Cedar Bluff Wildlife Area varies in size with the fluctuating reservoir. The Smoky Hill River which originates in Eastern Colorado intermittently flows into the reservoir. At full pool the Reservoir is 6,800 surface acre and the surrounding Wildlife Area lands encompassing approximately 7,000 acres. The reservoir is currently only 3,500 surface acres and the surrounding Wildlife Area is 10,300 acres. The area lies in the mixed grass prairie and chalk bluff region. Cedar Bluff derives it's name from a 1/2 mile of 100 foot chalk bluffs located on the SW portion of the property that is scenic attraction to visit. Watchable Wildlife You can see and photograph a diversity of wildlife species. In winter, bald and golden eagles visit. Deer, turkey, and pheasant roam freely. Waterfowl stop on their migrations, and a small Canada goose flock make the area home. The bluff overlook is a scenic stop to visit. Hunting Public hunting areas are limited in Kansas, so demand is high. Management continually seeks to enhance hunting quality. Big Game: In the past archery and firearm hunters have recorded one of the highest public land success rates. Most deer are whitetails with a few mule deer on the area. Turkey Hunting: Turkey populations have improved in the last 10 years due to conservation, habitat improvement and relocation efforts. Cedar Bluff Wildlife Area is located in the Unit 4 turkey managment unit. There are limited draw spring turkey permits and no fall turkey hunting in Unit 4. Youth turkey permits are statewide. Upland Game: Pheasant populations fluctuate with the most hunting pressure during the season opener. Diverse habitats with grass, crops, weeds produce the best results. Quail numbers are good and populations vary with weather and habitat nesting conditions. Migratory Birds: Doves are plentiful until cold weather moves in. Geese and ducks use the area during migration, numbers vary with habitat conditions. Most goose hunting occurs when the geese leave the area to feed. Special Hunts: Special waterfowl hunts and various youth hunts are available by application. Contact the area office for more information. Youth / Mentor Hunting Areas: Youth Mentor hunting areas are provided in strategic locations. The youth / mentor area East of the dam is shotgun / archery and provides good opportunites for geese, deer and pheasant. West of the State Park is open for all youth / mentor hunting and all equipment can be used in all seasons. At least 1 youth 17 and under is required per each adult mentor. Mentors may hunt. Every kid is waiting to be invited outdoors, just ask them!