Hunting in Arkansas

About Hunting in This State

Arkansas has earned a reputation as one of America's premier hunting destinations, offering exceptional opportunities for waterfowl, whitetail deer, turkey, wild hogs, and small game. From the legendary flooded timber of the Mississippi Flyway to the rugged Ozark and Ouachita Mountains, the Natural State provides diverse landscapes and unforgettable hunting experiences.

Every fall and winter, millions of migrating ducks and geese travel through Arkansas, making it one of the most sought-after waterfowl destinations in North America. Hunters from across the country flock to famous green timber holes, rice fields, and river systems in pursuit of mallards, pintails, gadwalls, teal, and other migratory birds.

Beyond waterfowl, Arkansas offers outstanding whitetail deer hunting on private farms, hardwood bottoms, and managed timberlands. Spring turkey season brings opportunities to hunt Eastern wild turkeys across rolling hills and mature forests, while abundant feral hog populations provide exciting year-round hunting adventures.

Whether you're planning a bucket-list duck hunt or introducing someone to Southern hunting traditions, Arkansas delivers exceptional guided hunting opportunities throughout the year.

Arkansas Tags & Licenses

Tags & Licenses

Hunters in Arkansas must possess the appropriate licenses and permits issued by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC). Requirements vary depending on residency, species, and hunting location.

Resident & Nonresident Licenses

• Annual hunting licenses are available for both residents and nonresidents.
• Short-term nonresident licenses are also available for many hunting opportunities.

Whitetail Deer

• Hunting license required.
• Deer tags and harvest reporting are required.
• Seasons include archery, muzzleloader, and modern firearm opportunities.

Turkey

• Hunting license required.
• Spring turkey permits and seasonal bag limits apply.

Wild Hogs

• Wild hog hunting is available year-round on many private lands with landowner permission.
• Regulations differ on Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs).

Waterfowl
Hunters pursuing ducks and geese must possess:

• Arkansas hunting license
• Federal Duck Stamp
• Arkansas Waterfowl Stamp
• HIP (Harvest Information Program) registration

Season dates, regulations, and bag limits change annually. Hunters should review current AGFC regulations before booking a hunt.

Species You Can Hunt in Arkansas

Whitetail Deer

Turkey

Hog

Bear