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Regulations Updated Jan 29, 2026

Kentucky Fishing Size Limits

Legal minimum sizes and daily limits for fishing in Kentucky. Updated for 2026.

Kentucky Fish Size Limits

Complete guide to legal fish sizes in Kentucky. Find minimum sizes, slot limits, and daily limits for all regulated species. Updated for 2026.

4 fish species 2 with size limits Daily limits Special regs

Fish Species

4

With Size Limits

2

No Size Limit

2

Updated

2026

Fish Size Limits

2 species with minimum size requirements in Kentucky

Species Size Limit Daily Limit Notes
Largemouth Bass
15" minimum 6 -
Smallmouth Bass
12" minimum 6 -

No Statewide Size Limit

Species with daily limits only (no minimum size)

Species Daily Limit Notes
Crappie
15 No statewide minimum size
Channel Catfish
15 No statewide minimum size
Regulated species
Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Crappie, Channel Catfish
Minimum lengths
Largemouth Bass 15" minimum | Smallmouth Bass 12" minimum
Daily-limit only
Crappie, Channel Catfish
Issuing agency
Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources

Need the regulatory background? How fish size limits work covers minimums, slots, and proper measurement.

KY

Kentucky Fishing Regulations Overview

State fish and wildlife agency information

Fish Species
4 species with regulations
Species with Size Limits
  • Largemouth Bass
  • Smallmouth Bass
Official Source: Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources
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This information is for reference only. Always verify regulations with your state wildlife agency before hunting or fishing.

Last verified: January 2026

Kentucky Fishing Size Limits FAQ

Common questions about fish size regulations in Kentucky

What is the bass size limit in Kentucky?

In Kentucky, largemouth bass has a 15" minimum. The daily limit is 6. Check specific water body regulations as they may vary.

Which fish have size limits in Kentucky?

Kentucky enforces size limits on 2 species including: Largemouth Bass (15" minimum), Smallmouth Bass (12" minimum). Always verify current regulations before fishing.

Which Kentucky fish have daily limits but no size minimum?

2 species are managed in Kentucky by daily creel limit only: Crappie (15), Channel Catfish (15).

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