Yes, you can hunt elk in Arkansas. The state offers a limited number of elk hunting permits each year, and the season typically runs from October to February. Elk are most commonly found in the northwestern part of the state, near the Ozark National Forest.
- Purchase an Arkansas hunting license and elk tag
- Choose a method of hunting: archery, muzzleloader, or rifle
- Study the rules and regulations for elk hunting in Arkansas
- Find a good spot to hunt elk by doing some research or talking to experienced hunters
- Be patient and wait for the perfect shot when hunting elk
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What Counties in Arkansas Have Elk?
There are four counties in Arkansas with elk: Boone, Carroll, Madison and Newton. The elk population in Arkansas is estimated to be between 5,000 and 6,000 animals. The majority of the state’s elk live in the Ozark Mountains in north central Arkansas.
The Ozark Plateau contains the largest contiguous block of public land in Arkansas, which provides habitat for a variety of wildlife species including white-tailed deer, black bear, coyote, bobcat, and several species of raptors. Elk were once native to all of Arkansas but were extirpated from the state by overhunting and habitat loss during the late 1800s. In 1981, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) began reintroducing elk to their former range in northwest Arkansas.
Between 1981 and 1985 AGFC translocated 115 Rocky Mountain elk from Yellowstone National Park and release them into Buffalo National River country near Pruitt. From 1986 through 1990 another 218 Rocky Mountain elk were released into this same area as part of an effort to establish a self-sustaining population. A separate reintroduction project was also conducted along the border between Searcy and Newton Counties using captive-bred stock obtained from privately owned herds.
In total, approximately 350 elk have been released into these two areas since 1981 Although both reintroduction projects have been successful in establishing populations of wild elk within their respective areas, neither has resulted in a population large enough to warrant a hunting season. However, hunters do have opportunities to take advantage of special permits that allow for limited hunting of bull elk on private lands within both management units.
Can Nonresidents Hunt Elk in Arkansas?
According to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, nonresidents are not allowed to hunt elk in Arkansas. The only exception is if the nonresident is a landowner or lessee with proof of ownership or lease agreement, respectively. Elk hunting permits are also only available through a lottery system, and preference is given to Arkansas residents.
How Much is It to Hunt Elk in Arkansas?
In Arkansas, the cost of elk hunting depends on several factors. First, the type of permit you need will determine the price. If you plan to hunt with a rifle, you’ll need an Elk Hunting Permit, which costs $40 for residents and $160 for non-residents.
If you want to use a crossbow or a muzzleloader, you’ll need a Special Crossbow or Muzzleloader Permit in addition to the Elk Hunting Permit; these permits cost $50 for residents and $200 for non-residents. Finally, if you’re planning on hunting during the late season (December), you’ll need a Late Season Elk Permit, which is available at no additional cost with either of the other two permits. In addition to the permit fees, hunters are also required to purchase an Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Wildlife Management Area Use Permit or an Annual Public Land Use Permit; these permits cost $16 for residents and $32 for non-residents.
If you choose to hunt on private land, there may be additional fees charged by the landowner. These fees can vary greatly depending on the size and location of the property, as well as any amenities that are included (such as lodging or food). It’s best to contact landowners directly to inquire about pricing information.
Overall, elk hunting in Arkansas can be quite affordable – especially if you take advantage of public hunting areas. With proper planning and research, it’s possible to find all the necessary permits for less than $100 (for residents) or $300 (for non-residents). Of course, private land hunts will typically be more expensive – but this varies greatly depending on individual circumstances.
Are There Any Elk in Arkansas?
Yes, there are elk in Arkansas. The state is home to a small but thriving herd of Rocky Mountain elk, which were introduced in the early 1990s. Today, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission estimates that there are around 500 elk living in the Ozark Mountains.
While this may not seem like many, it represents a significant increase from the handful of animals that were originally released into the wild. The presence of elk in Arkansas is good news for hunters and nature lovers alike. These majestic creatures were once common across North America but their populations dwindled due to overhunting and habitat loss.
Thanks to conservation efforts, Rocky Mountain elk have made a comeback in recent years and can now be found in several states, including Arkansas. If you’re lucky enough to spot an elk while out hiking or camping in Arkansas, consider yourself fortunate. These animals are truly one of nature’s wonders and seeing them up close is an unforgettable experience.
Credit: www.magnoliareporter.com
Elk Hunting in Arkansas 2022
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission has announced the proposed elk hunting season dates for 2022. The proposed season dates are as follows: Archery – September 10-23, 2021
Muzzleloader – October 8-21, 2021 Modern gun – November 12-25, 2021 The bag limit for elk is one bull per permit.
A person may receive only one permit through the random drawing process. Preference points will be required to participate in the random drawing process for a modern gun elk permit. The application period for the random drawing will open on April 1, 2021 and close on May 31, 2021.
Additional information about preference points and how to apply can be found at www.agfc.com/en/hunt/permits-licenses/.
Conclusion
In Arkansas, elk hunting is only allowed in a few counties in the northwest corner of the state. The best time to hunt elk is during the fall when they are most active. You will need a valid hunting license and a permit to hunt elk in Arkansas. Arkansas. If you’re lucky enough to spot an elk while out hiking or camping in Arkansas, consider yourself fortunate. These animals are truly one of nature’s wonders and seeing them up close is an unforgettable experience.
