10/28/2025
🚁 New Drone Rules for Hunting & Fishing in Kentucky
A reminder for hunters and anglers: using drones or other aircraft to take or harass wildlife is now prohibited under Kentucky law (effective Oct. 28, 2025).
Here’s what you need to know:
✅ What’s allowed:
-Scouting for wildlife with a drone is allowed as long as you aren’t assisting in the take of an animal.
-If a drone locates a deceased animal, the operator can notify you of its location for recovery.
❌ What’s not allowed:
-Using drones to hunt, shoot, wound, trap, or herd wildlife.
-Guiding a hunter to a live animal located via drone.
⚖️ Why this matters:
Under Kentucky law, “take” includes any attempt to hunt, pursue, trap, or even lure wildlife for harvest. This new rule ensures fair, safe, and responsible outdoor recreation for everyone.
These rules apply statewide, on both public and private lands (some public lands may have additional restrictions).
For exemptions and full-details visit: https://fw.ky.gov/News/Pages/New-law-takes-effect-restricting-drone-use-when-hunting-and-fishing.aspx
For questions, contact your local Game Warden or call the Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Information Center at 800-858-1549.