KENTUCKY FISHING

& BOATING GUIDE

g ! MARCH 2021 - FEBRUARY 2022
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FISH & WILDLIFE:

Rick Hill illustration

1-800-858-1549 • fw.ky.gov

Report Game Violations

and Fish Kills:
1-800-25-ALERT

Para
Español

KENTUCKY DEPARTMENT OF FISH & WILDLIFE RESOURCES #1 Sportsman’s Lane, Frankfort, KY 40601
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 DEFINITIONS
(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 creel 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.
Angling 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, jugging, set line or sport fishing trot- possession. and residing here at least 30 days.
line. Lake means impounded waters, from the Rough fish are those fish species not listed as
Artificial baits are lures or flies made of dam 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
dough 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. Slot limit means fish within a specified
signed to a person in lieu of fishing or Organic baits are insects, minnows, fish minimum and maximum size range must
hunting 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 bass 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 catfish is a blue or flathead catfish
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 Carp.............................................22 New Laws.......................................... �����2 Crossing..............................................34
Bordering Waters...................................15 Nuisance Species....................................22 Meeting..............................................34
Brook Trout 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 Catch and Release...........23 Personal Flotation Devices......................35
Trotlines, Jugging and Set Lines..........10 Trout Stocking........................................23 Signaling Devices...................................36
Gigging and Snagging.........................11 Turtles.....................................................9 Ventilation.............................................36
Tickling and Noodling.........................11 Zebra Mussels........................................22 Idle Speed..............................................33
Bow Fishing.......................................11 Inflatables..............................................32
Spear Fishing.....................................11 Locks and Dams.....................................33
Fishing Tournaments...............................16 BOATING Personal Watercraft...............................32
Grass Carp.............................................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.
This guide is intended solely for informational use. It is not a
3 FISHING REGULATIONS
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
of Fish and Wildlife Resources BEFORE engaging in the activities
16 GENERAL INFORMATION
referenced. Actual wording of any Kentucky Revised Statute (KRS)
or Kentucky Administrative Regulation (KAR) can be viewed at
legislature.ky.gov. 23 TROUT WATERS
OTHER GUIDES AVAILABLE
Kentucky Fish and Wildlife also produces regulation guides for
spring and fall hunting and trapping. Call 1-800-858-1549 week-
27 TROPHY FISH
days, look for a copy of these regulation guides where hunting

30
licenses are sold, or log on to fw.ky.gov.
BOATING

1
 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 rainbow trout each October.
6th District: Rob Lear, Versailles throughout this guide are a quick overview
7th District: Paul Horn, Prestonsburg of the changes to this year’s regulations. • Left Fork, Beaver Creek (Floyd Coun-
8th District: Doug Morgan, Morehead
9th District: Dr. Karl Clinard, Somerset ty): Trout stockings are discontinued.
• Chimney Top Creek (Wolfe County):
Department of The brown and brook trout 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
Fisheries Director: Dave Dreves (acting)
Law Enforcement Director: Col. Eric Gibson
Information & Education Director:
Gabe Jenkins (acting)
Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources
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 tablished in 1912 as the Kentucky Game department is a research-intensive agency
Contributors: Dane Balsman, Shane Carrier, and Fish Commission to protect the state’s staffed with professional biologists who
Dave Dreves, Mike Hardin and Jeff Ross
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 and angler opportunities through boat ramp
g!
During the height of the Great De- construction, public land acquisition, stream
MARCH 2021 - FEBRUARY 2022

is hin
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eon
om
Ta
k eS
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:

Following World War II, anglers supported pointed by the governor and confirmed
Rick Hill illustration

1-800-858-1549 • fw.ky.gov

Report Game Violations

and Fish Kills:

similar excise taxes on fishing equipment by the state Senate receives input from the
1-800-25-ALERT

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
relies on these federal funding sources fish and wildlife. Regulations proposed by
ABOUT THE COVER to complement its own revenue raised the Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Commis-
The spotted or Kentucky bass is the official through the sale of hunting and fishing li- sion must be approved by the Kentucky
state fish of Kentucky, enacted by the legis-
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,
fish or trap must be obtained prior to entry. (KRS 150:092)
2
 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
Largemouth Bass 6* 12* 12”
BLACK
BASS

Smallmouth Bass 6* 12* 12”

Kentucky (Spotted) Bass 6* 12* none
Coosa Bass 6* 12* none
Rock Bass 15 30 none
Redear Sunfish 20 40 none
Walleye, Sauger and their Hybrids 6* 12* 14”
Muskellunge 1 2 30”
Chain Pickerel 5 10 none
Northern Pike none none none
White & Hybrid Striped Bass 15** 30** none**
Striped Bass 5 10 15”
Yellow Bass none none none
Crappie (Black & White) 20* 40* none
Paddlefish 2 4 none
Rainbow Trout 8 16 none
Brown Trout 1 2 16”
Cutthroat Trout 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 Cumberland River downstream of Wolf Creek Dam 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 season 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
must be returned immediately to the
Q: How is a daily creel limit
es and as otherwise noted in this guide. different than a possession limit?
Statewide size and creel limits apply to
all Kentucky waters, public and private,
except some waters have Squeezed tail
A: The daily creel limit is the
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
FISHING REGULATIONS 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), Kentucky River 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, Kincaid Lake (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), Lake Linville (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), Lake Malone (Muhlenberg
hoods (FINs) program have uniform 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-
• Possession or use of live shad for bait County), Ballard WMA Gravel Pit Pond son County), Lower Thomas Lake (Owen
is prohibited. (Ballard County), Beaver Lake (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), Martins Fork Lake (Harlan County),
(Campbell County), Anderson Coun- Big Bone Lick State Park 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), Boltz Lake (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), Cannon Creek Lake (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), Fisherman’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 (Spencer
ty), Lake Mingo ( Jessamine County), ty), Elk Horn Park Pond (Floyd County), County), Thurman Hutchins Park ( Jeffer-
Lake Montgomery (McCracken Coun- Elmer Davis Lake (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- Wilgreen Lake (Madison County), Wil-
Park Lake (Mason County), Middleton din County), Fort Knox Upper Douglas lisburg Lake (Washington County), Wil-
4
lisburg Park Pond (Washington Coun- BEAVER LAKE CARR CREEK LAKE

FISHING REGULATIONS
ty), Wood Creek Lake (Laurel County), Anderson 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 • Bluegill: 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 TAILWATER – 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 Barren River Lake; used during this period.
downstream of the lake to Lock and BOLTZ LAKE
Dam 1 and all tributaries Grant County CAVE RUN LAKE
• 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-
must be immediately released. BRIGGS LAKE 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 BUCKHORN LAKE • 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
longer than 25 inches. CANE CREEK 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
fish in the daily creel limit or 2 in the
through March 31 must be immediately
released and only artificial baits shall be
Q: Is fishing allowed around a
dock or a marina?
possession limit may be less than 15 used during this period.
inches long.
• Walleye: 2 fish daily creel limit; 18- to CARNICO LAKE
A: It depends. Public marinas
on U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
26-inch protective slot limit. All wall- Nicholas County
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
through March 31 must be immediately Did you know? hibit a person from fishing in their
boat rental slip. 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
FISHING REGULATIONS Lincoln County tective slot limit. All trout caught be-
tween 15 and 20 inches in length
limit.
• Largemouth Bass: 20-inch minimum
size limit, 1 fish daily creel limit. must be immediately released. Five DIX RIVER from Herrington Lake
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,
Only artificial baits may be used. except Hatchery Creek. DOE RUN LAKE
• 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.
released and only artificial baits shall be CUMBERLAND RIVER from Lake • Channel Catfish: Four fish daily creel
used during this period. Barkley Dam downstream to conflu- 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.
CUMBERLAND GAP NATIONAL including paddlefish, with the exception
HISTORICAL PARK of shad, herring or Asian carp, shall be EAST FORK INDIAN CREEK
(301 KAR 1:035) taken into possession and not be culled. Menifee County
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-
P.O. Box 1848, Middlesboro, KY 40965, tional information. Snagged paddlefish ELKHORN CREEK in Franklin
phone (606) 248-2817. or their roe cannot be sold. Fishing pro- County from confluence of North
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 Cumberland Falls 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 Tennessee 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
riffle. may be kept daily. ELK SPRING CREEK
Anglers may not attract or chum • Sauger: 10 fish daily creel limit. Wayne County
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
Hatchery Creek, refer to the Hatchery DEWEY LAKE ELMER DAVIS LAKE
Creek section on page 7. • Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass: Owen County
• 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-
streams, except Hatchery Creek. longer than 25 inches. tective slot limit. All largemouth bass
6
 caught between 12 and 15 inches in near the Jesse Stuart Lodge are peri- Prather Pond and 6-acre pond:

FISHING REGULATIONS
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 GREEN RIVER 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 • Trolling motor only.
length must be released immediately. limit.
LAKE BLYTHE
FISHTRAP LAKE GUNPOWDER CREEK Christian County
• Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass: Boone County • 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
26-inch protective slot limit. All wall- Russell County 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 fish Hatchery Creek. LAKE CUMBERLAND
• 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 Laurel River 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
size limit, 3 fish daily creel limit. KENTUCKY LAKE TAILWATER – bait is prohibited.
• Channel Catfish: 4 fish daily creel limit. see Tennessee River • 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
• Channel Catfish: 15-inch minimum taries including Carr Fork below Carr • Largemouth Bass: 12- to 15-inch pro-
size limit, 5 fish daily creel limit. Creek Lake along with the Middle and tective slot limit. All largemouth bass
South Forks and all tributaries caught between 12 and 15 inches in
GRAYSON LAKE • 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
GREENBO LAKE 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-
FISHING REGULATIONS LAND BETWEEN THE LAKES
size limit. tary Reservation and in Otter Creek Park
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.
LAUREL RIVER LAKE
• Largemouth Bass: 15-inch minimum MILL CREEK LAKE PAINTSVILLE 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
NOLIN RIVER LAKE Wolfe County
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.
LEVISA FORK 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
bait is prohibited. be longer than 16 inches. released and only artificial baits shall be
8
used during this period. bait is prohibited. limit is under 8 fish per day. Snagging

FISHING REGULATIONS
must cease if any sport fish daily creel
ROCKCASTLE RIVER WMA SWIFT CAMP CREEK limit is attained. All fish snagged includ-
Pulaski County Clifty Wilderness, Wolfe 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.
• Catfish: 4-fish daily creel limit. SYMPSON LAKE Gigging is prohibited in the Tennes-
• Crappie: 15-fish daily creel limit. Nelson County see River below Kentucky Dam. See the
• Largemouth Bass: 15-inch minimum Gigging and Snagging section on page
ROUGH RIVER LAKE size limit. 11 for more information.
Lake upper boundary: Rough Riv-
er to the KY 84 bridge. TAYLORSVILLE LAKE 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
bait is prohibited. TENNESSEE RIVER from Ken- limit.
• Largemouth Bass: 15-inch minimum tucky Lake Dam downstream to • Largemouth Bass: 15-inch minimum
size limit. confluence with Ohio River 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 arrow. Otherwise a fishing license is
The taking season for bullfrogs required. Turtles can not be sold.
opens at noon on the third Friday in TURTLES (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 bow and arrow are (except alligator 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
frogs 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.
FISHING REGULATIONS PROHIBITED (301 KAR 1:201) and herring, 500 crayfish, 25 spring liz- Live bait may be taken with the fol-
lowing gear:
Harvesting grass carp is prohib- ards or dusky salamanders, 5 frogs (other
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 • Minnow 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 Mississippi 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 bait fish 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 fishes 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. Bluegills are not sport fish and immediately unharmed into the water.

KNOW YOUR TURTLES!

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.
ing traditional or non-traditional fish- with one single or multi barbed hook. It Prohibited Areas: 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 trotline 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
fishing trotline, jug line or set line must
A: Anglers may legally take
baited hooks that must be at least 18 inch- 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.
face. Jugging is fishing with a single baited on fishing licenses; 2) baited, checked
10
 gal to sell paddlefish or their roe taken

FISHING REGULATIONS
No firearms by sportfish snagging methods. No Q: May you clean your fish
daily limits on any other rough fish ex- while on the water?
Fish may not be taken with use of a
cept trophy catfish. Anglers must also
firearm.
cease snagging once a trophy catfish
is snagged. Regardless of condition, all
A: Anglers shall not remove any
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.
nelton, Markland, Meldahl and Greenup; Gigging and snagging are prohib-
McAlpine downstream to the K&I rail- ited in the following waters or areas: BOW FISHING (301 KAR 1:410)
road bridge; J.T. Meyers (Uniontown) to • Cave Run Lake including all tributar- Rough fish (except alligator gar
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, crossbow, compound
southern part of Wabash Island from the on water level). bow, recurve 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. Arrows 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 rig- • 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
or larger and only during daylight hours. TICKLING and NOODLING 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 Lake Barkley). 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
waters. The daily creel limit is 15 rough
2 paddlefish daily creel limit. It is ille- only 5 may be catfish.
11
FISHING REGULATIONS 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
LICENSES

Annual Hunting $27 $150

1-Day Hunting (not valid for deer, elk, turkey or bear) $7 $25
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.)
COMBOS

Sportsman’s License* (Includes combination hunting/fishing license, state-

wide deer permit, spring and fall turkey permits, state migratory game bird- $95 Not available
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
DEER

Youth (ages 12-15) Deer Permit (four deer) $10 $15

Additional Deer Permit (two deer) $15
Spring Turkey Permit (statewide) (two turkeys) $30 $85
Youth (ages 12-15) Turkey Permit (one turkey, spring or fall) $10 $15
Fall Turkey Permit (statewide)(four turkeys) $30 $85
BIRDS

Kentucky Migratory Bird/Waterfowl Permit $15

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
ELK

Quota Cow Elk Firearm Permit $60 $400

Quota (either sex) Archery/Crossbow Permit $100 $550
Youth Elk Permit $30 $200
Out-of-Zone Elk Permit $30 $400
Bear Permit $30 $250
BEAR

Youth Bear Permit $10 Not available

Bear Chase Permit $30 Not available
Youth Bear Chase Permit $10 Not available
Ballard WMA 1-Day Waterfowl Permit $15
Peabody WMA User Permit $15
AREAS

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,
(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
OTHER

Free (limited time only)

Opportunity; available online at fw.ky.gov only)
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,
12 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
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- By Internet: By phone:
censes and permits, except a Joint Mar-
ried Couple Fishing License, can be Visit fw.ky.gov Call toll-free 1-877-598-2401
purchased through the secured Kentucky Persons purchasing online: Persons purchasing by phone:
Fish and Wildlife website. Replacement 1. Must use Visa, Mastercard or 1. Must use Visa, Mastercard, Dis-
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 3. Must provide their name, address,
GETTING A LICENSE IN PERSON
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
License expiration • Residents and nonresidents ages 15
and younger.
Tennessee state line, its tributaries up to
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 of Mammoth Cave National Park. RESIDENT SPORTSMAN’S
shown on the license. KRS 150.175 A resident is anyone who has es- LICENSE (SAVE $67!)
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
• Resident servicemen on furlough for with the resident senior/disabled PAY LAKES (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
FISHING REGULATIONS permit issued by the operator. fishing days the first weekend in June
( June 5-6, 2021). On free fishing days
waters. All other fishing regulations re-
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 at fw.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
• Kentucky resident veterans at least License application. The BEVE that
50% disabled as the result of a
service-connected disability.
you send to us should not be over six
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
• If your disability is through other card. Those who already have a dis-
• Federal Social Security Adminis-
state or federal agencies call 1-800- ability authorization card through
tration: To request a Benefit Veri-
858-1549. Veterans Affairs, U.S. Railroad
fication Letter (BEVE), you may:
Once the proper documentation is Retirement Board or U.S. Office of
(1) go to www.socialsecurity.gov/
processed, applicants will receive their Personnel Management may call
myaccount, (2) call 1-800-772-1213
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 Illinois, Indiana and Ohio). ments and tributaries, except the Blood
This does not apply if fishing a bor- MISSISSIPPI RIVER 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 Missouri 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 West Virginia’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
www.takemefishing.org is a bounti- 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
GENERAL INFORMATION

rectors follow some simple procedures

FISHING Bigger tournaments to keep bass alive during summer tour-
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
As a voluntary program, fishing permitted by the Division of Law water temperatures. Please refer to the
event organizers are strongly urged to Enforcement, 1-800-858-1549. 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 fishery 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
Check the Kentucky Fish and one, contact your local fisheries district HARMFUL ALGAL
Wildlife website at fw.ky.gov.
If the launch site for your tourna-
office. They will provide a packet.
BLOOMS
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

HAVE YOU
Kentucky’s humans and animals. Anglers, hunters,
boaters and all others who might use
largest these water resources should be aware
salamander:

SEEN ME?
of the potential risks associated with
Eastern these blooms. Both the Kentucky Divi-
sion of Water and the U.S. Army Corps
Hellbender 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
giant salamander, please
Q: Can you sell fish caught
while possessing only a valid
e-mail John MacGregor
Kentucky sport fishing license?
([email protected])
or Zach Couch
([email protected]) with
A: No. It is illegal to sell any fish
(except Asian carp) caught without
locality information and a the proper commercial fishing
photograph, if possible. license and gear.

16
 FISH CONSUMPTION

GENERAL INFORMATION
NEED A PLACE TO FISH?

ADVISORIES Find new fishing information

on Kentucky waterbodies by visit-
ing fw.ky.gov. Click on the “Find
The Kentucky Departments for A Place To Fish” tab on the left
side of the home page. Anglers
Sensitive population
Environmental Protection, Health Ser-
vices and Fish and Wildlife Resources may search lakes, rivers and
jointly issue a fish consumption advisory Women of childbearing age, children
creeks for boat ramps and access
to the public when fish are found con- 6 years of age or younger, pregnant points, what species are available
taminated. Trace contaminants such as and nursing women and women who and maps of how to get there plus
polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB), mer- plan to become pregnant should fol- other useful information.
cury and chlordane are found in some low the advisories in the “Sensitive Also under the “Find a Place
fish in Kentucky. An advisory cautions Population” category. to Fish” tab is the 2021 Fishing
people about potential health problems Forecast. This report details the
that may result from eating fish caught anticipated fishing success for
from a particular area. An advisory does per month of predatory fish and no more each species in major waterbod-
not ban eating fish; it is a guide to reduce than one meal per week of panfish and ies based on population samples
your risk. This guide provides informa- bottom feeder fish. There is no advisory conducted by KDFWR fisheries
tion on how often fish may be safely eat- for the general population for fish in the biologists.
en. Most fish are healthy to eat and are “other fish” category. Although the VPA program
an excellent source of low-fat protein. Fish consumption advisories now is now in a reduced capacity,
delineate between predatory fish, bot- many sites remain open to public
CONSUMPTION GUIDELINES tom feeder fish, panfish and other fish use. Check the Kentucky Fish and
Consumption rates for specific fish species including Asian carp, trout, min- Wildlife website at 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. Bottom feeder 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, common carp, 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
than one meal per week of fish in the Kentucky anglers will oc- or from its mouth. The eggs hatch
“other fish” category. The general popu- casionally clean a fish and find a and tiny larvae of the parasite
lation should eat no more than one meal white or yellowish color worm in burrow into a snail. After a time
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
• fillet 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 frying 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
GENERAL INFORMATION 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
GREEN RIVER LAKE (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
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
 ANGLER’S FISH IDENTIFICATION GUIDE

GENERAL INFORMATION
1 2 3

1
3
SAUGER
1. Rows of dark spots on spiny dorsal fin, 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
2 1. Tooth patch on tongue consists of two rows of teeth,
1 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
speckled, 3. Spots on tail fin
3

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

19
2. Pale spots on dark background distinct and broken above anal fin
GENERAL INFORMATION 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 2
1
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
2
2

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

1
3
SPOTTED BASS
Rick Hill illustrations

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 lateral line, 4. Single tooth patch on
tongue
20
black blotches on side
 KENTUCKY THREATENED

GENERAL INFORMATION
1
AND ENDANGERED FISHES
2 These five species of fish are protected under the
Federal Endangered Species Act. It is illegal to take
MUSKELLUNGE
these fish species and utilize them for any purpose in-
1. Duck-like bill with sharp teeth, 2. No scales on lower
cluding as live bait for fishing (see page 10).
half of cheek and gill flap

1 2
3

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.

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.

PALEZONE SHINER
1 Found only in the Little South Fork of the
BLUE CATFISH
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

21
the catch or sighting to Matt Thomas at (502) 892-4463. Cumberland River in McCreary County.
GENERAL INFORMATION AQUATIC NUISANCE SPECIES
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-
ported to another water body while at-
No live fish, live minnow, or live NON-NATIVE SPECIES
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 Kentucky through transfer of plant frag-
waters.
animals. ments by boats and personal watercraft.
• DRAIN all water from bilges All it takes is a small fragment of the
Sport anglers unintentionally and and livewells. plant to start a new colony. This plant
intentionally stock fish in Kentucky’s • DISPOSE of unwanted live forms extremely dense mats that grow
public waters. These species mainly in- bait on shore – DO NOT to the surface of the waterbody making
clude gizzard shad and alewives that are STOCK THE LAKE! boating and swimming difficult. It liter-
present in several water bodies. Giz- • RINSE your boat, trailer and ally fills shallow areas from top to bot-
zard shad have been illegally released equipment with high pressure tom with vegetation.
in several small public lakes where they hot water. Hydrilla also chokes out native
previously were not present. They inter- • DRY everything for at least plants and displaces fish. It is extremely
fere with the lake’s ability to support a five days. 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 spread 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 skipjack her- before leaving the lake.
Additionally, there are many non- ring. All bait collectors using cast or
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 FISHING LINE
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,
and zebra mussels. ZEBRA MUSSELS
Kentucky has zebra mussels present
ASIAN CARP in our waters and are at nuisance levels MONOFILAMENT
Three species of Asian carps (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
carp, because of their propensity to freshwater mussel Envase de Reciclaje de Monofilamento
Eche su línea de pescar usada en este envase

jump, can be harmful to recreational populations. These

No echar latas - botellas - y ninguna otra basura aquí

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 suit- 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

TROUT WATERS
TROUT REGULATIONS
SPORT FISH SPECIES Daily Limit Possession Limit Minimum Size Limit
Rainbow Trout 8 16 none
Brown Trout 1 2 16”
Cutthroat Trout 1 2 20”
Brook Trout* Catch and release only (except on Cumberland River)

*See “Catch and Release Brook Trout Streams” on page 26 and special regulations for Cumberland River on page 6.
All trout stockings in streams, lakes or tailwaters are subject to weather and road conditions. Check the Kentucky Fish and
Wildlife website at fw.ky.gov for the list of monthly trout stockings.

EXCEPTIONS
On the Dix River (Herrington Lake Cutthroat trout
tailwaters), fishing is permitted with are now being
artificial baits only. Live or organic bait may stocked in the
not be possessed while fishing this two- Cumberland River
mile section of Dix River. The only public below Wolf Creek Dam.
access to Dix River below Herrington Look for the characteristic red-orange throat
Dam is via the Kentucky River. slash. Please refer to page 19 for a comparison of the other
The Cumberland River below Lake three trout species in the river.
Cumberland from the Wolf Creek Dam
downstream to the Tennessee state line.
A 20-inch minimum size limit and a one main stem of the Cumberland River. U.S. 460 bridge crossing. Only artificial
fish daily creel limit applies to brown Anglers fishing Hatchery Creek baits may be used.
trout and cutthroat trout. A 15- to 20- may not use chum, cull trout and must On Chimney Top Creek, includ-
inch protective slot limit on rainbow possess a valid Kentucky trout permit. ing Right Fork Chimney Top Creek
trout is in effect for the same section of On Paint Creek in Johnson Coun- (Wolfe County), only artificial baits
the Cumberland River. All rainbow trout ty (Paintsville Lake tailwater), there is may be used.
caught between 15 and 20 inches must be a 16-inch minimum size limit and one On Trammel Creek in Allen
immediately released. Only one rainbow fish daily creel limit on trout from the County, there is a five fish daily creel
trout of the five fish daily creel limit may KY 40 bridge downstream to the first limit on rainbow trout.
be longer than 20 inches. Brook trout
have a 1 fish daily creel limit with 15-inch
minimum size limit. All anglers on this
section of the Cumberland River, includ-
ing all tributary streams up to the first
TROUT STOCKING
riffle, must possess a valid Kentucky trout
permit (regardless of species sought). An- STREAMS
glers may not chum or cull trout.
On Hatchery Creek in Russell The streams listed on the following CATCH and RELEASE STREAMS
County, the upper section as designated pages are stocked with rainbow trout by Some streams indicated in the ta-
by signs has a 5 trout aggregate daily the Kentucky Department of Fish and ble have a catch and release season (no
creel limit with no size limit. The lower Wildlife Resources (KDFWR) and the harvest) from Oct. 1 through March
section is open for catch and release only U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service during 31, except in Swift Camp Creek where
for all trout species and only artificial the months indicated. Brown trout are the catch and release season is Oct.1
baits may be used. stocked once each year in some streams through May 31. During the catch and
The lower boundary of the lower for a put-grow-take fishery. All trout are release season, only artificial baits shall
section of Hatchery Creek is delineat- produced at Wolf Creek National Fish be used and all trout caught must be im-
ed as a straight line between opposite Hatchery. Visit fw.ky.gov for a list of mediately released.
points where Hatchery Creek meets the monthly trout stockings.
23
TROUT WATERS STREAMS

Total Total Catch and Release

STATEWIDE STREAMS County
Rainbows
Months
Browns (No Harvest) Season
Bark Camp Creek* Whitley 3,750 3,4,5,6,10 500 Oct. 1 - Mar. 31; 3.9 miles
Oct. 1 - Mar. 31; Hwy 90 bridge
Beaver Creek Wayne 1,500 4,5,10 upstream to Hwy 200 bridge
– 2.8 miles
Oct. 1 - Mar. 31; inside the Big
Big Bone Creek Boone 1,200 3,4,10
Bone Lick State Park – 2.1 miles
Big Caney Creek Elliott 2,500 4,5,10 250
Cane Creek* Laurel 3,750 3,4,5,6,10 Oct. 1 - Mar. 31; 6.6 miles
Casey Creek Trigg 8,000 2,4,5,6,7,8,9,10 Oct. 1 - Mar. 31; 3.6 miles
Chimney Top Creek* Wolfe 450 10
Oct. 1 - Mar. 31; Hwy 190 bridge
Clear Creek Bell 1,200 4,10
down stream to mouth – 4.5 miles
Craney Creek* Rowan 1,000 10
East Fork, Indian Creek* Menifee 4,000 3,4,5,10 400 Oct. 1 - Mar. 31; 5.3 miles
East Fork, Little Sandy River Boyd 400 4
Elk Spring Creek Wayne 1,600 4,5,6,10 Oct. 1 - Mar. 31; 2.8 miles
Oct. 1 - Mar. 31; US 60
Floyds Fork Jefferson 3,600 3,4,10
downstream to US 150 – 20 miles
Goose Creek Casey 1,000 4,5
Greasy Creek Leslie 900 4,11
Gunpowder Creek Boone 1,200 3,4,10 Oct. 1 - March 31; 1.5 miles
Hatchery Creek (upper) Russell 32,100 monthly
Jennings Creek Warren 7,000 3,5,6,7,8,9,10 500
Laurel Creek Elliott 2,750 4,5,10 250
Looney Creek Harlan 1,500 4,5,10 700
Lynn Camp Creek Hart 2,500 4,5,6,7,10
Middle Fork, Red River* Powell/Wolfe 2,700 3,4,5,10
North Fork, Triplett Creek* Rowan 1,050 3,4,5
Oct. 1 - Mar. 31; Ft. Knox
Otter Creek, Fort Knox 7,500 3,4,6,7,8,9,10 500
Meade Military Reservation and Otter
Otter Creek ORA 7,250 2,3,4,5,10,11 (fort only)
Creek ORA – 9.7 miles
Right Fork, Beaver Creek Floyd 2,000 4,5,10,11
Right Fork, Buffalo Creek Owsley 500 4,5
Oct. 1 - Mar. 31; Bell Farm
3,4,5,6,9,10,
Rock Creek* McCreary 15,125 bridge upstream to Tennessee
11,12
border – 9.8 miles
Round Stone Creek Hart 2,800 3,5,6,7,8,9,10 200
Royal Springs Scott 1,200 5,6,7
Russell Fork Pike 2,250 4,5,10
Sinking Creek Breckinridge 1,200 4,5,11
Station Camp Creek Estill 750 4
Sturgeon Creek Lee 400 4
Sulphur Spring Creek Simpson 3,000 3,5,6,7,8,9,10 200
Oct. 1 - May 31; within Clifty
Swift Camp Creek* Wolfe 1,000 3,10
Wilderness Area – 8.0 miles

24
 TROUT WATERS
STATEWIDE STREAMS County
Total
Months
Total Catch and Release
(continued) Rainbows Browns (No Harvest) Season
Trammel Creek Allen 7,000 3,5,6,7,8,9,10 600 Oct. 1 - Mar. 31 – 4.4 miles
Triplett Creek Rowan 1,200 3,4,5
War Fork* Jackson 2,500 3,4,5,6,10
West Hickman Creek
Fayette 1,000 2,10
(Veteran’s Park)
Wolf Creek Martin 2,000 4,11
*Daniel Boone National Forest stream; stockings are not announced.

Get permission
Many of the streams listed in this guide are located on, or adjacent to, privately owned lands. Anyone entering upon or cross-
ing private property must have the permission of the land owner.

TAILWATERS TAILWATERS Total Rainbows Total Browns Months

Buckhorn 5,000 0 4,5,6,10,11
The following tailwaters receive
rainbow and brown trout. Stocking Carr Creek 4,000 0 4,5,10,11
begins in spring and continues into Cave Run 6,000 0 4,5,6,10,11
the late fall; monthly totals will vary. Cumberland* 166,600 30,000 1,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11
Monthly schedules are available through
Dewey 4,000 0 4,5,10,11
Kentucky Fish and Wildlife by call-
ing 1-800-858-1549 or logging on to Fishtrap 10,000 0 4,5,6,10,11
fw.ky.gov. Grayson 5,000 0 4,5,6,10,11
Herrington 4,500 300 3,5,6,7,8,11
Leave a note Laurel River 500 250 3,4,5,6,10
Martins Fork 3,750 0 4,5,6,10,11
When planning a boating trip, leave
a note, or float plan, with someone Nolin River 8,000 250 4,5,6,7,9,10,11
to let them know where you are. Paintsville 14,000 300 4,5,6,7,9,10,11
Include your departure and expected
Taylorsville 3,000 0 4,5,6,11
return times, the waters where you
will be boating, a description and/ Yatesville 3,000 0 4,5,10,11
or license number of the vessel and *Stocking dates for Cumberland River (Lake Cumberland tailwater) will not be
where you can be reached in case of announced. Also, brook trout are stocked in March and cutthroat trout in early fall.
emergency.

THREAT TO TROUT FISHERIES

The invasive algae known as stream bottom with mats that cover trailers for any vegetation after
Didymo (Didymosphenia geminata) up native plants and crowd out native leaving the water and remove.
has been documented in the Cum- insects that trout need for food. • If algae or vegetation is discov-
berland River (Lake Cumberland To prevent the spread of Didymo ered later, 1. disinfect with a 2
tailwater). into other Kentucky tailwaters and percent solution of household
Didymo, native to northern streams, anglers who fish the Cumber- bleach or, 2. a 5 percent solution
Europe and Canada, is a white, land River and out-of-state waterways of salt or, 3. you may also soak in
gray, light brown or beige mass on should: undiluted vinegar. 4. Allow to air
the stream bottom that resembles • Inspect all wading gear and boat dry for at least 2 days.
shag carpet. Didymo can choke the hulls, livewells, lower units and

25
TROUT WATERS LAKES The lakes below are stocked with rainbow trout in the months indicated. January-March stockings are
scheduled based on weather and road conditions.

Total Total
LAKES Acres
Trout
Months LAKES (continued) Acres
Trout
Months
Alexandria Community Park Martin Co. (Milo) Lake 5 3,750 2,11
7 4,500 2,3,11
Lake Maysville-Mason Co. Park
12 3,000 2,11
Anderson Co. Community Park 1 1,500 2,3,11 Lake
Bert Combs Lake 36 4,000 1,4,5,10 Metcalfe Co. Lake 22 500 3
Beulah Lake 87 4,000 1,4,5,10 Middleton Mills Park,
1 1,500 2,3,10
Bloomfield Park Lake 2 1,500 2,3,11 Long Pond
Boulder Pond, Parklands 1 800 3,10 Middleton Mills Park,
1 1,500 2,3,10
Brickyard Pond 10 3,000 2,11 Shelterhouse Pond
Camp Ernst Lake 25 4,500 2,3,11 Mike Miller Park Lake 4 2,250 2,3,10
Cannon Creek Lake 243 9,000* 2,3,10 Mill Creek Lake 41 6,000 1,3,5,10
Cherokee Park Lake 4 2,250 2,3,10 Millennium Park Pond 2 1,000 3,11
Cranks Creek Lake 219 5,000 1,4,5,10 Morton’s Lake,
1 500 2
Eagle Lake 19 2,000 2,3,10,11 Higginson/Henry WMA
Easy Walker Park Pond 2 1,500 2,3,11 Paintsville Lake 1,139 5,000 2
Fagen Branch Lake 126 2,500* 3,11 Panbowl Lake 75 6,000 3,10
Fisherman’s Park Lakes 4 (2 Panther Creek Park Lake 4 2,250 2,3,10
3,000 2,3,10 Peabody WMA, Access Pond 1 2,250 1,11
#3 and #4 lakes)
Fishpond Lake 32 4,000 1,4,5,10 Peabody WMA, Flycatcher
1 1,500 1,11
Flemingsburg Old Reservoir 11 3,000 2,11 Pond
Grant’s Branch Lake 22 4,000 3,11 Peabody WMA, Rob’s Pond 11 1,500 1,11
Greenbo Lake 181 13,000* 2,10 Pikeville City Lake 24 2,500 3,11
Highsplint Lake 6 2,750 1,10 Prisoner’s Lake 4 2,250 2,3,10
Jacobson Park Lake 46 9,000 2,3,10 Robert J. Barth Park Lake 4 750 11
James D. Beville Park Lake 3 2,250 2,3,10 Rotary Park Lake 1 1,500 2,3,10
Kentucky Horse Park Sandy Watkins Park Lake 3 1,000 2,10
6 3,500 2,11 Scott Co. Park Lake 3 1,500 2,3,11
Rolex Lake
Kess Creek Park Lake 2 1,500 2,3,10 Southgate Lake 2 1,500 2,3,11
Ky. River WMA Boone Tract, Southland Church Lake 3 1,500 2,3,10
6 2,000 2,10
Six Acre Lake Three Springs Lake 29 4,500 2,3,11
Kingdom Come State Park Lake 3 1,500 2,3,10 Tom Wallace Park Lake 5 4,500 2,3,10
Lake Mingo 2 1,500 2,3,10 Upper Sportsman’s Lake 7 4,500 2,3,10
Lake Montgomery (formerly Waverly Park Lake 5 4,500 2,3,10
6 4,500 2,3,10
Bob Noble Park Lake) Waymond Morris Park Lake 5 3,000 2,10
Lake Pollywog 4 2,250 2,3,11 Whitehall Park Lake 6 4,500 2,3,10
Leary Lake 5 4,500 2,3,11 William F. Miles Angler Lake,
4 2,250 2,3,10
Logan Hubble Park Lake 9 4,500 2,3,11 Parklands
Lower Sportsman’s Lake 3 1,500 2,3,10 William F. Miles Green Heron
1 1,500 2,3,10
Lusby Lake 2 1,500 2,3,11 Lake, Parklands
Madisonville City Park Lake, Wood Creek Lake 672 8,000 2,10
25 4,500 2,3,10
South Yellow Creek Park Lake 3 2,250 2,3,10
* Total trout includes brown trout

OTHER AREAS
FORT CAMPBELL and FORT KNOX Community Recreation Division, Hunt- and lures with a single hook may be used
Little West Fork and Fletchers Fork ing and Fishing Unit, Fort Campbell, on these streams:
on Fort Campbell (Tennessee portion) KY 42223-5000; phone: (270) 798-2175 • Dog Fork – Wolfe County*
and Otter Creek on Fort Knox (Bullitt, or Hunt Control Office, Fort Knox, KY; • Parched Corn Creek – Wolfe County*
Meade and Hardin counties) military phone: (502) 624-2712. • Shillalah Creek – Bell County, outside
reservations are stocked with rainbow the Cumberland Gap National His-
or brown trout. Special fishing regula- CATCH and RELEASE BROOK toric Park
tions apply and a post fishing permit is TROUT STREAMS * Dog Fork and Parched Corn Creek are
required in addition to a valid Kentucky Four streams are catch and release stocked annually with brook trout as part

26 fishing license and trout permit. Contact only year-round and only artificial flies of a restoration project.
 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

Anglers who catch, by pole and Minimum Hybrid Striped Bass 23”
line, any one fish meeting the length ELIGIBLE SPECIES 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
different species of trophy status are Bowfin 25” Rainbow Trout 20”
eligible for the Master Angler Award. Brook Trout 15” Redear Sunfish 10”
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
Angler Award may not be duplicated. Crappie 15” Striped Bass 36”
Anglers qualifying for a Kentucky Flathead Catfish 35” Walleye 25”
Trophy Fish Award will receive a Freshwater Drum 25” White Bass 16”
collectable Kentucky Trophy Fish lapel/ Gar 40” Yellow Perch 10”
hat 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
TROPHY FISH 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
or the manager of Wolf Creek National CENTRAL FISHERY DISTRICT
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
Bighead Carp 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, Licking River 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
Silver Carp 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 Guist Creek Lake 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

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

29
 BOATING
BOATING

BOATING REGULATIONS
INTRODUCTION
This publication provides basic
BOAT REGISTRATION FEES
information for most boaters and an- Class A Vessels (less than 16’ in length) $21.00
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-
tact the Division of Law Enforcement, Class 3 Vessels (over 40’ in length) $65.00
#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
contacted by dialing 1-800-252-5378, or The above costs do not include property taxes, clerks fees, titling fees or any other
local law enforcement agency or through applicable charges. (301 KAR 6:005)
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
Once boats are assigned a registra- Correct: KY 1234 AA the boat transferred into the name of the
tion number and decals, they must be Incorrect: KY1234AA 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
and of a color that will provide maximum TRANSFER, DESTRUCTION OR days, give notice to the county clerk to
contrast to the background (light num- ABANDONMENT terminate the registration. The owner
bers on a dark hull or vice versa). When ownership of a currently shall remove the numbers and decals
There must be a letter size space be- registered boat changes, it is the respon- from the vessel.
30
 BOAT, MOTOR and LAKE USAGE

BOATING
Lake Reba, Spurlington Lake, Washburn borne devices must:
Bordering waters Lake, Pikeville City Lake. • Have, in addition to the operator, an
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
Coast 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 water cannot exceed 22 feet
Legal-size boats exceeding the maxi-
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 canoes.
impairs one’s operating ability. • Houseboats are not permitted.
Both the operator and skier should • Personal watercrafts are pro-
be alert to the areas of a lake or river hibited on Cedar Creek Lake.
AGE RESTRICTIONS 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 Lake Beshear 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-
BOATING • Limit the tow rope to 150 feet or less,
• Have no more than two persons being
DIVERS DOWN FLAGS
Boaters should exercise caution
vised areas. If you are a nonswimmer or a
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 who have had alcoholic beverages a PFD
for its primary source of propulsion and Alpha Flag (left): Blue with a is the difference between life and death.
is designed to be operated by a person silver stripe, displayed on vessel Persons who wish to swim a long
sitting, standing or kneeling on the ves- with restricted mobility because distance should swim parallel to the
sel rather than by a person sitting or of diving operation. Diver’s Flag shore instead of across a river or lake.
(right): Red flag at least 12” x 12”
standing inside the vessel. In addition Boaters don’t normally expect to see
with diagonal stripe at least three
to being governed by the same laws that swimmers in the middle of a lake or
inches wide, displayed where diver is
apply to all boats, the following laws ap- river and may run over them.
submerged.
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.
towing an individual on waterskis, a • steering toward an object or individual When operating in a busy area, re-
32
duce speed and allow plenty of room for should never fish from or stand on lock

BOATING
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.
can capsize small boats or cause damage Low head dams are usually No fish is worth risking your life.
to boats moored at marinas and docks. It marked with “keep out” buoys or Be aware of trespassing and danger
is extremely important that boat operators “danger” signs above and below. zones. Wear a PFD when entering any
be aware of their speed and the resulting Low head dams pose an even area above or below a dam.
wake. Operators are liable for any injuries greater danger due to the fact
or damage caused by their boat’s wake. that they are not as recognizable, OPERATING UNDER THE
Boaters may see buoys or signs that especially when water is flow- INFLUENCE
say “No Wake.” This means that boats ing over them. It is this flow of (KRS 235.240)
must be at idle speed. water over the dam that creates It is against the law to operate a
a “boil” on the lower side. Boat- boat or vessel including personal water-
LOCKS AND DAMS ers risk almost certain death if craft, manipulate water skis, surfboard
Boaters in Kentucky may encoun- caught in this turbulence. 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
BOATING intoxicated with a blood alcohol level of
0.08 or higher or while under the influ-
they may unreasonably annoy or endan-
ger themselves or others shall be subject
UNIFORM STATE
ence of any substance that impairs the to arrest. WATERWAY MARKING
operator’s driving ability may be subject SYSTEM
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-
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
and the waterways of this state are con- on the sides, back, engine cover, back of Danger!
sidered public places. seat, or any other obviously dangerous Nature of danger
Further, in a public place, persons position which could lead to falling over- may be indicated
who are manifestly under the influence board. inside the diamond
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
lines to mark where boats must go. In or-
night, a boat’s navigation lights give an indicated in circle,
der to provide an orderly flow of traffic,
indication of right of way (see page 36). e.g., speed limit, no
there are “rules of the road” that boaters The above rules cover most traffic fishing, no anchor-
should learn and practice. situations, but a few other situations ex- ing, ski-only, slow-no wake, no ski or
Boaters on the water encounter ist. Sailboats under sail have the right of no prop boats.
three situations: meeting, crossing and
way except when they are the overtaking
overtaking. The following diagrams vessel. Rowboats and paddle powered Information
should give a clear explanation of who
boats have the right of way over motor- Tells directions,
has the right of way (stand-on vessel)
boats. All recreational craft should yield distances, places
and who must give way (give-way ves- the right of way to large commercial such as food, repair,
sel). However, in an emergency, all ves-
craft (towboats, barges). Such vessels supplies and other
have large blind spots and will be unable non-regulatory messages.
to see smaller crafts in front of them.
MEETING SITUATION On small or narrow bodies Obstruction
of water, all traffic should stay to Marker
the right of mid-channel and not Do not pass between
“cut corners”. shore and buoy.

BUOYS
Buoys are the most common Mooring Buoy
OVERTAKING SITUATION types of navigational aid, and White with reflec-
they serve the same pur- tive blue band. May
pose as traffic signs on have white light or
the highway. Failure to reflector.
obey buoys can result
Give-way vessel Stand-on vessel
being overtaken
in enforcement action, or
overtaking 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.
Remember that it is possible Channel Marker
112°
for these buoys to drift out Keep buoy on left
of position. Kentucky law facing upstream.
prohibits from tying up to Marker may be
any buoy except designated green or black.
Give-way
34 vessel mooring buoys.
 REQUIRED EQUIPMENT

BOATING
(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, II, or III personal flotation de- TYPE I (right) and TYPE II (far right)
vice (PFD) on all boats. Boats 16 feet These devices are designed, when worn
and over, except canoes and kayaks, must properly, to turn a person who is uncon-
also carry one Type IV throwable PFD. scious and face down in the water to a
Operators and passengers of personal vertical or slightly backward face up
watercraft must wear a PFD. Persons position.
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 coats. 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 drowning 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
when worn. UL Listing Foam (gals.) CO2 (lbs.)
Classes (lbs.)
• Serviceability: All straps, buckles,
zippers, stitching, must be intact and B-I 5B 1.25 4 2
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.
If air escapes, destroy the PFD and — 20B 2.5 50 4.5 - 6
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-
• Accessibility: PFDs must be readily tained equipment and proper No Fixed Fire Fixed Fire
Vessel/
available for immediate use by all safety habits. Extinguisher Extinguisher
size
occupants of a vessel. It is advisable There are fuels other than System System Installed
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-
to assure it is adjusted to the person. pliances. Also, many fishermen Class 2 2 1
PFDs shouldn’t be stored in the will use a lantern while fishing at Class 3 3 2
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
diesels) must have an approved
tion and located for immediate use. The extinguishers
35
 carburetor backfire flame arrester sys-
BOATING 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
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
a combination of active and passive motorboats Class A and
systems. Active systems use electrical Class 1 sailboats
blowers to exhaust flammable vapors
red
from the bilge and other areas. Passive green red 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 are adequately muffled. However, there
Boat B may be instances of high performance
engine. If the blower is inoperable it
Boat A
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
sunset and sunrise must display proper SIGNALING DEVICES 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
(right) Scan this
situations. In the diagram below, boat
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!
boat B and must stop or pass astern of MUFFLING DEVICES
boat B. In special circumstances, such Kentucky law requires all boats to
36
 ACCIDENTS

BOATING
(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
collision, etc., a Boating Accident Re- Lane, Frankfort, KY 40601, calling HYPOTHERMIA
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.
• injury to a person which requires RENDERING AID 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
Note 1: Even if a Law Enforce- FIRST AID 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, insect 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. Dress 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.
Accidents involving death or seri- Third, boaters should know how to FATIGUE
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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37
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