight hours only. • Largemouth Bass: 15-inch minimum fish daily creel limit on trout and only size limit, 3 fish daily creel limit. artificial baits shall be used. LEBANON CITY LAKE – see Fagan • Channel Catfish: 4 fish daily creel limit. Branch Lake PARCHED CORN CREEK Wolfe County FISHING REGULATIONS LEFT FORK, BEAVER CREEK Lake upper boundary is the Wheel- Only artificial baits with single Floyd County ers Mill Road bridge in the Nolin Riv- hook shall be used. Brook trout must be Trout stockings are discontinued. er arm and to the KY 728 bridge in the immediately released. Bacon Creek arm. and all tributaries • Crappie: 9-inch minimum size limit. PEABODY WMA LAKES upstream of Fishtrap Lake • Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass: In addition to a fishing license, a • Walleye: 2 fish daily creel limit; 18- to 15-inch size limit, except 1 fish in the $15.00 user permit is required of persons 26-inch protective slot limit. All wall- daily creel limit or 2 in the possession age 16 and over while on Peabody WMA. eye caught from 18 to 26 inches long limit may be less than 15 inches long. Permits can be purchased where fishing must be immediately released. licenses are sold. Fishing open Mar. 16 OHIO RIVER – see also, “Bordering - Oct. 14 on Goose, Island and South LINCOLN HOMESTEAD STATE Waters” page 15 Lake, all other lakes open year-round. PARK LAKE • White Bass, Striped Bass and their Washington County Hybrids: 30 fish daily creel limit, only PIKEVILLE CITY LAKE Fishing during daylight hours 4 fish may be 15 inches or longer. Pike County only. Possession or use of live shad for • Blue, Channel and Flathead Cat- • Largemouth Bass: All largemouth bass bait is prohibited. fish: Anglers may keep one blue cat- caught must be immediately released. • Channel Catfish: 4 fish daily creel limit. fish and one flathead catfish 35 inches • Largemouth Bass: 15-inch minimum or longer and one channel catfish 28 POOR FORK and its tributaries size limit; 3 fish daily creel limit. inches or longer daily. No daily creel Letcher County limit on catfish under those limits. Downstream to the first crossing of MAMMOTH CAVE NATIONAL PARK Hwy. 932, only artificial baits with single Special fishing regulations are in ef- OTTER CREEK hook shall be used. Brook trout must be fect for ponds, streams and Green River Meade County immediately released. within Mammoth Cave National Park. For • Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass: complete fishing information on this area, 12- to 16-inch protective slot limit. ROCK CREEK from Bell Farm bridge anglers should contact: (270) 758-2180. All largemouth and smallmouth bass upstream to Tennessee state line caught between 12 and 16 inches in McCreary County MARION COUNTY LAKE length must be immediately released; All trout caught from October 1 Possession or use of live shad for 6 fish daily creel limit, only 1 fish may through March 31 must be immediately 8 bait is prohibited. be longer than 16 inches. released and only artificial baits shall be FISHING REGULATIONS used during this period. bait is prohibited. limit is under 8 fish per day. Snagging must cease if any sport fish daily creel SWIFT CAMP CREEK ROCKCASTLE RIVER WMA limit is attained. All fish snagged includ- Clifty Wilderness, Wolfe County Pulaski County ing paddlefish, except shad, herring or All Ponds Collectively: All trout caught from October 1 Asian carp, must be taken into posses- • Largemouth Bass: 15-inch minimum through May 31 must be released im- sion and not culled. Snagged fish must size limit, 1-fish daily creel limit. mediately and only artificial baits shall not be disposed on the bank. This action • Bluegill and other Sunfish: 10-fish be used during this period. is littering and subject to a fine. Snagged daily creel limit. paddlefish or their roe cannot be sold. SYMPSON LAKE • Catfish: 4-fish daily creel limit. Gigging is prohibited in the Tennes- Nelson County • Crappie: 15-fish daily creel limit. see River below Kentucky Dam. See the • Largemouth Bass: 15-inch minimum Gigging and Snagging section on page size limit. 11 for more information. Lake upper boundary: Rough Riv- er to the KY 84 bridge. TRAMMEL CREEK • Crappie: 9-inch minimum size limit. Lake upper boundary is Dry Dock Allen County • Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass: Road on Salt River. All trout caught from October 1 15-inch minimum size limit except 1 • Crappie: 10-inch minimum size limit, through March 31 must be immediately fish in the daily creel limit or 2 in the 15 fish daily creel limit. released and only artificial baits shall be possession limit may be less than 15 • Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass: used during this period. inches long. 15-inch minimum size limit. • Rainbow Trout: 5 fish daily creel limit. • Blue and Channel Catfish: 15-fish SHANTY HOLLOW LAKE daily creel limit, only 1 fish may be WILLISBURG PARK POND Warren County longer than 25 inches. Washington County Possession or use of live shad for • Channel Catfish: 4-fish daily creel TENNESSEE RIVER from Ken- bait is prohibited. limit. tucky Lake Dam downstream to • Largemouth Bass: 15-inch minimum • Largemouth Bass: 15-inch minimum confluence with Ohio River size limit. size limit, 1-fish daily creel limit. The area from Kentucky Dam to • Sunfish: 15-fish daily creel limit, no SHILLALAH CREEK the new U.S. 62 bridge will be open to minimum size limit. Bell County snagging 24 hours per day from January Outside the Cumberland Gap Na- 1 through May 31. From June 1 through WOOD CREEK LAKE tional Park as posted, only artificial baits December 31, the area is open to snag- Laurel County with single hook shall be used. Brook ging from sunset to sunrise. The area of • Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass: trout must be immediately released. the Tennessee River from the new U.S. 15-inch minimum size limit. 62 bridge to the I-24 bridge is closed • Walleye: 2 fish daily creel limit; 18- to SPORTSMAN’S LAKES to snagging year round. The area from 26-inch protective slot limit. All wall- Franklin County the I-24 bridge to the confluence with eye caught from 18 to 26 inches long Fishing during daylight hours only. the Ohio River is open to snagging must be immediately released. year round. There is now a daily snag- SPURLINGTON LAKE ging creel limit of 8 fish in aggregate and YATESVILLE LAKE Taylor County shall not exceed the daily creel limit for • Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass: Possession or use of live shad for any sport fish in which the daily creel 15-inch minimum size limit.

OTHER SPECIES

BULLFROGS (301 KAR 1:082) The possession limit is 30. and . Otherwise a fishing license is The taking season for bullfrogs required. Turtles can not be sold. TURTLES opens at noon on the third Friday in (301 KAR 1:058) Turtle traps may be one of two kinds: May (May 21, 2021) and runs through Anglers may take snapping turtles either a barrel or drum with a tilting trig- Oct. 31. If a gun or are (except snapping turtles) and ger board or a floating log raft with an en- used, a hunting license is required. If softshell turtles year round by the same closed twine or wire mesh bag. Turtle traps are taken by pole and line, a fishing methods legal for taking rough fish spe- must be inspected daily. All turtles must license is required. If frogs are taken by cies or with a turtle trap. Commercial be removed daily except one decoy turtle gig or by hand, then either a hunting or fishing gear may not be used to take may remain. Any other species (except soft fishing license is valid. The daily noon- turtles. A hunting license is required shelled and snapping turtles) caught in a to-noon creel limit for bullfrogs is 15. when taking turtles by gun or by bow turtle trap must be released unharmed. 9 GRASS CARP HARVEST session or use of live shad is prohibited) may be taken for bait as described above. PROHIBITED (301 KAR 1:201) and herring, 500 crayfish, 25 spring liz- Live bait may be taken with the fol- Harvesting grass carp is prohib- ards or dusky salamanders, 5 frogs (other lowing gear: ited in any lake owned or managed by than bullfrogs), 5 tadpoles, 100 native • Dip Nets: Maximum size of 3 feet in the Kentucky Department of Fish and lampreys, 500 other aquatic invertebrate diameter is legal statewide. Wildlife Resources. Anglers who catch organisms other than mussels, and any • Traps: Maximum legal size a grass carp from one of these lakes must number of unshelled Asiatic clams. Live statewide: 3 feet long, 18 inches in di- immediately return the fish to the water wild caught Asian carp, herring and ameter, 1-inch openings for catching. where it was caught. Grass carp are used shad, as well as the species mooneye and • Seines: Maximum legal size statewide: to control aquatic vegetation. goldeye, may only be used in the waters 10 feet long, 4 feet deep, ¼-inch mesh. from which they were collected. A com- Maximum legal size in the Ohio and LIVE BAIT FOR PERSONAL USE mercial license is required to take live bait rivers and Kentucky and (301 KAR 1:130, 1:122) from public waters open to commercial Barkley lakes: 30 feet long, 6 feet deep No live fish, live or live fishing for the purpose of selling. and ¼-inch bar mesh. bait organisms that are not native or Regardless of size or how obtained, • Sport Cast Nets: Maximum sport cast established in Kentucky waters shall be it is illegal to use any sport fish for bait net size is 20 feet in diameter with bought, sold, possessed, imported, or in (except redear sunfish less than 6 inches maximum 1-inch bar mesh statewide any way used or released into waters of long). Live bait are defined as redear except in the following waters. Sport this Commonwealth. Blueback herring sunfish less than 6 inches long and rough cast nets prohibited in: 1) lakes hav- are not native to Kentucky and may not fish except blackside dace, palezone shiner, ing fewer than 500 surface acres, 2) be imported or possessed in this state. Cumberland darter, relict darter and tux- Hatchery Creek in Russell County. Holders of sport fishing licenses may edo darter or any other federally threate- All sport fish incidentally taken while take live bait from public waters and may nend or endangered species. Also, see page capturing live bait with seines, dip nets, possess up to 500 live bait fishes which 21 for a description of these protected fish cast nets or minnow traps must be released include shad (except on lakes where pos- species. are not sport fish and immediately unharmed into the water.

KNOW YOUR TURTLES! FISHING REGULATIONS

COMMON SNAPPING TURTLE ALLIGATOR SNAPPING TURTLE Legal to take Illegal to take

NON-TRADITIONAL FISHING METHODS

Trophy catfish regulations in ef- line attached to any floating object. A jug and all fish removed at least once every fect: anglers may only keep one trophy line may have no more than one single 24 hours; 3) removed from water, bank catfish per species per day, whether us- or multi-barbed hook. A set line is a line or tree when fishing ceases. Prohibited Areas: ing traditional or non-traditional fish- with one single or multi barbed hook. It Sport fishing ing methods (see Trophy catfish defini- may be attached to a tree limb, tree trunk, trotlines, jug lines or set lines may not be tion for more details). bank pole or other stationary object on the used within 200 yards below any dam. bank of a stream or impoundment. Sport fishing trotlines, jug lines or set lines SPORT FISHING TROTLINES, One person may use no more than JUGGING and SET LINES two sport fishing trotlines or 50 jug lines (LIMB LINES) or 25 set lines at any one time. Each boat Q: What is legal equipment for (301 KAR 1:410; KRS 150.010) may not use more than 50 jug lines, but sport fish? A sport fishing is a line with each occupant may use two sportfish- no more than 50 single or multi-barbed ing trotlines or 25 set lines. Each sport A: Anglers may legally take baited hooks that must be at least 18 inch- fishing trotline, jug line or set line must sport fish by hook and line in hand, es apart. A sport fishing trotline must be be: 1) permanently labeled with the cus- rod in hand, jugging, setline or set at least three feet below the water’s sur- tomer identification number provided sport fishing trotline. 10 face. Jugging is fishing with a single baited on fishing licenses; 2) baited, checked FISHING REGULATIONS gal to sell paddlefish or their roe taken No firearms by sportfish snagging methods. No Q: May you clean your fish Fish may not be taken with use of a daily limits on any other rough fish ex- while on the water? firearm. cept trophy catfish. Anglers must also cease snagging once a trophy catfish A: Anglers shall not remove any is snagged. Regardless of condition, all part of the head or tail of any fish are not allowed in Department owned/ sport fish taken by gigging and snagging for which there is a size or creel managed lakes having less than 500 sur- must be immediately returned to the limit until finished fishing and off face acres, except those located on Ballard water (except snagging in the Tennes- the water. and Boatwright WMAs. No sport fish- see River below Kentucky Dam. See ing trotlines are allowed within 700 yards special regulations on page 9). below Kentucky Dam, the area between Persons may gig rough fish through fish, no more than 5 of which can be Barkley Dam and U.S. 62 bridge, or below the ice any time the surface is frozen catfish. Only one blue or channel catfish the following Ohio River dams from the thick enough to stand upon. The gigger longer than 25 inches may be kept daily face of the dam to the end of the outer must gig while supported by the ice. on Barren River Lake, Dewey Lake, lock wall: Smithland, Newburgh, Can- Fishtrap Lake and Taylorsville Lake. Gigging and snagging are prohib- nelton, Markland, Meldahl and Greenup; ited in the following waters or areas: McAlpine downstream to the K&I rail- BOW FISHING (301 KAR 1:410) road bridge; J.T. Meyers (Uniontown) to • Cave Run Lake including all tributar- Rough fish (except the end of the outer lock wall and that ies up to the first riffle (The location of and lake sturgeon) may be taken year- portion of the split channel around the the first riffle may change depending round by long bow, , compound southern part of Wabash Island from the on water level). bow, or pneumatic air arrow fixed weir dam to the first dike. • Cumberland River, below Wolf Creek launching device. Sport fish may not be Dam downstream to the Tennessee taken with this gear. must have a GIGGING and SNAGGING FISH line including all of Hatchery Creek barbed or retractable style point that has (301 KAR 1:410, 1:082; KRS 150.010) and all tributaries for ½ mile upstream a line attached for retrieval. Catfish have Gigging means spearing or impal- of their confluence with the Cumber- a daily creel limit of 5 (in aggregate) and ing fish on any pronged or barbed in- land River. paddlefish have a daily creel limit of 2. strument attached to the end of any - • Within 200 yards of a dam, except be- There is no limit on other rough fish. Bow id object. Snagging means taking fish or low Kentucky Dam. fisherman may fish within 200 yards of a other aquatic animals by a rapid drawing • Cumberland River, below Barkley Dam dam, except they cannot fish by boat in motion (rather than enticement by bait) downstream to the U.S. 62 bridge. boat restricted areas. Bow fishing is pro- using a hand-held rod and attached line • Tennessee River, below Kentucky Dam hibited on the Cumberland River below with one single treble hook. Except, in from the new U.S. 62 bridge to I-24 Wolf Creek Dam downstream to the Ten- Green River, Rolling Fork River and bridge. nessee line, including Hatchery Creek and their tributaries, up to five single or five • Middle Fork of Kentucky River from all tributaries for ½ mile upstream of their treble hooks may be used for snagging. A Buckhorn Lake downstream to the confluence with the Cumberland River. rod legal for snagging must be equipped Breathitt County line. Persons using a bow and arrow for with line, guides and a reel. • Rough River, below Rough River Dam fishing must have the appropriate fish- The statewide season for gigging to KY 54 bridge ing license and may take rough fish from and/or snagging rough fish is from Feb- • In the Tennessee River below Kentucky bank or boat. Bow anglers cannot sell ruary 1 through May 10. It is illegal to Dam, gigging prohibited year-round. paddlefish or their roe taken by bow possess a gig on a stream or lake or in a For special regulations concerning and arrow. Paddlefish and catfish taken boat from November 1 through January gigging and snagging in the Cumber- by bow and arrow must be taken into 31. A person may gig or snag fish from the land River below Barkley Dam and in immediate possession and cannot be bank of a stream during the day or night. the Tennessee River below Kentucky culled. Fish taken by bow must not be Gigging and snagging is not legal from a Lake refer to Special Regulations on discarded on the bank. Bank disposal is platform or boat, except that gigging is le- pages 6 and 9 of this guide. littering and subject to a fine. gal from a boat on lakes 500 surface acres TICKLING and NOODLING or larger and only during daylight hours. SPEAR FISHING (301 KAR 1:410) There is a statewide daily creel (301 KAR 1:410; KRS 150.010) Underwater spearing of rough fish limit of 2 paddlefish for either gigging Please refer to the trophy catfish with hand-held or mechanically pro- or snagging (except for the Tennessee regulations on page 10. The tickling pelled spear is permitted year-round, but River below Kentucky Lake and the and noodling (hand grabbing) season only in lakes having 1,000 surface acres Cumberland River below ). for rough fish is June 1 through August or more. All participants in this sport All gigged or snagged paddlefish must 31, during daylight hours only. Tickling must be submerged while spear fishing. be taken into possession and cannot be and noodling means taking fish directly Only rough fish may be taken and the culled or released. Anglers must cease by hand, or with the aid of a handled appropriate fishing license is required. gigging or snagging once they attain the hook. These methods are permitted in all The daily creel limit is 15 fish of which 2 paddlefish daily creel limit. It is ille- waters. The daily creel limit is 15 rough only 5 may be catfish. 11 LICENSE AND PERMIT FEES

LICENSE / PERMIT Resident Nonresident Annual Fishing $23 $55 Joint Married Couple Annual Fishing $42 Not available 1-Day Fishing $7 $15 3-Year Fishing (available online at fw.ky.gov only) $55 Not available Nonresident 7-Day Fishing Not available $35 Trout Permit $10 Annual Hunting $27 $150 1-Day Hunting (not valid for deer, elk, turkey or bear) $7 $25

LICENSES 7-Day Hunting (not valid for deer, elk, turkey or bear) Not available $65 Annual Youth Hunting (ages 12-15 only) $6 $10 Shooting Area License (available online at fw.ky.gov only) $5 Annual Trapping $20 $130 Annual Landowner/Tenant Trapping $10 Not available Annual Youth (ages 12-15) Trapping $5 Not available Annual Combination Hunting/Fishing $42 Not available Senior/Disabled Sportsman’s License* (includes same license and permits $12 Not available as Resident Sportsman’s License, plus additional deer permits.) Sportsman’s License* (Includes combination hunting/fishing license, state- wide deer permit, spring and fall turkey permits, state migratory game bird- $95 Not available

COMBOS waterfowl permit and trout permit.) Youth (ages 12-15) Sportsman’s License* (Includes youth hunting license, $30 Not available youth deer permit and 2 youth turkey permits.) Statewide Deer Permit (four deer) $35 $185 Youth (ages 12-15) Deer Permit (four deer) $10 $15

DEER Additional Deer Permit (two deer) $15 Spring Turkey Permit (statewide) (two turkeys) $30 $85 FISHING REGULATIONS Youth (ages 12-15) Turkey Permit (one turkey, spring or fall) $10 $15 Fall Turkey Permit (statewide)(four turkeys) $30 $85 Kentucky Migratory Bird/Waterfowl Permit $15

BIRDS Federal Duck Stamp (available at post offices and online at www.duckstamp.com) $25 Pheasant Quota Hunt Permit (if drawn) $25 Sandhill Crane Permit (quota hunt, apply in Sept. at fw.ky.gov) $3 $3 Elk Drawing Application $10 Youth Elk Drawing Application $10 Quota Bull Elk Firearm Permit $100 $550 Quota Cow Elk Firearm Permit $60 $400 ELK Quota (either sex) /Crossbow Permit $100 $550 Youth Elk Permit $30 $200 Out-of-Zone Elk Permit $30 $400 Bear Permit $30 $250 Youth Bear Permit $10 Not available Bear Chase Permit $30 Not available BEAR Youth Bear Chase Permit $10 Not available Ballard WMA 1-Day Waterfowl Permit $15 Peabody WMA User Permit $15 Land Between The Lakes (LBL) Hunter Use Permit $25, or $75 with Backcountry Camping Otter Creek ORA Admission Fees (per person) Daily: $3, annual: $30, AREAS (available online at fw.ky.gov) children under 12: free. Otter Creek ORA Special Activity Fees (per person, for use of horse trails, Daily: $7, annual: $70 mountain bike trails and shooting range) (available online at fw.ky.gov) Temporary Hunter Education Exemption Permit (Hunter Apprentice Free (limited time only) Opportunity; available online at fw.ky.gov only)

OTHER Habitat Improvement and Public Access Donation (voluntary; available at fw.ky.gov only) Any amount *Peabody, LBL and Otter Creek permits, elk drawing application, elk quota hunt permit, out-of-zone elk permit, bear permit, federal duck stamp and trapping license not included. An additional deer permit is not included with a Sportsman’s License. Kentucky’s license year begins March 1 and continues through the last day of February. New licenses are required annually, except for the 3-year fishing license. A 1-day or 7-day hunting license is valid only for the period shown on license. Resident and 12 nonresident youths under the age of 12 are not required to purchase licenses or permits (except the elk drawing application). HOW TO BUY LICENSES AND PERMITS FISHING REGULATIONS

GETTING A LICENSE ONLINE All Kentucky hunting and fishing li- censes and permits, except a Joint Mar- By Internet: By phone: Visit Call toll-free 1-877-598-2401 ried Couple Fishing License, can be fw.ky.gov Persons purchasing online: Persons purchasing by phone: purchased through the secured Kentucky 1. Must use Visa, Mastercard or 1. Must use Visa, Mastercard, Dis- Fish and Wildlife website. Replacement Discover; cover or e-check; licenses can be printed free at fw.ky.gov. 2. Must provide their name, address, 2. Will be charged a small fee; date of birth and Social Security GETTING A LICENSE IN PERSON 3. Must provide their name, address, number; date of birth and Social Security Licenses and permits can be pur- 3. Must carry proof of their license/ number; chased throughout the Commonwealth. permit in addition to a picture ID 4. Will be issued a paper license/permit Most department stores, county court while fishing; and by mail (except short-term licenses); clerk offices and outdoor sporting goods 4. Will not receive a paper license/ 5. Will be issued an authorization stores sell licenses. License vendor loca- permit in the mail. number which serves as a license/ tions are listed at fw.ky.gov. permit until paper license/permit is issued; and GETTING A LICENSE BY PHONE If you are unsure what license or permit 6. Must have the authorization Licenses and permits can be pur- you need, refer to previous portions of number in addition to a picture ID chased by phone 24 hours a day by call- this guide, or contact Kentucky Fish and while fishing, if they have not yet ing 1-877-598-2401. It is the caller’s Wildlife at 1-800-858-1549. received their paper license/permit responsibility to know what type of All Kentucky hunting and fishing in the mail. license or permit is needed before call- licenses and permits, except a disabled li- ing. Operators should NOT be relied cense, elk lottery application and all youth upon to explain licensing requirements. licenses and permits, can be purchased over the phone for a small fee.

LICENSE REQUIREMENTS AND EXEMPTIONS

ing furlough status. River from Wolf Creek Dam to the • Residents and nonresidents ages 15 Tennessee state line, its tributaries up to License expiration and younger. the first riffle and all of Hatchery Creek Annual license/permit authorization • Persons fishing on the first Saturday are required to possess a trout permit. numbers are valid from the date of and Sunday in June ( June 5-6, 2021) (See the Trout section in this guide for purchase through the last day in during Free Fishing Days are not re- details and for a complete list of waters February. New licenses are required quired to have a license or permit. where trout are present.) annually March 1. A temporary • Persons fishing within the boundaries fishing license is valid for the period RESIDENT SPORTSMAN’S of Mammoth Cave National Park. shown on the license. KRS 150.175 LICENSE (SAVE $67!) A resident is anyone who has es- tablished permanent and legal residence Available to Kentucky residents in Kentucky and resided here at least 30 only, the Sportsman’s License includes a WHO NEEDS A LICENSE? days immediately prior to applying for a combination hunting and fishing license, (KRS 150.010, 150.170) license. Full-time students enrolled in a spring turkey permit, fall turkey permit, All persons must fill out and carry Kentucky educational institution for at statewide deer permit, state waterfowl the proper license and permit to fish least a six-month term and service per- permit (which also covers dove and other any Kentucky waters except the follow- sonnel on permanent assignment in Ken- migratory bird hunting) and trout permit. ing (for permit requirements see “Trout tucky are also classified as residents. All Peabody and LBL permits, trapping li- Permit” on this page): others are considered non-residents for cense, an elk lottery application, elk quota • The resident owner of farmlands, their licensing purposes. hunt permit (if drawn), out-of-zone elk spouse and dependent children may permit, bear permit and bonus deer per- fish on their land without a license. TROUT PERMIT (301 KAR 1:201) mits must be purchased separately. A fed- Tenants, their spouses and dependent Unless license exempt, anglers who eral duck stamp (available at post offices) children may fish without a license on intend to keep trout must have a trout is required for waterfowl hunting. farmlands where they live and work. permit ($10). A trout permit is included PAY LAKES • Resident servicemen on furlough for with the resident senior/disabled (KRS 150.660) more than three days may fish state- combination license and resident A person fishing in a pay lake li- wide without a license, but must carry sportsman’s license. All licensed anglers censed by the Kentucky Department of proper identification and papers show- fishing the portion of the Cumberland Fish and Wildlife Resources needs ei- 13 ther a Kentucky fishing license or a free Every year Kentucky offers free or nonresidents to fish any Kentucky permit issued by the operator. fishing days the first weekend in June waters. All other fishing regulations re- ( June 5-6, 2021). On free fishing days main in effect. Free fishing days are of- FREE FISHING DAYS no license (including the Kentucky fered to promote fishing and National (301 KAR 1:210) trout permit) is required of residents Fishing Week.

Resident senior or DisabLED SPORTSMAN’s Licenses

The following are eligible to pur- request the BEVE on the Social The authorization card is not a chase the Senior or Disabled Combi- Security website, choose “Create license. It must be presented to the li- nation Hunting and Fishing License an Account” or “Sign In.” Next, cense seller, or the authorization number (which includes the same license and click the “Get a Benefit Verification entered online, at the time of purchase. permits as the Resident Sportsman’s Letter” link. Next select “Custom- License vendors cannot sell a disabil- License, plus additional deer permits): ize your letter.” The BEVE should ity license using an expired authoriza- • Kentucky residents ages 65 or older. include your name, address, date of tion card. The Senior or Disabled Com- Seniors need only show proof of age birth, benefit amount and indicate bination Hunting and Fishing License is and residency to purchase this license. that you are disabled. Next, choose valid through the end of February each • Kentucky residents certified totally “Apply to letter” and then “Print.” year. If you lose your card or license, you and permanently disabled by the fed- If you contact Social Security, please can print a copy of both online using the eral Social Security Administration, request all of this information to be “My Profile” feature atfw.ky.gov . a state workers’ compensation board, included on the BEVE. The BEVE the Kentucky Teachers’ Retirement will only include the last four digits To send disability paperwork to System or the U.S. Railroad Retire- of your claim number(s). We ask that Kentucky Fish and Wildlife: ment Board. you write your entire Social Security • By mail: KDFWR Disability License, • Kentucky resident employees of the Number (SSN) on the BEVE before #1 Sportsman’s Lane, U.S. Office of Personnel Management sending it to Kentucky Fish and Frankfort, KY 40601 declared totally and permanently Wildlife. The full SSN is required in • By fax: (502) 564-9845 disabled by a recognized authority. order to process the Hunting/Fishing

FISHING REGULATIONS • Kentucky resident veterans at least License application. The BEVE that 50% disabled as the result of a you send to us should not be over six service-connected disability. months old from its date of issue. Q: For how long is a disability authorization card valid? Persons with disabilities listed • Veteran’s Affairs: Contact your above must first obtain a disability local VA office and request a letter authorization card from Kentucky that verifies you are at least 50 A: A disability authorization Fish and Wildlife. percent disabled as a result of a card is good for three years (check service-connected disability. The the expiration date). Every three To obtain a disability license letter should also have your current years you must provide updated authorization card: address and your Social Security paperwork (following the instruc- If your disability is through the: number. tions on this page) and get a new card. Those who already have a dis- • Federal Social Security Adminis- • If your disability is through other ability authorization card through tration: To request a Benefit Veri- state or federal agencies call 1-800- Veterans Affairs, U.S. Railroad fication Letter (BEVE), you may: 858-1549. Retirement Board or U.S. Office of (1) go to Once the proper documentation is www.socialsecurity.gov/ Personnel Management may call , (2) call 1-800-772-1213 processed, applicants will receive their myaccount 1-800-310-1873 to get a new card. or (3) contact your local office. To authorization card by mail.

LOST LICENSES and PERMITS Lane, Frankfort, KY 40601. You will re- Persons who need a replacement li- ceive a refund minus a $5 handling fee. Carry proof cense or permit have three options: 3. Send $5, your name, address, date of Holders of Disabled Combination 1. Print a replacement online at fw.ky. birth and Social Security number, and Licenses must carry both the license gov. Click on “Licenses,” then on “Re- which license(s) or permits you lost and authorization card while fishing. print Your License.” to: KDFWR Licensing, #1 Sports- Once a person who qualifies for this 2. Purchase the same type of license or man’s Lane, Frankfort, KY 40601. The license reaches age 65, he or she permit from any license vendor, ask department will replace the license/ is considered a senior for licensing them for a license refund form (or print permit once verification of original purposes, and no longer needs to one at fw.ky.gov), fill it out and send it purchase occurs. Replacement may follow the process of obtaining a dis- to: KDFWR Licensing, #1 Sportsman’s take up to 3 weeks. ability license authorization card. 14 BORDERING WATERS FISHING REGULATIONS

All resident Kentucky anglers who license, but must abide by Indiana’s size Kentucky residents must have a Ken- fish reciprocal waters must have a valid and creel limits. However, anglers fish- tucky license. Kentucky fishing license. ing from a boat must follow the size and creel limits of the state in which the an- KENTUCKY LAKE OHIO RIVER FISHING gler is licensed. On Kentucky Lake, anglers with (KRS 150.170) Reminder: snagging is not permit- either a valid Kentucky or Tennessee An angler with a Kentucky fishing ted for any fish species on the Indiana sport fishing license may fish from Egg- license may fish the entire main stem of side or in any Indiana waters of the ner’s Ferry Bridge (U.S. 68 and KY 80) the Ohio River from a boat, or a bor- Ohio River. In Kentucky, a person may in Kentucky south to the Governor Ned dering state’s bank without buying the not snag within 200 yards below any McWhorter Bridge (U.S. 79 and TN 76) other state’s license (bordering states in- dam on the Ohio River. in Tennessee. This includes all embay- clude , Indiana and Ohio). ments and tributaries, except the Blood MISSISSIPPI RIVER This does not apply if fishing a bor- River embayment in Kentucky. Anglers dering state’s embayments or tributaries, (KRS 150.170) must abide by the fishing and boating which begin at a straight line between Anglers licensed in Kentucky may regulations of the state in which they are opposite points where the tributary or fish portions of the Mississippi fishing. embayment meets the main stem of the River without buying a Missouri fishing river. license. Each state recognizes the sport BIG SANDY and TUG FORK RIVERS Anglers fishing from a bordering fishing licenses and permits of the other Anglers with a valid Kentucky state’s bank must follow the size and state on the Mississippi River. The river fishing license may fish the entire main creel limits of the state where the an- is defined as the main channel and im- stem of the Big Sandy and Tug Fork gler is located. For example, a Kentucky mediate side or secondary channels and rivers from the confluence of the Ohio licensed angler can stand on the Indi- chutes. It does not include oxbow or and Big Sandy Rivers upstream to the ana bank and fish the main stem of the floodplain lakes or any tributary streams. Virginia state line. Kentucky anglers can Ohio River without an Indiana fishing A tributary is delineated by the straight fish from a boat or on ’s line between opposite points where the bank without buying a West Virginia tributary connects with the main body fishing license. of the Mississippi River. Furthermore, This does not apply to fishing West the river does not include backwaters Virginia’s tributaries or embayments, that extend onto the floodplain or tribu- which begin at a straight line between taries when the river exceeds 33 feet at opposite points where the tributary or the gauging station at Cairo, Illinois. embayment meets the main stem of the Sport fishing license or permit river. holders may fish from, or attach any Kentucky anglers fishing from West device or equipment to land along the Virginia’s bank must follow their size and river under the jurisdiction of the other creel limits. However, Kentucky anglers state. Landowner permission is required fishing the main stem from a boat must to fish from the bank. follow Kentucky’s size and creel limits. Sport fishing license holders shall abide by the regulations in the state in BIG SOUTH FORK OF THE whose waters they are fishing and when CUMBERLAND RIVER fishing in waters they are not licensed to Anglers may use either a Tennessee fish, shall comply with the most restric- or a Kentucky sport fishing license while tive regulation. fishing that portion of the Big South Fork from the Leatherwood Ford bridge The Take Me Fishing website at DALE HOLLOW LAKE (KY 297) in Tennessee to the KY 92 is a bounti- www.takemefishing.org Anglers may use either a Tennes- bridge at Yamacraw, Kentucky. ful resource for anglers just learn- see or a Kentucky sport fishing license Anglers must obey the regulations ing to fish as well as intermediate while fishing in the Wolf River arm of of the state in which they are licensed. anglers looking to improve their Dale Hollow Lake. This includes the Il- Kentucky residents must have a Ken- knowledge. The website is a re- lwill Creek embayment beginning at a tucky license. pository for all you need to learn, line crossing the Wolf River at its mouth plan and equip for a day of fishing where it joins the Obey River and the OTHER BORDERING WATERS and also contains links for fishing main part of the lake. On all other bordering waters, information from each state. Anglers must obey the regulations boundaries are set by state lines. Obey the of the state in which they are licensed. laws of the state in which you are fishing. 15 GENERAL INFORMATION

rectors follow some simple procedures FISHING to keep bass alive during summer tour- Bigger tournaments naments that run from June through TOURNAMENTS Fishing tournaments involving more August. Summer tournament fishing than 100 boats are regulated and places great stress on bass due to high permitted by the Division of Law As a voluntary program, fishing water temperatures. Please refer to the Enforcement, 1-800-858-1549. event organizers are strongly urged to Kentucky Fish and Wildlife website at use the Tournament web site at fw.ky. fw.ky.gov for a list of these procedures. gov/tournamentschedule.aspx to register and report on their events. Tournament There are over 1,000 fishing tourna- planners can avoid space conflicts with ments held annually in Kentucky waters. HABITAT other previously registered events by These can be a valuable source of infor- adjusting the date, time, specific launch mation to our biologists. Follow- The Kentucky Department of Fish areas or weigh-in site for their activities. ing each scheduled event, tournament and Wildlife regularly creates and main- Other recreational anglers and organizers are asked to report their catch tains fish attractors and habitat struc- boaters can check the web site to see data directly on the tournament web tures in lakes across Kentucky. These when and where fishing events are site or on forms which can be sent via structures vary in material and benefit scheduled. This will assist them in plan- postal mail. Voluntary cooperation from sport fish populations while providing ning their activities and also help avoid tournament organizers will be used in anglers productive fishing areas. GPS potential space conflicts. Additional per- making fishery management decisions. locations of many of these structures are mits may be required by the U.S. Army At the end of the tournament season, a found at fw.ky.gov. Corps of Engineers, the U.S. Forest Ser- summary of tournament results will be vice or Kentucky State Parks. sent to all providers. If not provided with

GENERAL INFORMATION Check the Kentucky Fish and one, contact your local fisheries district HARMFUL ALGAL Wildlife website at fw.ky.gov. office. They will provide a packet. BLOOMS If the launch site for your tourna- ment involves using a marina ramp, KEEPING YOUR BASS ALIVE Blue-green algae are a type of bac- please contact the marina operator be- Kentucky Fish and Wildlife rec- teria found in lakes in Kentucky and fore scheduling your tournament. ommends tournament anglers and di- throughout the United States. They oc- cur naturally, but if their numbers get too high they can pose health risks to Kentucky’s humans and animals. Anglers, hunters, largest boaters and all others who might use HAVE YOU these water resources should be aware salamander: of the potential risks associated with Eastern these blooms. Both the Kentucky Divi- Hellbender sion of Water and the U.S. Army Corps SEEN ME? of Engineers have initiated testing of Can grow up to 24” long • Completely aquatic • Not aggressive or poisonous • Long lived (up to 30 yrs.) lakes in Kentucky to document these blooms and provide updated informa- Kentucky Fish and Wildlife is tion to the public. See fw.ky.gov for very interested in all locality more information. records for the eastern hellbender. If you see this Can you sell fish caught giant salamander, please Q: while possessing only a valid e-mail John MacGregor Kentucky sport fishing license? ([email protected]) or Zach Couch A: No. It is illegal to sell any fish ([email protected]) with (except Asian carp) caught without locality information and a the proper photograph, if possible. license and gear. 16 GENERAL INFORMATION

FISH CONSUMPTION NEED A PLACE TO FISH? Find new fishing information ADVISORIES on Kentucky waterbodies by visit- ing fw.ky.gov. Click on the “Find A Place To Fish” tab on the left The Kentucky Departments for side of the home page. Anglers Environmental Protection, Health Ser- may search lakes, rivers and vices and Fish and Wildlife Resources Sensitive population creeks for boat ramps and access Women of childbearing age, children jointly issue a fish consumption advisory points, what species are available to the public when fish are found con- 6 years of age or younger, pregnant and nursing women and women who and maps of how to get there plus taminated. Trace contaminants such as other useful information. polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB), mer- plan to become pregnant should fol- low the advisories in the “Sensitive Also under the “Find a Place cury and chlordane are found in some Population” category. to Fish” tab is the 2021 Fishing fish in Kentucky. An advisory cautions Forecast. This report details the people about potential health problems anticipated fishing success for that may result from eating fish caught each species in major waterbod- from a particular area. An advisory does per month of and no more ies based on population samples not ban eating fish; it is a guide to reduce than one meal per week of and conducted by KDFWR fisheries your risk. This guide provides informa- bottom . There is no advisory biologists. tion on how often fish may be safely eat- for the general population for fish in the Although the VPA program en. Most fish are healthy to eat and are “other fish” category. is now in a reduced capacity, an excellent source of low-fat protein. Fish consumption advisories now many sites remain open to public delineate between predatory fish, bot- CONSUMPTION GUIDELINES use. Check the Kentucky Fish and tom feeder fish, panfish and other fish Wildlife website at Consumption rates for specific fish species including Asian carp, trout, min- fw.ky.gov. have been developed based on a meal of nows, etc. Predatory fish include black ½ pound of fish (before cooking) eaten bass (smallmouth, largemouth and spot- by a 150-pound individual. Following ted), white bass, striped bass, hybrid creek chub as well as the white, spotted, these guidelines and spacing your meals striped bass, sauger, saugeye, walleye, northern hog and carpsuckers. of those fish species will limit your muskellunge, flathead and blue catfish, Organic mercury occurs naturally health risks by reducing your total expo- yellow bass, chain pickerel and all gars. in the environment and does not affect sure. See table on the next page. Panfish include bluegill, crap- swimmers, skiers or boaters. Fish accumu- pie, rock bass as well as green, longear late low levels of mercury by eating plank- STATEWIDE and redear sunfish. fish ton and other small aquatic creatures. All waters are under advisory for include the bullheads, buffalo species, For the most up-to-date consump- mercury. Women of childbearing age channel catfish, , redhorse tion advisory information, please visit and children 6 years of age or younger species, shovelnose sturgeon, drum, fw.ky.gov. should eat no more than six meals per year of predatory fish. They should eat no more than one meal per month of PARASITES and GRUBS IN FISH panfish, bottom feeder fish and no more Kentucky anglers will oc- or from its mouth. The eggs hatch than one meal per week of fish in the casionally clean a fish and find a and tiny larvae of the parasite “other fish” category. The general popu- white or yellowish color worm in burrow into a snail. After a time lation should eat no more than one meal the fish’s flesh that is about the in the snail, the parasite changes size of a grain of rice. Or, when form and swims to its next host, a stream fishing, an angler will fish. Inside the fish, the parasite REDUCE YOUR RISK encounter a smallmouth bass or changes to a grub form and waits Risks from eating contaminated sunfish with small black specks on for the fish to be eaten. Then, the fish can be reduced by the its belly or across its body. cycle repeats. following: This is a parasitic fluke that The angler’s first instinct is • the fish, remove the skin requires different host animals to to discard any fish with either and trim all fat complete its life cycle: a fish eating the grubs in the flesh or black • do not eat fish eggs bird, a snail and a fish. The grub specks on the body. Grub-infested • broil, grill or bake the fillets in- matures and produces eggs inside fish are safe to eat. Grubs do not stead of or microwaving a host fish-eating bird such as a infect people. Remove any grubs • do not eat or reuse juices or fats Great Blue Heron. The eggs enter found and prepare the fish as you that cook out of the fish. the water from the bird’s droppings normally would. 17 FISH CONSUMPTION ADVISORIES

NUMBER OF MEALS PER SPECIES General Population Sensitive Population STATEWIDE Predatory fish (mercury) 1/month 6/year Bottom feeders and panfish (mercury) 1/week 1/month Other fish (mercury) No advisory 1/week DRAKES CREEK (from dam on W. Fork at Franklin, KY downstream to confluence with Barren River) All species (PCB) No consumption FISH LAKE, Ballard Co. (from lake headwaters to outflow of Shawnee Creek) Bottom feeders (mercury) 1/month 6/year FISHTRAP LAKE, Pike Co. (from VA/KY state line to Fishtrap Lake dam) Bottom feeders and hybrid striped bass (PCB) 1/month 6/year (from lake headwaters to dam) Bottom feeders (PCB and mercury) 1/month 6/year KNOX CREEK, Pike Co. (from VA/KY state line to Tug Fork River) Flathead catfish (PCB and mercury) No consumption Bottom feeders (PCB) 6/year No consumption Predatory fish (PCB) and panfish (PCB and mercury) 1/month 6/year LITTLE BAYOU CREEK, McCracken Co. All species (PCB) No consumption METROPOLIS LAKE, McCracken Co. All species (PCB and mercury) No consumption MUD RIVER, Logan Co. (from headwaters to Wolf Lick Creek) Bottom feeders (PCB) No consumption Predatory fish and panfish (PCB) 1/month 6/year MUD RIVER, Butler and Muhlenberg cos. (from Wolf Lick Creek to Green River) Bottom feeders (PCB) 1/month 6/year

GENERAL INFORMATION Panfish (PCB) 1/week 1/month TOWN BRANCH, Logan Co. All species (PCB) No consumption WESTERN KENTUCKY WMA PONDS, McCracken Co. All species (mercury) No consumption

The Ohio River has different advisories than other Kentucky waters. Any fish species not listed in the table below falls under a 1 meal per week advisory for mercury. OHIO RIVER, UPPER and MIDDLE REACH (Mouth of the Big Sandy River to J.T. Meyers L&D) Common carp (PCB) 1/month 1/month Channel catfish under 18 inches long (PCB) 1/month 1/month Channel catfish 18 inches and longer (PCB) 6/year 6/year Flathead catfish (PCB) 1/month 1/month Striped and hybrid striped bass (PCB) 6/year 6/year White bass (PCB) 1/month 1/month All suckers (PCB) 1/month 1/month Freshwater drum (PCB) 1/month 1/month Black bass (largemouth, smallmouth and spotted) (mercury) 1/month 1/month OHIO RIVER, LOWER REACH (J.T. Meyers L&D to mouth of Ohio River) Common carp 22 inches and longer (PCB) 1/month 1/month Blue catfish 20 inches and longer (PCB) 1/month 1/month Channel catfish 18 inches and longer (PCB) 1/month 1/month Flathead catfish (PCB and mercury) 1/month 1/month Striped and hybrid striped bass (PCB and mercury) 1/month 1/month White bass (mercury) 1/month 1/month Freshwater drum 14 inches and longer (mercury) 1/month 1/month Black bass (largemouth, smallmouth and spotted) (mercury) 1/month 1/month 18 Sauger (mercury) 1/month 1/month GENERAL INFORMATION ANGLER’S FISH IDENTIFICATION GUIDE

1 2 3

2

1 3 SAUGER 1. Rows of dark spots on spiny , 2. No dark blotch at rear of spiny dorsal fin, 3. Dark saddle-like blotches which extend onto the sides of the body HYBRID STRIPED BASS 1 2 1. Tooth patch on tongue consists of two rows of teeth, often partially joined, 2. Back moderately arched, 3. Most stripes are broken, many more than once

3 2 3 WALLEYE 1 1. Dark streaks or blotches on spiny dorsal fin, but not distinct spots, 2. Dark blotch at rear of spiny, dorsal fin, 3. White spot on lower lobe of tail fin

1 2 STRIPED BASS 1. Tooth patch on tongue consists of two distinctly split, parallel rows of teeth, 2. Back slightly arched, more streamlined, 3. Stripes very distinct and most extend fully onto tail

3 BROWN TROUT 1. Dark spots and orange or red spots with blue halos, 2 2. Few spots on tail fin 1 1 2 3

WHITE BASS 1. Single tooth patch on tongue, 2. Back arched, 3. Stripes often faint and irregular RAINBOW TROUT 1. Pink to red stripe on side, 2. Back and sides heavily 3 speckled, 3. Spots on tail fin

1 2 1

2 YELLOW BASS BROOK TROUT 1. No tooth patch on tongue, 2. Second and 1. Worm-like markings (vermiculations) on upper body, third anal spines nearly same length, 3. Stripes 2. Pale spots on dark background distinct and broken above anal fin 19 2 2 1 1 3

3 BLUEGILL ROCK BASS 1. Gill flap black, 2. Vertical bars on side, 3. Dark 1. Eye rimmed in red, 2. Most scales have a dark spot, blotch at rear of soft dorsal fin 3. Anal fin has five or six spines

2 1 2 3

1 REDEAR SUNFISH SMALLMOUTH BASS 1. Gill flap black with orange or red margin, 1. Upper jaw does not extend beyond back of eye, 2. Shallow 2. No dark blotch at rear of soft dorsal fin notch between dorsal fins, 3. Bronze colored with vertical bars on side 1

GENERAL INFORMATION 2 2

3

1

LARGEMOUTH BASS WHITE CRAPPIE 1. Upper jaw extends beyond back of eye, 2. Dorsal 1. Dorsal fin has five or six spines, 2. Vertical bars on side fins separated by deep notch, 3. Tongue usually without tooth patch 1 2

2

4

1 3 SPOTTED BASS 1. Upper jaw does not extend beyond back of eye, 2. BLACK CRAPPIE Shallow notch between dorsal fins, 3. Rows of dark 1. Dorsal fin has seven or eight spines, 2. Irregular spots below , 4. Single tooth patch on tongue 20 black blotches on side Rick Hill illustrations GENERAL INFORMATION 1 KENTUCKY THREATENED AND ENDANGERED FISHES 2 These five species of fish are protected under the MUSKELLUNGE Federal Endangered Species Act. It is illegal to take 1. Duck-like bill with sharp teeth, 2. No scales on lower these fish species and utilize them for any purpose in- half of cheek and gill flap cluding as live bait for fishing (see page 10). 1 3 2

FLATHEAD CATFISH BLACKSIDE DACE 1. Lower jaw projects far beyond upper jaw, 2. Tail fin not Found only in small (wadeable) streams in the Upper deeply forked, 3. Head is compressed on flathead catfish Cumberland River Basin including Letcher, Harlan, Bell, Whitley, Knox, McCreary, Pulaski and Laurel counties. 2

3

1 CUMBERLAND DARTER CHANNEL CATFISH Found only in small (wadeable) streams in the 1. Outer margin of anal fin rounded, with 24 to 29 rays, Upper Cumberland River drainage including 2. Dark spots usually on body, 3. Tail fin deeply forked Whitley and McCreary counties.

2

3

PALEZONE SHINER 1 BLUE CATFISH Found only in the Little South Fork of the Cumberland River in McCreary and Wayne counties. 1. Outer margin of anal fin straight, with 30 to 35 rays, 2. Body without dark spots, 3. Tail fin deeply forked

RELICT DARTER Found only in the Bayou du Chien River in Hickman and Graves counties.

LAKE STURGEON (top) and ALLIGATOR GAR Lake sturgeon and alligator gar may not be harvested statewide. Alligator gar are part of a restoration effort in western Kentucky. Lake sturgeon are part of a restoration effort in the upper reaches TUXEDO DARTER of Lake Cumberland. If you see or catch these fish, please report Found only in the Big South Fork of the the catch or sighting to Matt Thomas at (502) 892-4463. Cumberland River in McCreary County. 21 AQUATIC NUISANCE SPECIES TROUT WATERS tern of stripes. Zebra mussels can live 8 It’s the law HELP KEEP OUT to 10 days out of water and can be trans- No live fish, live minnow, or live NON-NATIVE SPECIES ported to another water body while at- tached to a boat. bait organisms not native or estab- • CLEAN your boat and trailer lished in Kentucky shall be bought, before launching into or leav- HYDRILLA sold, possessed, imported, or in any ing any waterbody. Hydrilla is an exotic plant invading way used or released into Kentucky • REMOVE all plants and waters. Kentucky through transfer of plant frag- animals. ments by boats and personal watercraft. • DRAIN all water from bilges All it takes is a small fragment of the and livewells. Sport anglers unintentionally and plant to start a new colony. This plant • DISPOSE of unwanted live intentionally stock fish in Kentucky’s forms extremely dense mats that grow bait on shore – DO NOT public waters. These species mainly in- to the surface of the waterbody making STOCK THE LAKE! clude gizzard shad and alewives that are boating and swimming difficult. It liter- • RINSE your boat, trailer and present in several water bodies. Giz- ally fills shallow areas from top to bot- equipment with high pressure zard shad have been illegally released tom with vegetation. hot water. in several small public lakes where they Hydrilla also chokes out native • DRY everything for at least previously were not present. They inter- plants and displaces fish. It is extremely five days. fere with the lake’s ability to support a difficult to eradicate once it becomes es- quality bluegill population. Alewives are tablished. a non-native fish illegally stocked into In order to limit the of this several Kentucky lakes. The total impact cannot be controlled without support nuisance plant, please check all trailer of these fish is not known, but they are from commercial fishing. parts, boat motor and other equipment known to eat young fish, including sport Very young Asian carp can be eas- for mud or pieces of plant and remove fishes. ily mistaken as shad or her- before leaving the lake. Additionally, there are many non- ring. All bait collectors using cast or

GENERAL INFORMATION native aquatic species that invaded the dip nets should never dispose of any country, particularly in Great Lake live bait into other water bodies due to WE RECYCLE YOUR states. These include both plants and the potential threat of spreading these animals such as Eurasian watermilfoil, aquatic nuisance species. Asian carp, hydrilla, spring water flea, ZEBRA MUSSELS and zebra mussels. Kentucky has zebra mussels present ASIAN CARP in our waters and are at nuisance levels MONOFILAMENT Three species of Asian (big- in the Ohio River. They attach head, silver and grass) are reproducing themselves to any solid at alarming rates and threaten Ken- submerged surface in a tucky’s aquatic ecology. These fish are cluster, reproduce rap- outcompeting native fishes for forage idly, and pose a seri- and becoming overpopulated. Silver ous threat to native Envase de Reciclaje de Monofilamento Eche su línea de pescar usada en este envase carp, because of their propensity to freshwater mussel No echar latas - botellas - y ninguna otra basura aquí jump, can be harmful to recreational populations. These boaters. These carp species can produce mussels have elon- over 1 million eggs per large adult each gated pointed shells year. In areas where conditions are - less than two inches NO CANS - NO BOTTLES - NO TRASH able for reproduction, their numbers long with a zebra like pat- Kentucky Fish and Wildlife is beginning an effort to educate the public about the harmful effects Asian carp of discarded fishing line on the environment. Recycle used mono- filament fishing line by placing it in collection bins on lakes across the state. 22 TROUT WATERS 23 16” 20” none Minimum Size Limit there is a five fish daily fish creel is a five there Some indicated streams in the ta- On Chimney Top Creek, includ- in Allen Creek Trammel On 2 2 CATCH and RELEASE STREAMS CATCH a catch (no season ble have and release March 1 through harvest)Oct. from in Swift except where Camp Creek 31, the catch is Oct.1 season and release During the catch and 31. May through only artificial baits shall season, release im- be caught alland used must be trout mediately released. U.S. 460 bridge crossing. Only artificial 460 bridge crossing. U.S. be used. baits may Creek Top Chimney ing Right Fork (Wolfe only artificial baits County) , be used. may County, rainbow trout. limit on 16 Possession Limit Possession STREAMS

Catch and release only (except on Cumberland River) Catch and release only 8 1 1 for a list of fw.ky.gov TROUT STOCKING

Daily Limit Anglers fishing HatcheryAnglers Creek Coun- Johnson in Creek Paint On The streams listed on the listed following The streams Cutthroat trout are now being stocked in the Cumberland River Creek Dam. below Wolf Look for the characteristic red-orange throat of the other slash. Please refer to page 19 for a comparison three trout species in the river. main stem of the Cumberland River. main stem of the Cumberland River. and must cull trout not use chum, may possess a valid Kentucky permit. trout ty (Paintsville Lake tailwater), is there sizea 16-inch minimum limit and one the from on trout fish daily limit creel to the first 40 bridge downstream KY pages are stocked with rainbow trout by stocked by are with rainbow trout pages the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife and the (KDFWR) Resources FishWildlife and Service during U.S. are trout Brown indicated. the months streams in some stocked each year once are All trout fishery. for a put-grow-take Fish National Creek Wolf at produced Visit Hatchery. stockings.monthly trout TROUT REGULATIONS TROUT TROUT WATERS TROUT Brown Trout Brook Trout* Rainbow Trout Rainbow Cutthroat Trout SPORT FISH SPECIES The lower boundaryThe lower of the lower On Hatchery in Russell Creek The Cumberland below Lake River On the Dix River (Herrington LakeRiver Dix the On points where Hatcherypoints where meets the Creek ed as a straight opposite line between section of Hatchery section is delineat- Creek baits may be used. baits may for species and only all artificial trout section is open for catch section only release and creel limit with no size limit. The lower The lower limit with no sizecreel limit. by signs has a 5 trout aggregate daily aggregate signs has a 5 trout by the upper section as designated the upper section County, glers may not chumglers may or cull trout. - An permit (regardless of species sought). riffle, must possess a valid Kentucky trout Kentuckya valid possess must riffle, ing all tributary up to the first streams section of the Cumberland River, includ- the Cumberland of section River, minimum size limit. All this anglers on sizeminimum limit. have a 1 fish daily limit with 15-inchhave creel be longer than 20 inches. Brook trout Brook inches. 20 than longer be trout of the five fish daily creel limit maydaily fish creel limit of the five trout immediately released. Only rainbow one immediatelyreleased. caught between 15 and 20 inches must be caughtinches20 and 15 between must the Cumberland River. All rainbow trout the Cumberland River. trout is in effect oftrout for the same section inch protective slot limit on rainbow slot limit on inch protective trout and cutthroat trout. A 15- to 20- trout. and cutthroat trout fish daily creel limit applies to brown fish daily brown limit applies to creel A 20-inch minimum sizeA 20-inch minimum limit and a one downstream to the Tennessee state line. state line. Tennessee to the downstream from the Wolf Creek Dam Creek Wolf Cumberland the from Dam is via the Kentucky River. access to Dix River below Herrington below to Dix River access mile section of Dix River. The onlyThe public of Dix River. mile section not be possessed while fishing this two- artificial baits only. Live or organic bait may Live artificialonly. baits ), fishing is permitted with EXCEPTIONS for the list of monthly trout stockings. for the list of monthly Wildlife website at fw.ky.gov All trout stockings in streams, lakes or tailwaters are subject to weather and road conditions. Check the Kentucky Fish and Kentucky weather and road conditions. Check the streams, lakes or tailwaters are subject to All trout stockings in on page 26 and special regulations for Cumberland River on page 6. regulations for Cumberland River on page on page 26 and special Streams” Brook Trout *See “Catch and Release 24 TROUT WATERS Middle Fork, Red River* Otter CreekORA Otter Creek,Fort Knox North Fork, Triplett Creek* Lynn CampCreek Looney Creek Swift CampCreek* Sulphur SpringCreek Sturgeon Creek Laurel Creek Laurel Jennings Creek Creek(upper) Hatchery Station CampCreek Gunpowder Creek Elk SpringCreek Floyds Fork East Fork, IndianCreek* Craney Creek* Clear Creek Chimney Top Creek* Casey Creek Cane Creek* Sinking Creek East Fork, LittleSandyRiver Greasy Creek Goose Creek Big CaneyCreek Big BoneCreek Russell ForkRussell Beaver Creek Bark CampCreek* Royal Springs Rock Creek* Round StoneCreek Right Fork, BuffaloCreek Right Fork, BeaverCreek STATEWIDE STREAMS Powell/Wolfe Breckinridge McCreary Jefferson Simpson Menifee Whitley County Warren Harlan Russell Owsley Wayne Wayne Meade Rowan Rowan Laurel Elliott Elliott Boone Boone Wolfe Wolfe Leslie Casey Floyd Estill Scott Trigg Boyd Hart Hart Pike Bell Lee Rainbows 32,100 15,125 STREAMS 7,250 7,500 1,050 2,700 2,500 1,500 2,750 1,000 3,000 7,000 1,200 1,600 1,200 8,000 3,750 1,200 4,000 1,000 3,600 2,500 1,200 2,250 1,000 1,500 3,750 1,200 2,800 2,000 Total 400 750 400 900 450 500 2,4,5,6,7,8,9,10 2,3,4,5,10,11 3,4,6,7,8,9,10 3,5,6,7,8,9,10 3,5,6,7,8,9,10 3,5,6,7,8,9,10 3,4,5,6,9,10, 4,5,6,7,10 3,4,5,6,10 3,4,5,6,10 4,5,10,11 3,4,5,10 4,5,6,10 3,4,5,10 Months monthly 4,5,10 4,5,10 3,4,10 4,5,11 3,4,10 4,5,10 3,4,10 4,5,10 4,5,10 11,12 3,4,5 5,6,7 3,10 4,10 4,11 4,5 4,5 10 10 4 4 4 (fort only) Browns Total 500 700 250 200 500 400 250 500 200 downstream toUS150–20miles down streamtomouth–4.5miles Oct. 1-Mar. 31;Hwy190bridge Bone LickStatePark –2.1miles Oct. 1-Mar. 31;Hwy90bridge Oct. 1-Mar. 31;insidetheBig Military Reservation andOtter Military Oct. 1 - May 31; within Clifty Oct. 1-May31; withinClifty bridge upstreamtoTennessee Oct. 1-March31;1.5miles upstream toHwy200bridge Wilderness Area– 8.0miles Wilderness Oct. 1-Mar. 31; BellFarm Oct. 1-Mar. 31;2.8miles Oct. 1-Mar. 31;3.6miles Oct. 1-Mar. 31;6.6miles Oct. 1-Mar. 31;5.3miles Oct. 1-Mar. 31;3.9miles Oct. 1-Mar. 31; Ft.Knox Oct. 1-Mar. 31;US60 Creek ORA –9.7miles (No Harvest) Season (No Harvest) Catch andRelease border –9.8miles – 2.8miles TROUT WATERS 25 Months 4,5,6,11 4,5,10,11 4,5,10,11 4,5,10,11 3,4,5,6,10 4,5,6,10,11 4,5,6,10,11 4,5,6,10,11 4,5,6,10,11 4,5,6,10,11 3,5,6,7,8,11 4,5,6,7,9,10,11 4,5,6,7,9,10,11 1,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11 Catch and Release and Release Catch (No Harvest) Season Oct. 1 - Mar. 31 – 4.4 miles 31 Oct. 1 - Mar. 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 300 250 250 300 30,000 trailers for any vegetation after leaving the water and remove. 1. disinfect with a 2 ered later, percent solution of household 2. a 5 percent solution bleach or, 3. you may also soak in of salt or, 4. Allow to air undiluted vinegar. dry for at least 2 days. Total Browns Total • If algae or vegetation is discov- 600 Total Total - Browns 500 5,000 4,000 6,000 4,000 5,000 4,500 3,750 8,000 3,000 3,000 10,000 14,000 166,600 Total Rainbows Total 2,10 4,11 3,4,5 Months 3,4,5,6,10 3,5,6,7,8,9,10 Total Total 1,200 7,000 2,500 1,000 2,000 Rainbows To prevent the spread of Didymo To TAILWATERS hulls, livewells, lower units and Buckhorn Carr Creek Cave Run Fishtrap Grayson Laurel River Martins Fork Paintsville Taylorsville Cumberland* Dewey Herrington Nolin River Yatesville stream bottom with mats that cover up native plants and crowd out native insects that trout need for food. tailwaters and into other Kentucky streams, anglers who fish the Cumber land River and out-of-state waterways should: • Inspect all wading gear and boat *Stocking dates for Cumberland River (Lake Cumberland tailwater) will not be *Stocking dates for Cumberland River (Lake in March and cutthroat trout in early fall. announced. Also, brook trout are stocked Allen Rowan Martin Fayette County Jackson (continued) Didymo, native to northern The invasive algae known as TAILWATERS The following tailwatersreceive THREAT TO TROUT FISHERIES THREAT and Canada, is a white, light brown or beige mass on gray, the stream bottom that resembles shag carpet. Didymo can choke the Didymo (Didymosphenia geminata) has been documented in the Cum- berland River (Lake Cumberland tailwater). of the streams listed in this guide are located on, or adjacent to, privately owned lands. Anyone entering upon or cross- privately owned lands. Anyone entering in this guide are located on, or adjacent to, Many of the streams listed have the permissioning private property must of the land owner. Get permission Leave a note When planning a boating trip, leave a note, or float plan, with someone to let them know where you are. Include your departure and expected return times, the waters where you will be boating, a description and/ or license number of the vessel and where you can be reached in case of emergency. STATEWIDE STREAMS STREAMS STATEWIDE Trammel Creek Trammel Fork* War Triplett Creek Triplett (Veteran’s Park) (Veteran’s West Hickman Creek West Wolf Creek Wolf *Daniel Boone National Forest stream; stockings are not announced. stream; stockings are Forest *Daniel Boone National fw.ky.gov. ing 1-800-858-1549 or logging on to on logging 1-800-858-1549 or ing Kentucky FishWildlife and call by - Monthly schedules are available through Monthly available through schedules are the late fall; monthly totals will vary. monthlywill totals vary. the late fall; begins in spring into and continues rainbow and brown trout. Stocking trout. rainbow and brown 26 TROUT WATERS fishing license andtrout permit. Contact required inaddition toavalid Kentucky is andapostfishing permit tions apply or brown trout. fishing regula- Special arewithrainbow stocked reservations Meade andHardin counties) military Creekand Otter on Fort Knox (Bullitt, on Fort (Tennessee Campbell portion) FORT CAMPBELLandKNOX #3 and#4 Fisherman’s Park Lakes Fagen BranchLake Easy Walker Park Pond Eagle Lake Cranks CreekLake Cherokee Park Lake Cannon CreekLake Camp ErnstLake Brickyard Pond Boulder Pond, Parklands Bloomfield Park Lake Bloomfield Park Beulah Lake Bert CombsLake Anderson Co.CommunityPark Lake Alexandria CommunityPark South Madisonville CityPark Lake, Lusby Lake Lower Sportsman’sLake Logan HubblePark Lake Leary Lake Pollywog Lake Bob NoblePark Lake) (formerly Montgomery Lake Mingo Lake Lake Six AcreLake Ky. RiverWMABooneTract, Kess CreekPark Lake Rolex Lake Kentucky HorsePark James D.BevillePark Lake Flemingsburg OldReservoir Fishpond Lake Jacobson Park Lake Highsplint Lake Greenbo Lake Grant’s BranchLake LAKES Little West Fork Fork andFletchers LAKES scheduled basedonscheduled weather androad conditions. The lakesbelowrainbow arewithtrout stocked inthemonths indicated. are stockings January-March Acres lakes) 4 (2 126 219 243 181 19 25 10 87 36 25 46 22 11 32 2 4 1 2 1 7 2 3 9 5 4 6 2 3 6 2 6 3 6 13,000* 2,500* 9,000* 2,000 1,500 5,000 2,250 4,500 3,000 1,500 4,000 4,000 1,500 4,500 4,500 1,500 1,500 4,500 4,500 2,250 4,500 1,500 1,500 2,000 1,500 3,500 2,250 9,000 4,000 3,000 4,000 3,000 2,750 Trout only year-round flies only artificial andonly TROUT STREAMS CATCH andRELEASEBROOK phone: (502) 624-2712. or HuntControl Office, Knox, Fort KY; KY 42223-5000; phone: (270)798-2175 Unit,ing andFishing Fort Campbell, Community Recreation Division, Hunt- Total 800 Four streams andrelease are catch OTHER AREAS 2,3,10,11 1,4,5,10 1,4,5,10 1,4,5,10 1,4,5,10 Months 2,3,11 2,3,10 2,3,10 2,3,11 2,3,11 2,3,11 2,3,11 2,3,10 2,3,11 2,3,10 2,3,11 2,3,11 2,3,11 2,3,10 2,3,10 2,3,10 2,3,10 2,3,10 2,3,10 2,3,10 3,11 2,11 3,10 2,10 2,11 1,10 2,10 3,11 2,11 * Total troutincludes browntrout Yellow CreekPark Lake Wood CreekLake Parklands Lake, William F. MilesGreenHeron Parklands William F. MilesAnglerLake, Whitehall Park Lake Waymond MorrisPark Lake Waverly Park Lake Upper Sportsman’sLake Tom Wallace Park Lake Three SpringsLake Southland ChurchLake Southgate Lake Scott Co.Park Lake Sandy Watkins Park Lake Rotary Park Lake Robert J.BarthPark Lake Lake Prisoner’s Pikeville CityLake Peabody Rob’s WMA, Pond Pond Peabody Flycatcher WMA, Peabody AccessPond WMA, Panther CreekPark Lake Panbowl Lake Paintsville Lake WMA Higginson/Henry Morton’s Lake, Millennium Park Pond Mill CreekLake Mike MillerPark Lake Shelterhouse Pond Middleton MillsPark, Long Pond Middleton MillsPark, Metcalfe Co.Lake Lake Maysville-Mason Co.Park Martin Co.(Milo)Lake

LAKES (continued) * DogFork andParched are Creek Corn Creek County, –Bell • Shillalah outside • Parched Creek Corn – Wolfe County* • DogFork – Wolfe County* on thesestreams: and lures withasinglehook may beused of arestorationof project. stocked aspart annuallywithbrook trout Parktoric GapNational His - the Cumberland 1,139 Acres 672 29 24 11 75 41 22 12 3 1 4 6 5 5 7 5 3 2 3 3 1 4 4 1 1 4 1 2 4 1 1 5 4,500 2,500 1,500 2,250 8,000 1,500 2,250 4,500 3,000 4,500 4,500 4,500 1,500 1,500 1,500 1,000 1,500 2,250 1,500 2,250 2,250 6,000 5,000 1,000 6,000 3,000 2,250 1,500 1,500 3,750 Trout Total 750 500 500 1,3,5,10 Months 2,3,11 2,3,10 2,3,10 2,3,10 2,3,10 2,3,10 2,3,10 2,3,10 2,3,10 2,3,11 2,3,11 2,3,10 2,3,10 2,3,10 2,3,10 2,3,10 2,3,10 3,11 1,11 2,10 2,10 2,10 1,11 1,11 3,10 3,11 2,11 2,11 11 2 2 3 TROPHY FISH Blue Catfish 106.9 lbs. Glynn Grogan, Arlington, KY Ohio River 10/20/18 TROPHY FISH TROPHY FISH

Clay Smith of Lexington, KY, holds the state record saugeye he caught from the Cumberland River on May 21, 2019. The fish weighed 8 pounds, 8.8 ounces.

Lee McClellan photo TROPHY FISH/MASTER ANGLER AWARD PROGRAM

Minimum Hybrid Striped Bass 23” Anglers who catch, by pole and ELIGIBLE SPECIES line, any one fish meeting the length length Kentucky (Spotted) Bass 16” requirements below may qualify for the Blue Catfish 35” Largemouth Bass 23” Trophy Fish/Master Angler Awards Bluegill 10” Muskellunge 40” Program. Anglers who catch three Bowfin 25” Rainbow Trout 20” different species of trophy status are Brook Trout 15” Redear Sunfish 10” eligible for the Master Angler Award. There is no time limit in which the three Brown Trout 20” Redbreast Sunfish 10” different species must be caught, but each Bullhead Catfish 14” Rock Bass 10” catch must be documented and registered Common Carp 35” Sauger 18” as a trophy fish with Kentucky Fish and Chain Pickerel 24” Saugeye 23” Wildlife since the program began in Channel Catfish 28” Smallmouth Bass 20” 1987. Species counted toward a Master Crappie 15” Striped Bass 36” Angler Award may not be duplicated. Flathead Catfish 35” Walleye 25” Anglers qualifying for a Kentucky Trophy Fish Award will receive a Freshwater Drum 25” White Bass 16” collectable Kentucky Trophy Fish lapel/ Gar 40” 10” pin. An angler may only receive one pin per year, but each Trophy Fish caught of the catch to qualify for a lapel/hat Fish Certificate. Pins will be mailed counts toward the Master Angler Award. pin. The department may use submitted after Feb. 1 the following year. All applications for Trophy Fish/ photos for promotional purposes. Complete details are available by Master Angler Awards and associated Anglers must register at fw.ky.gov calling 1-800-858-1549 or online at photos must be received within 60 days to receive their lapel/hat pin and Trophy fw.ky.gov. 27 STATE RECORD FISH PROGRAM

To qualify for the state record WESTERN FISHERY DISTRICT EASTERN FISHERY DISTRICT fish program, fish must be caught in Adam Martin or Nick Simpson Jason Russell Kentucky waters by a rod and reel Murray, (270) 753-3886 Prestonsburg, (606) 889-1705 or pole and line only. Fish taken on commercial gear, by trotlines, limb lines, NORTHWESTERN FISHERY DISTRICT SOUTHEASTERN FISHERY DISTRICT jugging, gigging, snagging, by hand or Jeremy Shiflet or Maddy Ruble Marcy Anderson or Bradley Hartman bow fishing are not eligible. Calhoun, (270) 273-3117 Somerset, (606) 677-4096 Fish need to be weighed on a scale certified for legal trade and witnessed by SOUTHWESTERN FISHERY DISTRICT MINOR CLARK FISH HATCHERY three people who must sign the record Eric Cummins or Kayla Gerber Rod Middleton, Pete Besant or application. The fish must be identified Bowling Green, (270) 746-7127 Scott Barrett in person by KDFWR fishery biologist Morehead, (606) 783-8650 CENTRAL FISHERY DISTRICT TROPHY FISH or the manager of Wolf Creek National Fish Hatchery and not filleted, gutted or Jeff Crosby or David Baker PFIEFFER FISH HATCHERY cut up. Frankfort, (502) 892-4464 Josh Pennington, Noah Nelson or Applications for the state record Graham Howell fish program are available by calling NORTHEASTERN FISHERY DISTRICT Frankfort, (502) 564-4957 1-800-858-1549 or online at fw.ky.gov Tom Timmermann or Justin Heflin or from your District Fisheries Office: Morehead, (606) 783-8650

SPECIES Weight Caught By Location Date ANCIENT FISH Bowfin 15.08 lbs. Norman Moran, Lexington, KY Green River 05/31/99 Longnose Gar 40 lbs. Kelsie Travis, Jr., Paducah, KY Ohio River 08/08/56 Paddlefish (Spoonbill) 106 lbs. William Chumbler, Calvert City, KY Ohio River 03/23/04 Sturgeon 36 lbs. 8 oz. Barney Frazier, Corbin, KY Lake Cumberland 10/03/54 BLACK BASS Kentucky (Spotted) Bass 7 lbs. 10 oz. A.E. Sellers, Louisville, KY Private lake, Nelson Co. 06/13/70 Largemouth Bass 14 lbs. 9.5 oz. Mark Ward, Evarts, KY Highsplint Lake 04/19/19 Smallmouth Bass* 11 lbs. 15 oz. David L. Hayes, Leitchfield, KY Dale Hollow Lake 07/09/55 Coosa Bass 1.21 lbs. Seth Goodin, Smith, KY Martins Fork River 05/25/13 TEMPERATE BASS Striped Bass (Rockfish) 58 lbs. 4 oz. Roger Foster, Somerset, KY Lake Cumberland 12/11/85 Hybrid Striped Bass 20 lbs. 8 oz. Mark Wilson, Louisville, KY Barren River 04/27/91 Lorne Eli, Dawson Springs, KY Kentucky Lake 07/11/43 White Bass 5 lbs. (TIE) B.B. Hardin, Mt. Eden, KY Herrington Lake 06/03/57 Cumberland River, Yellow Bass 1 lb., 6.4 oz. William Hinton, Central City, KY 03/19/09 Lake Barkley tailwaters CARP/SUCKER 64 lbs. Drew Fulmer, Florence, KY Kentucky Lake 07/19/10 Blue Sucker 8.34 lbs. Stacey L. Boik, Evansville, IN Ohio River 11/22/09 Buffalo (Smallmouth) 55 lbs. Clinton Roby, Waddy, KY Kentucky Lake 03/23/00 Common Carp 54 lbs. 14 oz. Ricky Vance, Paris, KY South Fork, 03/13/71 Creek Chub 0.59 lbs Joshua Scott, Louisville, KY Otter Creek, Hardin Co. 03/26/06 Golden Redhorse 4 lbs. 5 oz. Leif Meadows, Stanton, KY Red River 04/22/98 Grass Carp 58 lbs. 8 oz. Robert Marsh, Erlanger, KY Cemetary Lake, Kenton Co. 06/17/09 Northern Hog Sucker 1 lb, 12 oz. Larry Salchli, Stanton, KY Slate Creek, Bath Co. 04/07/05 River Redhorse 9 lbs. 1 oz. Denny Hatfield, London, KY Rockcastle River 09/20/03 13 lbs. 5 oz. Dustin Fitzgerald, Gilbertsville, KY Tennessee River 05/14/15 28 TROPHY FISH SPECIES (cont.) Weight Caught By Location Date Silver Redhorse 5 lbs. 6 oz. Justin Collins, London, KY Rockcastle River 04/17/10 White Sucker 1 lb. 10 oz. Larry Salchli, Stanton, KY Slate Creek, Montgomery Co. 03/19/98 CATFISH Blue Catfish 106.9 lbs. Glynn Grogan, Arlington, KY Ohio River 10/20/18 Bullhead Catfish 5 lbs. 8 oz. Randy Kirk, Maysville, KY Private Pond, Mason County 07/06/13 Channel Catfish 32 lbs. Kyle Estep, South Point, OH Ohio River 05/26/04 Flathead Catfish 97 lbs. Esker Carroll Green River 06/06/56 White Catfish 5.27 lbs. Ethen Vest, Frankfort, KY 10/11/16 DRUM Freshwater Drum 38 lbs. Larry Cardwell, Morgantown, KY Green River 06/05/80 HERRING Skipjack Herring 3.10 lbs. Joey Dixon, Elizabethtown, KY Ohio River 04/14/06 MOONEYE Goldeye 2.64 lbs. Mark Smith, Lexington, KY Kentucky River 04/21/01 Mooneye 10 ounces Samir Bajric, Bowling Green, KY Barren River 08/23/19 PERCH Logperch 0.08 lbs. Marietta Strange, Louisville, KY Lake Barkley 11/04/13 Sauger 7 lbs. 7 oz. Rastie Andrew, Jamestown, KY Cumberland River 04/28/83 Saugeye 8 lbs. 8.8 oz. Clay Smith, Lexington, KY Cumberland River 05/21/19 Walleye 21 lbs. 8 oz. Abe Black, Shaker Heights, OH Lake Cumberland 10/01/58 Yellow Perch 1 lb. 7 oz. Shay Mitchell, Almo, KY Kentucky Lake 03/01/10 PIKE Chain Pickerel 5 lbs. 6 oz. Tommy Thompson, Bardwell, KY Forked Lake, Carlisle Co. 07/08/83 Grass Pickerel 10 oz. Gerald Gallagher, Louisville, KY Wilson Creek, Bullitt Co. 07/17/89 Muskellunge 47 lbs. Sarah Terry, Mt. Sterling, KY Cave Run Lake 11/02/08 Northern Pike 10.53 lbs. Derek Cowden, Corbin, KY Laurel River Lake 10/29/06 Tiger Muskie 19 lbs. 9 oz. Wayne Joslin, Winchester, KY Private lake, Clark Co. 04/25/07 (Muskellunge Hybrid) SUNFISH Bluegill 4 lbs. 3 oz. Phil Conyers, Madisonville, KY Strip Mine Lake, Hopkins Co. 08/05/80 Crappie (White or Black) 4 lbs. 14 oz. Penny Hopper, Crofton, KY Watershed Lake, Christian Co. 05/08/05 Green Sunfish 1 lb. 9.44 oz. David Gibson, Hawesville, KY Farm pond, Hancock Co. 05/20/13 Longear Sunfish 13 oz. Anthony Lynch, Salyersville, KY Strip Mine Pond, Magoffin Co. 06/23/94 Redbreast Sunfish 14 oz. Tim King, Stearns, KY Marsh Creek, McCreary Co. 09/01/97 Redear Sunfish 3 lbs. 1 oz. Betty Truax, Finchville, KY Farm pond, Shelby Co. 05/24/82 Rock Bass 1 lb. 10 oz. H.S. White, Cadiz, KY Casey Creek, Trigg Co. 05/26/75 Warmouth 1 lb. 6.2 oz. John Hoover, Louisville, KY Private pond, Jefferson Co. 07/21/03 TROUT Brook Trout 3.65 lbs. Wyatt Hoefer, Louisville, KY Cumberland River 03/15/15 Brown Trout 21 lbs. Thomas Malone, Crofton, KY Cumberland River 04/30/00 Lake Trout 5 lbs. 5 oz. John McDonogh, Jeffersontown, KY Cumberland River 04/04/83 Rainbow Trout 14 lbs. 6 oz. Jim Mattingly, Somerset, KY Cumberland River 09/10/72 Note: Line class records are not maintained by the KDFWR. * All tackle world record

The United Bowhunters of Kentucky maintains a state record program for fish harvested by bow and arrow. Visit their website at www.kystatebowfishingrecords.com for details, guidelines and current state records. records 29 BOATING BOATING REGULATIONS

INTRODUCTION BOAT REGISTRATION FEES BOATING This publication provides basic Class A Vessels (less than 16’ in length) $21.00 information for most boaters and an- swers the most commonly asked ques- Class 1 Vessels (16’ to less than 26’ in length) $40.00 tions. However, it is not all inclusive. Class 2 Vessels (26’ to less than 40’ in length) $50.00 For further information, please con- Class 3 Vessels (over 40’ in length) $65.00 tact the Division of Law Enforcement, #1 Sportsman’s Lane, Frankfort, KY Inboard boats (regardless of size) $43.00 40601 or call 1-800-858-1549. Boats propelled by an electric (trolling) motor only $10.00 For emergencies, officers may be The above costs do not include property taxes, clerks fees, titling fees or any other contacted by dialing 1-800-252-5378, or applicable charges. (301 KAR 6:005) local law enforcement agency or through the nearest Kentucky State Police post. One may use marine channel 16 to con- tact a local marina. PROPER DISPLAY OF NUMBERS AND DECALS REGISTRATION

KY 1234 AA (301 KAR 6:001, 6:010) All mechanically powered vessels used primarily in this state must have a Kentucky registration. Boats are regis- tered at the county clerk’s office. Persons may register in the county of their resi- Registration decal dence or the county of principal use. Boat registrations expire April 30 each year. Boats registered in other states may be used for up to 60 consecutive days in KY 1234 AA Kentucky without registering here. All boats operated in Kentucky must have the registration certificate on board. Boats that are rented from a marina or boat livery must have a lease agreement on board. tween letter and number groups: sibility of the purchaser to take the en- DISPLAY OF NUMBER and DECAL dorsed title to the county clerk and have Correct: KY 1234 AA Once boats are assigned a registra- the boat transferred into the name of the Incorrect: KY1234AA tion number and decals, they must be new owner. This procedure must be done displayed correctly. The number assigned, upon completion of the transaction. and no other, shall be displayed on the Registration decals are to be placed Whenever a vessel is transferred, bow, or forward half, of each side of the within six inches behind (aft) and in line the seller shall, within 15 days, give the vessel, read from left to right, and in a with the registration number. Upon renew- county clerk notice of the transfer of his position to be distinctly visible. The let- al every year, old registration decals are to interest in the vessel. ters and numbers must be of a plain block be removed and the current ones applied. Whenever a vessel is destroyed or design, at least three (3) inches in height, abandoned, the owner shall, within 15 TRANSFER, DESTRUCTION OR and of a color that will provide maximum days, give notice to the county clerk to ABANDONMENT contrast to the background (light num- terminate the registration. The owner bers on a dark hull or vice versa). When ownership of a currently shall remove the numbers and decals 30 There must be a letter size space be- registered boat changes, it is the respon- from the vessel. BOATING BOAT, MOTOR and LAKE USAGE

Lake Reba, Spurlington Lake, Washburn borne devices must: Lake, Pikeville City Lake. • Have, in addition to the operator, an Bordering waters Motors larger than 10 HP must observer 12 years or older (mirror will Kentucky boaters on the Ohio River operate at idle speed at all times on not suffice), may also be subject to the laws of Beaver Lake, Boltz Lake, Bullock Pen • Stay 500 feet from commercial docks Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and the U.S. Lake, Corinth Lake, Cranks Creek Guard. (Herb Smith) Lake, Elmer Davis Lake, Kincaid Lake, Martins Fork Lake and ON ALL KENTUCKY FISH Shanty Hollow Lake. & WILDLIFE-OWNED/ (301 KAR 1:012, 1:015) Idle Speed Only: Ballard WMA MANAGED LAKES: Maximum horsepower limits and lakes, Benjy Kinman Lake, Boatwright other boat motor and lake usage regula- WMA lakes, Beulah Lake, Carnico Lake, • Boaters must use idle speed tions apply on many small public fish- Greenbo Lake, Pan Bowl Lake, Wilgreen (slowest speed possible to main- ing lakes. (For boat size limits see box Lake and all Peabody WMA lakes in- tain maneuverability of a boat) on this page.) cluding Goose, Island and South lakes. when passing another boat with an occupant actively engaged in MOTOR SIZE RESTRICTIONS: fishing. Operation of electric or internal Note • The centerline of boats on the combustion motors prohibited: Lake Legal-size boats exceeding the maxi- water cannot exceed 22 feet Chumley, Dennie Gooch Lake and mum horsepower restriction for a as measured on deck or bow Kingdom Come Lake. particular lake may operate their boat to stern on all lakes owned or Operation of internal combustion with an electric trolling motor only. managed by Kentucky Fish and motors prohibited: Bert T. Combs Lake, Wildlife, except on Guist Creek Briggs Lake, Carpenter and Kingfisher Lake where monohull boats with lakes, Carter Caves State Park Lake (a.k.a. WATER-SKIING a centerline of 24 feet and 8 Smoky Valley Lake), Lebanon City Lake While this section is titled water- person capacity are allowed. (a.k.a. Fagan Branch Lake), Fishpond skiing, it applies to persons being towed • On Cedar Creek Lake, Lake Lake, all Kentucky River WMA Boone on any device such as knee boards, inner Beshear and Lake Malone only, Tract lakes (except Benjy Kinman Lake), tubes, etc. Water-skiing is only allowed pontoon boats may have deck- Lincoln Homestead State Park Lake, between sunrise and sunset. Addition- ing and pontoons up to 30 feet; McNeely Lake, Marion County Lake, ally, it is illegal to manipulate skis, surf- on Guist Creek Lake pontoon Martin County Lake, Metcalfe County boards, etc. while intoxicated or under max length is 24 feet. There is Lake, Mauzy Lake, Mill Creek Lake, the influence of any other substance that no size restriction on . impairs one’s operating ability. • Houseboats are not permitted. Both the operator and skier should • Personal watercrafts are pro- AGE RESTRICTIONS be alert to the areas of a lake or river hibited on Cedar Creek Lake. marked as “no ski.” Persons shall not ski • Swimming is permitted only in A person must be 12 years or within 100 feet of a commercial boat designated areas when a quali- older to operate a motorboat (in- dock, a moorage harbor or a swimming fied lifeguard is on duty. cluding personal watercraft) 10 area or within 2,000 feet of a lock or dam. • Skin or scuba diving is not per- horsepower or over on Kentucky Skiers who ski too close to other mitted. public waters. A person 12-17 boats, docks and obstructions are show- • Boat motors without underwa- years old shall possess a Kentucky ing poor judgement. Many of the com- ter exhaust are not permitted. Safe Boating Certificate Card or plaints officers receive while patrolling a certificate showing successful the water are those about skiers skiing Water-skiing permitted as des- completion of a NASBLA ap- too close. ignated by signs on Guist Creek proved boater education course. Persons being towed on any device Lake and from For information about Kentucky’s must wear a Type I, II or III PFD. Boats 10:00 a.m. to sunset beginning Boater Education program, call (including personal watercraft) towing the third Thursday in May (May 1-800-858-1549 or on the inter- skiers must have, in addition to the op- 20, 2021) through September 30. net, log on to fw.ky.gov. erator of the boat, an observer 12 years Similarly, water-skiing is permit- Persons under 12 years of age of age or older or a wide angle rearview ted on Lake Malone beginning the must wear a personal floatation mirror mounted so that the operator can third Thursday in May (May 20, device (lifejacket) while in the check on the skier but still give full at- 2021) through October 31. Wa- open portion of a boat that is tention to traffic ahead. There must be ter-skiing and tubing are prohibit- under way. adequate seating for all riders. ed on Cedar Creek Lake. Boats towing kites and similar air- 31 and ramps, ing ramp. Swim in marked and super- DIVERS DOWN FLAGS • Limit the tow rope to 150 feet or less, vised areas. If you are a nonswimmer or a Boaters should exercise caution • Have no more than two persons being poor swimmer, wear a PFD. Remember, towed. PFDs are not just for boaters. Refrain from drinking alcoholic PERSONAL WATERCRAFT beverages when swimming. Alcohol A “personal watercraft” (PWC) greatly reduces a person’s reflexes and means a vessel which uses an internal strength when in the water. For persons combustion engine to power a jet pump Alpha Flag (left): Blue with a who have had alcoholic beverages a PFD for its primary source of propulsion and silver stripe, displayed on vessel is the difference between life and death. is designed to be operated by a person Persons who wish to swim a long BOATING with restricted mobility because sitting, standing or kneeling on the ves- of diving operation. Diver’s Flag distance should swim parallel to the sel rather than by a person sitting or (right): Red flag at least 12” x 12” shore instead of across a river or lake. standing inside the vessel. In addition with diagonal stripe at least three Boaters don’t normally expect to see to being governed by the same laws that inches wide, displayed where diver is swimmers in the middle of a lake or apply to all boats, the following laws ap- submerged. river and may run over them. ply to personal watercraft: • Personal watercraft can only be oper- INFLATABLES ated between sunrise and sunset. rector or local wildlife and boating law Air mattresses, inner tubes and oth- • Personal watercraft without self-cir- enforcement officer assigned to the spe- er similar devices are generally used as cling capability must have a lanyard- cific body of water in which the diving is recreational items by persons swimming type engine kill switch attached to the to take place. or sunbathing. Use of these items should operator when the craft is underway. Persons diving or submerging with be restricted to designated or generally • Operators and passengers must wear a the aid of a mechanical breathing appa- recognized swimming areas and not be U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal ratus in an area where boats might be are used in areas of boat traffic. Nonswim- flotation device (PFD.) required by law to display the diver’s flag. mers or poor swimmers should not de- Because of their small size and low This flag should be put on a buoy, pend on these devices to save their life. profile, operators of PWCs should ex- boat or other floating platform so boat- These items can be punctured and lose ercise defensive driving. These craft are ers will readily see it. Approaching boats their buoyancy – wear a PFD! highly responsive and capable of quick must stay outside of a 100-foot radius of turns. In fact, this is part of the fun of the flag. Divers must surface within a 50- LITTERING their operation. However, this kind of foot radius unless there is an emergency. (KRS 433.757) operation is reckless if done in congested Divers shall not dive in established The operator of any motorboat or areas of boat traffic. traffic lanes nor interfere with anyone vessel is responsible for any litter thrown fishing unless emergency operations are into the water. Litter is not only un- SKIN and SCUBA DIVING in progress. sightly, but can be dangerous to humans (301 KAR 1:410, 6:030) and animals. For example, fishing line Skin or SCUBA diving is prohib- SWIMMING discarded into the water can be hazard- ited in all lakes owned or managed by Swimming in any lake owned or ous to wildlife and to a boat’s lower unit. the Kentucky Department of Fish and managed by the KDFWR is prohibited Animals can be ensnared in the line and Wildlife Resources, except during emer- except in areas specifically set aside for die. Fishing line caught on a prop shaft gencies, on Greenbo Lake and during swimming at which a qualified lifeguard can cause seal leaks and lower unit fail- salvage operations when the diver has is on duty. Kentucky law specifically ure. Trot lines and limb lines can snare written permission from the regional di- prohibits swimming at any boat launch- animals and other anglers in boats.

BOAT OPERATION

RECKLESS OPERATION surfboard or any water sport device; in the water and turning sharply at The operator of a watercraft is re- • jumping the wake of another craft close range. sponsible for damage caused by negli- in a way that endangers human life, Persons shall not operate a motor- gent operation. The following actions physical safety or property; boat or personal watercraft within 50 are considered reckless operation and are • cutting between a boat and the feet of a commercial vessel and its tow therefore against the law: individual(s) being towed by the boat; that is in operation on a waterway, ex- • weaving through traffic; • crossing the path of another boat cept if the operator of the commercial • following watercraft too closely that is when visibility is obstructed; vessel has given consent. 32 towing an individual on waterskis, a • steering toward an object or individual When operating in a busy area, re- BOATING duce speed and allow plenty of room for should never fish from or stand on lock avoidance maneuvers. Even in areas that and dam structures. are not marked as idle speed, excessive Boaters should be alert for these wake can still be dangerous. Operators structures. Dams are either conventional of larger craft should be aware of the Boil or “low head” type. Conventional dams wake their vessels are throwing. are easily recognizable with their spill- Low ways and power installations. IDLE SPEED Head Kentucky law defines idle speed as Dam RESTRICTED ZONES the “slowest speed possible to maintain (KAR 6:030) maneuverability” of a boat. Generally Kentucky law prohibits boats from speaking for a properly adjusted boat, this LOW HEAD DAMS ARE operating within restricted areas as is the speed when a boat is put into gear DANGEROUS posted above or below navigation, power without advancing the throttle. Wakes generating or flood control dams. Low head dams are usually can capsize small boats or cause damage No fish is worth risking your life. marked with “keep out” buoys or to boats moored at marinas and docks. It Be aware of trespassing and danger “danger” signs above and below. is extremely important that boat operators zones. Wear a PFD when entering any Low head dams pose an even be aware of their speed and the resulting area above or below a dam. greater danger due to the fact wake. Operators are liable for any injuries that they are not as recognizable, or damage caused by their boat’s wake. OPERATING UNDER THE especially when water is flow- Boaters may see buoys or signs that INFLUENCE ing over them. It is this flow of say “No Wake.” This means that boats (KRS 235.240) water over the dam that creates must be at idle speed. It is against the law to operate a a “boil” on the lower side. Boat- boat or vessel including personal water- ers risk almost certain death if LOCKS AND DAMS craft, manipulate water skis, surfboard caught in this turbulence. Boaters in Kentucky may encoun- or other similar device while intoxicated ter lock and dam systems. Generally, or under the influence of any other sub- these will be on the Green, Ohio and stance that impairs one’s driving ability. Kentucky Rivers (for the first four locks nel to avoid personal injury or dam- Any person who operates a vessel on upstream to Frankfort, KY), but a few age to their boat from wakes caused by Kentucky waters is considered to have impoundments have a lock and dam. commercial tows entering or leaving the given consent to a test or tests to deter- Locks are a relatively simple method of locks. Never moor a vessel in the lock mine his alcohol concentration or the raising or lowering boats from one wa- approach channels. presence of other drugs. The tests shall ter level to another. If lockage is desired, Dams associated with the locks be administered at the direction of a law boaters should signal the lock operator can be very dangerous. Below all locks enforcement officer who has probable by using the pull chain on each end of and dams, boat occupants must wear a cause to believe that the operator is in- the lock or call on marine channel 13. personal floatation device (lifejacket) toxicated. An operator refusing the test If the lock is not immediately available, upstream of danger signs and open-di- shall be in violation of the law and sub- boaters should position their vessels a amond buoys or within 150 feet of the ject to the same penalties. safe distance from the approach chan- downstream lock and dam wall. Anglers Anyone who operates a boat, PWC,

BLOOD ALCOHOL CONTENT CHART SMALL CRAFT PRECAUTIONS Body Weight Number of Drinks in a Two Hour Period (in pounds) 12 oz. beer = 5 oz. wine = 1 oz. 80 proof liquor Statistics show that approxi- 100 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 mately half the boat-related fa- talities involve boats that are less 120 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 than 16’ in length. These boats 140 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 are usually unstable and can tip 160 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 over, throwing the occupants overboard. Also, these boats can 180 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 be easily swamped, especially if 200 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 used on a large body of water 220 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 where the wind can cause high 240 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 waves. When using such craft, be aware of the hazards. Wearing a BAC to .05% - Be careful. Loss of judgement and coordination. personal floatation device (PFD) BAC .05% to .07% - Abilities impaired. Chance of accident increased. is strongly recommended. BAC .08% and over - Do not operate a boat. High risk of accident, subject to arrest. 33 skis, surfboard or similar device while of alcoholic beverages to the extent that intoxicated with a blood alcohol level of they may unreasonably annoy or endan- UNIFORM STATE 0.08 or higher or while under the influ- ger themselves or others shall be subject WATERWAY MARKING ence of any substance that impairs the to arrest. SYSTEM operator’s driving ability may be subject to fines and possible jail time if convicted. PROHIBITED RIDING Approximately half of boat related Boats Keep Out! DRINKING IN PUBLIC and PUBLIC fatalities result from falls overboard. Nature of danger INTOXICATION When operating a motorboat above idle may be placed (KRS 222.202) speed the operator or passengers shall not outside crossed Kentucky law specifically prohibits ride on an enclosed bow, outside protec- diamond, e.g., wa- BOATING the drinking of alcoholic beverages in tive railing of a pontoon or houseboat, on terfalls, swim areas or rapids. public places (this excludes establish- a seat which extends six inches above the ments licensed to sell such beverages) plane of the gunwales, nor shall they ride Danger! and the waterways of this state are con- on the sides, back, engine cover, back of Nature of danger sidered public places. seat, or any other obviously dangerous may be indicated Further, in a public place, persons position which could lead to falling over- inside the diamond who are manifestly under the influence board. shape, e.g., rocks, reefs, dams, construction or snags. RULES OF THE ROAD Caution! On the water there are no painted sels must give way to avoid a collision. At Controlled Areas as indicated in circle, lines to mark where boats must go. In or- night, a boat’s navigation lights give an e.g., speed limit, no der to provide an orderly flow of traffic, indication of right of way (see page 36). fishing, no anchor- there are “rules of the road” that boaters The above rules cover most traffic ing, ski-only, slow-no wake, no ski or should learn and practice. situations, but a few other situations ex- no prop boats. Boaters on the water encounter ist. Sailboats under sail have the right of three situations: meeting, crossing and way except when they are the overtaking overtaking. The following diagrams vessel. Rowboats and paddle powered Information Tells directions, should give a clear explanation of who boats have the right of way over motor- distances, places has the right of way (stand-on vessel) boats. All recreational craft should yield such as food, repair, and who must give way (give-way ves- the right of way to large commercial supplies and other sel). However, in an emergency, all ves- craft (towboats, barges). Such vessels non-regulatory messages. have large blind spots and will be unable to see smaller crafts in front of them. MEETING SITUATION On small or narrow bodies Obstruction Marker of water, all traffic should stay to Do not pass between the right of mid-channel and not shore and buoy. “cut corners”. BUOYS Mooring Buoy Buoys are the most common OVERTAKING SITUATION White with reflec- types of navigational aid, and tive blue band. May they serve the same pur- have white light or pose as traffic signs on reflector. the highway. Failure to Give-way vessel Stand-on vessel obey buoys can result overtaking being overtaken in enforcement action, or Channel Marker worse, a loss of property or Keep buoy on right lives. When boating in un- facing upstream. CROSSING Stand-on vessel familiar waters, slow down SITUATION holds course and look for any regulatory Danger zone and speed or channel-marking buoys. Channel Marker 112° Remember that it is possible Keep buoy on left for these buoys to drift out facing upstream. of position. Kentucky law Marker may be prohibits from tying up to green or black. Give-way any buoy except designated 34 vessel mooring buoys. BOATING REQUIRED EQUIPMENT

(301 KAR 6:020 Sect. 4); KRS 235.203 For each person onboard a vessel, TYPES OF PFDs federal as well as state law requires a TYPE I (right) and TYPE II (far right) Type I, II, or III personal flotation de- These devices are designed, when worn vice (PFD) on all boats. Boats 16 feet properly, to turn a person who is uncon- and over, except canoes and kayaks, must scious and face down in the water to a also carry one Type IV throwable PFD. vertical or slightly backward face up Operators and passengers of personal position. watercraft must wear a PFD. Persons under 12 years of age must wear a PFD while in the open part of a boat that is TYPE III TYPE IV under way. These are special These PFDs purpose devices are designed PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICES that include ski to be thrown Kentucky Fish and Wildlife vests, fishing vests to persons in strongly recommends wearing PFDs and float . the water who while boating, especially by children and They are not designed can hold on to nonswimmers. In order for PFDs to be to turn a person’s face out them until help legal, the following requirements must of the water, but they do have the same arrives. They are be met: buoyancy as the type I and II PFDs and not designed to be worn, and could • Coast Guard approved: A label with are more comfortable to wear. cause if worn on the back. an approval number will be on the PFD. Check the label on inflatable types of PFDs. Some older models MARINE FIRE EXTINGUISHER CLASSIFICATION meet Coast Guard approval only Coast Guard Dry Chemical UL Listing Foam (gals.) CO2 (lbs.) when worn. Classes (lbs.) • Serviceability: All straps, buckles, B-I 5B 1.25 4 2 zippers, stitching, must be intact and the fabric should not be rotted. Some B-II 6B* 2.5 15 10 PFDs contain airtight bags filled with — 10B none 10 2.5 a fibrous material. Squeeze the bags. — 20B 2.5 50 4.5 - 6 If air escapes, destroy the PFD and replace it with a new one. * UL rating 6B is no longer used. • Size: PFDs must fit properly. Read MINIMUM NUMBER OF the label to determine size and weight B-1 FIRE EXTINGUISHERS restrictions. best fire protection is well main- No Fixed Fire Fixed Fire Vessel/ • Accessibility: PFDs must be readily tained equipment and proper Extinguisher Extinguisher size available for immediate use by all safety habits. System System Installed occupants of a vessel. It is advisable There are fuels other than for each person to try on their PFD gasoline that cause fires. Many Class A 1 0 before departing so that they are fa- houseboats use bottled gas (pro- Class 1 1 0 miliar with the fastening devices and pane) for stoves and other ap- Class 2 2 1 to assure it is adjusted to the person. pliances. Also, many fishermen Class 3 3 2 PFDs shouldn’t be stored in the will use a lantern while fishing at plastic bags in which they were sold. night; if tipped over it can cause This limits access and can promote a fire. rotting. BACKFIRE FLAME FIRE EXTINGUISHERS ARRESTERS Kentucky law requires that all Internal combustion en- boats equipped with a petroleum prod- gines may backfire. To safeguard uct (gasoline, kerosene, propane, etc.) against fire, all motorboats with consuming device (engines, lanterns, enclosed engines and engines stoves, etc.) shall have a hand portable originally equipped with a flame fire extinguisher in serviceable condi- arrester, (except outboards and Above: foam, CO2 and dry chemical fire tion and located for immediate use. The diesels) must have an approved extinguishers 35 carburetor backfire flame arrester sys- tem on each carburetor. DISPLAY OF NAVIGATION LIGHTS VENTILATION Class 2 and 3 white sailboats Most fires on a boat are due to igni- Class A and Class 1 tion of fuel vapors. Gasoline is heavier motorboats white than air. It can collect in the bilge or engine compartment and any spark can red ignite it. Therefore, Kentucky law re- red quires boats to have adequate ventilation of areas where flammable vapors can ac- green BOATING cumulate. white green Most boats are equipped with ad- white equate ventilation systems when they come from the factory. Usually, this is Class 2 and 3 motorboats a combination of active and passive Class A and Class 1 sailboats systems. Active systems use electrical blowers to exhaust flammable vapors green red red from the bilge and other areas. Passive green systems are ducts and cowls that venti- late areas when the boat is moving. Al- most all inboards will have an electrical as towing, refer to 33 CFR 83 (Inland be equipped with effective exhaust muf- blower installed in the engine compart- Navigation Rules). fling devices. Usually, boats and motors ment. Operators should run the blower that come direct from the manufacturer for several minutes before starting the Boat B are adequately muffled. However, there engine. If the blower is inoperable it Boat A may be instances of high performance should be repaired or replaced immedi- boats that have been modified by the ately. Many boat fires take place after re- owners that are not in compliance with fueling, so care should be taken to avoid the law. Additionally, there may be fed- spilling fuel in the vessel. eral and/or local regulations restricting boats with an over-the-transom exhaust NAVIGATION LIGHTS system. All vessels when underway between SIGNALING DEVICES sunset and sunrise must display proper MARINE SANITATION DEVICES navigation lights. Navigation lights on Kentucky law states that all boats (KRS 235:420) boats are restricted to the colors of red, 16 feet in length or longer must have a Motorboats with marine toilets are green and white. hand-, mouth- or power-operated sig- not allowed on public waters unless the From sunset to sunrise in an area naling device capable of producing a toilet is equipped with a Type I, II or III where other boats navigate, all vessels at blast for two seconds or more and au- marine sanitation device (MSD.) Type I anchor shall display a steady white light dible for one-half mile for class 1 vessels, and II MSDs chemically treat sewage. visible 360 degrees at all times. Manu- one mile for class two vessels and one Type III MSDs are holding tanks for ally propelled vessels shall carry a white and one-half miles for class three ves- raw sewage. light to display in sufficient time to sels. This does not exempt vessels from Raw sewage shall not be discharged avoid a collision. any other signaling device as may be re- in any public waters. Treated sewage The purpose of the red and green quired by federal law when operating on may be discharged from a marine toi- navigation lights at night is to show if navigable waters of this state. let into legal “discharge” waters. Those your boat is in a meeting, crossing or Navigation law also requires the waters are Barkley and Kentucky lakes, overtaking situation. The red and green following maneuvering and warning Lake Cumberland and any of the major lights must be displayed from sunset to signals: river systems. Type I and II MSDs must sunrise whenever a boat is underway. • One long blast: Warning signal (com- be sealed or locked while the vessel is on They will give some indication of the ing out of slip) “no discharge” waters. size and speed of vessels. The red and • One short blast: Pass on my port side green bow lights are especially helpful (left) in determining right of way in crossing • Two short blasts: Pass on my starboard Scan this situations. In the diagram below, boat (right) QR code to B sees the green bow light of boat A, • Three short blasts: Engines in reverse find Boater and has the right of way to continue on • Five or more blasts: Danger signal Education course. Boat A sees the red bow light of Courses! MUFFLING DEVICES boat B and must stop or pass astern of 36 boat B. In special circumstances, such Kentucky law requires all boats to BOATING ACCIDENTS

(301 KAR 6:030, KRS 235.250) are available from wildlife and boating on the water than on land. Interested per- law enforcement officers or by writ- sons should contact their local chapter of REPORTING REQUIREMENTS ing to Kentucky Department of Fish the American Red Cross for information If any of the following conditions and Wildlife Resources, Division of on first aid and CPR training. occur as the result of a boating accident, Law Enforcement, #1 Sportsman’s HYPOTHERMIA collision, etc., a Boating Accident Re- Lane, Frankfort, KY 40601, calling port must be made: 1-800-858-1549, or online at fw.ky.gov. Four elements cause hypothermia • death or disappearance of a person; – cold, moisture, wind and exhaustion. RENDERING AID • injury to a person which requires Symptoms of hypothermia are uncontrol- medical attention or incapacitates An operator of a vessel involved in a lable shivering, slurred speech, stumbling, that person for 24 hours or more; boating accident shall render aid to other blue skin, decreased heart and breathing • loss or damage to property (including the persons and vessels as long as it doesn’t en- rate, weak pulse and unconsciousness. vessel) in an amount of $500 or more. danger his crew, passengers or vessel. Also, All hypothermia symptoms demand The operator of a vessel is required the operator of any vessel involved in an immediate attention. As soon as pos- to complete the report. If the operator is accident shall give his name, address, and sible, a victim of hypothermia should be not capable of filing the report and is not identification of his vessel, in writing, to brought out of the weather. Wet cloth- the owner of the vessel, then the owner any person that is injured or to the owner ing should be replaced with dry clothing. shall be required to fill out a boating ac- of any property that is damaged. If the victim shows mild symptoms, get cident report. them near a fire or other heat source or FIRST AID Note 1: Even if a Law Enforce- put them in a warm sleeping bag. For ment Officer fills out a boating accident This section includes suggestions victims with advanced symptoms of hy- report, this does not exempt the opera- that may save a life. First, boats should pothermia, seek immediate medical at- tor from filing a report. be equipped with a first aid kit. This kit tention. Never give alcohol to the victim. Note 2: The reports filed by op- should be able to provide treatment for The best cure for hypothermia is pre- erators of vessels are confidential and burns, bites, cuts and abrasions. vention. Monitor weather reports when you are not available as public record (KRS Second, boaters should take a first aid plan to be in the outdoors. in layers 235.250). However, reports made by of- course so they know how to treat victims and always have foul-weather gear handy. ficers are available for review. with sprains, broken bones and shock. FATIGUE Accidents involving death or seri- Third, boaters should know how to ous injury must be submitted to the perform Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Boaters should be aware of the fac- Division of Law Enforcement within (CPR) in case they encounter victims of tors that induce fatigue while on the 48 hours. All others must be submitted near drowning, heart attack or trauma water. The wind, sun, engine noise and within five days. from boating accidents. In many cases, constant motion of the boat can greatly Boating accident report forms emergency medical help is further away reduce a person’s reaction time.

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