Commercial Fishing-All Kansas Public Waters

The State of Kansas, through the Department of Wildlife and Parks, is issuing an Invitation for Bid (IFB) for a comprehensive commercial fishing contract covering all Kansas public waters. The procurement seeks a contractor to harvest specific commercial fish species, including Bigmouth Buffalo, Smallmouth Buffalo, Black Buffalo, Freshwater Drum, River Carpsucker, Common Carp, various Gar species, White Perch, Silver Carp, Bighead Carp, and Gizzard Shad. Bidders must possess specialized equipment, including two commercial boats at least 22 feet long with 50-horsepower motors, various seines and nets, and maintain a workforce of at least two part-time and one full-time employee or four part-time employees. The contract will run from August 1, 2025, through July 31, 2028, with an option to renew for two additional 12-month terms. Evaluation criteria include potential subsidization for common carp removal, compensation paid to the Department for buffalo species removed (approximately $5,000 annually), and completion of the Commercial Fishing Contract Application. The bid submission deadline is April 22, 2025, with bidders required to submit detailed per-pound rates for common carp removal and buffalo species harvest.

The procurement offers potential preference categories, including Disabled Veteran Owned Business, State Use Purchases, and Certified Business designations. Bidders must submit several mandatory documents, including a current Tax Clearance Certificate, Boycott of Israel form, Sexual Harassment form, and Immigration Reform and Control form. The State encourages bidders to take steps to discourage human trafficking and provides opportunities for political subdivisions to potentially utilize the contract. Contractors will be responsible for all operational costs, equipment maintenance, and must comply with state regulations, including aquatic nuisance species prevention protocols. The Department reserves the right to supervise operations, sample catches, and terminate fishing privileges based on biological or sociological considerations. While specific award values are not explicitly stated, the contract includes compensation mechanisms such as subsidization for carp removal and payment for buffalo species harvested. The procurement is conducted exclusively in US Dollars, with no alternative currencies permitted.