Kentucky Hunting & Fishing Licenses
Complete guide to Kentucky hunting and fishing licenses for 2026. Get current prices, purchase online, and learn about KDFWR's digital license requirements.
Quick Facts
Digital License
Accepted
License Year
March 1 - Last day of February
Agency
KDFWR
Draw System
random
HIP Required
Migratory birds
Last updated: January 29, 2026
Kentucky License Pricing
Compare resident and non-resident prices for hunting and fishing licenses.
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|---|
| Resident Hunting Annual hunting license | $27.00 | $160.00 |
| Resident Fishing Annual fishing license | $23.00 | $55.00 |
| Sportsman Includes hunting, fishing, and all stamps | $95.00 | N/A |
| Elk Permit Highly competitive elk lottery | $Lottery | $Lottery |
Prices are for annual licenses unless otherwise noted. Additional stamps and endorsements may be required.
KY F&W Licensing
Digital licenses available through Kentucky Fish and Wildlife online system.
State-operated licensing system
Hunter Passport
All your licenses, one app
Tired of managing multiple state apps? Hunter Passport stores all your Kentucky licenses alongside every other state - and works completely offline.
- Works offline - no signal needed
- Supports all 50 states
- Quick Display for game wardens
Store up to 2 licenses free. Unlimited with Premium.
Hunter Passport is not affiliated with or endorsed by any state wildlife agency.
Kentucky Tag Draws & Lotteries
random Point System
All applicants have equal odds regardless of previous applications.
Draw Species
Application Deadline
Varies
Kentucky has the largest elk herd east of the Rocky Mountains. Elk permits are through lottery only.
Kentucky Hunting Quirks & Tips
Unique rules and insider knowledge for hunting and fishing in Kentucky.
Largest Eastern Elk Herd
importantKentucky has successfully restored elk and now hosts the largest elk herd east of the Rockies. Permits are lottery only and highly sought after.
March License Year
importantKentucky uses March-February license year. Renew before spring turkey season.
Land Between the Lakes
infoThe 170,000-acre Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area offers excellent public hunting between Kentucky and Barkley Lakes.
Telecheck Reporting
criticalKentucky uses a Telecheck system for deer and turkey harvest reporting. Report within 24 hours.
Hunting Tools for Kentucky
Free calculators and planning tools to help you hunt smarter in Kentucky.
Legal Shooting Hours
Calculate legal hunting start and end times based on sunrise/sunset
Hunting License Cost
Compare hunting and fishing license costs for Kentucky and residency
Hunter Education
Find hunter education requirements, exemptions, and course providers for Kentucky
Hunting Season Dates
Find hunting season dates for Kentucky, species, and weapon type
Bag Limit & Size Limit
Find daily, possession, and size limits for Kentucky and species
Kentucky Hunting & Fishing FAQ
How much does a Kentucky hunting license cost?
Resident hunting licenses cost $27, while non-residents pay $160. The resident Sportsman package at $95 includes all stamps.
Does Kentucky accept digital hunting licenses?
Yes, Kentucky accepts digital licenses through the Fish and Wildlife online system.
Can I hunt elk in Kentucky?
Yes, Kentucky has the largest elk herd east of the Rockies. Permits are lottery only and extremely competitive.
When does the Kentucky hunting license expire?
Kentucky licenses run from March 1 through the last day of February.
What is Land Between the Lakes?
A 170,000-acre National Recreation Area offering excellent public hunting between Kentucky and Barkley Lakes.
Store Your Kentucky License in Hunter Passport
Keep your Kentucky hunting and fishing licenses alongside all your other states. Works offline, displays instantly, never fumble for paper again.