Bow hunting season in Arkansas offers an extended opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts to pursue deer and other game. The 2024-2025 archery season runs from September 28, 2024 to February 28, 2025, providing hunters with five full months to enjoy their sport. This lengthy season allows both novice and experienced hunters ample time to develop their skills and increase their chances of a successful harvest.
Arkansas’s diverse landscapes provide ideal habitats for white-tailed deer, making it a prime destination for bow hunters. From the Ozark Mountains to the Mississippi Delta, hunters can experience varied terrain and hunting conditions. The thrill of the hunt is heightened by the challenge of getting within close range of deer, a skill that bow hunting demands.
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission sets regulations to ensure sustainable wildlife populations and fair chase practices. Hunters should familiarize themselves with zone-specific dates, bag limits, and any special regulations before heading into the field. With proper preparation and respect for the rules, bow hunters can safely enjoy the natural beauty of Arkansas while pursuing their passion.
Overview of Arkansas Hunting Seasons
Arkansas offers diverse hunting opportunities throughout the year. The state’s seasons are structured to balance conservation efforts with hunter access across various game species and habitats.
General Season Structure
Arkansas divides its hunting calendar into distinct periods for different game. Deer seasons typically run from September through February, with specific dates for archery, muzzleloader, and modern gun hunts.
Small game seasons often start in early fall and extend into winter or spring. For example, squirrel season begins in May and runs through February.
Migratory bird hunting follows federal guidelines, with waterfowl seasons generally occurring from November to January. Turkey hunting is limited to spring, usually in April and May.
Bear seasons vary by zone, with archery starting in September and rifle hunts in November and December.
Bow Hunting Opportunities
Archery season for deer in Arkansas is extensive, typically running from late September through February. This long season gives bow hunters ample time to pursue their quarry.
During the 2024-25 season, archery deer hunting opens on September 28 and continues until February 28, 2025. This nearly five-month window allows hunters to experience various weather conditions and deer behaviors.
Bow hunters can also participate in an early buck archery hunt, scheduled for September 7-9, 2024. This brief period offers a unique opportunity to target bucks before the main season begins.
Wildlife Management Areas Explained
Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) in Arkansas provide public land access for hunters. These areas often have specific regulations that may differ from statewide rules.
Some WMAs close during certain hunting seasons or require special permits. Hunters should check area-specific guidelines before planning their trips.
WMAs offer diverse habitats, from bottomland hardwoods to upland forests, supporting a wide range of game species. Many areas provide managed hunts to control harvest and maintain healthy wildlife populations.
Hunters can find detailed information on each WMA through the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, including maps, regulations, and available game species.
Regulations and Licensing
Arkansas bow hunters must follow specific regulations and obtain proper licensing before participating in the hunting season. The state provides clear guidelines to ensure responsible and legal hunting practices.
Obtaining a Hunting License
All bow hunters in Arkansas need a valid hunting license. Residents can purchase an Annual All Game Hunting License, which covers deer and small game. Nonresidents have options like the Nonresident Annual All Game Hunting License.
Licenses are available online through the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) website, at authorized retailers, or via the AGFC mobile app. Hunters must carry their license while in the field.
The AGFC offers various license types to accommodate different needs and durations. Prices vary based on residency status and license type.
Bow Hunting Regulations
Arkansas enforces specific regulations for bow hunters. Legal archery equipment includes longbows, recurve bows, and compound bows. Crossbows are permitted during modern gun and muzzleloader seasons.
Hunters must follow bag limits and seasons set by the AGFC. These limits vary by zone and may change annually. It’s crucial to check current regulations before hunting.
Bow hunters are required to wear hunter orange during modern gun deer seasons. Baiting regulations differ by zone and property type. Tree stands must be labeled with the hunter’s name and address or customer ID number.
Use of the AGFC Mobile App
The AGFC mobile app is a valuable tool for bow hunters. It provides quick access to hunting regulations, season dates, and bag limits. Users can purchase licenses directly through the app.
The app features an offline mode, allowing hunters to access important information even without cell service. It includes a game check system for reporting harvests, which is mandatory in Arkansas.
Hunters can use the app to locate public hunting areas and view interactive maps. The AGFC regularly updates the app with current wildlife management area regulations and any emergency closures.
Species-Specific Seasons and Rules
Arkansas offers diverse hunting opportunities with distinct seasons and regulations for various game species. Hunters must familiarize themselves with the specific rules for each target animal to ensure compliance and maximize their chances of success.
Deer Hunting with Bows
Archery deer season in Arkansas typically runs from October 1 to February 28. Hunters can pursue both antlered and antlerless deer during this extended period. The bag limit is 6 deer per season, with no more than 2 bucks.
Key regulations:
- Minimum draw weight: 35 pounds
- Broadhead width: At least 7/8 inch
- Crossbows allowed during entire archery season
Hunters must wear hunter orange during muzzleloader and modern gun seasons, even when bow hunting. All harvested deer must be checked within 24 hours.
Bear Hunting Specifics
Bear archery season aligns with deer archery dates in most zones. Zone 1 has a quota system, with the 2024-2025 season allowing 450 bears to be harvested. Hunters must obtain a quota permit before hunting.
Bear hunting regulations:
- Baiting allowed on private land only
- No dogs permitted for bear hunting
- Harvest limit: One bear per season
Hunters must use broadheads at least 7/8 inch wide and bows with a minimum 40-pound draw weight. Successful hunters must immediately tag the bear and check it within 24 hours.
Turkey Hunting Season
Spring turkey archery season typically runs for about two weeks in April. Hunters can take two bearded turkeys per season. Fall archery turkey hunting is allowed during the regular archery deer season.
Turkey hunting rules:
- No baiting allowed
- Decoys and calls permitted
- Hunting hours: 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset
Archers must use broadheads at least 7/8 inch wide. All turkeys harvested must be checked within 24 hours.
Small Game and Urban Hunts
Arkansas offers year-round archery hunting for some small game species, including rabbits and squirrels. Urban deer hunts provide additional opportunities in participating cities.
Small game and urban hunt details:
- No bag limit for rabbits and squirrels
- Urban hunts require special permits
- Specific dates vary by city for urban hunts
Hunters participating in urban hunts must complete an additional proficiency test and safety course. These hunts help manage deer populations in urban areas while providing unique hunting experiences.
Special Hunts and Conservation Orders
Arkansas offers unique hunting opportunities for youth and veterans, as well as conservation efforts for light geese. These special seasons aim to engage new hunters and manage wildlife populations effectively.
Youth Hunts and Education
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission organizes special youth waterfowl hunts to introduce young hunters to the sport. These hunts are scheduled for February 8-9, 2025. Youth hunters can participate in a controlled environment with experienced mentors. The hunts provide valuable hands-on experience and safety education.
A special youth modern gun deer hunt is also available. It takes place on November 2-3, 2024, and January 4-5, 2025. This hunt is open statewide, except for Wildlife Management Areas that are closed during the modern gun deer season.
Light Goose Conservation Order
The Light Goose Conservation Order targets snow, blue, and Ross’s geese. It runs from February 1-7, 2025. This special season helps manage overabundant light goose populations that can damage their Arctic breeding grounds.
During this period, hunters can use electronic calls and unplugged shotguns. There are no daily bag or possession limits. The extended hunting opportunity aids in population control while providing additional recreation for hunters.
A special hunt for active duty military and veterans is scheduled for February 9, 2025. This event recognizes their service and encourages their participation in conservation efforts.
Hunting on Private Lands
Private lands offer unique opportunities for bow hunters in Arkansas. These areas often have less hunting pressure and can provide access to prime deer habitat.
Access and Permissions
Hunters must obtain permission from landowners before hunting on private property. This can be done through written or verbal agreements. It’s crucial to respect property boundaries and follow any specific rules set by the landowner.
Some landowners may require hunters to sign liability waivers. Others might limit the number of hunters or restrict certain hunting methods. Building positive relationships with landowners can lead to long-term hunting access.
Arkansas law protects landowners from liability for injuries that occur on their property during recreational activities like hunting. This protection encourages landowners to allow hunters on their land.
Muzzleloader Season Overlaps
Muzzleloader season in Arkansas overlaps with parts of the archery season on private lands. This creates additional hunting opportunities for bow hunters.
The Alternative Firearms (formerly Muzzleloader) season runs from October 19-27 and December 14-16, 2024. During these periods, bow hunters can still pursue deer on private lands alongside muzzleloader hunters.
This overlap allows for flexible hunting strategies. Bow hunters can take advantage of deer movement patterns that may change due to increased hunting pressure from muzzleloader activity.
Safety becomes paramount during overlapping seasons. Hunters should wear appropriate blaze orange clothing when required and be aware of other hunters in the area.
Bow Hunting Practices
Successful bow hunting in Arkansas requires skill, knowledge, and preparation. Mastering proper bow techniques and understanding deer behavior patterns are essential for ethical and effective hunts.
Effective Use of Bows
Bow hunters in Arkansas must meet specific equipment requirements. Compound bows need a minimum draw weight of 40 pounds, while recurves and longbows require 35 pounds. Broadheads should measure at least 7/8 inch wide.
Practice is crucial for accuracy. Hunters should spend time at the range honing their shooting skills before the season. Proper form includes a consistent anchor point, smooth release, and follow-through.
Tree stand placement is critical. Hunters should consider wind direction and natural deer movement patterns when choosing locations. Shooting lanes must be cleared for clean shots.
Understanding Food Sources
Identifying key food sources is vital for locating deer. In early season, hunters should focus on agricultural fields and natural browse. As winter approaches, deer shift to acorns, persimmons, and other hard mast.
Food plots can be highly effective. Common choices include clover, brassicas, and winter wheat. These attract deer and provide nutritional benefits.
Late season hunting often centers around food sources. As natural forage becomes scarce, deer concentrate on remaining food plots and agricultural fields. Box blinds overlooking these areas can be particularly productive in December and January.
Scouting is essential. Hunters should look for signs like tracks, droppings, and rubs near food sources to pinpoint deer activity and plan their hunts accordingly.
Advanced Tips for Bowhunters
Experienced hunters know that late-season bowhunting in Arkansas presents unique challenges and opportunities. With foliage thinning out, concealment becomes crucial. Seek trees with natural cover or opt for box blinds near food plots.
Food sources are key during this period. Deer often frequent food plots heavily from December through early January. Scout for active food sources and set up nearby for increased chances of success.
Scent control is even more critical in the late season. Use scent-eliminating sprays and wash hunting clothes in unscented detergent. Consider wearing a carbon suit for added odor absorption.
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission allows bowhunting until February 28th. This extended season gives hunters ample time to pursue their quarry. Stay updated on regulations and bag limits through the commission’s website or mobile app.
Practice shooting from various angles and distances to prepare for real-world scenarios. Cold weather can affect bow performance, so adjust your equipment accordingly.
Consider using trail cameras to monitor deer movement patterns. This data can help pinpoint the best times and locations for your hunt.
Remember to dress in layers for the colder temperatures. Proper clothing ensures comfort during long hours in the stand, improving focus and patience.