Complete Guide to Arkansas Fishing Licenses

If you’re planning a fishing trip to Arkansas or just moved there and love angling, you’ll need to know what type of fishing license you need, how much they cost, and, most importantly, how to buy one. Don’t worry; we have everything you’ll need to know about Arkansas fishing permits.

In the following guide to Arkansas Fishing Licenses, we’ll cover:

If you love fishing and are looking to learn more about fishing to improve your chances of catching a fish the next time you hit the water, be sure to check out Best Tide to Go Fishing: High or Low Tide? It covers everything you need to know about the effects of tide on fish behavior.

The premium fishing app, Fishbox App, will allow you to accurately track weather, tide, and atmospheric conditions to predict the best times to go angling. Not only that, but it’s full of helpful information about local hotspots and secret fishing locations, which will increase your catch rate and ensure you have the best possible chance of a successful fishing trip.

Types of Arkansas Fishing Licenses

It’s important to note that if you’re planning on fishing for Trout in Arkansas, you will need to purchase an additional Trout Endorsement in specific locations, such as the tailwaters below Beaver Lake, Bull Shoals Lake, Norfork Lake, Greers Ferry Lake, Lake Greeson or east of Highway 59 on Spavinaw Creek) or if you are planning on keeping any trout which are caught from any Arkansas waters.

Arkansas Resident Fishing Licenses 

• Combination Sportsman’s License.
• Resident Fisheries Conservation License.
• Resident 3-Day Trip Fishing License.
• Resident Trout Permit.
• Resident 3-Year Disability License.
• 65-Plus Lifetime Fishing License.

Arkansas Non-Resident Fishing Licenses

• Non-Resident Trout Permit.
• Non-Resident Annual Fishing License.
• Non-Resident 3-Day Trip Fishing License.

To find out more information about Arkansas fishing license types and costs, please visit the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission website.

Cost of AR Fishing Licenses

Before you hit the water, it’s essential to check out the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission website for updated fishing regulations to ensure that there have been no changes since the last time you hit the water. As a responsible angler, it’s your responsibility to make sure you’re aware of the latest regulations and seasonal updates that could impact your fishing trip.

Arkansas Resident Fishing Licenses 

• Combination Sportsman’s License – $35.50.
• Resident Fisheries Conservation License – $10.50.
• Resident 3-Day Trip Fishing License – $3.50.
• Resident Trout Permit – $10.
• Resident 3-Year Disability License – $10.50.
• 65-Plus, Lifetime Fishing License – $10.50.

Arkansas Non-Resident Fishing Licenses

• Non-Resident Trout Permit – $20.
• Non-Resident Annual Fishing License – $60.
• Non-Resident 3-Day Trip Fishing License – $30.

To find out more information about Arkansas fishing license types and costs, please visit the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission website.

Age Requirements for Arkansas Fishing License

If you are planning on going fishing in Arkansas and you’re over the age of 16, then you will need a valid fishing permit. You must carry your license with you at all times when you’re fishing. However, if you’re fishing in a fully licensed ‘put and take’ pay location or lake, you don’t need a fishing license.

For those anglers above the age of 65, or those anglers with a recognized and documented disability, there are discounted license types available along with a variety of other lifetime recreational fishing permits.

Where to Obtain an AR Fishing License

There are a variety of different ways that you can purchase a fishing license in Arkansas, including online or at one of the many licensed fishing agents, tackle shops, and sporting goods stores.

If you want to purchase your fishing permit online, please visit the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission website. You will need a valid form of payment along with proof of residency and identification.

If you would prefer to purchase your Arkansas fishing permit in person, you can visit one of the many fishing tackle, outdoor stores, and sporting goods stores located throughout the state. Please note that some states, such as Tennessee, Mississippi, and Missouri, share reciprocal license agreements with Arkansas for some waters along their shared border.

Complete Guide to Arkansas Fishing Licenses – Conclusion 

There you go! Everything you ever wanted to know about Arkansas fishing licenses and permits, including which types are available, how much they cost, when you need one, and where to buy them. Before you drop a line in Arkansas, ensure you have the correct fishing license and that all your information is current.

By being responsible anglers, purchasing the correct license, and following all local fishing regulations, including size limits, bag, catch, and season limits, we’re all doing our part to ensure the ongoing health of the Arkansas fishery for future generations of anglers to enjoy for many years to come.

The Fishbox App allows anglers to accurately track weather conditions and predict the best time to go fishing. Fishbox utilizes in-depth analysis of weather patterns, fish behavior, and tidal and lunar conditions to predict the best times to go angling and when you’re better off relaxing at home.

Do you have any questions about Arkansas fishing permits, or would you like to learn more? Don’t hesitate to drop a comment below.