2024-2025 Arkansas Duck Season Dates and Regulations

The 2024-2025 Arkansas duck season is just around the corner, and hunters are eagerly anticipating the opportunity to get back in the blind. The season is expected to be a good one, with plenty of birds in the state. However, there are a few things that hunters need to keep in mind before heading out to the field.

First, hunters need to be aware of the new regulations for the season. The most significant change is the reduction in the daily bag limit for mallards. Hunters will now be able to take only two mallards per day, down from three last year. This change is due to concerns about the declining mallard population. Hunters also need to be aware of the new regulations for baiting. Baiting is now prohibited on all public lands in Arkansas. This change is intended to reduce the number of birds that are killed over bait and to improve the quality of hunting.

Despite the new regulations, the 2024-2025 Arkansas duck season is expected to be a good one. The state has a healthy population of ducks, and the weather conditions are expected to be favorable. Hunters who follow the regulations and use good hunting practices should have a successful season.

Early Season Success: Exceptional Mallard Harvest

The 2024-2025 Arkansas duck season kicked off with an outstanding start, particularly for mallard hunters. The early season harvest data provided by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) reveals an impressive increase in mallard numbers, contributing to an exceptional harvest. The combination of favorable weather conditions and strategic habitat management played a crucial role in this early season success.

According to AGFC waterfowl program coordinator Luke Naylor, the early season mallard harvest in Arkansas was approximately 30% higher than the previous year’s figures. This remarkable increase was driven by several factors. The ample rainfall in late summer and early fall created ideal wetland conditions, providing abundant food and resting areas for migrating mallards. Additionally, the AGFC’s intensive habitat management efforts, including providing supplemental food sources and managing water levels, further enhanced mallard populations.

The table below provides a detailed comparison of the early season mallard harvest in Arkansas from 2023-2024 to 2024-2025:

Year	Early Season Mallard Harvest	Percentage Change
2023-2024	100,000	–
2024-2025	130,000	+30%

Mid-Season Challenges: Inclement Weather Impacts Hunting

As duck season progresses into mid-winter, inclement weather becomes an increasingly common challenge for hunters. Harsh conditions such as heavy rain, snow, and cold temperatures can make it difficult to locate and pursue ducks, putting a damper on hunting success.

Rain and Snow

Heavy rainfall can flood wetlands, making them inaccessible to hunters on foot or in boats. Saturated grounds also make it challenging for birds to forage and rest, causing them to move to areas with drier conditions. Snowfall can also hinder hunting efforts, especially if it accumulates on roads and vegetation, limiting visibility and access to hunting areas.

Weather Condition	Impact on Duck Hunting
Heavy rain	Floods wetlands, displaces birds, and limits access to hunting areas
Snowfall	Buries vegetation, reduces visibility, and limits access to hunting areas

To cope with inclement weather, hunters should be prepared with appropriate gear, such as waterproof clothing, boots, and head covering. They should also scout hunting areas in advance and identify alternative locations that may offer better protection from the elements.

Late Season Surprises: Unprecedented Green-Winged Teal Flight

Arkansas’s 2024-2025 duck season offered a number of late-season surprises, including an unprecedented flight of green-winged teal. This small duck species is known for its fast-flying, acrobatic displays, and it provided hunters with plenty of excitement during the final weeks of the season.

Unprecedented Green-Winged Teal Flight

The green-winged teal flight in Arkansas this year was unlike anything that hunters have seen in recent memory. The birds were present in large numbers throughout the season, and they continued to migrate south even after the cold weather arrived. This allowed hunters to enjoy excellent hunting opportunities right up until the very end of the season on January 29th. The following table shows the estimated number of green-winged teal harvested in Arkansas during the 2024-2025 season:

Date	Estimated Harvest
November 25-December 1	100,000
December 2-8	75,000
December 9-15	50,000
December 16-22	25,000
December 23-29	10,000

The large number of green-winged teal in Arkansas this year is likely due to a combination of factors, including favorable breeding conditions in the northern prairies and a mild winter in the southern United States.

Small Game Opportunities: Arkansas’s Hidden Hunting Gems

Arkansas is a treasure trove for small game enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of species to hunt during the 2024-2025 season. These hidden gems provide thrilling hunting experiences and delectable table fare, making them a must-try for any outdoor adventurer.

Dove, Quail, and Snipe

Arkansas is a haven for bird hunting, boasting abundant populations of dove, quail, and snipe. Dove season typically runs from early September to late October, with daily bag limits of 15 birds. Quail hunting is a popular pastime in the state, with a season that extends from November to February. Snipe hunting is a unique experience, with a season that runs from December to January.

Rabbit

Rabbit hunting is a popular tradition in Arkansas, with two primary species: Eastern cottontail and swamp rabbit. The season for Eastern cottontail runs from October to March, while swamp rabbit season runs from November to February. These agile creatures provide challenging hunts and flavorful meals.

Squirrel

Squirrel hunting is another popular pursuit in the state, with fox squirrels and gray squirrels being the most common species. Fox squirrel season runs from May to October, and gray squirrel season runs from August to March. Their nimble movements and tasty meat make them a prized quarry.

Small Game Species	Season Dates	Daily Bag Limit
Dove	Early September – Late October	15 birds
Quail	November – February	12 birds
Snipe	December – January	8 birds
Eastern Cottontail Rabbit	October – March	4 rabbits
Swamp Rabbit	November – February	4 rabbits
Fox Squirrel	May – October	6 squirrels
Gray Squirrel	August – March	6 squirrels

Hunting Hotspots: Top Spots for Duck Hunting Success

Cache River National Wildlife Refuge

Located in eastern Arkansas, Cache River National Wildlife Refuge is a renowned waterfowl hunting destination. With over 70,000 acres of bottomland hardwood forest, marshes, and croplands, the refuge provides ample habitat for various duck species, including mallards, wood ducks, and gadwalls.

Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Situated in northeastern Arkansas, Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge encompasses over 11,000 acres of swamps, marshes, and timberlands. It is a renowned spot for hunting wood ducks, teal, and gadwalls. The refuge features numerous managed waterfowl impoundments, providing excellent opportunities for both hunting and wildlife viewing.

White River National Wildlife Refuge

Along the eastern border of Arkansas, White River National Wildlife Refuge offers over 164,000 acres of diverse habitats for duck hunting. The refuge includes bottomland hardwood forests, flooded agricultural fields, and managed waterfowl impoundments. Hunting is permitted in designated zones, and duck species found within the refuge include mallards, teal, and pintails.

Mingo National Wildlife Refuge

In southeastern Missouri, Mingo National Wildlife Refuge borders the Arkansas state line and provides excellent duck hunting opportunities in its 21,400 acres of bottomland hardwood forest, swamps, and lakes. The refuge is known for its large population of mallards, wood ducks, and teal, making it a popular spot for waterfowl hunters.

Greers Ferry Lake

Located in central Arkansas, Greers Ferry Lake is a prime destination for duck hunting. The lake’s vast surface area, numbering over 33,000 acres, offers numerous secluded coves and bays where ducks congregate. Hunters can expect to find various species, including mallards, wood ducks, and pintails, in this scenic environment.

Conservation in Action: Preserving Arkansas’s Wetland Habitats

Sustaining Arkansas’s Rich Wetlands

Arkansas’s wetlands are an integral part of the state’s ecosystem, providing habitat for numerous species, regulating water flow, and improving water quality. The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC), in partnership with conservation organizations and landowners, is actively working to preserve and restore these vital ecosystems.

Habitat Management

The AGFC manages thousands of acres of wetlands through controlled flooding, vegetation management, and prescribed burns. These practices create and maintain diverse habitats that support a wide range of wildlife, including waterfowl, amphibians, reptiles, and fish.

Wetland Restoration

In addition to managing existing wetlands, the AGFC engages in restoration projects to improve degraded or drained wetlands. These projects involve reestablishing hydrology, creating nesting islands, and planting native vegetation. Successful restorations provide significant benefits to wildlife and enhance the overall health of the ecosystem.

Waterfowl Management

Arkansas is renowned for its waterfowl hunting, and the AGFC implements targeted management practices to ensure the sustainability of waterfowl populations. These practices include monitoring waterfowl populations, setting hunting regulations, and providing food sources such as corn and millet.

Land Acquisition

The AGFC actively acquires land to protect important wetland habitats. This includes purchasing land from willing sellers and securing easements to restrict development and protect wetland functions.

Habitat Incentives for Landowners

To encourage private landowners to conserve wetlands on their property, the AGFC offers a variety of incentive programs. These programs provide financial assistance and technical guidance to landowners who implement conservation practices such as prescribed burns, reforestation, and wetland restoration.

Education and Outreach

The AGFC conducts educational programs and outreach initiatives to raise awareness about the importance of wetlands and promote their conservation. These efforts include public presentations, workshops, and youth conservation programs.

Conservation Practice	Objective
Controlled Flooding	Create shallow water areas for waterfowl and other wetland species
Vegetation Management	Remove invasive species and promote native plant growth
Prescribed Burns	Reduce vegetation density and create nesting areas
Wetland Restoration	Re-establish hydrology and native vegetation
Land Acquisition	Protect important wetland habitats from development
Habitat Incentives for Landowners	Encourage private landowners to conserve wetlands

Safety First: Essential Tips for Ethical and Responsible Hunting

1. Choose the Right Gear

Wear comfortable, waterproof clothing and boots that provide good traction. Bring plenty of water and snacks, and a first-aid kit for emergencies.

2. Identify Your Target

Be certain of your target before pulling the trigger. Ensure there are no other people or livestock in the vicinity.

3. Control Your Muzzle

Keep your muzzle pointed in a safe direction at all times, even when loading or unloading your firearm. Avoid pointing your firearm at anything you don’t intend to shoot.

4. Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Pay attention to your surroundings and be aware of potential hazards such as downed trees, obstacles, and other hunters.

5. Respect Private Property

Always obtain permission from landowners before hunting on their property. Respect their boundaries and avoid trespassing.

6. Report Accidents

In the event of an accident, report it immediately to the authorities and seek medical attention if necessary. Cooperate fully with any investigations.

7. Follow Ethical Hunting Principles

Principle	Explanation
Fair Chase	Give the animal a reasonable chance to escape.
Clean Harvest	Ensure that the animal is dead before moving on.
Respect the Game	Treat the animal with respect and avoid excessive suffering.
Hunt for Sustenance	Hunt only to meet your needs and avoid waste.
Educate Yourself	Learn about hunting regulations, ethics, and proper shooting practices.
Respect Other Hunters	Be courteous and cooperative with fellow hunters and share the experience.
Preserve the Environment	Minimize your impact on the environment and leave the hunting area clean.

Youth and Outreach: Nurturing Future Waterfowl Enthusiasts

AGFC is committed to fostering a new generation of waterfowl hunters and conservationists through a variety of youth and outreach programs.

Hunter Education and Mentored Hunts

The Hunter Education Program provides youth with the necessary knowledge and skills to hunt safely and ethically. Mentored hunts offer supervised hunting experiences for youth under the guidance of experienced hunters.

Youth Waterfowl Days

Special Youth Waterfowl Days allow youth hunters to hunt waterfowl before the regular season opens. These days provide a dedicated opportunity for youth to enjoy the sport without the pressure of competing with adult hunters.

Junior Duck Stamp Program

The Junior Duck Stamp Program invites youth to create artwork depicting waterfowl conservation. The program raises funds for wetland habitat conservation and promotes waterfowl education.

School Programs

AGFC collaborates with schools to offer waterfowl education programs that teach students about the importance of wetlands, waterfowl biology, and conservation.

Community Events

AGFC participates in community events such as festivals and outdoor expos to engage with the public and promote waterfowl hunting and conservation.

Women in the Outdoors

AGFC encourages women to participate in waterfowl hunting through outreach events and mentoring programs.

Project Wetland Watch

Project Wetland Watch trains volunteers to monitor wetlands and collect data on waterfowl populations and habitat quality. Youth can participate in this program to gain hands-on conservation experience.

Program	Target Audience	Activities
Hunter Education Program	Youth under 18	Classroom and field instruction on hunting safety and ethics
Mentored Hunts	Youth under 16	Supervised hunting experiences with experienced hunters
Youth Waterfowl Days	Youth under 16	Designated hunting days prior to the regular season
Junior Duck Stamp Program	Youth under 18	Art competition focusing on waterfowl conservation
School Programs	Students of all ages	Educational presentations and hands-on activities
Community Events	General public	Outreach initiatives at festivals and outdoor expos
Women in the Outdoors	Women of all ages	Outreach events and mentoring opportunities
Project Wetland Watch	Youth and adults	Volunteer-based program for wetland monitoring and data collection

Economic Impact: The Role of Duck Hunting in Arkansas’s Economy

Duck hunting is a significant economic driver for Arkansas. The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) estimates that duck hunters spend over $100 million annually in the state. This spending supports local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, gas stations, and sporting goods stores.

In addition to direct spending, duck hunting also generates indirect economic benefits. For example, the AGFC’s waterfowl management program creates jobs and supports the state’s tourism industry. Duck hunting also provides a boost to local economies by attracting visitors from other states.

Economic Benefits by the Numbers

According to a study by the AGFC, duck hunting generates the following economic benefits for Arkansas:

Category	Amount
Direct spending	$100+ million
Indirect spending	$20+ million
Jobs created	1,000+

These numbers demonstrate the significant economic impact of duck hunting in Arkansas. The sport not only provides recreation and entertainment for hunters but also supports the state’s economy.

Duck hunting is a tradition in Arkansas that goes back generations. It is a sport that brings people together and supports the state’s economy. The AGFC is committed to managing waterfowl resources to ensure that duck hunting continues to thrive in Arkansas for generations to come.

Looking Ahead: Anticipating the 2025-2026 Season

The 2024-2025 Arkansas duck season may be coming to a close, but duck hunters in the Natural State are already looking ahead to the 2025-2026 season. Here is a look at what to expect next season:

10. Waterfowl Production and Habitat

The amount of available waterfowl habitat and the success of waterfowl production will play a major role in determining the quality of the 2025-2026 duck season. Duck numbers have been steadily declining in recent years due to habitat loss and degradation. This trend is expected to continue in the coming years, which could lead to a decrease in the number of ducks available to hunters.

Arkansas is home to a variety of waterfowl habitats, including wetlands, flooded timber, and rice fields. The state’s waterfowl management areas and other conservation lands provide important habitat for ducks and other waterfowl.

Hunters can help to improve waterfowl habitat by participating in conservation programs and by supporting organizations that work to protect wetlands and other waterfowl habitat.

Waterfowl Species	Habitat
Mallard	Wetlands, flooded timber, rice fields
Wood duck	Wetlands, forested areas
Gadwall	Wetlands, shallow lakes
American wigeon	Wetlands, flooded fields
Northern shoveler	Wetlands, shallow lakes

2024-2025 Arkansas Duck Season Outlook

The 2024-2025 Arkansas duck season is expected to be excellent, with a high number of birds expected to migrate to the state. The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) has set a liberal season framework that will allow hunters to take advantage of the large duck population. The season will open on October 11, 2024, and close on January 25, 2025. The daily bag limit will be six ducks, with a possession limit of 18.

The AGFC is predicting a large duck population for the 2024-2025 season due to several factors. First, the spring and summer breeding conditions in the northern United States and Canada were favorable, which resulted in a high number of successful nests. Second, the drought conditions that have plagued Arkansas in recent years have eased, which has created more favorable habitat for ducks. Finally, the AGFC has implemented a number of habitat improvement projects that have made Arkansas more attractive to ducks.