Hunters may now apply online for quota deer, small game and waterfowl hunts on state WMAs
FRANKFORT, Ky. – Beginning today, hunters may apply online for quota hunts for deer, small game and waterfowl on state wildlife management areas (WMAs). Those without computer access may still register over the telephone by calling 1-877-598-2401. This toll-free number is staffed 24 hours a day.
The application period for state WMA quota hunts is September 1-30. Kentucky state parks are also offering special bow hunting packages that are not quota hunts, but reserved on a first-come, first-serve basis.
“If you apply online for a state WMA hunt, we can e-mail you a confirmation that your application was received and what hunts you applied for – if you provide us with your e-mail address,” said Patrick O’Connell, Information Systems Manager for the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. “After the application period ends, we will post a link on the department website so that all applicants can see if they were drawn.”
Last season 10,630 people applied for quota hunts on state WMAs.
Kentucky Fish and Wildlife offers 29 quota hunts for deer; three pheasant quota hunts at Green River Lake WMA and Clay WMA; six wild quail quota hunts at Peabody WMA; four wild quail and grouse (upland bird) quota hunts at Clay WMA; and waterfowl quota hunts at Ballard WMA and Sloughs WMA.
Waterfowl quota hunts at Ballard WMA are held on Wednesdays through Sundays. Hunters may apply for individual days. At Sloughs WMA, quota hunts are held seven days a week, but hunters must apply for a block of days.
This season features two new quota hunts for deer: one at Marion County WMA and State Forest, and the second at Otter Creek Outdoor Recreation Area in Meade County.
Both areas will have two quota hunts. The Otter Creek hunts are Nov. 19-20 and Dec. 10-11; 15 slots are available for either hunt. A user permit is required to hunt.
At Marion County WMA and State Forest, the hunt dates are Nov. 12-16, and Nov. 17-21, with 25 slots open for each hunt. No check in or check out is required, but hunters must telecheck the deer they take.
Hunters are reminded that antlered deer taken on state WMA quota hunts count towards the statewide bag limit.
To apply online for quota hunts on state WMAs, visit the Kentucky Fish and Wildlife website at fw.ky.gov.
Hunters telephoning their applications may apply for any or all of these quota hunts at the same time. Be sure to tell the operator you are calling to apply for quota hunts in Kentucky.
Deer hunters also have the option of special bow hunting packages sponsored by Kentucky State Parks. Greenbo Lake State Park will offer a women’s getaway package Nov. 4-6. Other hunts are set for Nov. 20-22 and Dec. 8-11. State parks are offering special packages as part of the hunts, including lodging and food.
Those interested in a special state park bow hunt should e-mail questions to Stephanie.poplin@ky.gov, or call 1-800-325-0083 for more information.
