How to Hunt in Arkansas

Hunting in Arkansas is governed by the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission. The state has a long tradition of duck hunting, but it also provides enthusiasts with many opportunities to hunt other types of game, such as black bears, wild turkeys, elk and deer.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Arkansas hunting license
• Driver's license, Social Security number or a valid U.S. visa or foreign passport
• Hunter education training
• Ammunition
• Hunting rifle(s)

Buy an Arkansas Hunting License

1. Use your Arkansas driver's license, Social Security number, your United States visa number or your passport number to apply for a general hunting license. Applications are available from the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission.
2. Remember that you will need to apply separately for a special permit to hunt deer, elk, waterfowl, alligators or wild turkeys.
3. Keep in mind that hunting and fishing licenses are exclusive in the state of Arkansas. A fishing license does not permit you to hunt, and vice-versa. Apply for each type of license separately.

Hunt in Arkansas

4. Learn the regulations governing hunting seasons and other specifications for the type of game you want to hunt. Separate regulations for deer, turkey, elk, hogs, small game, alligators, ducks, fur-bearing animals and bears are on the books in Arkansas. Due your due diligence, as you may not be very successful at trying to plead ignorance after the fact.
5. Sign up for a hunting safety or hunter-education course. Learn to fire a rifle correctly, in a shooting range with proper instruction, if you're new to hunting. The Arkansas Game & Fish Commission has links to education resources (see Resources below).
6. Participate in a good, old-fashioned Arkansas duck or fowl hunt. Everything you need to know to take part in this venerable Arkansas tradition is available on the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission's "Ducks and Migratory Birds" pages.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure before you shoot. Every year, thousands of people across the United States are injured or killed in hunting accidents. Protect yourself by wearing bright clothing that easily differentiates you from your natural surroundings.
• Don't hunt illegally. Preying on game that's out of season or protected by preservation laws is likely to land you a very stiff fine, and your hunting license may be revoked.