Arkansas Bow Hunting: Seasons, WMAs & Deer Tips
📅 2026 Season & License Info
Archery Season Open
September 27
Archery Season Close
February 28
Min Draw Weight
35 lbs
Resident License
$10.50/yr
Non-Resident License
$350/yr
Top Species
Whitetail Deer, Wild Turkey, Black Bear, Squirrel
📍 Top Public Hunting Spots
Ouachita National Forest
Whitetail Deer, Turkey, Bear
West AR timber country. The Caney Creek Wilderness is underutilized and holds big deer.
Ozark-St. Francis National Forest
Whitetail Deer, Turkey
Northern AR ridges and hollows. River bottom flats produce quality whitetails.
Dave Donaldson Black River WMA
Whitetail Deer, Turkey, Duck
Bottomland hardwoods in NE Arkansas. Excellent deer and waterfowl opportunity.
⚖️ Arkansas Archery Regulations
- •Minimum draw weight: 35 lbs
- •No Sunday hunting restrictions
- •Lighted nocks and rangefinders legal
- •Non-toxic broadheads not required
💡 Expert Tips for Arkansas
- →Arkansas's one of the most affordable hunting states for residents — $10.50 license is a bargain
- →October and November see classic rut activity throughout the Ozarks
- →Public land in NW Arkansas near Fayetteville is underutilized due to city proximity
- →Black bear bowhunting in Ouachita NF is one of Arkansas's hidden gems
🏛️ Official Wildlife Agency & Sources
Hunting seasons, tag quotas, and bag limits are established by state wildlife agencies and change annually. For official regulations, proclamations, and license purchases, consult:
Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC)
Official State Wildlife Agency
Status: 2026 Season Guide
Arkansas Bowhunting FAQ
Is there a Sunday hunting restriction in Arkansas?
No — Arkansas has no Sunday hunting restrictions. You can bowhunt deer and other legal game 7 days a week during open seasons. This gives Arkansas bowhunters a significant advantage over states with Sunday hunting bans.