Elk Hunting in Belle Plaine, Kansas

Elk are considered big game.

Elk hunting in Belle Plaine, Kansas is regulated by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks. The big game regulations are designed to protect fellow hunters, provide a fair hunting environment and to control the elk population. Elk hunting seasons for 2010 run from Sept. 20 through Dec. 31 and Jan. 1 until March 15.

Season

The 2010 elk hunting seasons are divided into three segments: archery, firearm and muzzleloader. Muzzleloaders may be used Sept. 1 until Oct. 3. Bows can be used Sept. 20 until Dec. 31 and firearms can be used Dec. 1 until Dec. 12 and Jan. 1 through March 15. Crossbows are consider firearms and may not be used during archery season. Failure to comply with the appropriate weapon regulations can lead to additional danger to fellow hunters and fines.

Fair Hunting Practices

The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks limits what can be used to hunt elk. Dogs or motor vehicles, included cars and boats, may not used to hunt or pursue the elk. Two-way radios are not allowed to help track animals. Decoys and electronic calls are forbidden. Archers may not use chemical compounds in conjunction with broad-head arrows. Lights, such as spotlights, headlights or flashlights, may not be used to locate or otherwise hunt animals.

License and Permits

Elk hunters are required to hold a valid Kansas hunting license. Permits are valid for 45 days. An unlimited number of antler-less and either-sex permits can be issued. Each permit allows for the harvest of one animal. The elk permits can be purchased online at the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks website or at one of 600 statewide approved vendors. As of July 2010, permit fees range from $52.50 to $252, depending on the age of the hunter, residency and landowner or tenant status.

Refunds

The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks recognizes that situations arise when a hunter cannot used an issued permit. The department has instituted a refund policy to address some of these situations. In the event that a hunter dies prior to the start of season, the department will issue a refund. If the permit contains an error or is a duplicate the hunter can get a refund. If the hunter is in the military and changes station prior to the first day of elk season he qualifies for a refund. A court order can compel a refund.

Tagging

All elk must be tagged prior to transportation from the place of harvest. The tag is to be signed and dated at the time of kill and attached to the animal's leg bone. If the tag was purchased online, it should be bagged, to prevent moisture from smearing the print, before attachment to the animal. The tag should be retained by the owner until after the meat has been consumed or disposed of. Hunters my contact parks officials within two days to arrange for collection of tissue samples. The samples are used to monitor for chronic wasting disease in elk.

References

• Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks: General Information
• Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks: Antelope Permits