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Hunting in Arkansas
Arkansas Hunting at Glance
Arkansas’ unique topography and wide open spaces make it one of the best states in the country for both deer and waterfowl hunting. In fact the deer population is thought to be over 1 million heads! Even with as many as 200,000 deer are killed each year by resident and non-resident hunters, the quantity and quality of local deer is carefully maintained by wildlife management practices that helps to ensure only mature deer are killed.
The abundance of water in Arkansas makes it an obvious place for incredible waterfowl hunting. The state is not only home to the world’s largest concentration of ducks, but also serves as a chokepoint due on to the historical high counts and greatest densities of ducks. Ducks and geese thrive in rice fields, bayous, marshes, and flooded forests since they provide excellent hiding places as well as food.
Arkansas ranks #11 in the nation for hunting license per capita and has a strong hunting culture with over 11.4% of the population classified as registered hunters.
Key Insights
- Arkansas is a good state for hunting deer and waterfowl.
- The deer population in Arkansas is over 1 million heads, and 200,000 deer are killed each year by hunters.
- Arkansas has a high concentration of ducks and serves as a chokepoint for ducks on the flyway.
- Big game hunting in Arkansas includes white-tailed deer, mule deer, elk, moose, and black bear.
- Good areas to hunt in Arkansas include public land, hunting clubs, and private land with permission.
Table of Contents
Hunters (Based on Hunting Licenses)
| Population: | 3,011,524 |
|---|---|
| Hunters | 343,313 |
| Hunter % | 11.4% |
| Hunters Rank | 11 |
Land Types (Acres)
| Acres | % | Rank | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total | 33,328,000 | ||
| Huntable Public | 3,232,000 | 9.7% | 21 |
| Private Land | 29,378,100 | 88.15% | 27 |
| Tribal Land | 0 | 0 | no tribal land |
Arkansas ranks #27 for the percentage of private land vs total acres and doesn’t have any tribal land.
Arkansas Hunting Seasons & Requirements
For the most accurate information on Arkansas Hunting Seasons, along with the state’s requirements for tag and bag limits, it’s a good idea to check with the Arkansas DNR. We’ve provided their contact information below, along with links to helpful resources, including licensing.
Arkansas DNR
2 Natural Resources Dr.
Little Rock, AR 72205
- (800) 364-4263
Popular Game to Hunt in Arkansas
Arkansas has great hunting opportunities for big game (deer and elk), waterfowl and small game. The state is known for having a strong deer population, with good antler quality, and is also a major bottleneck on the Mississippi flyway, making it a top destination for waterfowl hunters.
Small Game Hunting in Arkansas
There are a variety of small game animals that can be hunted in Arkansas. As mentioned, the state is well known for waterfowl hunting, especially ducks and geese. Small animals such as squirrels, rabbits, and quail are also popular game to hunt. Upland birds can be found, but often through preserves and hunting clubs. Wing It is working to open up more hunting land of these types to enable greater hunting access on private land.
Big Game Hunting in Arkansas
Big game hunting is a popular pastime in Arkansas, with white-tailed deer, mule deer, elk, moose, and black bear being the most sought-after prey. Hunting these animals requires skill, patience, and knowledge of their habits. White-tailed deer are the most common big game animal in Arkansas, and they can be found in wooded areas throughout the state. Mule deer are slightly less common, but they can be found in both wooded and open areas. Elk are the largest of the big game animals, and they are typically found in forested areas at elevations above 3,000 feet. Moose are the largest member of the deer family, and they can weigh up to 1,600 pounds. They are found in northern Arkansas near bodies of water such as lakes and streams. Black bears are also found in northern Arkansas, and they typically weigh between 200 and 600 pounds.
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Where are the Best Areas to Hunt in Arkansas
Arkansas offers great hunting opportunities across the state, both on public and private land. We’ve included some of the best areas for public hunting below and as we have access we’ll be adding more private land too.
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We’re working with landowners all across Arkansas to provide private land access for more activities. Add your information below to stay up to date.
Popular Public Hunting Land in Arkansas
When it comes to hunting public land in Arkansas, there are a few hot spots that stand out above the rest. The Ouachita National Forest is the largest forest in the state, spanning over 1.8 million acres. This diverse forest is home to whitetail deer, elk, black bear, and wild turkey, making it a popular destination for hunters of all kinds. The Buffalo National River is another top spot for hunting in Arkansas. This beautiful river runs through 135 miles of scenic wilderness, providing ample opportunity to spot deer, turkey, and other game. The Ozark-St. Francis National Forest is another large forest that spans over 1.2 million acres. This diverse forest is home to a variety of wildlife, making it a popular spot for both hunting and hiking. Finally, the White River National Wildlife Refuge is a popular spot for duck hunting. Spanning over 150,000 acres, this refuge is teeming with waterfowl and other wildlife.
1. Ouachita National Forest
2. Buffalo National River
3. Ozark-St. Francis National Forest
4. White River National Wildlife Refuge
5. Mark Twain National Forest
Hunting Private Land in Arkansas
Since the majority of Arkansas is private land getting access for hunting can be very appealing. When you hunt private land, it’s not only less crowded, the animals also tend to be less skittish and this means you’ll have a better day out in the field. Traditionally, accessing private land for hunting has been complicated and expensive. You either needed to join a club, hire a guide, or start knocking on doors.
Fortunately Wing It is simplifying this for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts of all types. We’re adding new land every day and if we have some in your area, you’ll see some options great below.