Kentucky is known for its many wonders, but one of them may surprise you. It’s not the rolling hills or the iconic Bluegrass State that make this region famous. It’s actually crocodile hunting!
Crocodiles have been living in Kentucky since the 1950s, when they were released into the wild by a misguided attempt at wildlife management. Since then, they’ve made a home in some of Kentucky’s waterways and have become an integral part of the local ecosystem.
With more people interested in hunting crocs, the state has introduced new rules and regulations to ensure their safety and sustainability. Let’s take a look at these updates for 2023!
Crocodile Hunting Laws in Kentucky
In Kentucky, it is currently legal to hunt crocodiles. The season runs from September 1st through March 31st. There is no limit on the number of crocodiles that can be taken during this time period. All hunters must have a valid hunting license and must adhere to all other state and federal hunting regulations.
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Do You Need A License To Hunt Crocodiles In Kentucky?
In order to hunt crocodiles in Kentucky, you must first obtain a license from the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. You must be at least 18 years of age and have completed a hunter safety course approved by the department.
A resident hunting license costs $10 and a non-resident hunting license costs $30. The crocodile hunting season runs from September 1st to May 31st. During this time, you are allowed to take two crocodiles per day.
When applying for your license, you will need to provide proof of residency, Hunter Safety certification, and a valid photo ID. If you are a non-resident, you will also need to provide proof of citizenship or lawful permanent residency.
Once you have obtained your license, you will need to purchase a permit from the department in order to hunt crocodiles. The cost of the permit is $5 for residents and $25 for non-residents.
Crocodile Hunting Seasons in Kentucky
- The open season for hunting crocodiles in Kentucky is from September 1 to March 31.
- A valid hunting license is required to hunt crocodiles in Kentucky.
- Hunters must obtain a permit from the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources (KDFWR) prior to hunting crocodiles in Kentucky.
- The bag limit for crocodiles in Kentucky is two per person, per season.
- All hunters must comply with the provisions of KRS 150.175, which prohibits the wanton waste of game animals.
- Crocodile meat must be properly processed and stored according to KRS Chapter 211 before it can be consumed or sold.
Can You Hunt Crocodiles At Night In Kentucky?
No, you cannot hunt crocodiles at night in Kentucky. The state has very specific laws and regulations regarding croc hunting, and one of the main rules is that you can only hunt during daylight hours.
This is to protect both the hunters and the crocodiles, as it can be very dangerous to hunt these animals in the dark. If you are caught hunting crocodiles at night, you could face serious penalties, including a fine and jail time.
Bag Limits For Hunting Crocodiles In Kentucky
The 2019-2020 bag limit for crocodiles is two per person within the four-crocodile aggregate limit. The taking of eggs is prohibited. It is unlawful to sell or purchase any part of a crocodile.
In order to hunt crocodiles in Kentucky, you must have a valid hunting license and follow the state’s bag limits. The 2019-2020 bag limit for crocodiles is two per person within the four-crocodile aggregate limit. The taking of eggs is prohibited. It is unlawful to sell or purchase any part of a crocodile.
Legal Ways To Hunt Crocodiles In Kentucky
The best way to hunt crocodiles is with a permit from the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources (KDFWR). A hunting permit is only valid for the taking of one specific crocodile, and KDFWR must be notified within 24 hours of the animal’s death.
The possession limit for crocodiles is two per household. It is also legal to harvest alligators on private property with proper permission from the landowner. The same rules and regulations apply for taking alligators on public land.
Crocodile hunts are conducted during daylight hours only, and guns may not be used. Hunters must use bows and arrows, or spears specifically designed for hunting crocodiles. Snares and gigs may also be used, but drugs, poisons, or explosives may not be used under any circumstances.
All harvested animals must be reported to KDFWR within 24 hours, regardless of whether they were taken on public or private land. The carcass must be turned over to KDFWR upon request, and the meat cannot be sold commercially.
Can You Hunt Crocodiles From A Vehicle In Kentucky?
Yes, you can hunt crocodiles from a vehicle in Kentucky. The new rules and regulations state that you must have a permit to do so, and you must be accompanied by a licensed guide.
Final Thoughts
All in all this article works as a great guide that covers the updated rules and regulations for crocodile hunting in the state of Kentucky. The author does a great job of breaking down the information and providing readers with everything they need to know in order to go out and safely hunt crocodiles.
As always, be sure to consult with your local game warden before heading out on your hunt to make sure you are up-to-date on the latest laws and regulations. Happy hunting!
Important Notice: The articles published on this website are only for informational purposes and we do not promote hunting/ killing animals. If you are willing to hunt please refer to Authorized sources for correct and updated information. Writer/ Website owner will not be responsible for any consequences due to information provided on this website. You can refer to relevant Government sources for updated information.
