Arkansas Hunting

Arkansas Hunting

Discover everything you need to know about hunting in Arkansas, including regulations, public hunting areas, licensed outfitters, and tips for a successful season.

Arkansas Hunting Regulations

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) provides detailed information on hunting regulations, including bag limits, weapon restrictions, and game-specific rules. Access the latest Arkansas Hunting Guidebook for up-to-date information.

Arkansas Hunting Seasons 2025-2026

Deer

  • Archery: Sep 27, 2025 – (typically until February 2026, check AGFC for exact end date)
  • Alternative Firearms: Oct 18, 2025
  • Modern Gun: Nov 8, 2025 – (typically until December 2025, check AGFC for exact end date)
  • Christmas Holiday Hunt: Dec 26–28, 2025

Turkey

The following are for the 2025 spring season. The 2026 spring season dates are not yet available.

  • Special Youth Hunt: Apr 12–13, 2025
  • Regular Season Zone 1: Apr 21–29, 2025
  • Regular Season Zone 2: Apr 21–May 11, 2025

Elk

Permit only

  • Core Elk Management Zone (Public Land):
    • Youth: Oct 5–6, Oct 26–27
    • Regular: Oct 7–11, Oct 28–Nov 1
  • Core Elk Management Zone (Private Land):
    • Youth (Antlerless Only): Oct 5–6, Oct 26–27
    • Regular: Oct 7–11, Oct 28–Nov 1

Black Bear

Permit only, Zones 3, 4, 5, 5A

  • Modern Gun: Dec 21–27, 2025

Migratory Birds

  • Virginia Rail and Sora: Sep 7–Nov 22, 2025
  • Gallinule: Sep 1–Nov 9, 2025
  • Wilson’s Snipe: Nov 1, 2025–Feb 15, 2026
  • Woodcock: Nov 1–Dec 16, 2025

Feral Hogs

  • Private Land: Open year-round
  • Public Land: Open during bear, deer, or elk open firearms or archery seasons

Note: For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please visit the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission website.

Waterfowl Hunting Seasons

Waterfowl hunting in Arkansas includes various species with specific season dates:

Duck, Coot, and Merganser Seasons

  • November 23 – December 3, 2024
  • December 11-23, 2024
  • December 27, 2024 – January 31, 2025

Special Youth Waterfowl Hunt

  • February 8-9, 2025

Special Active Duty Military and Veteran Hunt

  • February 9, 2025

Note: Specific regulations, including bag limits and hunting hours, apply. For comprehensive details, please refer to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s Waterfowl Dates, Rules & Regulations.

Public and Private Hunting Lands

Public Hunting Lands

Arkansas offers a wealth of public hunting opportunities through its Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) and national forests, such as:

  • Bayou Meto WMA: Known for waterfowl hunting.
  • Ozark National Forest: Offers diverse terrain for various game species.
  • White River NWR: Popular for waterfowl and deer hunting.

Explore the AGFC Where to Hunt Map for more details.

Private Land Access Programs

The AGFC collaborates with private landowners to offer access through programs like Arkansas Acres for Wildlife. Learn how to gain access to private lands here.

Hunting Licenses and Permits

Hunters in Arkansas must have the appropriate licenses and permits. Purchase them online via the AGFC Licensing Portal. Available options include:

  • Resident and non-resident hunting licenses
  • Deer tags and turkey permits
  • Federal waterfowl stamps

Outfitters and Hunting Guides

Arkansas is home to many licensed outfitters specializing in guided hunts for species like ducks, deer, and turkeys. While there is no statewide directory, ensure your outfitter is licensed and compliant with AGFC regulations.

Gear Recommendations for Arkansas Hunts

Prepare for Arkansas’s diverse hunting environments with the right gear:

  • Clothing: Waterproof gear for wetland hunting; camouflage suited to wooded areas.
  • Footwear: Waders for waterfowl hunting; sturdy boots for rough terrain.
  • Equipment: Calls and decoys for ducks; tree stands for deer hunting.

Conservation and Ethical Hunting

Support Arkansas’s wildlife by participating in conservation programs like Arkansas Acres for Wildlife. Ethical hunting practices ensure the preservation of game species and habitats for future generations.

Hunting Tips for Arkansas

Increase your chances of a successful hunt with these tips:

  • Scout public hunting areas early to secure prime locations.
  • Understand the habits of local game species for better tracking.
  • Check weather forecasts to plan your gear and strategy.

Plan Your Next Arkansas Hunt

Whether you’re hunting waterfowl in Bayou Meto or chasing deer in the Ozarks, Arkansas offers unforgettable experiences for every hunter. Get your gear, review the regulations, and prepare for an exciting season!