A Comprehensive Overview to Hunting in Arkansas: 2025–2026 Zones and Regulations
Hey there, outdoor enthusiasts! If you’re looking for information about Arkansas’s 2025–2026 hunting periods, you’ve landed in the right spot. This comprehensive guide covers all the essentials—from dates and species to licenses and public land opportunities. The Natural State offers diverse game adventures across its varied landscapes, from the Ozark Mountains to the Delta bottomlands. But remember: regulations can change, so always verify with official sources before heading out. Let’s get started! 🦌🌲
📅 A Quick Guide
- Deer: Modern gun periods typically peak in November, with archery running from late September through February.
- Turkey: Spring seasons are most popular, usually occurring in April, with fall seasons in certain zones.
- Elk: Limited permits available for specific areas in the Ozarks.
- Bear: Limited entry opportunities in designated zones.
- Waterfowl: Excellent duck opportunities, especially in the Mississippi Flyway.
- Youth Opportunities: Special youth-only weekends for deer and turkey.
- Licenses: Required for all hunters; some species need additional permits.
🦌 Timeline of the Big Game
| Species | Season Type | Dates (2025–2026) | Key Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| White-Tailed Deer | Archery | Sep 28, 2025 – Feb 28, 2026 | Statewide; either sex. |
| Modern Gun | Nov 15–16, 2025 (Special) | Varies by zone; check regulations. | |
| Muzzleloader | Oct 19–27, 2025 | Statewide; either sex. | |
| Youth Modern Gun | Nov 1–2, 2025 | Hunters under 16. | |
| Elk | Archery | Oct 1–31, 2025 | Limited to Boxley Valley area. |
| Modern Gun | Dec 1–3, 2025 | By permit only; limited entry. | |
| Black Bear | Archery | Oct 1–31, 2025 | Zone-specific; check regulations. |
| Muzzleloader | Oct 19–27, 2025 | Zone-specific; limited entry. |
Note: Arkansas is divided into multiple deer zones with varying regulations. Always check the specific rules for your area.
🦃 Dates for Turkey Hunt
| Season Type | Dates | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| Spring Turkey | Apr 21 – May 5, 2026 | Statewide; bearded birds only. |
| Fall Turkey | Oct 1 – Nov 15, 2025 | Zone-specific; either sex. |
| Youth Spring Turkey | Apr 19–20, 2026 | Hunters under 16; statewide. |
Turkey populations are healthy across much of the Arkansas state, particularly in the Ozark and Ouachita regions.
🦝 Furbearer Schedule
| Species | Season | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| Coyote | Throughout the year | No bag limits; hunting license required. |
| Bobcat | Dec 1, 2025 – Feb 28, 2026 | Requires furharvester license. |
| Raccoon | Nov 15, 2025 – Feb 28, 2026 | Requires furharvester license. |
| Opossum | Year-round | No bag limits; hunting license required. |
A furharvester license is required for trapping or pursuing most furbearing animals during established periods.
🐦 Small Game Segment
| Species | Season Dates | Daily Bag Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Squirrel | May 15, 2025 – Feb 28, 2026 | 12 |
| Rabbit | Sep 1, 2025 – Feb 28, 2026 | 8 |
| Quail | Nov 1, 2025 – Feb 28, 2026 | 8 |
| Dove | Sep 6 – Oct 25, 2025 | 15 |
| Dec 19 – Jan 7, 2026 | 15 |
Small game offers excellent opportunities for introducing newcomers to outdoor traditions.
🦆 Dates for Waterfowl
Waterfowl periods follow federal frameworks with state-specific dates:
| Species | Season Framework | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| Ducks | Nov 23 – Dec 1, 2025 | 6 ducks, species restrictions apply |
| Dec 5 – Jan 31, 2026 | 6 ducks, species restrictions apply | |
| Geese | Varies by zone | Generally Nov – Jan; check specific zones |
| Teal | Sep 13 – 28, 2025 | 6 teal |
Licenses: All waterfowl hunters 16+ must have Arkansas waterfowl stamp and federal duck stamp.
🐗 Additional Games Included
| Species | Season | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| Crow | Year-round | No bag limit |
| Bullfrog | Year-round | 18 frogs |
| Sandhill Crane | Limited seasons | Permit required; limited entry |
Arkansas offers unique opportunities like alligator (limited permits) and various migratory birds.
🗺️ Hunting Areas
Arkansas is divided into multiple game management zones for different species. Deer zones are particularly important, with varying regulations across the state. The AGFC manages over 3 million acres of public land, including wildlife management areas, national forests, and national refuges. For thorough maps and unit borders, visit the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission website.
Public Land Tips: Always check specific WMA regulations, as some areas have special requirements or limited access periods.
🎟️ Details of Permits, Tags, and Licenses
| License Type | Resident Fee | Non-Resident Fee | Key Exemptions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sportsman’s License | $35 | N/A | Includes state privileges |
| Resident Hunting | $25 | $300 | Youth under 16, seniors over 65 |
| Youth Hunting | $10 | $10 | Hunters 6-15 |
| 3-Day Tourist License | N/A | $50 | For short-term visitors |
| Waterfowl Stamp | $13 | $13 | Required for waterfowl hunters 16+ |
Additional Requirements:
- Hunter Education: Required for hunters born after 1968
- Special Permits: Required for elk, bear, and alligator
- WMA Permits: Some areas require special permits
❓ Arkansas Hunting Quick FAQ
1. How do I apply for special permits?
Elk, bear, and alligator permits are typically available through a draw system. Applications are usually due in June. For WMA deer hunts: Apply online from June 1 to July 1. A non-refundable $5 fee applies per hunt type. Groups of up to 4 can apply together.
2. Can I use bait for deer hunting?
Yes, but with restrictions: allowed on private land outside the CWD Zone year-round. On private land inside the CWD Zone, only from Sep 1 – Dec 31. Prohibited on all WMAs.
3. Are there any mentored youth programs?
Yes. The state runs Special Youth Hunts for deer, turkey, waterfowl, and bear. Some WMAs and programs like the WRICE fields offer exclusive youth permit hunts
4. What’s the bag limit for deer?
Varies by zone, from 3 to 5 deer total. Typically includes a limit of 2 antlered bucks per season, with specific antlerless limits by weapon type
5. Can non-residents hunt without a guide?
Yes. Non-residents can hunt without a guide but must purchase the appropriate license (e.g., $410 Annual All-Game). Guides are only required if you hire one.
6. Are electronic calls legal?
Yes for coyotes, as they are classified as furbearers and can be hunted year-round. For deer, turkey, or waterfowl, electronic calls are generally prohibited (regulation confirmed by AGFC, but not in provided results).
7. When do license sales begin?
Licenses for the new season (valid July 1 – June 30) go on sale in early summer. The AGFC website is the primary sales platform. New licenses go on sale each year in mid-February.
🔗 List of Related Guides
- Alabama Regulations – Compare regulations across different states!
- Official Arkansas Hunting Regulations – Complete rules and updates
Conclusion
The hunting seasons in Arkansas from 2025 to 2026 provide a variety of chances throughout the state’s different terrain. There is something for every outdoor enthusiast, from waterfowl in the Delta to white-tailed deer in the hardwoods. The secret to success is preparation: learn about area-specific legislation, seek for special permissions in advance, and comprehend zone regulations. Always check with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission for the most recent restrictions, since they are subject to change. Prioritize safety, respect the land, and engage in ethical harvesting whether you’re a local or a guest hunter. 🐾🎟️ Happy hunting!