Does Military Need a Fishing License in Arkansas?

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Military personnel in Arkansas may or may not need a fishing license, depending on their status and residency. Active duty service members who are Arkansas residents are entitled to free licenses, while nonresident active duty members can purchase licenses at resident prices. Disabled veterans have access to lifetime licenses for a nominal fee. This article explores the specific requirements, exemptions, and privileges for military personnel regarding fishing licenses in Arkansas.

What Are the Fishing License Requirements for Military in Arkansas?

Active Duty Service Members

  1. Arkansas Residents:
  2. Eligible for free hunting and fishing licenses

  3. Must have been Arkansas residents when entering the armed services

  4. Nonresident Active Duty:

  5. Can purchase annual or trip licenses at resident prices
  6. Must be assigned to a duty station in Arkansas or have entered service from Arkansas

Disabled Veterans

  • Resident disabled military veterans can obtain lifetime fishing licenses for $1.50

What Fishing License Exemptions and Privileges Exist for Military Members?

  1. Free Licenses:
  2. Available to active duty Arkansas residents

  3. Valid regardless of current duty station

  4. Resident Pricing:

  5. Nonresident active duty members can purchase at resident rates

  6. Must be stationed in Arkansas or have entered service from the state

  7. Lifetime Licenses:

  8. Available to resident disabled veterans
  9. Covers fishing, hunting, or combination licenses
  10. Minimal fee applies

How Do Military Personnel Apply for Fishing Licenses in Arkansas?

Free Licenses for Active Duty

  1. Application Process:
  2. Apply to Arkansas State Game and Fish Commission

  3. Provide required information to verify eligibility

  4. Required Documentation:

  5. Proof of active duty status
  6. Evidence of Arkansas residency at time of enlistment

Resident Prices for Nonresident Active Duty

  1. Purchase Options:
  2. AGFC regional offices

  3. AGFC headquarters

  4. Required Documentation:

  5. Proof of active duty status
  6. Evidence of Arkansas residency at time of enlistment (if applicable)

Lifetime Licenses for Disabled Veterans

  1. Application Method:

  2. Apply by mail to Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, Little Rock Office

  3. Required Documentation:

  4. Proof of one year Arkansas residency
  5. VA documentation of disability

What Specific Fishing Regulations Apply to Military Personnel?

Permitted Locations

Military personnel with valid licenses can fish in all Arkansas waters, with some exceptions:

  1. Trout Waters:
  2. Additional trout permit required

  3. Applies to specific lakes and streams

  4. Special Regulation Areas:

  5. May have unique rules or restrictions
  6. Check local regulations before fishing

General Restrictions

Regulation Type Details
Bag Limits Vary by species and location
Size Restrictions Minimum and maximum lengths for certain fish
Seasonal Closures Specific waters may be closed during certain periods

License Specifics

  1. Marking:

  2. Licenses stamped “MILITARY PERSONNEL”

  3. Expiration:

  4. Same dates as standard licenses issued by the commission

What Additional Considerations Should Military Anglers Keep in Mind?

Equipment Regulations

  1. Rod and Reel Limits:

  2. Check local regulations for number of rods allowed

  3. Bait Restrictions:

  4. Some areas may prohibit live bait

Catch and Release Practices

  1. Proper Handling:
  2. Use wet hands or nets

  3. Minimize time out of water

  4. Hook Removal:

  5. Use appropriate tools for quick release

Conservation Efforts

  1. Report Violations:

  2. Contact Arkansas Game and Fish Commission

  3. Participate in Surveys:

  4. Contribute to fisheries management data

How Can Military Personnel Stay Informed About Fishing Regulations?

  1. Online Resources:
  2. Arkansas Game and Fish Commission website

  3. Military installation outdoor recreation offices

  4. Mobile Apps:

  5. Download official AGFC apps for up-to-date information

  6. Local Bait and Tackle Shops:

  7. Often have current regulations and local fishing reports

  8. Fishing Clinics and Workshops:

  9. Attend events organized by AGFC or military recreation programs

By understanding these regulations and exemptions, military personnel can enjoy Arkansas’s diverse fishing opportunities while complying with state laws. Whether taking advantage of free licenses, resident pricing, or lifetime disabled veteran options, service members have various ways to access the state’s abundant waters.

References:
1. Arkansas Code § 15-42-123
2. Fishing License Descriptions and Fees – Arkansas Fishing
3. Arkansas Military and Veterans Benefits – MyArmyBenefits

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