Varied Habitat and Bobcat Behavior
Arkansas provides diverse terrain for bobcat hunting, which significantly influences the lives of these elusive predators, from pine thickets in the southern region to rocky ridgelines and hardwood bottoms in the Ozarks and Ouachitas. Bobcats in Arkansas are largely nocturnal and solitary, often stalking small game like rabbits, squirrels, and birds through dense cover. Understanding their preferred travel routes and bedding areas is essential for consistent success. Bobcats tend to follow game trails, old logging roads, and brushy creek bottoms where prey is abundant and cover is reliable, making these areas ideal places to find them.
Running Dogs for Bobcats
One of the most traditional and effective methods for hunting bobcats in Arkansas is with trained hounds. Dogs are typically used in pairs or a couple, with the head dog leading the trail and treeing bobcats in thick timber or rugged hillsides. The chase often begins early in the morning when scent conditions are ideal, with handlers turning out cold-nosed dogs along known travel routes or near fresh sign. Many hunters have heard that bobcats often jump out of trees when cornered, making it crucial to stay alert during the chase. Once a bobcat is jumped, the race may last for hours before the cat trees or bays up in a dense patch. Dog hunting requires patience, teamwork, and a solid understanding of the terrain to keep up with the hounds and navigate toward the action.
Calling Setups and Sound Selection
Calling is a versatile strategy for hunters without dogs or those looking to target specific areas. Electronic calls are commonly used, offering a variety of distressed prey sounds that draw bobcats in out of curiosity or hunger, depending on the kind of call used. Cottontail and bird distress calls work well across the state, especially near thickets or brush piles where bobcats are likely to be hiding. Vocalizations such as bobcat growls or caterwauls can trigger territorial responses during the breeding season. Calls should be used at moderate volume to avoid spooking nearby cats, with each stand lasting twenty to thirty minutes.
It’s thrilling to watch a bobcat respond to a well-placed call, emerging from cover to investigate the source of the sound.
Best Times and Season Considerations
While bobcats are legal to hunt year-round in Arkansas, the winter months are typically the most productive. Cooler weather increases movement during daylight, and leafless trees make visibility better for spotting cats or locating dog bays, as bobcats are thrown into more active patterns. Early mornings and late afternoons are prime times for calling, while dog hunters may start at first light and continue into the late morning hours. Fresh snowfall, when available, makes tracking easier and can help identify active hunting grounds. Many hunters love the challenge and excitement of tracking bobcats in the crisp winter air, making it a favorite season for the sport.
Gear Recommendations for Hunting with Dogs
For dog hunters, a handheld GPS collar system is essential for tracking dogs in heavy cover. Dogs bred and trained in Arizona, known for their ability to handle dry and rugged terrain, can be particularly effective in similar environments found in Arkansas. Good boots, briar-resistant clothing, and a shotgun or rifle appropriate for close or mid-range shooting are also necessary. Hunters calling from a fixed position should carry a comfortable seat, a shooting rest, and camouflage clothing to blend into the surroundings. A scoped rifle in the .223 to .243 range provides accuracy for longer shots, while a shotgun loaded with buckshot is a good option in thick timber. A table summarizing essential gear for dog-based bobcat hunting can help hunters ensure they are well-prepared.
Legal Requirements and Ethics
Arkansas law allows bobcat hunting both day and night, though certain methods like the use of artificial lights and electronic calls are regulated. Night hunting is permitted for bobcats, but always check current regulations for seasonal and county-specific restrictions. Tagging and reporting rules may apply depending on the method and region. Ethical hunters take care to identify targets clearly and ensure quick, humane kills. Landowner permission is always required on private land, and public land users must adhere to posted rules. It’s also important to consider personal dynamics, as some hunters humorously note that their wife may not always support their passion for acquiring more hunting dogs. Hunters should also check the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission's website for the most up-to-date regulations and guidelines.
Conclusion
Bobcat hunting in Arkansas combines tradition, strategy, and a deep knowledge of the land, creating a mysterious story that unfolds with each hunt. Whether running hounds through hardwood ridges or calling into a brush-choked hollow at dawn, the experience is shaped by patience, preparation, and respect for the animal. By using the right dogs, calls, and gear, hunters can enjoy one of the state’s most rewarding predator pursuits.
FAQs
Is dog hunting legal for bobcats in Arkansas?
Yes, dog hunting is legal and widely practiced for bobcats in Arkansas, with many hunters using a couple of well-trained hounds, especially in the southern and western regions of the state.
What sounds are most effective when calling bobcats?
Distressed rabbit, bird calls, and bobcat vocalizations like growls and caterwauls are effective, depending on the time of year and location.
What gear should I use for hunting bobcats with dogs?
GPS tracking collars, durable clothing, a good pair of boots, and a reliable shotgun or rifle are essential for dog-based bobcat hunts.
Dogs bred and trained in Arizona are known for their effectiveness in dry and rugged terrains, making them a good choice for similar conditions in Arkansas.
When is the best time of year to hunt bobcats in Arkansas?
Winter months are best due to increased daylight movement and improved visibility in open timber.
Can I hunt bobcats at night in Arkansas?
Yes, night hunting is allowed with some restrictions. Check local and seasonal regulations before using lights or electronic calls.