Arkansas fishing laws encompass licensing requirements, size and catch limits, seasonal restrictions, and special regulations for specific water bodies. These laws aim to preserve fish populations and ensure sustainable recreational fishing. Key aspects include mandatory fishing licenses for most anglers, daily catch limits for various species, and specific rules for trout fishing. Special regulations apply to certain areas like Greers Ferry Tailwater and Narrows Tailwater, with restrictions on lure types and catch-and-release policies.
What Are the Licensing Requirements for Fishing in Arkansas?
To fish legally in Arkansas, most anglers must obtain a fishing license from the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission (AGFC). The types of licenses available include:
- Resident Fishing License: $10.50
- Combination Sportsman’s License: $35.50
- Resident 3-Day Trip Fishing License: $6.50
- Non-resident Annual Fishing License: $50.00
- Resident and Non-resident Trout Permits: $10.00 (resident), $25.00 (non-resident)
Who Is Exempt from Fishing License Requirements?
- Children under 16 years old
- Holders of the $1,000 Lifetime Resident Hunting and Fishing Sportsman’s Permit
- Holders of the 65-Plus Lifetime License and Trout Permit
What Are the Size and Daily Limits for Popular Fish Species?
Arkansas fishing laws set specific size and daily limits for various fish species to maintain healthy populations. Here’s a breakdown of the limits for popular game fish:
| Species | Daily Limit | Size Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Largemouth Bass | General regulations apply | Not specified |
| Smallmouth Bass | General regulations apply | Not specified |
| Channel Catfish | 10 per day (combined with Blue and Flathead) | No limit |
| Blue Catfish | 10 per day (combined with Channel and Flathead) | No limit |
| Flathead Catfish | 10 per day (combined with Channel and Blue) | No limit |
| Bullhead Catfish | No daily limit | No limit |
| Rainbow Trout | 5 per day (combined with other trout species) | Special regulations in some areas |
| Brown Trout | 5 per day (combined with other trout species) | Special regulations in some areas |
| Cutthroat Trout | 5 per day (combined with other trout species) | Special regulations in some areas |
| Brook Trout | 5 per day (combined with other trout species) | Special regulations in some areas |
What Special Regulations Apply to Specific Water Bodies?
Certain bodies of water in Arkansas have unique regulations to protect fish populations and enhance angling experiences:
Greers Ferry Tailwater
- Trout between 16 and 24 inches must be released immediately
- Only one trout exceeding 24 inches may be kept
- Only artificial lures with barbless hooks are allowed
Narrows Tailwater
- Daily limit of five rainbow trout
- All brown trout must be released immediately
- Only artificial lures or flies with barbless hooks are permitted
Big Spring
- Fishing restricted to youths and disabled anglers
- Only one fishing rod or pole allowed per person
- No fishing within 100 yards of the “swimming hole”
Are There Seasonal Restrictions for Fishing in Arkansas?
While general fishing is allowed year-round from sunrise to sunset, some seasonal restrictions apply:
- Trout fishing: No specific seasonal closure, but special regulations may apply in certain areas
- Snagging game fish: Allowed in specific areas and times, such as from 100 yards below Beaver Dam from April 15 to June 15
What Are the Regulations for Kayak Fishing in Arkansas?
Kayak fishing is generally permitted in all public waters where fishing is allowed, but some restrictions apply:
- No motorized boats in certain areas like Big Spring
- No fishing within 100 yards of dams in areas like Greers Ferry Dam and Lake Greeson Dam
- General safety regulations and fishing laws must be followed
How Can Anglers Stay Informed About Arkansas Fishing Laws?
To stay up-to-date with Arkansas fishing laws:
- Regularly check the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission website
- Review the annual Arkansas Fishing Guidebook
- Attend local fishing seminars or workshops
- Join fishing clubs or online forums for community updates
- Follow AGFC social media accounts for real-time announcements
By staying informed and adhering to these regulations, anglers can enjoy Arkansas’s diverse fishing opportunities while helping to preserve the state’s aquatic resources for future generations.
References:
1. https://www.fishing.org/licenses/arkansas
2. https://www.landcan.org/pdfs/troutcomplete2012.pdf
3. https://agfc-omnibus.s3.amazonaws.com/eregs/regulation_pdfs/large/agfc_regulation_26.00_large.pdf