What are the ‘Special Hunts’ you can apply for in Kansas?

TOPEKA (KSNT) – Kansas wildlife officials say the application period for some special hunting opportunities is now open.

Laura Clawson with the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) said in a press release on July 1 that hunters can now start applying for unique opportunities to capture game in locations that are off the beaten path. This opportunity comes through the KDWP’s Special Hunts program, which provides hunters with limited access to places that are not usually open to hunting activities.

Clawson said there are more than 350 limited-entry opportunities in the fall and winter of 2025 for licensed hunters who have the proper permits. Hunters may take deer, upland game, waterfowl, dove and furbearers through the program on a mix of public lands, parks, private lands and some other select places.

“The Special Hunts program offers hunters unique opportunities to access generally restricted areas under certain conditions,” said Brian Serpan, KDWP Public Lands Regional Supervisor. “Whether public land or private, because access is limited for safety and management reasons, these hunts can be high-quality experiences for a wide range of hunters. The Special Hunts program does not guarantee a successful hunt or large numbers of wildlife, but it provides a great opportunity to introduce someone to hunting, explore a new area, and enjoy the Kansas outdoors.”

Hunters can send in applications for the Special Hunts program from July 1-29. Successful applicants will be selected through a random drawing process.

Clawson said both Kansas residents and out-of-state residents can apply to the program, but that some hunts are restricted to Kansans only. You can apply for hunts by species, date and one of four hunt type categories: open, youth, mentor or disabled.

• Open hunts are available to everyone with no age or experience qualifications.
• Youth hunts are open to hunting parties that include at least one member who is 17-years-old or younger. Another individual must accompany the youth who is a non-hunting adult and at least 18-years-old.
• Mentor hunts are for youth and novice hunters who are supervised by a licensed adult mentor who is at least 18-years-old. Both the novice and mentor may hunt unless the application states otherwise.
• Disabled hunts are for hunters who have disabilities. Some hunts may have specific eligibility requirements.

The KDWP will hold a drawing for all applicants in early August this year. Successful applicants will get their hunt permit and any additional information through email. For more information on the Special Hunts program in Kansas and how to apply, click here.

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