AR · AGFC
Arkansas fishing regulations.
- Landlocked
- 7 popular species
Arkansas is one of the most underrated fishing states in the country — Ozark trout tailwaters produce world-record browns, and smallmouth rivers like the Buffalo and Eleven Point fish like nowhere else.
Fishing regulations change every season. This page is a summary maintained by Bield — bag limits, exact dates, and species-specific rules must be verified with AGFC before each trip.
License requirements
Anglers age 16 and older generally need a valid fishing license to fish in Arkansas. Resident and non-resident licenses are sold online through the AGFC and at most sporting goods retailers. Annual, multi-day, and lifetime licenses are typically available. Senior, military, and youth discounts apply in most cases. A trout permit is required in addition to a fishing license to harvest trout. License costs and exact age thresholds change — verify with the AGFC before purchase.
Freshwater seasons and limits
Largemouth, smallmouth, and Kentucky bass plus crappie and white bass anchor warm-water fishing on lakes Ouachita, Bull Shoals, Norfork, and Greers Ferry. Walleye and striper populations exist in select reservoirs. Statewide creel and length limits apply with reservoir-specific exceptions.
River and stream regulations
The White River and Norfork tailwaters below Bull Shoals and Norfork dams are world-class trout fisheries — wild brown trout to 20+ pounds, plus stocked rainbows. The Buffalo National River, Spring River, and Little Red River round out the trout opportunities. Smallmouth fishing is excellent on the Ozark rivers.
Special regulations
The White River below Bull Shoals Dam has trophy regulations and seasonal restrictions on certain stretches. Trout permits are required to harvest. Catch-and-release-only sections exist on the Little Red River and other premier waters.
Popular species
- Brown trout
- Rainbow trout
- Largemouth bass
- Smallmouth bass
- Walleye
- Crappie
- Striped bass
Official source · AGFC
Arkansas Game and Fish Commission
This page is a regulatory summary maintained by Bield — not the official rulebook. Verify season dates, bag limits, and special regulations with the agency above before each trip.
Bield Fish keeps Arkansas regulations at your fingertips.
Set your state once and Bield calibrates season phases, license reminders, and species-specific limits in your catch log.