Arkansas Wildlife Fishing Report
Sept. 20, 2017
Many west central Arkansas anglers have discovered that the once abundant vegetation in Lake Ouachita is making a strong comeback. Prior to 2007 much of the shoreline around Lake Ouachita was heavily vegetated with hydrilla, an invasive aquatic plant. In 2009 this dense vegetation seemingly vanished over a very short period of time. Recently, dense patches of Hydrilla have begun to reappear near the state park, Rabbittail, Buckville, Hotel Island, and Crystal Springs in addition to other areas around Lake Ouachita. While hydrilla is an invasive species and AGFC does not advocate the introduction of invasives, hydrilla does create excellent fish habitat until it becomes too dense for even the fish to use.
Leftover WMA deer hunt permits available online Sept. 26
Sept. 20, 2017
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission has many WMA draw hunt permits that were not drawn during the regular drawing period that will be available in a first-come, first-served online sale beginning at 8 a.m., Sept. 26.
Weather-resistant license option available
Sept. 20, 2017
Hunters and anglers wanting a more durable option to carry their license may now purchase an upgrade to receive an official weather-resistant license through all license vendors and license purchasing options.
More than $600,000 available for education thanks to wildlife fine money
Sept. 20, 2017
The Arkansas Economic Development Commission’s Division of Rural Services has more than $600,000 in grant money to give to Arkansas schools and educators for programs in 2018, thanks to fines derived from wildlife violations. The application deadline for fiscal year 2018 grants is Oct. 26, 2017.
Norfork and Bull Shoals tailwater workshop notes available online
Sept. 20, 2017
Many proposed changes to fishing regulations on the White River and North Fork River below Bull Shoals and Norfork Dams may be pushed forward for public review in the next month, thanks to spirited conversations and debates at two focus groups concerning the latest review of those fisheries management plans.
Nonresident WMA Waterfowl Permits available online for regular duck season
Sept. 20, 2017
The purchase option for the new Five-Day Nonresident WMA Waterfowl Permits was added to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s licensing system today, but the permit will not be needed until regular duck season begins.
Governor Hutchinson proclaims Sept. 23 National Hunting and Fishing Day in Arkansas
Sept. 20, 2017
Earlier this week, Gov. Asa Hutchinson signed a special proclamation recognizing Sept. 23, 2017 as National Hunting and Fishing Day in Arkansas in a special announcement at the Governor’s Conference Room of the state capitol.