Hunting alligators in Arkansas is a popular pastime for many residents and visitors alike. The state is home to a large population of alligators, and the hunting season runs from September 1st to October 31st. If you’re thinking about going alligator hunting in Arkansas, there are a few things you need to know. In this blog post, we will cover the basics of alligator hunting in Arkansas, including what equipment you need, where to find alligators, and how to safely harvest them.
Alligator Hunting Laws in Arkansas
There are a few things to know before heading out on an alligator hunt in Arkansas. To start, all hunters must have a valid hunting license and alligators may only be hunted during the open season, which runs from late August to early October.
When it comes to equipment, hunters are limited to using an only hand-held or pole-mounted spears, harpoons, gigs, or arrows with barbed points. No firearms or explosives are allowed.
As for the actual hunt, alligators must be hooked and pulled to shore before they can be dispatched. And finally, all harvested alligators must be reported within 24 hours.
Related: Hog Hunting in Arkansas
Do you need a license to hunt alligators in Arkansas?
In Arkansas, you need a license to hunt alligators. The cost of the license is $25 for residents and $100 for non-residents. You can purchase a license at any Arkansas Game and Fish Commission office or online at the commission’s website. Alligator hunting is restricted to certain areas of the state, and you must have a permit to hunt in those areas.
Alligator Hunting Seasons in Arkansas
The alligator hunting season in Arkansas runs from September 1st through October 31st. Alligators may be hunted during this time period on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only. A permit is required to hunt alligators and can be obtained through the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.
Alligators must be at least four feet in length to be harvested. The bag limit is two alligators per person, per season. All harvested alligators must be reported to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission within 24 hours of harvest.
During the alligator hunting season, hunters are encouraged to use only methods that will ensure a quick and humane death for the alligator. Approved methods include hand-held snares, harpoons, gigs, arrows with broadheads, or bang sticks. Using firearms is not recommended as it often results in a long, drawn-out death for the alligator.
All harvested alligators must be properly tagged before they are moved from the place of harvest. The tag must remain attached to the alligator until it is processed for meat or hides. All parts of the alligator must be accounted for when it is reported to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.
Can you hunt alligators at night in Arkansas?
Yes, alligator hunting is allowed at night in Arkansas. However, there are some regulations that you need to follow in order to hunt alligators at night. First, you need to obtain a permit from the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. Second, you are only allowed to use artificial light to hunt alligators at night. Third, you must notify the landowner or lessee of your intent to hunt alligators on their property at least 48 hours in advance.
Bag limits for hunting Alligator in Arkansas
The Alligator hunting bag limit in Arkansas is two (2) per person, per license year. The maximum size limit for harvested alligators is eight (8) feet in length. Alligators less than four (4) feet in length may not be harvested. Alligators must be taken with a firearm, and only during specified open seasons. baited hooks or snares may not be used to take alligators. For more information on open seasons, check out the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s website.
Legal ways to hunt Alligators in Arkansas
In Arkansas, alligators may be hunted during the open season with a permit. The open season for alligator hunting generally runs from late August to early November. A limited number of permits are issued each year through a public drawing.
To be eligible for a permit, applicants must:
- Be at least 16 years of age
- Have completed an approved hunter education course if born after January 1, 1969
- Not have been convicted of, or plead guilty or nolo contendere to, violating any game and fish law or regulation in any jurisdiction during the past 10 years
Once you have obtained a permit, there are several things to keep in mind while hunting alligators. First, it is important to know that alligators are most active at night, so it is best to hunt them during the evening or early morning hours. Second, alligators can be found in both freshwater and saltwater habitats (although they are more common in freshwater), so be sure to check both types of areas when searching for them. Finally, alligators tend to congregate in areas with abundant food sources, so look for areas where there is a lot of aquatic vegetation or where there are high concentrations of fish.
Can you use dogs to hunt alligators in Arkansas?
Yes, dogs can be used to hunt alligators in Arkansas. Alligator hunting with dogs is a popular method of hunting and is often used in conjunction with other methods, such as baiting or trolling. Dogs are trained to chase and bite the Alligator, which allows the hunter to kill the animal.
Can you hunt Alligator from a vehicle in Arkansas?
Yes, you can hunt alligators from a vehicle in Arkansas. The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission regulates alligator hunting and sets the dates and areas where it is allowed. Alligator hunting is only allowed on certain public lands in Arkansas, and you must have a valid hunting license and alligator permit to participate. You can purchase an alligator permit online or at any AGFC office.
Final Thoughts
After spending a few days out in the marsh hunting alligators, I’ve come to some final thoughts on the experience. Overall, it was a lot of fun and I’m glad I did it. Here are a few things that I learned from my time out in the swamp.
First, alligator hunting is not for the faint of heart. It is hot, sweaty work and you will be wading through waist-deep water for hours at a time. Be prepared for mosquito swarms and humid conditions.
Second, alligator hunting is dangerous. These animals are large and powerful and can easily hurt or kill you if you’re not careful. Do your research before going out and be sure to follow all safety guidelines.
Third, alligator hunting is rewarding. There’s something special about getting up close and personal with these amazing creatures. If you’re patient and have a little luck on your side, you just might end up with a trophy worthy of the mountain.
