Centrally located on Kanopolis Reservoir and managed by the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT), Smoky Hill Wildlife Area consists of 4180 acres of land and 885 acres of water. Kanopolis Reservoir covers approximately 3000 acres. The entire US Army Corps of Engineers property extends along the Smoky Hill River for over 15,000 acres. Hunting The wildlife area is open to public hunting with the exception of the refuge which is closed September 1 - January 31. Hunting pressure is generally moderate, but can be very high during opening weekends of firearm deer, spring turkey and upland bird seasons. Whitetail deer, turkey, and upland bird are popular game species. Treestands may be placed on the area 14 days prior to the season and removed within 14 days after the season. Upland hunters find pheasants and quail in the grassy expanses and brushy draws. Prairie chickens also use the area and adjacent crop fields. Waterfowl frequent the river and backwaters in good numbers as long as the water is open. Canada geese and mallards are common all season long. The weekly waterfowl report is kept updated throughout the fall and winter months. Hunters frequently use boats, carts and backpacks when accessing the remote areas.