Arkansas’ modern gun deer hunting season begins Saturday

An estimated 290,000 people are expected to head into the woods this year in search of deer, marking the much-anticipated onset of Arkansas's modern gun deer hunting season this weekend. Set to commence on Saturday, November 8, this period promises to be a time of camaraderie and conservation as hunters gather for their first organized hunt of the season. The modern gun season is the latest segment in a well-structured approach to deer hunting in Arkansas. Prior to this, hunters have already harvested an impressive total of more than 47,700 deer during earlier seasons, including archery, the alternative firearms season, and last weekends youth deer hunt. With the atmosphere charged with excitement, it's notable that historically, this two-day weekend opener can see over 30,000 deer harvested. Such statistics underline the significant interest and participation from hunters across the region. As veteran and new hunters prepare to fill the camps and woods, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) anticipates that many camps will extend their festivities. This spike in activity correlates with the Veterans' Day holiday, which falls shortly after the opening weekend, enhancing the hunting experience and perhaps leading many to take advantage of a long holiday weekend. For hunters gearing up for the opener, there are important preparations to undertake. Foremost among these is ensuring that all necessary permits are in order, which includes an up-to-date hunting license. Hunters can conveniently access and download their deer tags via the AGFC's website or mobile app. New hunters, as well as youth hunters and lifetime license holders, should take extra care to verify that they have the correct documentation ready prior to the weekend. It's equally crucial for hunters to familiarize themselves with the legal requirements concerning their firearms. In certain zones, such as Deer Zones 4 and 5, and various wildlife management areas, there's a specific list of approved methods and firearms. Hunters should take time to consult the latest hunting guidebook to ensure compliance and avoid any unwanted legal complications. As regulations around hunting equipment can be nuanced, this is a point that cannot be overlooked. One emerging concern for hunters this season involves chronic wasting disease (CWD), a transmissible disease that affects deer populations. The AGFC urges hunters to check the CWD zones and utilize voluntary testing locations provided by their network. Hunters returning from these areas should be mindful of the legal stipulations regarding the transportation of harvested deer. Ensuring safety and proper procedures contribute significantly to the community's health and deer population management. Safety remains a forefront issue as the excitement of hunting the season heats up. Arkansas law mandates that all hunters and their mentors wear safety orange or chartreuse apparel, particularly important as we enter a bustling hunting season. Safety protocols should be an integral part of every hunter's preparations as they head into the field. Accidents can happen, and making safety a priority could mitigate potential mishaps. Once in the field and when success comes, hunters must remember that harvested deer need to be reported within 12 hours. The AGFC has streamlined this process to be manageable for hunters, allowing for phone, website, or app reporting. Proper tagging before transportation is critical, and education about these procedures ensures compliance with regulations while enhancing overall hunting safety. As Arkansas prepares for a busy opening weekend in the woods, its essential for all hunters to remain informed and prepared. From understanding regulations to ensuring personal safety, every step is crucial in preserving the integrity of hunter activities and wildlife conservation efforts. For invaluable updates and resources, the AGFC is a reliable partner to consider throughout the hunting season.