The crisp air of an Arkansas morning, the rustle of leaves, and the anticipation of a successful hunt are experiences cherished by many hunters. But before stepping into the Natural State’s rich wilderness, understanding Arkansas hunting laws is vital. These regulations ensure ethical practices, conservation, and a safe and prosperous environment for both hunters and wildlife. 

Arkansas Hunting Laws: Licensing Requirements 

In Arkansas, a valid hunting license is the first step toward legal hunting. There are various types of licenses based on species, residency, and hunting methods, but they can broadly fit into three categories: 

• Resident Hunting License: Available for Arkansas residents. Additional permits may be required for specific species or hunting methods. 

• Non-Resident Hunting License: Designed for out-of-state hunters, with different pricing structures. 

• Special Permits: Additional permits for deer, turkey, bear, and migratory birds. Certain hunts may also require lottery-drawn permits. 

Youth Hunters: Hunters under 16 can hunt without a license but must be supervised by an adult with a valid license. 

Check out the full list of specific licenses available, how much they cost, and what kind of game they offer here. 

Arkansas Hunting Laws: Hunting Seasons and Bag Limits 

Arkansas provides a diverse hunting calendar. Each species has its own regulated season and bag limit: 

• Deer Season: Divided into archery, muzzleloader, and modern gun seasons, along with different zones, each with different dates and limits. Hunters must report their harvest within 24 hours. 

• Turkey Season: Typically, in spring, with a fall season in certain zones. The bag limit is two turkeys per season. 

• Small Game: Includes squirrel, rabbit, and quail. Seasons are generally long, but daily and possession limits apply. 

• Waterfowl: Arkansas is famous for duck hunting. Special regulations govern bag limits and species-specific rules. 

• Seasons: Hunting seasons vary based on species and zone, and you can find all of the season dates here. 

Always consult the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) website for the most current season dates and quotas. 

Firearms and Methods Regulations 

Arkansas has specific rules about the type of firearms and hunting methods: 

• Archery: Crossbows and compound bows are allowed, but require a 125-pound pull and 35-pound pull respectively. Find all the details here. 

• Firearms: Regulations vary depending on the species. For example, shotguns are required for waterfowl, while centerfire rifles are permitted for deer. 

• Muzzleloaders: Must be .40 caliber or larger for deer. Specific dates apply to muzzleloader season. 

• Blaze Orange: During firearm deer season, hunters must wear at least 400 square inches of blaze orange, including a hat. 

Prohibited Methods: Baiting wildlife (except for certain species and areas), using artificial lights to spot game, and hunting from public roads or vehicles are strictly forbidden. Consult the AGFC Handbook for all the details on rules and regulations 

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Private and Public Land Regulations 

• Private Land: Always obtain written permission from the landowner. Regulations may differ slightly, so verify before hunting. It is unlawful to hunt within 150 yards of a residence or human-occupancy building. 

• Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs): These public lands have their own set of rules, often more restrictive. Permits and special seasons may apply. 

Note: Hunters must respect property boundaries and use GPS tools or maps to ensure they stay within legal hunting areas. 

Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) and Other Concerns 

Arkansas monitors Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in deer populations. Special rules apply in CWD Management Zones: 

• Mandatory Testing: If you harvest a deer in these zones, testing and reporting are required. 

• Transportation Restrictions: Carcasses must be deboned before leaving the zone to prevent the spread of the disease. 

Reporting and Compliance 

All harvested game must be tagged and reported through the AGFC’s online or phone system. Failure to report can result in fines or loss of hunting privileges. 

Arkansas Hunting Laws: Final Thoughts 

Arkansas offers abundant hunting opportunities, but adherence to regulations ensures sustainability and respect for the sport. Understanding the state’s laws, from licensing to reporting, guarantees that every hunt is not only legal but also contributes to conservation efforts. Before heading out, review the most current regulations, and remember: in the field, knowledge is your best companion. 

Read more about Arkansas hunting laws and other states’ regulations on iSportsmanUSA.