Hunting And Outdoor Sports
Early Buck Only Hunt Offers Head Start to Deer Hunting Season
Arkansas Hosts Early Buck-Only Hunt as Deer Season Approaches
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✍️By ZRIntel Editorial Team📍Arkansas, United States
As the fall hunting season approaches, Arkansas hunters are gearing up for the states second annual Early Buck-Only Hunt, scheduled for September 6-8, 2025. This limited three-day event, often referred to as the 'velvet hunt,' offers archery hunters a head start in harvesting deer before the soft coating of velvet is rubbed from their antlers. The early hunt targets only male deer, commonly known as bucks, and allows hunters to take advantage of the fact that many of the deer will still have their velvet-covered antlers. Velvet is the soft, furry coating that covers the antlers while they are still growing, providing an excellent opportunity for hunters seeking a unique trophy. Ralph Meeker, the Deer Program Coordinator for the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC), highlighted the significance of the event. 'The velvet hunt is a unique opportunity to harvest a buck before the antlers harden, and it draws significant interest from both experienced hunters and those new to the sport,' he said. The event is open to archery hunters across private lands and AGFC-managed wildlife management areas (WMAs), though it is not permitted on federal lands such as those managed by the U.S. Forest Service or U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. While some deer may have already shed their velvet by the time the hunt begins, many will still carry it, making it an exciting opportunity for those seeking to harvest a buck in its prime. Arkansas hunters looking to participate in the Early Buck-Only Hunt are required to have a valid hunting license with a deer tag. Unlike regular hunting seasons, where multiple deer may be harvested, the Early Buck-Only Hunt is focused solely on antlered bucks, and hunters must follow the specific regulations set by the AGFC. One of the key aspects of the hunt is its emphasis on preserving the quality of the deer herd. By offering this special early season, the AGFC aims to manage the deer population and ensure a healthy balance in the states ecosystems. The velvet-covered antlers, often regarded as a unique feature, make for a special hunting experience, as hunters have the chance to capture an image of the deer before it fully matures and loses its velvet. In addition to the thrill of the hunt, participants are reminded to be mindful of the environment. Due to the high temperatures and presence of insects, including mosquitoes, ticks, and chiggers, hunters should take precautions to protect themselves and their gear. Thermacell units, mesh suits, and permethrin-treated clothing are highly recommended for those heading into the woods during this time. Field care is another important consideration for hunters during the early season. Given the warmer weather, its critical that hunters quickly cool any harvested deer to preserve the meat. This can be done by using a cooler full of ice, a game cart, or an ATV for transport. Additionally, hunters hoping to mount a velvet-antlered buck should be careful not to drag the animal, as this could damage the antlers. Instead, hunters should use breathable bags to protect the velvet until they can reach a taxidermist.