Hunting Conditions and Status:

Quivira is OPEN to hunting.  This status could change at any time, so check back to this website regularly.

Quivira is open to hunting annually from September 1 through February 28 only in selected areas.  Within the appropriate season, hunting is allowed for geese, ducks, pheasant, quail, snipe, rail, rabbit and squirrel.  Quivira has its own special regulations (see link below); otherwise state laws apply for things such as bag limits, permits, etc.  Hunting for sandhill crane, deer, and turkey is not allowed.  Trapping is not permitted at Quivira.  For a hunting map and specific regulations, click one of the links below or stop by the Visitors Center or one of the many information kiosks located around the Refuge.

For information about specific hunting regulations, contact the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism (KDWPT) at 620-672-5911 (Pratt) or 316-683-8069 (Wichita).  Hunting licenses are not available at Quivira, and may be purchased from KDWPT offices or online from the KDWPT website.  All you need are a credit card and a printer.  For more information about how to get your license, go to the KDWPT website at www.ksoutdoors.com.  For deer hunting in the area (not on the Refuge) the KDWPT has a referral service.  Call them at 1-888-497-8661 to get information on local landowners who may allow deer hunting on their property.  All other hunting and fishing questions should be directed to 620-672-5911.
 

For a map of the Quivira hunting zones, click here:  Quivira Hunting Map 

For a full description of Quivira hunting regulations, click here:  Hunting Regulations 

Call 620-486-2393 or email Refuge Staff: Quivira email address 

*To see the current season dates, click on the following link:  Hunting Seasons 2012-13 revised 

Hunters are reminded that ALL hunting is suspended on Quivira NWR effective March 1 through August 31.
 

Waterfowl Surveys  

 

Click here to see the most recent waterfowl population estimates

WARNING! KNOW YOUR TARGET!!!Waterfowl hunters on Quivira National Wildlife Refuge, and sandhill crane hunters on surrounding private lands should be extremely careful to identify their targets. Endangered Whooping Cranes may be in the area. A mistake in identification could result in a Whooping Crane being shot and subjecting the hunter to severe criminal penalties. Hunters are reminded that sandhill crane hunting is NOT permitted on Quivira National Wildlife Refuge!! Also be aware that ALL hunting areas on the Refuge will be closed when the Whooping Cranes are present. Even with the Refuge areas closed, the endangered Whooping Cranes will travel out of the Refuge to feed. Hunters on private lands should be aware that Whooping Cranes may be traveling in mixed flocks with sandhill cranes or geese. If you are not positive about the identification of your target... DO NOT SHOOT!! A MISTAKE CAN BE COSTLY!Quivira is not open to deer, turkey, or crane hunting.

Fishing at Quivira 

Fishing is allowed on all bodies of water on the Refuge.  Channel Catfish and Carp are the most common fish at Quivira.  The most popular and accessible places are the banks and piers on the north and east sides of Little Salt Marsh.  In addition, we have a "Kids Fishing Pond"...adults MUST be accompanied by a fishing child, 14 years of age or younger. This pond, located near the south entrance of the Refuge, is periodically stocked and affords the younger fisherfolks out there a chance to experience the thrill of landing a big one!  Again, you must be in compliance with State fishing regulations and laws. Sorry, no boats are allowed on any body of water on the Refuge.