Fishing in Arkansas offers a wealth of opportunities for anglers of all ages and skill levels. To enjoy these waters legally, you need to obtain the appropriate fishing license. This article provides a comprehensive guide on the costs, types, and purchasing methods for fishing licenses in Arkansas.
The cost of a fishing license in Arkansas varies based on residency, age, and the type of license. For residents, prices range from $3.50 to $35.50, while non-residents can expect to pay between $10 and $500.
Types of Fishing Licenses in Arkansas
Resident Licenses
- Resident Fisheries Conservation License: $10.50
- Resident 3-Day Trip Fishing License: $6.50
- Resident Trout Permit: $10.00
- Resident 65 Plus Annual Fishing License: $3.50
- Resident 65 Plus Lifetime Fishing License: $10.50
- Resident 65 Plus Lifetime Combination License: $35.50
- Resident Disabled Fishing 3-Year License: $10.50
- Resident Disabled Combination 3-Year License: $35.50
- Resident Military Retiree Lifetime Fishing License: $10.50
- Resident Military Retiree Lifetime Combination License: $35.50
- Resident Disabled Military Veteran Lifetime Fishing License: $1.50
- Resident Disabled Military Veteran Lifetime Combination License: $3.00
- Resident Guide License/Fishing: $25.00
Non-Resident Licenses
- Non-Resident Annual Fishing License: $50.00
- Non-Resident 3-Day Trip Fishing License: $16.00
- Non-Resident 7-Day Trip Fishing License: $25.00
- Non-Resident Trout Permit: $20.00
- Non-Resident Guide License/Fishing: $500.00
Special Licenses
- White River Border Lakes License: $10.00 (for Missouri residents fishing in Arkansas waters and vice versa)
- Alligator Gar Fishing Permit: Free (required to harvest one alligator gar over 36 inches per calendar year)
Purchasing Options
Fishing licenses in Arkansas can be purchased through several methods:
- Online: Via the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) website or mobile app.
- In-Person: At AGFC regional offices, local vendors such as Walmart, marinas, and some gas stations.
- Phone: By calling the AGFC.
Detailed Breakdown of Costs
Resident Licenses
- Resident Fisheries Conservation License: This license costs $10.50 and is essential for residents using sport fishing tackle.
- Resident 3-Day Trip Fishing License: Priced at $6.50, this license is ideal for short fishing trips.
- Resident Trout Permit: Required for fishing in certain waters and retaining trout, costing $10.00.
- Resident 65 Plus Annual Fishing License: Seniors can enjoy fishing for just $3.50 annually.
- Resident 65 Plus Lifetime Fishing License: A one-time fee of $10.50 provides lifetime fishing privileges.
- Resident 65 Plus Lifetime Combination License: For $35.50, seniors get both fishing and hunting privileges for life.
- Resident Disabled Fishing 3-Year License: Disabled residents can fish for three years with a $10.50 license.
- Resident Disabled Combination 3-Year License: This combination license costs $35.50 and includes both fishing and hunting.
- Resident Military Retiree Lifetime Fishing License: Retired military personnel can fish for life with a $10.50 license.
- Resident Military Retiree Lifetime Combination License: For $35.50, retired military personnel get both fishing and hunting privileges for life.
- Resident Disabled Military Veteran Lifetime Fishing License: Disabled veterans can fish for life for just $1.50.
- Resident Disabled Military Veteran Lifetime Combination License: This combination license costs $3.00 and includes both fishing and hunting.
- Resident Guide License/Fishing: Residents who guide others in fishing need this $25.00 license.
Non-Resident Licenses
- Non-Resident Annual Fishing License: Non-residents can fish for a year with a $50.00 license.
- Non-Resident 3-Day Trip Fishing License: Ideal for short visits, this license costs $16.00.
- Non-Resident 7-Day Trip Fishing License: For longer stays, this license is priced at $25.00.
- Non-Resident Trout Permit: Required for fishing in certain waters and retaining trout, costing $20.00.
- Non-Resident Guide License/Fishing: Non-residents who guide others in fishing need this $500.00 license.
Special Licenses
- White River Border Lakes License: This $10.00 license allows Missouri residents to fish in Arkansas waters and vice versa.
- Alligator Gar Fishing Permit: This free permit is required to harvest one alligator gar over 36 inches per calendar year.
Where to Buy a Fishing License in Arkansas
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) offers several convenient ways to purchase a fishing license:
- Online: Visit the AGFC website or download the AGFC mobile app from the Apple Store or Play Store. You can purchase and download your license instantly.
- In-Person: Licenses are available at AGFC regional offices, local vendors such as Walmart, marinas, and some gas stations.
- Phone: Call the AGFC toll-free number at 1-800-364-GAME (4263) to purchase your license over the phone.
Additional Information
- Lifetime Licenses: Arkansas offers various lifetime licenses, such as the Resident 65 Plus Lifetime Fishing License and the Resident Military Retiree Lifetime Fishing License, which provide long-term fishing privileges at a one-time cost.
- Trout Permits: Required for fishing in certain waters and for retaining trout, with different fees for residents and non-residents.
Conclusion
Fishing in Arkansas is a rewarding experience, and obtaining the right fishing license is essential to enjoy it legally. Whether you are a resident or a non-resident, there are various options to suit your needs. By purchasing a fishing license, you also contribute to conservation efforts that help maintain the state’s rich fishing resources for future generations.
For more detailed information on specific licenses and regulations, visit the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s official website.
