Also known as: Wapiti, American elk
Elk were historically native to Arkansas but were extirpated by the 1840s. In 1981, the AGFC reintroduced 112 elk from Colorado and Nebraska to the Buffalo River area in Newton County. The herd has grown to approximately 600 animals. Arkansas elk hunting is highly restricted, with only 18 public land permits issued annually through a drawing. Arkansas is one of the few eastern states with a huntable elk population.
Hunting Season
Core Zone Public Land (drawing permit): Youth Oct 3โ4 & Oct 24โ25, 2026; Regular Oct 5โ9 & Oct 26โ30, 2025. Core Zone Private Land: Same dates, private land permits available after May 15. Outside Core Zone: incidental harvest during deer season with deer-legal weapons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Regulations for hunting Elk in Arkansas
Arkansas elk hunting is highly restricted. Public land hunts are by drawing permit only (apply May 1 โ June 1). Only 18 public land permits issued annually. Private land permits available for purchase from participating landowners. A Core Zone and an outside-Core Zone exist; elk taken outside the Core Zone may be harvested during deer season without a special permit. CWD testing is mandatory for all harvested elk. Nonresidents are ineligible for public land permits.
When is Elk hunting season in Arkansas?
Core Zone Public Land (drawing permit): Youth Oct 3โ4 & Oct 24โ25, 2026; Regular Oct 5โ9 & Oct 26โ30, 2025. Core Zone Private Land: Same dates, private land permits available after May 15. Outside Core Zone: incidental harvest during deer season with deer-legal weapons.
What is the bag limit for Elk in Arkansas?
1 elk per year, either sex. Very limited drawing permits on public land (18 total). Private land quota: 6 bulls and 12 antlerless for 2025.
What's another name for Elk?
Elk is also known as Wapiti, American elk in Arkansas.
References
| State | Category | Directory | Subcategory | Content | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas | Hunting | Regulations | Season Dates | Core Zone Public Land (drawing permit): Youth Oct 3โ4 & Oct 24โ25, 2026; Regular Oct 5โ9 & Oct 26โ30, 2025. Core Zone Pr | Link |
| Arkansas | Hunting | Regulations | Regulations | Arkansas elk hunting is highly restricted. Public land hunts are by drawing permit only (apply May 1 โ June 1). Only 18 | Link |
