Arkansas hoop net regulations govern the use of hoop nets for commercial and recreational fishing in the state’s waters. These rules cover net specifications, placement restrictions, licensing requirements, and species-specific regulations. Key aspects include minimum mesh sizes, lead length limits, seasonal restrictions, and tagging requirements. Understanding these regulations is crucial for legal and sustainable fishing practices in Arkansas.
What Are the Key Specifications for Hoop Nets in Arkansas?
Arkansas enforces specific requirements for hoop net construction and use:
- Minimum square bar mesh size: 2½ inches when wet
- Thread gauge: Not less than 15 gauge
- Lead or wing length: Maximum 100 yards
- Water obstruction: Cannot exceed 50% of open water within banks
These specifications ensure that hoop nets are both effective for target species and minimize impact on non-target fish populations.
Where and When Can Hoop Nets Be Used in Arkansas?
Hoop net usage is permitted in various Arkansas waters, but with specific restrictions:
| Water Body | Restrictions |
|---|---|
| Arkansas River | Fiddler-size hoop nets prohibited from Arkansas Highway 7 Bridge in Yell County to Oklahoma state line |
| Mississippi River | Allowed with standard regulations |
| Grand Lake (Chicot County) | Hoop nets prohibited |
| Saline River (south of Arkansas Highway 371) | Year-round use permitted |
Seasonal restrictions apply to certain species, such as paddlefish, which cannot be taken from midnight, April 10 to sunrise, November 20.
What Are the Licensing Requirements for Hoop Net Fishing?
To legally use hoop nets in Arkansas, anglers must:
- Obtain an annual license for each net ($1.00 per net)
- Attach a metal tag to each net (provided with license)
- Ensure tags are securely fastened to the first hoop at the net’s mouth
- Keep licenses and tags in a form approved by the Arkansas State Game and Fish Commission
Unused nets may be possessed without a license or tags, but once used, proper tagging is mandatory.
How Are Species Regulated for Hoop Net Fishing in Arkansas?
Species-specific regulations apply to hoop net fishing:
- Paddlefish:
- Daily limit: 2
- Minimum length: 34 inches (White River)
-
Seasonal closure: Midnight, April 10 to sunrise, November 20
-
Sturgeon:
- Shovelnose sturgeon: No daily limit, minimum 21 inches
-
Mississippi River: All sturgeon must be released immediately
-
Other Species: Subject to statewide daily and possession limits
Roe takers must use multifilament nets during specific periods for paddlefish:
– Sunrise, November 20 to midnight, December 5
– Sunrise, March 2 to midnight, April 10 (below James W. Trimble Dam on Arkansas River)
What Are the Placement Rules for Hoop Nets?
Proper placement of hoop nets is crucial for compliance:
- Nets must not obstruct more than 50% of open water within stream or body of water banks
- Leads or wings must remain fixed after setting
- Dragging or moving nets through water for seining or surrounding fish is prohibited
- Driving fish into wings, leads, or nets by any means is unlawful
How Do Access Points and Parking Affect Hoop Net Fishing?
Access for hoop net fishing varies by location:
- Arkansas River: Multiple access points available
- Mississippi River: Various boat ramps and public access areas
- Lakes and smaller rivers: Access may be limited and require landowner permission
Anglers should:
– Research specific access points for their chosen fishing location
– Ensure compliance with local parking regulations
– Obtain necessary permissions for crossing private land to reach fishing spots
What Challenges Are Specific to Hoop Net Placement in Arkansas?
Hoop net anglers face several challenges:
- Water level fluctuations affecting net placement and retrieval
- Navigating complex waterways to find optimal fishing spots
- Avoiding conflict with other water users (e.g., recreational boaters)
- Maintaining nets in strong currents or during flood events
- Ensuring nets do not interfere with navigation or other fishing activities
Successful hoop net fishing requires careful planning and adherence to all regulations to overcome these challenges.