Title 301 | Chapter 003 | Regulation 150REG
PROPOSED
This document is not yet current.
TOURISM, ARTS AND HERITAGE CABINET
Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources
(New Administrative Regulation)
301 KAR 3:150.Hunting and Fishing Outfitter and Guide Licenses.
Section 1.
Outfitter License Requirements and Application.(1)
A person who possesses a valid Hunting Outfitter license may guide clients in the take or attempt to take wildlife.(2)
A person who possesses a valid Fishing Outfitter License may guide clients in the take or the attempt to take fish.(3)
A person who possesses an outfitter license who guides clients in the take, or in the attempt to take, fish or wildlife must comply with the guide reporting requirements established in Section 7 of this administrative regulation.(4)
Outfitter License Types.(a)
A Fishing Outfitter License Tier 1 is required for a fishing outfitter that operates without any fishing guides working for, or contracted with, the license holder.(b)
A Fishing Outfitter License Tier 2 is required for a fishing outfitter that operates with one (1) or more fishing guides working for, or contracted with, the license holder.(c)
A Hunting Outfitter License Tier 1 is required for a hunting outfitter that operates without any hunting guides working for, or contracted with, the license holder.(d)
A Hunting Outfitter License Tier 2 is required for a hunting outfitter that operates with one (1) hunting guide working for, or contracted with, the license holder.(e)
A Hunting Outfitter License Tier 3 is required for a hunting outfitter that operates with two (2) to four (4) hunting guides working for, or contracted with, the license holder.(f)
A Hunting Outfitter License Tier 4 is required for a hunting outfitter that operates with five (5) or more hunting guides working for, or contracted with, the license holder.(5)
A fishing or hunting outfitter license shall be valid from March 1 through the last day of February.(6)
An applicant for an outfitter license shall:(a)
Be eighteen (18) years of age or older;(b)
Have not been convicted of any state or federal fish, boat or wildlife violation during the previous three (3) years;(c)
Have not been convicted of a felony;(d)
Possess a valid annual fishing license and trout permit if applicable; and(e)
Possess a valid annual hunting license and all applicable game permits, except elk.(7)
In order to obtain an outfitter license, a person shall submit to the department by mail or online at fw.ky.gov/dclapp:(a)
A completed Fishing or Hunting Outfitter License Application form to the Division of Law Enforcement, #1 Sportsman's Lane, Frankfort, Kentucky 40601;(b)
A Law Information Network of Kentucky National Crime Information Center (LINK/NCIC) background check obtained through the Kentucky State Police;(c)
Proof of a valid and current certification in:1.
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR); and2.
First aid.(d)
Proof of completion of a boater education course upon applying for:1.
A fishing outfitter license for fishing in a boat; or2.
A hunting outfitter license for hunting in or with a boat;(e)
Proof of completion of a hunter education course upon applying for a hunting outfitter license;(f)
A copy of the applicant's valid driver's license, or state issued identification card;(g)
The applicable fee for the appropriate outfitter license as referenced at https://fw.ky.gov/Licenses/Pages/Fees.aspx and established in 301 KAR 5:022 or the price difference between the license tier levels if license holder is modifying the application during the license year; and(h)
If applying for a Fishing Outfitter License and the license holder plans to utilize a fishing helper, provide the fishing helper(s) name, address and Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Customer Identification Number.(8)
An outfitter license applicant who possesses a valid United States Coast Guard Captain's License, or Six-pack, may submit a copy of this license in lieu of the boater education course requirements and the CPR and first aid requirements for obtaining a license.(9)
An outfitter shall not facilitate, promote, or assist a client in the violation of, or attempt of, any state or federal fish or wildlife law or regulation.(10)
An outfitter shall not participate in the taking of fish or game beyond the daily limit of the person or persons being guided, except that an outfitter may take a daily limit of fish or game, as applicable, while guiding.(11)
An outfitter shall obtain the applicable permits, provide the applicable boater education documentation, and update their application during the license year:(a)
To add or remove a guide under their outfitter license;(b)
To add or remove a fishing helper under their fishing outfitter license; or(c)
Prior to guiding for a species not selected on their most recent application; or(d)
Prior to guiding from a boat, if they did not select that they intended to guide from a boat on their most recent application.(12)
If an outfitter employees or contracts with a guide under the outfitter license in which results in an increase in license tier level, the outfitter shall pay the remaining fee balance between the previous license tier and the new license tier level. The new guide shall not be approved until all the pertinent documents are submitted and approved as established in Section 3 of this administrative regulation.(13)
A Fishing Outfitter License holder shall be allowed to use a fishing helper as established in Section 6 of this administrative regulation.(14)
The department shall not refund the payment for an outfitter license if the license holder's outfitter license is suspended, revoked or if the outfitter license tier level decreases within the license year.Section 2.
Outfitter License Prohibitions and Revocation.(1)
The department shall revoke and not renew the outfitter license for a period of three (3) years of a person who:(a)
Is convicted of any state or federal fish, boat, or game violation;(b)
Knowingly aides a client in the illegal take of fish or wildlife;(c)
Intentionally falsifies the license application; or(d)
Intentionally falsifies the Guiding Activity Report.(2)
The department shall deny or permanently revoke the outfitter license of a person convicted of a felony.(3)
The department may suspend or revoke an outfitter license if one (1) or more licensed guide working under the outfitter license holder is convicted of any state or federal fish, boat, or game violation.(4)
The guide license for any guides working under an outfitter whose outfitter license has been suspended, denied, or revoked, shall also be suspended or denied until such time the supervising outfitter's license is reinstated or until their guide license is transferred under an outfitter with a valid license.(5)
The department shall deny an outfitter license to a person who:(a)
Fails to meet the eligibility requirements;(b)
Fails to properly complete the application process;(c)
Has not yet submitted all required reporting information from a prior license year; or(d)
Otherwise meets the grounds for revocation or suspension of an outfitter license.Section 3.
Guide License Requirements and Application.(1)
A person shall possess a valid fishing guide license issued under a fishing outfitter license holder in order to guide others in the taking of fish.(2)
A person shall possess a valid hunting guide license issued under a hunting outfitter license holder in order to guide others in the taking of wildlife.(3)
A guide license shall be valid from March 1 through the last day of February.(4)
An applicant for a guide license shall:(a)
Be eighteen (18) years of age or older;(b)
Have not been convicted of any state or federal fish, boat or wildlife violation during the previous three (3) years;(c)
Have not been convicted of a felony;(d)
Possess a valid annual fishing license if applying for a fishing guide license; and(e)
Possess a valid annual hunting license and all applicable game permits, except elk, if applying for a hunting guide license.(5)
In order to obtain a guide license, a person shall submit to the department by mail or online at fw.ky.gov/dclapp:(a)
A completed Fishing or Hunting Guide License Application form to the Division of Law Enforcement, #1 Sportsman's Lane, Frankfort, Kentucky 40601;(b)
A Law Information Network of Kentucky National Crime Information Center (LINK/NCIC) background check obtained through the Kentucky State Police;(c)
Proof of a valid and current certification in:1.
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR); and2.
First aid;(d)
Proof of completion of a boater education course upon applying for:1.
A fishing guide license for fishing in a boat; or2.
A hunting guide license for hunting in or with a boat;(e)
Proof of completion of a hunter education course upon applying for a hunting guide license; and(f)
A copy of the applicant's valid driver's license, or state issued identification card;(g)
The applicable fee as referenced at https://fw.ky.gov/Licenses/Pages/Fees.aspx and established in 301 KAR 5:022; and(h)
If applying for a Fishing Guide License and the license holder plans to utilize a fishing helper, provide the fishing helper(s) name, address and the Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Customer Identification Number.(6)
A completed guide application must be accompanied with the appropriate corresponding outfitter license application as established in Section 1 of this administrative regulation.(7)
A guide applicant who possesses a valid United States Coast Guard Captain's License, or Six-pack, may submit a copy of this license in lieu of the boater education course requirements and the CPR and first aid requirements for obtaining a license.(8)
A guide shall not facilitate, promote, or assist a client in the violation of, or attempt of, any state or federal fish, boat or wildlife law or regulation.(9)
A Fishing or Hunting Guide License shall only be issued to a person who is approved to work for, or contracted with, a licensed Hunting or Fishing Outfitter.(10)
A fishing guide shall only work under a fishing outfitter who has listed the fishing guide on their fishing outfitter license application.(11)
A hunting guide shall only work under a hunting outfitter who has listed the hunting guide on their hunting outfitter license application.(12)
A Fishing Guide License holder may be allowed to use a fishing helper as established in Section 6 of this administrative regulation.(13)
If the license of the outfitter under which a guide operates is suspended or revoked, the guide shall not be allowed to perform guiding activities until such time the outfitter's license is reinstated or the guide's affiliation is moved under a different outfitter with a valid license.(14)
A guide shall obtain the applicable permits, provide the applicable boater education documentation, and update their application during the license year:(a)
To add or remove a fishing helper from under their fishing guide license;(b)
Prior to guiding for a species not selected on their most recent application; or(c)
Prior to guiding from a boat, if they did not select that they intended to guide from a boat on their most recent application.(15)
The department shall not refund the payment for a guide license if the license holder's guide license is suspended or revoked.Section 4.
Guide License Prohibitions, Denials, Suspension, and Revocation.(1)
A guide shall not participate in the taking of fish or game beyond the daily limit of the person or persons being guided, except that a guide may take a daily limit of fish or game, as applicable, while guiding.(2)
The department shall revoke and not renew the guide license for a period of three (3) years, of a person who:(a)
Is convicted of any state or federal fish, boat, or game violation;(b)
Knowingly aides a client in the illegal take of fish or wildlife;(c)
Intentionally falsifies the license application; or(d)
Intentionally falsifies the Guiding Activity Report.(3)
The department shall deny or permanently revoke the guide license of a person convicted of a felony.(4)
The department shall deny a guide license to a person who:(a)
Fails to meet the eligibility requirements;(b)
Fails to properly complete the application process;(c)
Has not yet submitted all required reporting information from a prior license year; or(d)
Otherwise meets the grounds for revocation or suspension of a guide license.(5)
The department shall suspend a guide license upon notification of the removal of a guide by the corresponding outfitter.(6)
The department may suspend a fishing outfitter or fishing guide license for failure to submit required reports as established in Section 7 of this regulation.Section 5.
Requirements for Specific Guiding Activities.(1)
While guiding for a species that requires a permit for take, outfitters and guides shall possess all required licenses and permits to take the fish or wildlife being pursued, except an outfitter or guide need not possess an elk permit while guiding for elk.(2)
Outfitters and guides performing guiding activities while on a boat shall possess and present to a game warden upon request, either:(a)
Proof of completion of boater education course; or(b)
A valid United States Coast Guard Captain's License or Six-pack.(3)
While guiding on private land, an outfitter or guide shall provide at the request of a game warden a name and phone number of the person granting the outfitter or guide permission to be on the private property.Section 6.
Fishing Helper.(1)
A fishing outfitter or fishing guide may utilize a fishing helper(s).(2)
A fishing helper shall have in possession while assisting a fishing outfitter or fishing guide a valid Kentucky fishing license and applicable permits for the fish their clients are taking, or attempting to take.(3)
A fishing outfitter or the fishing guide shall be responsible for any violation of this administrative regulation by a fishing helper who is registered by the fishing outfitter or fishing guide.(4)
A fishing helper shall be registered on the Outfitter License or Guide License Application as established in Section 1 and Section 3 of this administrative regulation.(5)
A fishing helper shall not participate in the taking of fish beyond the daily limit of the person or persons being guided, except that a fishing helper may take a daily limit of fish, as applicable, while guiding.Section 7.
Reporting Requirements.(1)
Outfitter license holders and guide license holders shall report their guiding activities using the online Guiding Activity Reporting portal at https://app.fw.ky.gov/commReport:(a)
By the 15th day of every month for the previous month's guiding, for all Fishing Guide or Fishing Outfitter license holders, even if no guiding occurred for fishing;(b)
Within thirty (30) days after closure of the hunting season for a species in which the Hunting Outfitter or Hunting Guide was approved to take or attempt to take, even if no guiding occurred for hunting; or(c)
Within thirty (30) days after the end of the license year for a species that can be hunted year-round in which the Hunting Outfitter or Hunting Guide was approved to take or attempt to take, even if no guiding occurred for hunting.(2)
The outfitter or guide conducting the guiding shall submit all the following information, using the online Guide Activity Reporting portal, by each of the applicable deadlines established in subsection (1) of this section:(a)
For guiding for fishing:1.
Outfitter or guide name;2.
Outfitter or guide license number;3.
Whether guiding for fishing occurred during the month, and if so:a.
Dates fished or bowfished;b.
Waterbody fished per day fished or bowfished;c.
Fish species targeted each day;d.
Number of anglers or bowfishers guided per trip;e.
Hours fished or bowfished per trip; andf.
Fish species caught or shot and the number of each species that were:(i)
Released with number of fish below legal harvest size and at or above legal harvest size; and(ii)
Harvested.(b)
For guiding for hunting:1.
Outfitter or guide name;2.
Outfitter or guide license number;3.
Species targeted;4.
Total number of guided resident and nonresident clients per species targeted;5.
Number of animals harvested per species by sex of the animal;6.
Number of animals shot, but not recovered by sex of the animal for black bear, bobcat, deer, elk, and turkey;7.
Name of each county where guiding occurred per species;8.
Name of each public land area where guiding occurred per species; and9.
Indicate whether any guiding was performed for any pen-raised animals or at facilities that are permitted as a shooting facility.(3)
Failure to submit the required reporting information by the deadline established in subsection (1) of this section for guiding conducted by a fishing outfitter or fishing guide will result in:(a)
Issuance of a courtesy reminder letter to a fishing guide or fishing outfitter who has once failed to properly submit the reporting information during the license year.(b)
Issuance of a warning letter to a fishing guide or fishing outfitter who has twice failed to properly submit the reporting information during the license year.(c)
Suspension of the fishing guide or fishing outfitter license of a fishing guide or fishing outfitter who has failed to properly submit the reporting information for three (3) or more months in a given license year until the fishing guide or fishing outfitter submits to the department all required reporting information.(d)
Suspension of the fishing guide or fishing outfitter license for a period of three (3) months for failure to properly submit the reporting information four (4) or more times in a license year.(e)
Additional three (3) month suspension of the fishing guide or fishing outfitter license if a prior year's three (3) month suspension extends into a new license year and subsequent failures to properly submit the reporting information occur.(4)
Failure to submit the required reporting information by the deadline established in subsection (1) of this section for guiding conducted by a hunting outfitter or hunting guide will result in denial of future license applications or renewals until all required reporting has been completed.Section 8.
Administrative Hearings.(1)
An individual whose outfitter or guide license has been denied or revoked may request an administrative hearing pursuant to KRS Chapter 13B.(2)
A request for a hearing shall be in writing and postmarked or delivered in person to the department no later than thirty (30) days after notification of the denial or the revocation.(3)
Upon receipt of the request for a hearing, the department shall proceed according to the provisions of KRS Chapter 13B.(4)
The hearing officer's recommended order shall be considered by the department's commissioner, and the department's commissioner shall issue a final order, pursuant to KRS Chapter 13B.Section 9.
Incorporation by Reference.(1)
"Fishing Outfitter License Application", 2025 edition, is incorporated by reference.(2)
"Fishing Guide License Application", 2025 edition, is incorporated by reference.(3)
"Hunting Outfitter License Application", 2025 edition, is incorporated by reference.(4)
"Hunting Guide License Application", 2025 edition, is incorporated by reference.(5)
This material may be inspected, copied, or obtained, subject to applicable copyright law, at the Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, #1 Sportsman's Lane, Frankfort, Kentucky 40601, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or online at:(a)
https://fw.ky.gov/Licenses/Documents/Fishing-Outfitter-License-App.pdf for the "Fishing Outfitter License Application";(b)
https://fw.ky.gov/Licenses/Documents/Fishing-Guide-License-App.pdf for the "Fishing Guide Application";(c)
https://fw.ky.gov/Licenses/Documents/Hunting-Outfitter-License-App.pdf for the "Hunting Outfitter Application";(d)
https://fw.ky.gov/Licenses/Documents/Hunting-Guide-License-App.pdf for the "Hunting Guide Application".Approved by the Fish and Wildlife Commission
RICH STORM, Commissioner
APPROVED BY AGENCY: July 3, 2025
FILED WITH LRC: July 9, 2025 at 3:30 p.m.
PUBLIC HEARING AND COMMENT PERIOD: A public hearing on this administrative regulation shall be held on September 29, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., at KDFWR Administration Building, 1 Sportsman’s Lane, Frankfort, Kentucky 40601. Individuals interested in being heard at this hearing shall notify this agency in writing by five workdays prior to the hearing, of their intent to attend. If no notification of intent to attend the hearing was received by that date, the hearing may be cancelled. A transcript of the public hearing will not be made unless a written request for a transcript is made. If you do not wish to be heard at the public hearing, you may submit written comments on the proposed administrative regulation. Written comments shall be accepted through September 30, 2025. Send written notification of intent to be heard at the public hearing or written comments on the proposed administrative regulation to the contact person.
CONTACT PERSON: Jenny Gilbert, Legislative Liaison, Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, 1 Sportsman’s Lane, phone (502) 564-3400, fax (502) 564-0506, email fwpubliccomments@ky.gov.
REGULATORY IMPACT ANALYSIS AND TIERING STATEMENT
Contact Person:
Jenny Gilbert
(1) Provide a brief summary of:
(a) What this administrative regulation does:
This administrative regulation establishes the requirements for hunting and fishing outfitters and hunting and fishing guides.
(b) The necessity of this administrative regulation:
This regulation is necessary to establish minimum regulatory standards and qualifications for hunting or fishing outfitters and hunting or fishing guides.
(c) How this administrative regulation conforms to the content of the authorizing statutes:
KRS 150.025 authorizes the department to promulgate administrative regulations to establish open seasons for the taking of wildlife, to regulate bag limits and methods of take, and to make these requirements apply statewide or to a limited area. KRS 150.175(11) authorizes the department to issue an outfitter and guide’s license, which authorizes the holder to guide hunting and fishing parties. KRS 150.190 authorizes the department to ensure that an applicant for an outfitter or guide license is qualified to act as an outfitter or guide.
(d) How this administrative regulation currently assists or will assist in the effective administration of the statutes:
This administrative regulation will assist in the effective administration of the statutes by establishing the minimum standards and qualifications for outfitters and guides and ensures that an applicant is qualified to act as an outfitter or a guide.
(2) If this is an amendment to an existing administrative regulation, provide a brief summary of:
(a) How the amendment will change this existing administrative regulation:
N/A
(b) The necessity of the amendment to this administrative regulation:
N/A
(c) How the amendment conforms to the content of the authorizing statutes:
N/A
(d) How the amendment will assist in the effective administration of the statutes:
N/A
(3) List the type and number of individuals, businesses, organizations, or state and local governments affected by this administrative regulation:
All individuals who solicit for guiding services or provide guiding services for the take of fish or wildlife will be affected by this administrative regulation. For the 2023-24 license year, a total of 402 guide licenses were sold.
(4) Provide an analysis of how the entities identified in question (3) will be impacted by either the implementation of this administrative regulation, if new, or by the change, if it is an amendment, including:
(a) List the actions that each of the regulated entities identified in question (3) will have to take to comply with this administrative regulation or amendment:
HB586 in 2024 authorized the department to differentiate a fishing and/or hunting guide and a fishing and/or hunting outfitter and to establish parameters for the permitting process. As such, all entities listed in question (3) will now have to choose to either be a guide or an outfitter. Additionally, the department has established 8 new license types that the individuals will have to choose from to guide or to solicit for guiding services for the take of fish or wildlife.
(b) In complying with this administrative regulation or amendment, how much will it cost each of the entities identified in question (3):
The parameters for the license types are established in this regulation, however the fees associated with the license can be found at https://fw.ky.gov/Licenses/Pages/Fees.aspx and are established in 301 KAR 5:022. For the 2026 license year, cost could range from $100 for a resident hunting or fishing guide to $4,000 for a non-resident Tier 4 Hunting Outfitter.
(c) As a result of compliance, what benefits will accrue to the entities identified in question (3):
Licensing of individuals will now better align with the services the individuals provide to the public that are consistent with the industry standards of fishing and hunting outfitters and guides.
(5) Provide an estimate of how much it will cost the administrative body to implement this administrative regulation:
(a) Initially:
The cost to the department to implement this administrative regulation will remain unchanged, at a cost of approximately one staff person with a total salary, including benefits of $87,500.
(b) On a continuing basis:
The same as listed above in 5(a).
(6) What is the source of the funding to be used for the implementation and enforcement of this administrative regulation:
The source of funding is the State Game and Fish Fund.
(7) Provide an assessment of whether an increase in fees or funding will be necessary to implement this administrative regulation, if new, or by the change if it is an amendment:
An increase in fees to implement this administrative regulation is not necessary, although fees are established for these new license types.
(8) State whether or not this administrative regulation establishes any fees or directly or indirectly increases any fees:
The parameters for the license types are established in this regulation, however this administrative regulation indirectly set the fees associated with the license types and those fees can be found at https://fw.ky.gov/Licenses/Pages/Fees.aspx and are established in 301 KAR 5:022.
(9) TIERING: Is tiering applied?
Tiering is applied in this regulation. Tiering is established in both the Fishing and Hunting Outfitter Licensure. Tiering is based upon the number of guides working underneath a specific outfitter.
FISCAL IMPACT STATEMENT
(1) Identify each state statute, federal statute, or federal regulation that requires or authorizes the action taken by the administrative regulation:
The department’s Divisions of Fisheries, Wildlife, Engineering/Information/Technology and Law Enforcement will be impacted by this administrative regulation.
(2) State whether this administrative regulation is expressly authorized by an act of the General Assembly, and if so, identify the act:
2024 HB 586 RS established resident and nonresident outfitter licenses and changed "commercial guide’s license" to guide’s license and made changes to guide’s license to conform with outfitter licenses. Additionally, 2024 HB 586 RS defined outfitter license and guide’s license.
(3)(a) Identify the promulgating agency and any other affected state units, parts, or divisions:
The Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources
(b) Estimate the following for each affected state unit, part, or division identified in (3)(a):
1. Expenditures:
For the first year:
$87,500
For subsequent years:
$87,500
2. Revenues:
For the first year:
Exact revenue is unknown at this time. Of the 402 licensed issued in 2023-24, the regulated entities now must choose 1 of 8 license options and those license types can range from $100 for a resident hunting or fishing guide to $4,000 for a non-resident Tier 4 Hunting.
For subsequent years:
Revenues should remain relativity unchanged after implementation of the first year.
3. Cost Savings:
For the first year:
There should not be any cost savings for the first year.
For subsequent years:
There should not be any cost savings for subsequent years.
(4)(a) Identify affected local entities (for example: cities, counties, fire departments, school districts):
Individuals who guide or solicit for guiding services for the take of fish or wildlife.
(b) Estimate the following for each affected local entity identified in (4)(a):
1. Expenditures:
For the first year:
Individuals must choose 1 of 8 license options and those license types can range from $100 for a resident hunting or fishing guide to $4,000 for a non-resident Tier 4 Hunting.
For subsequent years:
There should not be any expenditures for subsequent years except for the annual fee.
2. Revenues:
For the first year:
Licensed outfitters and guides will not experience any revenues from the implementation of this regulation. The fee associated with the applicable license type correlates with the licensed individuals for their cost providing services to their clients.
For subsequent years:
There should not be any additional revenue for subsequent years.
3. Cost Savings:
For the first year:
None anticipated.
For subsequent years:
None anticipated.
(5)(a) Identify any affected regulated entities not listed in (3)(a) or (4)(a):
N/A
(b) Estimate the following for each regulated entity identified in (5)(a):
1. Expenditures:
For the first year:
N/A
For subsequent years:
N/A
2. Revenues:
For the first year:
N/A
For subsequent years:
N/A
3. Cost Savings:
For the first year:
N/A
For subsequent years:
N/A
(6) Provide a narrative to explain the following for each entity identified in (3)(a), (4)(a), and (5)(a)
(a) Fiscal impact of this administrative regulation:
There will be no added cost to KDFWR to administer the administrative regulation. Of the 402 licenses issued in 2023-24, the regulated entities now must choose 1 of 8 license options and those license types can range from $100 for a resident hunting or fishing guide to $4,000 for a non-resident Tier 4 Hunting. Thus, some individuals will have a less expensive license cost while others will experience a higher cost for the appropriate licensure.
(b) Methodology and resources used to reach this conclusion:
There will be no additional costs to administer this regulation. The individuals who intend to guide or solicit for guiding services to take fish or wildlife will be impacted in some level. Of the 402 licensed individuals in 2023-24, some could experience a savings and some could experience an increase in licensure cost. However, licensure cost have not increased in 16 years.
(7) Explain, as it relates to the entities identified in (3)(a), (4)(a), and (5)(a):
(a) Whether this administrative regulation will have a "major economic impact", as defined by KRS 13A.010(13):
This administrative regulation will have no major economic impact as defined by KRS 13A.010(13).
(b) The methodology and resources used to reach this conclusion:
The calculations and estimates of staff based on many years of experience in this field determined there would not be a major economic impact as defined above.
TOURISM, ARTS AND HERITAGE CABINET
Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources
(New Administrative Regulation)
301 KAR 3:150.Hunting and Fishing Outfitter and Guide Licenses.
Section 1.
Outfitter License Requirements and Application.(1)
A person who possesses a valid Hunting Outfitter license may guide clients in the take or attempt to take wildlife.(2)
A person who possesses a valid Fishing Outfitter License may guide clients in the take or the attempt to take fish.(3)
A person who possesses an outfitter license who guides clients in the take, or in the attempt to take, fish or wildlife must comply with the guide reporting requirements established in Section 7 of this administrative regulation.(4)
Outfitter License Types.(a)
A Fishing Outfitter License Tier 1 is required for a fishing outfitter that operates without any fishing guides working for, or contracted with, the license holder.(b)
A Fishing Outfitter License Tier 2 is required for a fishing outfitter that operates with one (1) or more fishing guides working for, or contracted with, the license holder.(c)
A Hunting Outfitter License Tier 1 is required for a hunting outfitter that operates without any hunting guides working for, or contracted with, the license holder.(d)
A Hunting Outfitter License Tier 2 is required for a hunting outfitter that operates with one (1) hunting guide working for, or contracted with, the license holder.(e)
A Hunting Outfitter License Tier 3 is required for a hunting outfitter that operates with two (2) to four (4) hunting guides working for, or contracted with, the license holder.(f)
A Hunting Outfitter License Tier 4 is required for a hunting outfitter that operates with five (5) or more hunting guides working for, or contracted with, the license holder.(5)
A fishing or hunting outfitter license shall be valid from March 1 through the last day of February.(6)
An applicant for an outfitter license shall:(a)
Be eighteen (18) years of age or older;(b)
Have not been convicted of any state or federal fish, boat or wildlife violation during the previous three (3) years;(c)
Have not been convicted of a felony;(d)
Possess a valid annual fishing license and trout permit if applicable; and(e)
Possess a valid annual hunting license and all applicable game permits, except elk.(7)
In order to obtain an outfitter license, a person shall submit to the department by mail or online at fw.ky.gov/dclapp:(a)
A completed Fishing or Hunting Outfitter License Application form to the Division of Law Enforcement, #1 Sportsman's Lane, Frankfort, Kentucky 40601;(b)
A Law Information Network of Kentucky National Crime Information Center (LINK/NCIC) background check obtained through the Kentucky State Police;(c)
Proof of a valid and current certification in:1.
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR); and2.
First aid.(d)
Proof of completion of a boater education course upon applying for:1.
A fishing outfitter license for fishing in a boat; or2.
A hunting outfitter license for hunting in or with a boat;(e)
Proof of completion of a hunter education course upon applying for a hunting outfitter license;(f)
A copy of the applicant's valid driver's license, or state issued identification card;(g)
The applicable fee for the appropriate outfitter license as referenced at https://fw.ky.gov/Licenses/Pages/Fees.aspx and established in 301 KAR 5:022 or the price difference between the license tier levels if license holder is modifying the application during the license year; and(h)
If applying for a Fishing Outfitter License and the license holder plans to utilize a fishing helper, provide the fishing helper(s) name, address and Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Customer Identification Number.(8)
An outfitter license applicant who possesses a valid United States Coast Guard Captain's License, or Six-pack, may submit a copy of this license in lieu of the boater education course requirements and the CPR and first aid requirements for obtaining a license.(9)
An outfitter shall not facilitate, promote, or assist a client in the violation of, or attempt of, any state or federal fish or wildlife law or regulation.(10)
An outfitter shall not participate in the taking of fish or game beyond the daily limit of the person or persons being guided, except that an outfitter may take a daily limit of fish or game, as applicable, while guiding.(11)
An outfitter shall obtain the applicable permits, provide the applicable boater education documentation, and update their application during the license year:(a)
To add or remove a guide under their outfitter license;(b)
To add or remove a fishing helper under their fishing outfitter license; or(c)
Prior to guiding for a species not selected on their most recent application; or(d)
Prior to guiding from a boat, if they did not select that they intended to guide from a boat on their most recent application.(12)
If an outfitter employees or contracts with a guide under the outfitter license in which results in an increase in license tier level, the outfitter shall pay the remaining fee balance between the previous license tier and the new license tier level. The new guide shall not be approved until all the pertinent documents are submitted and approved as established in Section 3 of this administrative regulation.(13)
A Fishing Outfitter License holder shall be allowed to use a fishing helper as established in Section 6 of this administrative regulation.(14)
The department shall not refund the payment for an outfitter license if the license holder's outfitter license is suspended, revoked or if the outfitter license tier level decreases within the license year.Section 2.
Outfitter License Prohibitions and Revocation.(1)
The department shall revoke and not renew the outfitter license for a period of three (3) years of a person who:(a)
Is convicted of any state or federal fish, boat, or game violation;(b)
Knowingly aides a client in the illegal take of fish or wildlife;(c)
Intentionally falsifies the license application; or(d)
Intentionally falsifies the Guiding Activity Report.(2)
The department shall deny or permanently revoke the outfitter license of a person convicted of a felony.(3)
The department may suspend or revoke an outfitter license if one (1) or more licensed guide working under the outfitter license holder is convicted of any state or federal fish, boat, or game violation.(4)
The guide license for any guides working under an outfitter whose outfitter license has been suspended, denied, or revoked, shall also be suspended or denied until such time the supervising outfitter's license is reinstated or until their guide license is transferred under an outfitter with a valid license.(5)
The department shall deny an outfitter license to a person who:(a)
Fails to meet the eligibility requirements;(b)
Fails to properly complete the application process;(c)
Has not yet submitted all required reporting information from a prior license year; or(d)
Otherwise meets the grounds for revocation or suspension of an outfitter license.Section 3.
Guide License Requirements and Application.(1)
A person shall possess a valid fishing guide license issued under a fishing outfitter license holder in order to guide others in the taking of fish.(2)
A person shall possess a valid hunting guide license issued under a hunting outfitter license holder in order to guide others in the taking of wildlife.(3)
A guide license shall be valid from March 1 through the last day of February.(4)
An applicant for a guide license shall:(a)
Be eighteen (18) years of age or older;(b)
Have not been convicted of any state or federal fish, boat or wildlife violation during the previous three (3) years;(c)
Have not been convicted of a felony;(d)
Possess a valid annual fishing license if applying for a fishing guide license; and(e)
Possess a valid annual hunting license and all applicable game permits, except elk, if applying for a hunting guide license.(5)
In order to obtain a guide license, a person shall submit to the department by mail or online at fw.ky.gov/dclapp:(a)
A completed Fishing or Hunting Guide License Application form to the Division of Law Enforcement, #1 Sportsman's Lane, Frankfort, Kentucky 40601;(b)
A Law Information Network of Kentucky National Crime Information Center (LINK/NCIC) background check obtained through the Kentucky State Police;(c)
Proof of a valid and current certification in:1.
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR); and2.
First aid;(d)
Proof of completion of a boater education course upon applying for:1.
A fishing guide license for fishing in a boat; or2.
A hunting guide license for hunting in or with a boat;(e)
Proof of completion of a hunter education course upon applying for a hunting guide license; and(f)
A copy of the applicant's valid driver's license, or state issued identification card;(g)
The applicable fee as referenced at https://fw.ky.gov/Licenses/Pages/Fees.aspx and established in 301 KAR 5:022; and(h)
If applying for a Fishing Guide License and the license holder plans to utilize a fishing helper, provide the fishing helper(s) name, address and the Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Customer Identification Number.(6)
A completed guide application must be accompanied with the appropriate corresponding outfitter license application as established in Section 1 of this administrative regulation.(7)
A guide applicant who possesses a valid United States Coast Guard Captain's License, or Six-pack, may submit a copy of this license in lieu of the boater education course requirements and the CPR and first aid requirements for obtaining a license.(8)
A guide shall not facilitate, promote, or assist a client in the violation of, or attempt of, any state or federal fish, boat or wildlife law or regulation.(9)
A Fishing or Hunting Guide License shall only be issued to a person who is approved to work for, or contracted with, a licensed Hunting or Fishing Outfitter.(10)
A fishing guide shall only work under a fishing outfitter who has listed the fishing guide on their fishing outfitter license application.(11)
A hunting guide shall only work under a hunting outfitter who has listed the hunting guide on their hunting outfitter license application.(12)
A Fishing Guide License holder may be allowed to use a fishing helper as established in Section 6 of this administrative regulation.(13)
If the license of the outfitter under which a guide operates is suspended or revoked, the guide shall not be allowed to perform guiding activities until such time the outfitter's license is reinstated or the guide's affiliation is moved under a different outfitter with a valid license.(14)
A guide shall obtain the applicable permits, provide the applicable boater education documentation, and update their application during the license year:(a)
To add or remove a fishing helper from under their fishing guide license;(b)
Prior to guiding for a species not selected on their most recent application; or(c)
Prior to guiding from a boat, if they did not select that they intended to guide from a boat on their most recent application.(15)
The department shall not refund the payment for a guide license if the license holder's guide license is suspended or revoked.Section 4.
Guide License Prohibitions, Denials, Suspension, and Revocation.(1)
A guide shall not participate in the taking of fish or game beyond the daily limit of the person or persons being guided, except that a guide may take a daily limit of fish or game, as applicable, while guiding.(2)
The department shall revoke and not renew the guide license for a period of three (3) years, of a person who:(a)
Is convicted of any state or federal fish, boat, or game violation;(b)
Knowingly aides a client in the illegal take of fish or wildlife;(c)
Intentionally falsifies the license application; or(d)
Intentionally falsifies the Guiding Activity Report.(3)
The department shall deny or permanently revoke the guide license of a person convicted of a felony.(4)
The department shall deny a guide license to a person who:(a)
Fails to meet the eligibility requirements;(b)
Fails to properly complete the application process;(c)
Has not yet submitted all required reporting information from a prior license year; or(d)
Otherwise meets the grounds for revocation or suspension of a guide license.(5)
The department shall suspend a guide license upon notification of the removal of a guide by the corresponding outfitter.(6)
The department may suspend a fishing outfitter or fishing guide license for failure to submit required reports as established in Section 7 of this regulation.Section 5.
Requirements for Specific Guiding Activities.(1)
While guiding for a species that requires a permit for take, outfitters and guides shall possess all required licenses and permits to take the fish or wildlife being pursued, except an outfitter or guide need not possess an elk permit while guiding for elk.(2)
Outfitters and guides performing guiding activities while on a boat shall possess and present to a game warden upon request, either:(a)
Proof of completion of boater education course; or(b)
A valid United States Coast Guard Captain's License or Six-pack.(3)
While guiding on private land, an outfitter or guide shall provide at the request of a game warden a name and phone number of the person granting the outfitter or guide permission to be on the private property.Section 6.
Fishing Helper.(1)
A fishing outfitter or fishing guide may utilize a fishing helper(s).(2)
A fishing helper shall have in possession while assisting a fishing outfitter or fishing guide a valid Kentucky fishing license and applicable permits for the fish their clients are taking, or attempting to take.(3)
A fishing outfitter or the fishing guide shall be responsible for any violation of this administrative regulation by a fishing helper who is registered by the fishing outfitter or fishing guide.(4)
A fishing helper shall be registered on the Outfitter License or Guide License Application as established in Section 1 and Section 3 of this administrative regulation.(5)
A fishing helper shall not participate in the taking of fish beyond the daily limit of the person or persons being guided, except that a fishing helper may take a daily limit of fish, as applicable, while guiding.Section 7.
Reporting Requirements.(1)
Outfitter license holders and guide license holders shall report their guiding activities using the online Guiding Activity Reporting portal at https://app.fw.ky.gov/commReport:(a)
By the 15th day of every month for the previous month's guiding, for all Fishing Guide or Fishing Outfitter license holders, even if no guiding occurred for fishing;(b)
Within thirty (30) days after closure of the hunting season for a species in which the Hunting Outfitter or Hunting Guide was approved to take or attempt to take, even if no guiding occurred for hunting; or(c)
Within thirty (30) days after the end of the license year for a species that can be hunted year-round in which the Hunting Outfitter or Hunting Guide was approved to take or attempt to take, even if no guiding occurred for hunting.(2)
The outfitter or guide conducting the guiding shall submit all the following information, using the online Guide Activity Reporting portal, by each of the applicable deadlines established in subsection (1) of this section:(a)
For guiding for fishing:1.
Outfitter or guide name;2.
Outfitter or guide license number;3.
Whether guiding for fishing occurred during the month, and if so:a.
Dates fished or bowfished;b.
Waterbody fished per day fished or bowfished;c.
Fish species targeted each day;d.
Number of anglers or bowfishers guided per trip;e.
Hours fished or bowfished per trip; andf.
Fish species caught or shot and the number of each species that were:(i)
Released with number of fish below legal harvest size and at or above legal harvest size; and(ii)
Harvested.(b)
For guiding for hunting:1.
Outfitter or guide name;2.
Outfitter or guide license number;3.
Species targeted;4.
Total number of guided resident and nonresident clients per species targeted;5.
Number of animals harvested per species by sex of the animal;6.
Number of animals shot, but not recovered by sex of the animal for black bear, bobcat, deer, elk, and turkey;7.
Name of each county where guiding occurred per species;8.
Name of each public land area where guiding occurred per species; and9.
Indicate whether any guiding was performed for any pen-raised animals or at facilities that are permitted as a shooting facility.(3)
Failure to submit the required reporting information by the deadline established in subsection (1) of this section for guiding conducted by a fishing outfitter or fishing guide will result in:(a)
Issuance of a courtesy reminder letter to a fishing guide or fishing outfitter who has once failed to properly submit the reporting information during the license year.(b)
Issuance of a warning letter to a fishing guide or fishing outfitter who has twice failed to properly submit the reporting information during the license year.(c)
Suspension of the fishing guide or fishing outfitter license of a fishing guide or fishing outfitter who has failed to properly submit the reporting information for three (3) or more months in a given license year until the fishing guide or fishing outfitter submits to the department all required reporting information.(d)
Suspension of the fishing guide or fishing outfitter license for a period of three (3) months for failure to properly submit the reporting information four (4) or more times in a license year.(e)
Additional three (3) month suspension of the fishing guide or fishing outfitter license if a prior year's three (3) month suspension extends into a new license year and subsequent failures to properly submit the reporting information occur.(4)
Failure to submit the required reporting information by the deadline established in subsection (1) of this section for guiding conducted by a hunting outfitter or hunting guide will result in denial of future license applications or renewals until all required reporting has been completed.Section 8.
Administrative Hearings.(1)
An individual whose outfitter or guide license has been denied or revoked may request an administrative hearing pursuant to KRS Chapter 13B.(2)
A request for a hearing shall be in writing and postmarked or delivered in person to the department no later than thirty (30) days after notification of the denial or the revocation.(3)
Upon receipt of the request for a hearing, the department shall proceed according to the provisions of KRS Chapter 13B.(4)
The hearing officer's recommended order shall be considered by the department's commissioner, and the department's commissioner shall issue a final order, pursuant to KRS Chapter 13B.Section 9.
Incorporation by Reference.(1)
"Fishing Outfitter License Application", 2025 edition, is incorporated by reference.(2)
"Fishing Guide License Application", 2025 edition, is incorporated by reference.(3)
"Hunting Outfitter License Application", 2025 edition, is incorporated by reference.(4)
"Hunting Guide License Application", 2025 edition, is incorporated by reference.(5)
This material may be inspected, copied, or obtained, subject to applicable copyright law, at the Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, #1 Sportsman's Lane, Frankfort, Kentucky 40601, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or online at:(a)
https://fw.ky.gov/Licenses/Documents/Fishing-Outfitter-License-App.pdf for the "Fishing Outfitter License Application";(b)
https://fw.ky.gov/Licenses/Documents/Fishing-Guide-License-App.pdf for the "Fishing Guide Application";(c)
https://fw.ky.gov/Licenses/Documents/Hunting-Outfitter-License-App.pdf for the "Hunting Outfitter Application";(d)
https://fw.ky.gov/Licenses/Documents/Hunting-Guide-License-App.pdf for the "Hunting Guide Application".Approved by the Fish and Wildlife Commission
RICH STORM, Commissioner
APPROVED BY AGENCY: July 3, 2025
FILED WITH LRC: July 9, 2025 at 3:30 p.m.
PUBLIC HEARING AND COMMENT PERIOD: A public hearing on this administrative regulation shall be held on September 29, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., at KDFWR Administration Building, 1 Sportsman’s Lane, Frankfort, Kentucky 40601. Individuals interested in being heard at this hearing shall notify this agency in writing by five workdays prior to the hearing, of their intent to attend. If no notification of intent to attend the hearing was received by that date, the hearing may be cancelled. A transcript of the public hearing will not be made unless a written request for a transcript is made. If you do not wish to be heard at the public hearing, you may submit written comments on the proposed administrative regulation. Written comments shall be accepted through September 30, 2025. Send written notification of intent to be heard at the public hearing or written comments on the proposed administrative regulation to the contact person.
CONTACT PERSON: Jenny Gilbert, Legislative Liaison, Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, 1 Sportsman’s Lane, phone (502) 564-3400, fax (502) 564-0506, email fwpubliccomments@ky.gov.
REGULATORY IMPACT ANALYSIS AND TIERING STATEMENT
Contact Person:
Jenny Gilbert
(1) Provide a brief summary of:
(a) What this administrative regulation does:
This administrative regulation establishes the requirements for hunting and fishing outfitters and hunting and fishing guides.
(b) The necessity of this administrative regulation:
This regulation is necessary to establish minimum regulatory standards and qualifications for hunting or fishing outfitters and hunting or fishing guides.
(c) How this administrative regulation conforms to the content of the authorizing statutes:
KRS 150.025 authorizes the department to promulgate administrative regulations to establish open seasons for the taking of wildlife, to regulate bag limits and methods of take, and to make these requirements apply statewide or to a limited area. KRS 150.175(11) authorizes the department to issue an outfitter and guide’s license, which authorizes the holder to guide hunting and fishing parties. KRS 150.190 authorizes the department to ensure that an applicant for an outfitter or guide license is qualified to act as an outfitter or guide.
(d) How this administrative regulation currently assists or will assist in the effective administration of the statutes:
This administrative regulation will assist in the effective administration of the statutes by establishing the minimum standards and qualifications for outfitters and guides and ensures that an applicant is qualified to act as an outfitter or a guide.
(2) If this is an amendment to an existing administrative regulation, provide a brief summary of:
(a) How the amendment will change this existing administrative regulation:
N/A
(b) The necessity of the amendment to this administrative regulation:
N/A
(c) How the amendment conforms to the content of the authorizing statutes:
N/A
(d) How the amendment will assist in the effective administration of the statutes:
N/A
(3) List the type and number of individuals, businesses, organizations, or state and local governments affected by this administrative regulation:
All individuals who solicit for guiding services or provide guiding services for the take of fish or wildlife will be affected by this administrative regulation. For the 2023-24 license year, a total of 402 guide licenses were sold.
(4) Provide an analysis of how the entities identified in question (3) will be impacted by either the implementation of this administrative regulation, if new, or by the change, if it is an amendment, including:
(a) List the actions that each of the regulated entities identified in question (3) will have to take to comply with this administrative regulation or amendment:
HB586 in 2024 authorized the department to differentiate a fishing and/or hunting guide and a fishing and/or hunting outfitter and to establish parameters for the permitting process. As such, all entities listed in question (3) will now have to choose to either be a guide or an outfitter. Additionally, the department has established 8 new license types that the individuals will have to choose from to guide or to solicit for guiding services for the take of fish or wildlife.
(b) In complying with this administrative regulation or amendment, how much will it cost each of the entities identified in question (3):
The parameters for the license types are established in this regulation, however the fees associated with the license can be found at https://fw.ky.gov/Licenses/Pages/Fees.aspx and are established in 301 KAR 5:022. For the 2026 license year, cost could range from $100 for a resident hunting or fishing guide to $4,000 for a non-resident Tier 4 Hunting Outfitter.
(c) As a result of compliance, what benefits will accrue to the entities identified in question (3):
Licensing of individuals will now better align with the services the individuals provide to the public that are consistent with the industry standards of fishing and hunting outfitters and guides.
(5) Provide an estimate of how much it will cost the administrative body to implement this administrative regulation:
(a) Initially:
The cost to the department to implement this administrative regulation will remain unchanged, at a cost of approximately one staff person with a total salary, including benefits of $87,500.
(b) On a continuing basis:
The same as listed above in 5(a).
(6) What is the source of the funding to be used for the implementation and enforcement of this administrative regulation:
The source of funding is the State Game and Fish Fund.
(7) Provide an assessment of whether an increase in fees or funding will be necessary to implement this administrative regulation, if new, or by the change if it is an amendment:
An increase in fees to implement this administrative regulation is not necessary, although fees are established for these new license types.
(8) State whether or not this administrative regulation establishes any fees or directly or indirectly increases any fees:
The parameters for the license types are established in this regulation, however this administrative regulation indirectly set the fees associated with the license types and those fees can be found at https://fw.ky.gov/Licenses/Pages/Fees.aspx and are established in 301 KAR 5:022.
(9) TIERING: Is tiering applied?
Tiering is applied in this regulation. Tiering is established in both the Fishing and Hunting Outfitter Licensure. Tiering is based upon the number of guides working underneath a specific outfitter.
FISCAL IMPACT STATEMENT
(1) Identify each state statute, federal statute, or federal regulation that requires or authorizes the action taken by the administrative regulation:
The department’s Divisions of Fisheries, Wildlife, Engineering/Information/Technology and Law Enforcement will be impacted by this administrative regulation.
(2) State whether this administrative regulation is expressly authorized by an act of the General Assembly, and if so, identify the act:
2024 HB 586 RS established resident and nonresident outfitter licenses and changed "commercial guide’s license" to guide’s license and made changes to guide’s license to conform with outfitter licenses. Additionally, 2024 HB 586 RS defined outfitter license and guide’s license.
(3)(a) Identify the promulgating agency and any other affected state units, parts, or divisions:
The Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources
(b) Estimate the following for each affected state unit, part, or division identified in (3)(a):
1. Expenditures:
For the first year:
$87,500
For subsequent years:
$87,500
2. Revenues:
For the first year:
Exact revenue is unknown at this time. Of the 402 licensed issued in 2023-24, the regulated entities now must choose 1 of 8 license options and those license types can range from $100 for a resident hunting or fishing guide to $4,000 for a non-resident Tier 4 Hunting.
For subsequent years:
Revenues should remain relativity unchanged after implementation of the first year.
3. Cost Savings:
For the first year:
There should not be any cost savings for the first year.
For subsequent years:
There should not be any cost savings for subsequent years.
(4)(a) Identify affected local entities (for example: cities, counties, fire departments, school districts):
Individuals who guide or solicit for guiding services for the take of fish or wildlife.
(b) Estimate the following for each affected local entity identified in (4)(a):
1. Expenditures:
For the first year:
Individuals must choose 1 of 8 license options and those license types can range from $100 for a resident hunting or fishing guide to $4,000 for a non-resident Tier 4 Hunting.
For subsequent years:
There should not be any expenditures for subsequent years except for the annual fee.
2. Revenues:
For the first year:
Licensed outfitters and guides will not experience any revenues from the implementation of this regulation. The fee associated with the applicable license type correlates with the licensed individuals for their cost providing services to their clients.
For subsequent years:
There should not be any additional revenue for subsequent years.
3. Cost Savings:
For the first year:
None anticipated.
For subsequent years:
None anticipated.
(5)(a) Identify any affected regulated entities not listed in (3)(a) or (4)(a):
N/A
(b) Estimate the following for each regulated entity identified in (5)(a):
1. Expenditures:
For the first year:
N/A
For subsequent years:
N/A
2. Revenues:
For the first year:
N/A
For subsequent years:
N/A
3. Cost Savings:
For the first year:
N/A
For subsequent years:
N/A
(6) Provide a narrative to explain the following for each entity identified in (3)(a), (4)(a), and (5)(a)
(a) Fiscal impact of this administrative regulation:
There will be no added cost to KDFWR to administer the administrative regulation. Of the 402 licenses issued in 2023-24, the regulated entities now must choose 1 of 8 license options and those license types can range from $100 for a resident hunting or fishing guide to $4,000 for a non-resident Tier 4 Hunting. Thus, some individuals will have a less expensive license cost while others will experience a higher cost for the appropriate licensure.
(b) Methodology and resources used to reach this conclusion:
There will be no additional costs to administer this regulation. The individuals who intend to guide or solicit for guiding services to take fish or wildlife will be impacted in some level. Of the 402 licensed individuals in 2023-24, some could experience a savings and some could experience an increase in licensure cost. However, licensure cost have not increased in 16 years.
(7) Explain, as it relates to the entities identified in (3)(a), (4)(a), and (5)(a):
(a) Whether this administrative regulation will have a "major economic impact", as defined by KRS 13A.010(13):
This administrative regulation will have no major economic impact as defined by KRS 13A.010(13).
(b) The methodology and resources used to reach this conclusion:
The calculations and estimates of staff based on many years of experience in this field determined there would not be a major economic impact as defined above.