The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) has announced a suite of new regulations taking effect on September 12, 2025, impacting hunters, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts across the state. These changes reflect both demographic shifts in participation and the need to balance wildlife management with accessibility. A major highlight of the update is the introduction of new five-year license options for Kansas residents ages 65 to 74. Seniors will now be able to purchase multi-year hunting or fishing licenses for $50 each, or a combination license for $90. One-year licenses remain available at half the standard adult rate. KDWP Secretary Christopher Kennedy explained that these options were introduced after the agencys authority to issue deeply discounted 10-year lifetime licenses expired, offering seniors more flexible choices while the department works to reinstate longer-term licenses. Predator management also received attention with the extension of the night vision coyote hunting season. Hunters using night vision equipment will now be able to pursue coyotes from September 1 through March 31, with closures only during firearm deer seasons. For the 20252026 cycle, this translates to three specific windows: September 29 to December 2, December 15 to 31, and January 1 to March 31. Wildlife officials say the change reflects growing demand for predator control opportunities, especially in rural areas where coyote populations remain resilient. The regulation package also includes several notable fee and permit adjustments. The trout permit fee has increased from $12 to $17.50, a move KDWP says is necessary to offset rising costs of stocking programs. At the same time, mussel fishing and dealer fees have been eliminated altogether, given that commercial mussel harvesting was banned in Kansas in 2022. Muzzleloader hunters will see more flexibility, as the department has clarified that both lead and non-lead (nontoxic) shot may be used when hunting big game with front-loading firearms. This change aligns with broader trends encouraging the adoption of nontoxic ammunition while ensuring traditional options remain legal. Deer management remains central to Kansass hunting framework, and the new regulations reflect regional adjustments based on population data. More whitetail antlerless tags will be available in southeastern and central Kansas, while the number of tags in northwestern Kansas will be reduced to protect declining herds. In addition, firearm season dates have been extended for certain southeastern management units. KDWP also set the 20252026 season dates for Fort Riley, Fort Leavenworth, and the Smoky Hill Air National Guard Range, ensuring hunters can plan around Department of Defense operational needs while maintaining access. The updates come as part of KDWPs ongoing effort to fine-tune wildlife management in response to both ecological and social pressures. By expanding senior license options, the department aims to keep older hunters and anglers engaged in outdoor recreation. Extending the coyote season acknowledges predator impacts on livestock and game populations. Adjusting deer permits reflects the delicate balancing act between maintaining healthy herds and supporting hunting traditions.