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State Guide

Arkansas Hunting Guide

Complete Arkansas hunting guide. Arkansas hunting seasons, license costs, bag limits, and regulations for all major game species. Updated for the current season.

Wildlife Agency

Arkansas Game and Fish Commission

Official Site

Hunter safety course required for first-time buyers

Arkansas Hunting Seasons

Whitetail Deer

Res: $25 Non-res: $350
Season Type Opens Closes
Archery Sep 30 Feb 28
Muzzleloader Oct 14 Oct 22
Rifle Nov 11 Dec 3

Bag limits: daily: 2, season: 6 (3 antlered, varies by zone)

Chronic Wasting Disease management zones in effect. Three deer zones with different regulations. Arkansas produces quality bucks in the Ozarks.

Turkey

Res: $25 Non-res: $350
Season Type Opens Closes
Shotgun Apr 15 May 7
Archery Apr 15 May 7

Bag limits: daily: 1, season: 2 (spring)

Spring gobblers only. Youth weekend prior to regular opener. Strong Eastern turkey populations in the Ozarks and Ouachitas.

Elk

Res: $25 Non-res: $500
Season Type Opens Closes
Rifle Oct 1 Oct 8
Muzzleloader Sep 15 Sep 30

Bag limits: daily: 1, season: 1

Limited to the Buffalo River Elk Zone in Newton and surrounding counties. Drawing permit only. Growing herd managed with limited tags.

Bear

Res: $25 Non-res: $350
Season Type Opens Closes
Rifle Nov 1 Nov 30
Archery Sep 30 Nov 30

Bag limits: daily: 1, season: 1

Black bear in the Ozark and Ouachita mountains. Season may close early when quota met. Bear permit required.

Duck/Waterfowl

Res: $25 Non-res: $350
Season Type Opens Closes
Shotgun Nov 18 Jan 28

Bag limits: daily: 6, season: No season limit

Arkansas is a premier duck hunting destination, especially the Stuttgart area. Federal duck stamp required. Rich tradition of mallard hunting.

Wild Hog

Res: $25 Non-res: $350
Season Type Opens Closes
Rifle Jan 1 Dec 31

Bag limits: daily: No limit, season: No limit

Year-round with no bag limit on private land. Nuisance species. Night hunting allowed with landowner permission.

Planning Tools

Arkansas Hunting FAQ

Do I need a hunting license in Arkansas?
Yes. All hunters in Arkansas must hold a valid hunting license from the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. Non-residents typically pay higher fees. A hunter safety course is required for first-time license buyers.
What is the hunting license cost in Arkansas?
Arkansas license costs vary by species. Whitetail Deer: resident $25, non-resident $350. Turkey: resident $25, non-resident $350.
When is deer season in Arkansas?
Arkansas deer seasons: Archery: Sep 30 - Feb 28, Muzzleloader: Oct 14 - Oct 22, Rifle: Nov 11 - Dec 3.
Does Arkansas require a hunter safety course?
Yes, Arkansas requires hunter education certification for all first-time hunters. The course covers firearm safety, hunting laws, wildlife conservation, and ethical hunting practices.
Who manages hunting regulations in Arkansas?
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission manages all hunting licenses, regulations, and wildlife management in Arkansas. Their website (https://www.agfc.com) has current season dates, license purchasing, and regulation booklets.