Fishing in Arkansas offers a wealth of opportunities, from serene lakes to winding rivers teeming with diverse fish species. Before casting your line, it’s essential to secure the appropriate fishing license to ensure compliance with state regulations and contribute to the conservation efforts that keep Arkansas’s fisheries thriving. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of purchasing a fishing license in Arkansas for 2025, covering the types of licenses available, purchasing methods, and additional permits you might need.
Understanding the Importance of a Fishing License in Arkansas
A fishing license is more than just a legal requirement; it’s a vital tool in supporting conservation and management efforts. The funds collected from license sales support the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) and maintain fish habitats, conduct research, and implement programs that ensure sustainable fishing for future generations. By obtaining a license, you’re directly contributing to the preservation of Arkansas’s aquatic ecosystems.
Obtaining a Fishing License in Arkansas
Step 1: Determine the Appropriate License Type
Arkansas offers a variety of fishing licenses tailored to different needs and durations. Identifying the correct license ensures you’re compliant with state laws and helps you avoid unnecessary expenses.
- Resident Fisheries Conservation License (FSH): Allows Arkansas residents aged 16 and older to fish the state’s waters with sport fishing tackle. A Resident Trout Permit is required to retain trout or to fish in certain waters (tailwaters below Beaver Lake, Bull Shoals Lake, Norfork Lake, Greers Ferry Lake, Lake Greeson, or east of Highway 59 on Spavinaw Creek).
- Nonresident Annual Fishing License (NRF): Permits nonresidents to fish Arkansas waters with sport fishing tackle for a year. A Nonresident Trout Permit is necessary to retain trout or to fish in specific waters.
- Short-Term Licenses: Both residents and nonresidents can opt for short-term licenses if planning a brief fishing trip.
- Resident 3-Day Trip Fishing License (RT3): Valid for three consecutive days. A Resident Trout Permit is required to retain trout or to fish in certain waters.
- Nonresident 3-Day Trip Fishing License (NT3): Valid for three consecutive days. A Nonresident Trout Permit is necessary to retain trout or to fish in specific waters.
Special Permits:
Resident Trout Permit (TPR): Required for residents to retain trout or to fish in certain waters.
Nonresident Trout Permit (TPN): Required for nonresidents to retain trout or to fish in specific waters.
White River Border Lakes License (WRL): Allows Arkansas resident fishing license holders to fish in the Missouri waters of Bull Shoals, Norfork, and Table Rock lakes without a Missouri nonresident fishing license.
Lifetime Licenses:
65-Plus Lifetime Fishing License: Available to Arkansas residents aged 65 or older, granting the privileges of the Resident Fisheries Conservation License. You must provide proof of age and one year of Arkansas residency.
65-Plus Lifetime Combination License: Grants residents aged 65 or older the privileges of both the Resident Sportsman’s License (hunting) and the Resident Fisheries Conservation License, but you still need a lifetime trout permit (purchased once after age 65) to fish in certain waters. Proof of age and one year of Arkansas residency are necessary.
65-Plus Lifetime Trout Permit (PLT): A one-time purchase for residents aged 65 or older, allowing them to fish in designated trout waters.
Step 2: Gather Necessary Documentation
Before purchasing a license, ensure you have the following:
- Proof of Residency: For resident licenses, you’ll need a valid Arkansas driver’s license or state-issued ID card.
- Proof of Age: Especially for senior licenses, documents like a birth certificate, passport, or driver’s license are required.
- Disability Documentation: If applying for a disability license, provide certification from the Social Security Administration, Veterans Affairs, or Railroad Retirement, along with proof of 60 days of Arkansas residency.
Step 3: Choose a Purchase Method
Arkansas provides multiple avenues to purchase a fishing license:
- Online: Visit the AGFC’s online licensing system to create an account or log in. Follow the prompts to select and purchase the appropriate license.
- In-Person: You can obtain a fishing license in Arkansas at AGFC regional offices, nature centers, and authorized dealers such as sporting goods stores and some retail outlets. Find a location near you.
- By Phone: Contact the AGFC at 833-345-0325 to purchase a license over the phone.
Step 4: Understand License Validity and Fees
Being aware of the validity periods and associated fees ensures compliance and helps in planning your fishing activities:
- Annual Licenses: Typically valid for one year from the date of purchase.
- Short-Term Licenses: Valid for the specified duration (e.g., 3-day licenses are valid for three consecutive days).
- Lifetime Licenses: Valid for the lifetime of the license holder.
Current Fees
| License/Permit | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Resident Licenses | ||
| Resident Fisheries Conservation License (FSH) | Allows residents to fish Arkansas waters with sport fishing tackle. Certain waters require a Resident Trout Permit. | $10.50 |
| Resident 3-Day Trip Fishing License (RT3) | Permits residents to fish with sport fishing tackle for three consecutive days. A Resident Trout Permit is required to retain trout or to fish in certain waters. | $6.50 |
| 65-Plus Lifetime Fishing License | Available to residents aged 65 or older, granting the privileges of the Resident Fisheries Conservation License. A lifetime trout permit (purchased once after age 65) is required to fish in certain waters. Proof of age and one year of Arkansas residency are required. | $10.50 |
| 65-Plus Lifetime Combination License | Grants residents aged 65 or older the privileges of both the Resident Sportsman’s License (hunting) and the Resident Fisheries Conservation License. A lifetime trout permit (purchased once after age 65) is required to fish in certain waters. Proof of age and one year of Arkansas residency are required. | $35.50 |
| Resident Trout Permit (TPR) | Required to retain trout or to fish in certain waters. Not required for holders of the non-expiring $1,000 Lifetime Resident Hunting and Fishing Sportsman’s Permit or for holders of the 65-Plus Lifetime License and Trout Permit. | $10.00 |
| Nonresident Licenses | ||
| Nonresident Annual Fishing License (NRF) | Allows nonresidents to fish Arkansas waters with sport fishing tackle. A Nonresident Trout Permit is required to retain trout or to fish in certain waters. | $60.00 |
| Nonresident 3-Day Trip Fishing License (NT3) | Permits nonresidents to fish with sport fishing tackle for three consecutive days. A Nonresident Trout Permit is required to retain trout or to fish in certain waters. | $30.00 |
| Nonresident Trout Permit (TPN) | Required for nonresidents to retain trout or to fish in certain waters, in addition to a Nonresident Annual or Trip Fishing License. | $20.00 |
| Special Permits | ||
| White River Border Lakes License (WRL) | Allows Arkansas resident fishing license holders to fish in the Missouri waters of Bull Shoals, Norfork, and Table Rock lakes without a Missouri nonresident fishing license. | $10.00 |
Note: Prices are subject to change. For the most current information, please refer to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s official website.
Step 5: Additional Considerations for a Fishing License in Arkansas
Depending on your fishing plans, you might need additional permits or need to adhere to specific regulations:
- Trout Fishing: As mentioned above, certain waters require a trout permit. Ensure you have the appropriate permit based on your residency status.
- Guided Fishing: If you plan to guide, aid, or assist another person for pay or other considerations in the taking of fish, you must purchase a guide fishing license.
- Border Waters: For fishing in border waters like the Missouri sections of Bull Shoals, Norfork, and Table Rock lakes, ensure you have the appropriate licenses or permits, such as the White River Border Lakes License.
Follow Arkansas Fishing Regulations
Fishing in Arkansas is not just about having the right license; it’s also about following the rules to protect the state’s natural resources. Keep these key regulations in mind:
- Daily Creel and Possession Limits: Each species has specific limits on how many fish you can keep. Make sure to review the Arkansas Fishing Regulations Guide before heading out.
- Fishing Methods: Some waters have restrictions on bait types, fishing tackle, and catch-and-release regulations.
- Seasons and Special Regulations: Certain species have designated open and closed seasons, and some locations have unique regulations.
Step 7: Keep Your License Accessible
Once you’ve purchased your fishing license in Arkansas, make sure you have proof of it while fishing. Acceptable forms include:
- A printed copy of your license.
- A digital copy saved on your phone.
- The AGFC app, which allows you to store and display your license.
Getting Your Fishing License in Arkansas: Final Thoughts
Purchasing a fishing license in Arkansas is a straightforward process that ensures you’re fishing legally while contributing to conservation efforts. Whether you’re a resident angler enjoying a local lake or a visitor exploring the state’s renowned rivers, fish with confidence by ensuring you have the correct license. Follow this guide to easily obtain your fishing license and focus on what really matters—enjoying the beautiful waters of Arkansas.
For the most up-to-date information, visit the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s website. For more fun outdoor Arkansas activities like caving, epic hiking trails, mountain biking, and stunning campsites, go explore our Travel Arkansas Blog!
Happy fishing!