Fishing is a popular pastime in Arkansas, with the state offering a variety of waterways teeming with diverse fish species. However, before casting your line, it’s essential to understand the fishing license requirements set by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC). In this article, we’ll explore the age at which you need a fishing license in Arkansas and the exceptions to this rule.
Fishing License Requirements in Arkansas
According to the AGFC, anyone 16 years of age or older must possess a valid Arkansas fishing license to take or attempt to take fish and frogs in the state. This requirement applies to both residents and non-residents alike. The fishing license must be carried on the person while fishing and is valid for one year from the date of purchase.
There are several types of fishing licenses available in Arkansas, including:
- Resident Fisheries Conservation License ($10.50)
- Resident 3-Day Trip Fishing License ($6.50)
- Non-Resident Annual Fishing License ($50.00)
- Non-Resident 7-Day Trip Fishing License ($25.00)
- Non-Resident 3-Day Trip Fishing License ($16.00)
In addition to the fishing license, anglers 16 and older must also have a valid trout permit to keep trout or fish in certain waters, such as tailwaters below Beaver Lake, Bull Shoals Lake, Norfork Lake, Greers Ferry Lake, Lake Greeson, or east of Highway 59 on Spavinaw Creek.
Exceptions to the Fishing License Requirement
While most anglers 16 and older must have a fishing license, there are a few exceptions to this rule:
- Anglers fishing in licensed “put-and-take” pay lakes are exempt from the fishing license requirement.
- Arkansas residents 65 years of age or older may purchase a Resident 65-Plus Annual Fishing License or a Resident 65-Plus Annual Combination License, which includes both fishing and hunting privileges.
- Disabled Arkansas residents may be eligible for a Resident Disabled Fishing 3-Year License ($10.50) or a Resident Disabled Combination 3-Year License ($35.50), which includes both fishing and hunting privileges.
- A limited number of lifetime licenses are available to Arkansas youths 10 years of age and younger, including the Resident Sportsman’s Lifetime Combination License and Permit ($1,000) and the Resident Natural State Lifetime Combination License and Permit ($500).
It’s important to note that while these exceptions exist, anglers must still comply with all other fishing regulations, such as possession limits and size restrictions.
Purchasing a Fishing License
Fishing licenses in Arkansas can be purchased through several convenient methods:
- Over the counter at AGFC Little Rock headquarters, regional offices, and nature centers
- At sporting goods stores, some discount chains, and boat docks
- By phone at 833-345-0325 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday
- Online at the AGFC website (www.agfc.com), 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
When purchasing a license online or by phone, anglers must use a credit card, and their fishing privileges become effective immediately.
In conclusion, understanding the fishing license requirements in Arkansas is crucial for anglers to enjoy the state’s abundant fishing opportunities legally and responsibly. By familiarizing themselves with the age requirements, exceptions, and purchase methods, anglers can ensure they are in compliance with AGFC regulations and contribute to the conservation of Arkansas’s valuable fisheries resources.