December 1, 2024

Arkansas bear hunting.

Arkansas, a state in the southern United States, provides a one-of-a-kind and exhilarating experience for hunters: 

Arkansas, known for its rich wildlife and gorgeous settings, offers hunters the chance to chase one of North America’s most majestic and tough game species like Elks and the American black bear. Arkansas is also know for its Turkey Hunting.

Bear hunting in Arkansas mixes the thrill of the hunt with the beauty of the natural surroundings, making it a popular activity for both locals and visitors. Bear hunting in Arkansas is one of the best outdoor adventures for enthusiasts.

Arkansas bear hunting promises an amazing experience in the heart of the Natural State, whether you’re an experienced hunter searching for a new challenge or a nature enthusiast wishing to immerse yourself in the woods. Bear skulls are common in Arkansas due to the high population. Read More on How to prepare a bear skull taxidermy.

Arkansas bear hunting locations

Arkansas has numerous outstanding bear hunting spots that draw outdoor enthusiasts from all around the country. Here are some significant bear hunting areas in the state:

Ozark National Forest:

The vast Ozark National Forest offers fantastic bear hunting possibilities. Its rocky terrain, deep woods, and plentiful food supplies make it a popular destination for bears. Richland Creek Wilderness and Hurricane Creek Wilderness provide hard hunting opportunities.

Ouachita National Forest: 

The Ouachita National Forest, which runs throughout western Arkansas, is another popular hunting area. Its various landscapes of mountains, valleys, and lush forest create an ideal home for black bear populations.

Bearcat Hollow Wildlife Management Area: 

Bearcat Hollow, located in the northern section of the state, is well-known for its bear hunting opportunities. It has thousands of acres of mixed hardwood woods and is managed to improve animal habitat, making it an ideal place for bear hunting.

Buffalo National River:

The Buffalo National River region provides a one-of-a-kind blend of scenic vistas and bear-hunting prospects. This region, with its river basins, bluffs, and forested slopes, offers a hard and rewarding bear hunting experience.

Wildlife Management Area White Rock:

White Rock WMA, located in the center of the Ozarks, is recognized for its rich animal population, which includes black bears. Its undulating hills, lush forests, and wide fields make it a popular destination for bear hunters.

It is critical to acquaint oneself with unique restrictions, seasons, and licenses while organizing a bear hunting trip in Arkansas.

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission or local hunting guides can give the most up-to-date bear hunting places and guidelines.

Arkansas Black Bear Hunting Seasons Arkansas.

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) regulates the bear hunting season in Arkansas. Specific dates and restrictions may change from year to year, so check the AGFC website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information. However, here is a broad overview of Arkansas bear hunting seasons:

Archery Season:

Arkansas normally has an archery-only bear hunting season that begins in mid-September and ends in late November. During this season, hunters may chase bears with archery equipment such as compound bows or crossbows.

Firearms Season:

In Arkansas, the firearms season for bear hunting usually follows the archery season. It often begins in late November or early December and lasts for only a few days or weeks. During this season, hunters may utilize firearms such as rifles or shotguns.

Bear hunting seasons may be subject to particular zones, bag limitations, and extra rules imposed by the AGFC.

Before organizing a bear hunting trip in Arkansas, it is critical to properly research the official hunting regulations and check with the AGFC or local wildlife officials to verify compliance with all applicable laws and requirements.

Black Bear Hunting Permit Arkansas.

To receive a bear hunting permit in Arkansas, you must complete particular processes and adhere to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s (AGFC) rules. The following is a general guide to obtaining a bear hunting permit in Arkansas:

Check Eligibility:

Check to see whether you fit the requirements for an Arkansas bear hunting permit. This usually entails possessing a valid AGFC hunting license.

Review Regulations:

Familiarize oneself with the AGFC’s specialized bear hunting laws and standards. Season dates, bag limits, hunting zones, and any other limitations or circumstances that may apply are all part of the rules.

Apply for the Permit: 

To get the requisite bear hunting permit application, go to the AGFC’s official website or visit their offices. The application process may differ significantly from year to year, therefore obtaining the most recent application form is critical.

Submit the Application:

Fill out the bear hunting permit application completely and submit all necessary details. Personal information, hunting license information, and any other particular information required by the AGFC may be included.

Black bear hunting permit and license cost.

Bear hunting in Arkansas requires the purchase of a general hunting license, which costs $25 for locals and $300 for non-residents.

In addition to a hunting license, Arkansas requires hunters to acquire a bear permit, which costs an extra $20 for locals and $150 for non-residents.

These costs are subject to change, so I recommend contacting the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission or visiting their official website for the most up-to-date and accurate information on bear hunting tags and permits in Arkansas.

Pay the Fees: 

Pay the applicable payments for the bear hunting permit application. Fees vary based on residence status (resident or non-resident) and the kind of permit requested (archery or weapons).

Await Approval:

You must wait for the AGFC to process and authorize your bear hunting permit after submitting your application and payment. This may take some time, so make sure you submit your application well ahead of the hunting season.

Obtain and Carry the Permit:

You will receive the permission papers once your bear hunting permit has been authorized. Carry the permit with you at all times when hunting and have it conveniently available for wildlife officials to check.

It is critical to keep in mind that the bear hunting permit application procedure may have certain dates and conditions that you must follow. For the most up-to-date and extensive information about bear hunting licenses in Arkansas, visit the AGFC website or call their offices directly.

The Art of Bear Skull Taxidermy. Crafting Elegance from Nature:

How To Hunt Black Bears In Arkansas Full Guide.

Black bear hunting in Arkansas may be an exciting and rewarding experience. Here’s a thorough guide on how to hunt black bears in Arkansas to help you get started:

Obtain the necessary licenses and permits:

Hunting License:

Make sure you have a current Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) hunting license.
The sort of license necessary is determined on whether you are an Arkansas resident or a non-resident.

Bear Hunting Permit:

Make a special request for a bear hunting permit. For the most up-to-date information on permit availability, application procedure, costs, and deadlines, visit the AGFC website or call their offices.

Understand Bear Hunting Regulations:

Examine the AGFC’s bear hunting restrictions. Familiarize yourself with individual bear hunting seasons, bag restrictions, legal methods, and any other laws.

Understand any zone-specific laws or limits. Research the individual hunting zones in Arkansas where bear hunting is legal.

Locate and Scout Bear Habitats:

Do research and locate bear habitats. Consult with local wildlife specialists and experienced hunters for advice, or engage a professional hunting guide.

To locate possible hunting sites, look for indicators of bear activity such as footprints, scat, claw marks on trees, or bear sightings.

Plan and Prepare for the Hunt:

  • Make sure you have the proper hunting equipment, such as a decent rifle or archery equipment, ammunition/arrows, camouflage apparel, binoculars, and other important items.
  • To guarantee competence, practice shooting accuracy with your selected weapon.
  • If you’re going on a long hunting trip, be sure you have all of the appropriate camping and outdoor gear.
  • Prepare by researching the geography, weather conditions, and terrain of your hunting location.

Practice Ethical and Safe Hunting:

  • Follow all safety precautions and make sure you understand weapon safety and hunting ethics.
  • Respect the natural environment, abide by hunting rules, and hunt ethically.
  • When approaching or following bears, keep a safe distance and use care.

Field Dressing and Processing:

  • Familiarize yourself with proper field dressing techniques to ensure the safe and effective handling of harvested bears.
  • Process the meat promptly to preserve its quality and minimize waste. Consider seeking assistance from professional meat processors if needed.

Black Bear Hunt Reporting Tag In Arkansas

Arkansas bear hunting

Black bear hunters in Arkansas are obliged to record their catch using a bear hunt reporting tag. Here’s all you need to know about the Arkansas black bear hunt reporting tag:

Harvest Reporting Requirement:

It is obligatory to report a black bear harvest in Arkansas to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC). This reporting requirement assists the AGFC in gathering important data for bear population management and conservation activities.

Bear Hunt Reporting Tag: 

When you acquire a bear hunting permit, you will also receive a bear hunt reporting tag. The reporting tag is a detachable piece of the permit that contains information that must be filled out for reporting reasons.

Completing the Reporting Tag: 

You must immediately complete the reporting tag after capturing a black bear. Details such as the date and time of harvest, hunting zone, bear sex, and other pertinent information are often needed on the reporting tag.

Reporting Methods:

In Arkansas, there are many techniques for reporting bear harvests:

Online Reporting: 

On their website, the AGFC offers an online reporting mechanism. You can use your bear hunt reporting tag to visit the reporting site and provide the necessary information.

Telephone Reporting:

Alternatively, you can report your bear harvest by phoning the AGFC’s approved phone number. To finish the reporting procedure, follow the steps provided over the phone.

Reporting Deadline:

The AGFC usually establishes a deadline for reporting bear harvests. To comply with the requirements, you must record your harvest within the timeframe specified. Failure to submit a report by the deadline may result in penalties or fines.

Retaining the Reporting Tag: 

After reporting your bear harvest, the AGFC may direct you on whether to keep or discard the reporting tag. Adhere to their instructions.

It is critical to remain up to date on the current AGFC legislation and reporting obligations.

FAQs About Black bear hunting Arkansas.

Q. When is the Arkansas bear hunting season?

A: The bear hunting season in Arkansas normally begins in mid-September and lasts until late November. This is followed by a guns season, which typically begins in late November or early December and lasts just a short time.

Q: Do I need a special permission to go bear hunting in Arkansas?

A: To hunt bears in Arkansas, you must have a bear hunting permit in addition to a valid hunting license. The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) can issue you a bear hunting permit.

Q. Can I hunt bears in Arkansas with a rifle?

A: During the firearms bear hunting season in Arkansas, you can hunt bears with a rifle. However, it is critical to follow all AGFC weapons rules and safety requirements.

Q: Is baiting and hound hunting permitted in Arkansas for bear hunting?

A: No, baiting and dog hunting are not legal in Arkansas for bear hunting. These techniques of bear hunting are prohibited by state law.

Q: Are there any bag limitations in Arkansas for bear hunting?

A: Yes, Arkansas has bag limitations for bear hunting. The AGFC determines the particular bag limitations, which may change from year to year.

Q: Are there any particular rules in Arkansas for harvesting female bears (sows)?

A: Yes, there are limits in Arkansas on harvesting female bears (sows). The AGFC has put safeguards in place to protect the breeding population, including limits on harvesting sows carrying cubs.

Q: Is it necessary in Arkansas to report a harvested bear?

A: Yes, reporting a harvested bear is required in Arkansas. Hunters must use the bear hunt reporting tag given with their hunting licence to record their bear catch. The reporting can be done online or by calling the AGFC’s authorized phone number.

Q: Are there any particular rules in Arkansas for harvesting female bears (sows)?

A: Yes, there are limits in Arkansas on harvesting female bears (sows). The AGFC has put safeguards in place to protect the breeding population, including limits on harvesting sows carrying cubs.

Q. Do you have any materials or guides for bear hunting in Arkansas?

A: Yes, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission offers bear hunters resources and information, such as hunting manuals, maps, and internet resources. They may supply vital information about Arkansas bear hunting rules, season dates, hunting places, and other helpful bear hunting recommendations.

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