Arkansas Hunting

Hunting in Arkansas is a cherished and thrilling activity that draws both residents and non-residents alike. With a diverse range of wildlife and a hunting season for almost every month of the year, Arkansas offers a hunter’s paradise. In this article, we will explore the hunting regulations, equipment requirements, hunting license permits, available games, hunting seasons, and more. Whether you are a seasoned hunter or a beginner, Arkansas has something to offer to everyone.

Arkansas Hunting Regulations

The Arkansas Fish and Game Commission plays a vital role in enacting hunting laws and regulations in the state. Hunters should check the laws and regulations for specific areas before planning their hunting trips. Some of the regulations enforced by the commission include:

• Prohibition of violating any signposted by the commission on the lands.
• Prohibition for hunters to post any signs of their own on the lands.
• Unlawful destruction of any building, structure, or sign constructed on the land by the Arkansas Fish and Game Commission.
• Prohibition of eradicating crops, fruits, rocks, or other objects on the land, except for shed deer antlers.
• Unlawful burning of objects that are not combustible in the camp built on these lands.
• Prohibition of burning grass or wood in campsites.
• Restriction on neglecting a burning fire or allowing a fire to burn uncontrolled.
• Illegal baiting of games or wildlife, except for baits or traps to lure furbearers.
• Prohibition of expurgating timbers or using inorganic defoliants on trees.
• Restriction on constructing any building, shelter, or camp on land.
• Unlawful abandonment of any personal possession or Wildlife management areas, except for cameras and removable stands allowed by the Arkansas Fish and Game Commission.
• Prohibition of using boats carelessly and inattentively, with violators facing a ban of one year.

Hunting Equipment Regulations

Hunters in Arkansas must adhere to specific equipment regulations to ensure responsible hunting. The use of traps in Wildlife Management Areas is only allowed during the open season. Firearms and rifles with more than .22 calibers are allowed for certain game seasons, such as elk, and bear, and during daylight hunting for predators like bobcats, coyotes, and foxes.

Muzzleloaders are permitted during firearm seasons, but those with more than .40 calibers are prohibited in WMA. Exceptions are made for muzzleloading and contemporary firearms during game seasons like elk, deer, and bears. The use of firearms to hunt in broad daylight is legal during elk, bobcat, coyote, and fox seasons, with some exceptions in privately owned lands.

Alcohol Possession While Hunting

While hunting in a WMA controlled by the Arkansas Fish and Games Regulation, possessing any type of alcoholic beverage is prohibited. However, some exceptions to this regulation include possessing alcohol in private inholdings, vehicles on open roads in compliance with hunting laws, boats on water bodies while adhering to hunting laws, and boats or water vehicles while participating in fishing activities following state laws.

Camping Regulations

Camping while hunting in Arkansas is limited to a maximum of two weeks within designated areas. Active camps must not remain unattended for more than two days, and disturbances within a camp are prohibited after 10 pm. Campsites cannot be used for more than a month per annum. Non-hunters accompanying licensed hunters do not need a permit, and loaded firearms are not allowed within camp areas and parking lots.

Arkansas Hunting License Permit and Tags

Arkansas offers various types of hunting license permits and tags for both residents and non-residents. Some of these licenses include:

1. Residents’ Sportsman License: Allows hunting of all wildlife with contemporary firearms, archery, and muzzleloader firearms, including deer hunting with a total bag limit.
2. Resident Wildlife Conservative License: Grants access to take wildlife and games like furbearers, squirrels, quails, migratory birds, and deer.
3. General Wildlife Management Area Use Permits: Allows hunting, trapping, and baiting of all games and wildlife in Arkansas WMA during open seasons.
4. Non-Resident Hunting Licenses: Various licenses are available for non-resident hunters, allowing the taking of specific wildlife and games.

Arkansas Fishing License Permits and Tags

Arkansas offers fishing license permits and tags for both residents and non-residents. These licenses grant access to fish in various water bodies within the state and have specific regulations attached to them.

Arkansas Wildlife Game and Fish

Arkansas is rich in wildlife and offers diverse hunting opportunities. From deer hunting to alligator hunting, there is something for every hunter’s preference. Some of the games available for hunting in Arkansas include deer, elk, bear, alligator, rabbit, squirrel, quail, waterfowl, dove, crow, duck, and turkey.

Arkansas Hunting Season 2023/24

The hunting season in Arkansas varies depending on the type of game. For example, the alligator hunting season takes place in September, while the deer hunting season spans from September to February. Each season has specific regulations, bag limits, and exceptions that hunters must adhere to.

Arkansas Shooting Ranges

Arkansas provides several shooting ranges for hunters to practice their shooting skills. These ranges offer a safe and controlled environment for honing marksmanship.

Arkansas Hunting Land for Sale and Lease

For those looking to own or lease hunting lands in Arkansas, there are various options available. Hunters can find properties that cater to their specific hunting needs and preferences.

Conclusion

Hunting in Arkansas is a year-round adventure that offers a diverse range of game and wildlife. With proper adherence to regulations, responsible hunting practices, and obtaining the appropriate licenses, hunters can enjoy a thrilling and rewarding experience in the beautiful state of Arkansas.

FAQs;

Can non-residents hunt in Arkansas?

Yes, non-residents can hunt in Arkansas by obtaining the required hunting licenses and permits.

Are there specific hunting zones in Arkansas?

Yes, Arkansas has designated hunting zones with different regulations and bag limits.

What is the bag limit for deer hunting in Arkansas?

The bag limit for deer hunting in Arkansas is six deer per season, with a maximum of two bucks.

Are there any exceptions to using traps in Wildlife Management Areas?

Traps can only be used in Wildlife Management Areas during the open season.

Is baiting allowed for bear hunting on private lands in Arkansas?

Yes, baiting is allowed in zones specified for bear hunting on private lands. However, it is prohibited in public land areas.

How much is a hunting license in Arkansas?

A basic Arkansas annual hunting license for state residents costs $25. Additional fees apply for duck stamps, deer tags, and other permits. Non-resident hunting licenses cost $250 annually.

What hunting season is it in Arkansas?

Current Arkansas hunting seasons include deer archery, bear, squirrel, rabbit, quail, and duck. Major upcoming seasons are modern gun deer starting in November 2022 and duck season opening in November 2022.

Can a felon hunt with a crossbow in Arkansas?

No, it is generally illegal for convicted felons to possess or use any hunting weapons including crossbows in Arkansas. There is an exception for certain nonviolent felons to petition for restoration of firearm rights after a lengthy period, but hunting privileges can still be restricted.