Arkansas Fishing Season and Limits for 2025–2026 by Month – Species, Licenses & Hotspots
With more than 600,000 acres of public lakes and many miles of fishable rivers, Arkansas, dubbed “The Natural State,” really lives up to its moniker. The 2025–2026 fishing season promises amazing diversity, from feisty bass in Ozark reservoirs to sleek trout in frigid tailwaters, whether you’re an experienced angler pursuing a trophy or a novice seeking a tranquil getaway.
The important catch dates, baggage restrictions, and licence information you need for a successful trip will all be included in this book. Let’s prepare you to experience the best freshwater fishing in Arkansas 🐟.
📅 2025-2026 Arkansas Fishing Calendar
The secret to success is to schedule your fishing excursions according to the seasons. This is a fast reference table for some of Arkansas’s most well-liked sport fish.
Arkansas Fishing Seasons & Limits at a Glance
| Species | Season Timing | Daily Bag Limit | Special Regulations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Largemouth Bass | Year-round | Varies by waterbody | 13″ minimum at Lake Chicot; slot limits on some waters |
| Smallmouth Bass | Year-round | Varies by waterbody | New slot limits (e.g., 15-20 inch protected zones) for 2025 |
| Trout | Year-round | Varies by zone | Trout Permit required; catch-and-release only in designated areas like the Little Red River |
| Crappie | Year-round | Varies by waterbody | Popular for spring jigging in lakes like Ouachita and Bull Shoals |
| Catfish | Year-round | Varies by waterbody | Excellent summer target in Mississippi River backwaters |
| Musky | Year-round | 1 fish | 36-inch minimum size limit; found in stocked waters like Lake Greeson |
| Hybrid Striped Bass | Year-round | 10 fish | No minimum size; prime fishing at Greers Ferry Lake |
🐟 Popular Sport Fish in Arkansas
From the powerful strike of a bass to the hard fight of a trout, Arkansas’ waters are teeming with opportunity.
Black Bass (Largemouth, Smallmouth, and Spotted)
Bass fishing is a year-round pursuit here, with tactics changing with the seasons.
- Season & Limits: Open all year, but size and creel limits are specific to each waterbody. For example, a 13-inch minimum is in effect for Largemouth Bass at Lake Chicot . Always check the AGFC regulations for the specific lake or river you’re fishing.
- Prime Locations:
- Bull Shoals Lake: A clear-water haven for trophy smallmouth and largemouth bass .
- Lake Dardanelle & the Arkansas River System: Known for explosive topwater action for largemouth and spotted bass .
Trout
Arkansas’ cold, tailwater rivers below dams offer world-class trout fishing.
- Season & Limits: Trout seasons are generally open year-round, but special catch-and-release rules apply in certain sections, like the Little Red River . A Trout Permit is mandatory for anyone fishing in designated trout waters or keeping trout anywhere in the state .
- Prime Locations: The White River and Little Red River are legendary tailwaters, while the Spring River offers a unique fishing experience .
Walleye, Catfish, and Crappie
These species provide fantastic fishing throughout the year.
- Walleye: A prized target in the spring, especially in lakes like Lake Ouachita and Bull Shoals .
- Catfish: Summer nights are perfect for targeting channel, blue, and flathead catfish in the Mississippi River backwaters and other major systems .
- Crappie (White & Black): A family favorite, especially during the spring spawn. Excellent populations exist in Bull Shoals and Lake Ouachita .
Musky
The “fish of ten thousand casts” can be found in select Arkansas waters.
- Season & Limits: Fishing for musky is open year-round. The state enforces a 36-inch minimum size limit and a daily creel limit of 1 fish .
- Prime Locations: Lake Greeson is a key destination, as the AGFC actively stocks musky there .
🦞 Specialty Species & Panfish
Striped Bass and Hybrids
- These hard-fighting fish are a major draw at Greers Ferry Lake, which receives extensive stocking support from the AGFC . The daily limit for hybrid striped bass is 10 fish with no minimum size .
Panfish: The Everyday Catch
Bluegill, sunfish, and perch are abundant, making them perfect for introducing newcomers to angling. While generally open year-round with generous bag limits, always have the current regulations on hand.
🌍 Public vs. Private Waters
Arkansas offers a fantastic mix of public access and exclusive private experiences.
- Public Lakes and Rivers: The state’s vast network of public waters, including reservoirs like Bull Shoals and rivers like the White, is available for everyone to enjoy .
- Private Waters Program: For a more secluded experience, the AGFC’s Public Access to Private Waters program opens up exclusive fishing spots on private land. Anglers can apply online for a weekend permit for a small fee, granting access to less-pressured waters .
🎟️ Your Arkansas Fishing License Guide
Before you cast a line, make sure you’re legal. Here’s the breakdown for the 2025-2026 season.
Arkansas Fishing License Options & Fees
| License Type | Resident Cost | Non-Resident Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fishing License | $12.50 | $50.00 |
| 3-Day Trip License | N/A | $20.00 |
| Trout Permit | $10.00 | $20.00 |
| Disability Fishing License | $2.50 | N/A |
| Senior Lifetime License (65+) | $6.50 | N/A |
Who needs a license?
Anyone aged 16 or older must carry a valid Arkansas fishing license to fish in public waters . Free Fishing Days are June 7-8, 2025, when no license is required for anyone .
How to Buy:
You can purchase your license instantly online via the AGFC Licensing Portal, by phone at 833-345-0325, or in-person at authorized vendors like Walmart and tackle shops .
🗺️ Map & Hotspots
To see these destinations come to life, check out the AGFC’s free Interactive Lake Maps on their official website. They are an invaluable tool for scouting boat ramps and underwater structures .
Top 5 Must-Visit Spots for 2025-2026:
- Bull Shoals Lake: A premier trophy bass lake with new slot limits and enhanced fish habitat .
- Greers Ferry Lake: The top destination for hybrid striped bass, with an aggressive stocking program .
- Lake Dardanelle: A massive reservoir on the Arkansas River known for its explosive topwater bass action and accessible fishing piers .
- White River: World-renowned for its trophy trout fishing below Bull Shoals Dam .
- Lake Ouachita: A pristine, clear-water lake that is a focus for trophy bass and walleye .
For more great fishing ideas across the country, explore our guide to the Michigan fishing season.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Do kids need a license to fish?
No. In Arkansas, anyone under the age of 16 is not required to have a fishing license .
Can I use live bait?
Yes, live bait is permitted in most state waters. However, there are exceptions. Some designated trout waters and special-regulation areas may allow only artificial lures or flies. Always check the specific regulations for your chosen fishing spot .
Are there any catch-and-release only waters?
Yes. Arkansas designates certain areas as catch-and-release only to protect fish populations. For example, sections of the Little Red River are catch-and-release year-round . The AGFC fishing guidebook or website has a complete list.
Is night fishing allowed?
Night fishing is permitted in many Arkansas waters, such as Greers Ferry Lake, but it is often prohibited in designated no-wake zones or specific areas marked by buoys . Always verify local rules before planning a night trip.
How do I report a poacher or illegal activity?
You can help protect Arkansas’s wildlife by reporting poaching and other violations to the AGFC’s Stop Poaching Hotline at 1-800-482-9262 .
✅ Wrap-Up
The 2025–2026 fishing season in Arkansas offers plenty of opportunities for all types of fishermen. The Ozarks’ glistening lakes and cascading tailwaters are waiting. To make some fishing experiences that will last a lifetime, buy your licence, check the official AGFC website for the most recent bag restrictions, and then go fishing. Tight lines! 🎣