Shooting: River Otters

Shooting is a viable option if you have the time and ability to stalk an otter or time to wait to see one causing damage. Otters have poor vision and may not see a person nearby, and occasionally otters will become curious enough to even approach a hunter. Both rifles and shotguns can be used to shoot river otters in Kentucky. When choosing a rifle caliber to shoot an otter any rimfire or centerfile rifle is legal in Kentucky per KDFWR regulations at time of writing. At close range (50 yards or closer for a rifle; 30 yards or closer for a shotgun) any rimfire cartridge (i.e., .17 HMR, .22 long rifle, .22 Hornet) or shotgun gauge will work. There is no shot size restriction per KDFWR regulations for shotgun shells, but if possible use #5 shot or larger. If shooting longer distances, any .22 caliber centerfire cartridge or similar (i.e., .22-250, .223, etc.) is sufficient, but larger centerfire calibers can be used. As with anytime you are firing a weapon at or near water extreme caution should be taken to avoid ricochets by bullets off the water. Also, you need to be aware of any local regulations or ordinances relating to discharging weapons/firearms.

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