Public Land in Arkansas

[Michael Arnette]

Hello Gang,

I'm looking to hunt in Arkansas this year. Couldn't get in Kansas and I'm looking forward to extending my season to the end of February! Would love some public land info to start on.
I don't expect you to be giving away your best spots but I'm curious where I should start for large areas with low pressure, preferably archery only. I enjoy hiking and scouting as well so walking distance/accessibility will not be an issue for me.
I also have a canoe so areas with water only access would be a plus.
I'm also looking for a hunting partner if anyone is interested, I love hunting with fellow trad folks and would be of help to any Arkansas folks who are interested in hunting in Oklahoma too.
Pm me if you prefer

[Fattony77]

Hey, Michael. This may not be much help but, my bear huntin' grounds extend across the border to Arkansas. I usually hunt the Oauchita National Forest and it's some beautiful country down there. Might be worth lookin' into for ya.

Gimme a holler when you know when you might be headin' down that way and I'll see if I might be able to join ya!

You might also try gettin' a hold of Kent Roberts from Timberghost bows, as he may know of some more public lands in the northwestern portion of AR.

[m midd]

Any idea on a specific area of the state? We have several good places to hunt. Also what time of year? I know you said extended until February. We have a pretty good camp at one of the biggest NWRs in November. Both of you guys are welcome to join us.

[Missouri Bowman]

Tony are you thinking of doing any bear hunting this year? I've been looking at areas in the Oachita area and was thinking I may try it this year. I'm from up north a little ways.

[Fattony77]

Yes, sir, I surely am! My annual bear huntin' trip has grown very important to me. I'll be staying on the Okie side, but will most definitely be trying again this year. Feel free to PM me with any questions.

[Dry Creek]

That's what I love about this site hunter's helping fellow hunter's!!!!
   

[Dry Creek]

That's what I love about this site hunter's helping fellow hunter's!!!!
   

[highlandhunter]

Michael,

You'll want to reach out to Dave Lay.  He's one of the best hunters I've ever met and he is extremely knowledgeable about Arkansas public land.  If you are thinking about the NW portion of the state, I can help you a bit.  Best bet would be to be in Dave's hip pocket.

Scott

[Michael Arnette]

Tony I'll be sure to let you know if I head that direction! So who is this legendary Dave Lay? I'll have to give him a shout.
I also had down some calling around and have found that many of the NWR are closed during late season so I'd be looking for something open into late January and February even if it's got more pressure than other areas.
Also, I spoke with Mr. French wildlife biologist with Big Lake NWR and he was very helpful and is a fellow trad guy! I may have to check it out if it doesn't close early due to flooding.

[pdk25]

I don't have any information, and I don't know my schedule that far in advance, but if you need someone to tag along for a scouting trip, I would be up for it if work allows it.

[m midd]

I live about 30 miles from big lake. Most of it is usually flooded for duck season. There is a small bow only WMA pretty close and its open until mid February. I hunt it alot.