Introduction to Upland Hunting
Upland hunting in Arkansas is a thrilling experience, offering a diverse range of game birds, including quail, pheasant, and dove. The state’s unique landscape, with its rolling hills, hardwood forests, and agricultural fields, provides the perfect habitat for upland game birds. For those interested in quail hunting, Arkansas is renowned for its Northern bobwhite quail populations, making it a paradise for upland hunters. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just starting out, Arkansas has something to offer, from guided afternoon hunts to self-guided adventures on public lands. With its rich tradition of hunting and conservation, Arkansas is the perfect destination for those looking to experience the thrill of upland bird hunting.
Arkansas’s Upland Game Bird Habitat
Arkansas may be best known for its duck hunting, but the state also has opportunities for upland bird hunters willing to explore specific regions. Carroll's hunts offer a nostalgic revival of traditional quail hunting practices, emphasizing the expertise and experience of guides like Carroll Evans. Bobwhite quail are the primary target, with small, localized populations found across various habitats. Pheasant hunting is limited and mostly tied to specific areas or programs. While Arkansas doesn’t rival the Great Plains for numbers, it does offer a traditional hunting experience, particularly for quail hunters chasing coveys in piney woods, grasslands, and farm edges, where they can shoot birds and enjoy the camaraderie among fellow hunters.
Bobwhite Quail in Arkansas
Quail populations in Arkansas are centered in areas where habitat management has been a priority. These birds require a mix of native grasses, shrubby cover, and open space to thrive. Private properties that are specifically managed for bobwhite quail hunting also play a crucial role in supporting quail populations, often reporting stable or increasing numbers. Prescribed fire, rotational grazing, and fallow field management play key roles in maintaining suitable conditions. The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission has focused efforts on a handful of Wildlife Management Areas that emphasize upland habitat, making them the most reliable locations for quail hunters. Effective habitat management is essential for sustaining upland bird populations, ensuring that species like quail can continue to thrive.
Limited Pheasant Opportunities
Pheasant hunting in Arkansas is not widespread. The release of several thousand game birds each year is part of the hunting services, emphasizing the variety and quality of birds available for hunting. Some birds may be found in the northeastern agricultural zones, but populations are small and inconsistent. Pheasant hunting is primarily supported through occasional controlled hunts or released-bird opportunities. These events are often tied to youth hunts or special permit programs and are not a consistent, statewide option. Bird processing is included in these hunting packages, ensuring a convenient and enjoyable experience for hunters.
Best Areas for Upland Hunting in Arkansas
Gulf Coastal Plain
Counties in southern Arkansas, including Union, Columbia, and Ouachita, offer some of the best remaining quail habitat. National forests in these regions also provide ideal hunting opportunities due to their accessibility and management for upland bird populations. WMAs like Felsenthal and Poison Springs have management plans that include prescribed burning and pine thinning to support quail populations. These areas offer enough room to hunt effectively and may provide covey encounters with time and effort. Additionally, the extensive areas available for public deer hunting in Arkansas enhance the outdoor recreational opportunities, attracting hunters to the natural landscapes and amenities.
Crowley’s Ridge and Delta Edge
This unique geological region offers upland hunting near farmland and forest interfaces. Wildlife resources play a crucial role in managing these hunting areas to ensure the sustainability of various wildlife populations. While not a traditional stronghold for quail, select tracts within public lands like St. Francis National Forest or some smaller WMAs can produce birds where cover is managed properly, promoting sustainable populations.
Ozark Highlands
Parts of the Ozark region offer quail opportunities in open glades and edges where woodland thinning has created usable space. The region also boasts expansive upland hunting grounds, featuring varied landscapes ideal for hunting upland game birds like quail and pheasants. Modern fire management and conservation partnerships have helped return some of this habitat to conditions favorable for bobwhite. Look at places like the Harold Alexander Spring River WMA for potential cover and wild bird hunting experiences in natural settings.
Bird Hunting Regulations
Before heading out on your upland bird hunting adventure in Arkansas, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the state’s bird hunting regulations. The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) sets bag limits, hunting seasons, and permit requirements to ensure sustainable populations of upland game birds. Quail season typically runs from mid-November through February, while dove season begins in early September and often runs through late October. Pheasant hunting is available primarily on game preserves or managed properties. It’s crucial to check the AGFC website for the latest updates on hunting regulations, including permit requirements and bag limits, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable hunting experience. Additionally, hunters must comply with all regulations and guidelines to ensure sustainable hunting practices and maintain healthy bird populations.
Tips for Success in Arkansas’s Upland Fields
Know the Habitat
Upland birds in Arkansas are found where land is actively managed for them. Private lands play a crucial role in supporting upland bird populations. Focus on fields with native grasses, shrub edges, and open pine stands. Avoid dense forests or monoculture farmland with no transitional habitat. Well-managed properties are essential for maintaining suitable habitats for these birds.
Work With a Dog
A pointing or flushing dog increases your odds, especially in broken cover and less densely populated areas. Flight conditioned birds play a crucial role in enhancing the hunting experience by providing strong flyers for both hunting and dog training programs. Birds can be scattered, and a dog’s nose will often find what your eyes miss. Using your own dogs, which are well-trained, can significantly improve your success in various hunting scenarios.
Prepare for Varied Conditions
Expect everything from sandy pine woods to thickets and rolling pasture. Knowing the hunting season dates for different species is crucial for planning your upland bird hunting trips. Wear durable boots, blaze orange, and lightweight clothing for long walks. A 20-gauge shotgun with open chokes is well-suited for close-flushing quail. Understanding the local hunting regulations, including the bag limit, is essential for a successful and legal hunt.
Hunting Club Benefits and Membership
Joining a hunting club in Arkansas can be a great way to enhance your upland bird hunting experience. Many clubs offer guided hunts, access to private lands, and a community of like-minded hunters. Clubs like Casscoe Quail Hunting Club and Halls Quail Preserve provide members with access to well-managed habitats, quality dogs, and experienced guides. Membership benefits often include priority access to hunting areas, discounted rates for guided hunts, and opportunities to connect with other hunters. Some clubs, like Kidd’s Gamebirds at Cottonwood Ranch, also offer unguided hunts and the option to bring your own dogs. By joining a hunting club, you can experience the best of Arkansas’ upland bird hunting while supporting conservation efforts and promoting sustainable hunting practices. Whether you’re looking for a guided quail hunt or a self-guided adventure on private land, a hunting club membership can be a valuable investment for any upland hunter.
Conclusion
Arkansas may not be a top-tier destination for upland birds, but it holds value for those seeking solitude, tradition, and the challenge of finding birds in wilder country. With strategic habitat management underway and ongoing conservation efforts, the state continues to offer meaningful quail hunting experiences. For hunters willing to walk and explore, Arkansas still has room for covey rises and satisfying days in the field.
FAQs
What upland birds can I hunt in Arkansas?
Bobwhite quail are the main species. Hunters can also enjoy the thrill of pursuing wild birds across a variety of terrains, offering diverse and exciting experiences. Pheasant opportunities are limited and typically restricted to special hunts, but the upland quail pheasant hunting experiences in Arkansas provide a unique and thrilling adventure.
When does upland bird season open in Arkansas?
The season usually runs from November through February, but check current regulations for exact dates.
Knowing the hunting seasons is crucial, as different species have specific season dates that hunters must be aware of.
For example, quail season typically falls within this period, so make sure to verify the exact timing for quail hunting.
Are there wild pheasants in Arkansas?
Wild pheasant numbers are minimal. Wild bird hunting in Arkansas offers guided experiences in natural settings, including hills and woods, where hunters can pursue quail and pheasant. Most pheasant hunting is through controlled or released hunts.
Where are the best places to hunt quail?
The Gulf Coastal Plain and certain WMAs like Felsenthal, Poison Springs, and Harold Alexander Spring River offer the best managed habitat. Prime locations in these areas are crucial for upland bird hunting, with specific counties and habitats providing the best opportunities for hunters. These prime locations are significant due to the terrain and vegetation, which determine hunting success.
Wildlife management areas like Felsenthal, Poison Springs, and Harold Alexander Spring River emphasize the importance of habitat management for successful quail hunting.
Can I hunt upland birds on public land?
Yes. Several WMAs and national forest areas offer upland bird hunting, especially where habitat is actively managed. National forests provide excellent hunting opportunities due to their accessibility and management for upland bird populations, making them ideal habitats for quail hunting.
Public lands, including WMAs and national forests, offer extensive areas for hunters to explore and find success.
Do I need a dog to hunt quail?
Not required, but a trained dog improves your chances of locating scattered coveys in large areas. Quality dogs are essential as well-trained dogs significantly enhance the hunting experience.
Using a dog is especially important during guided quail hunts, as they can efficiently locate and retrieve birds.
What kind of shotgun should I use?
A 20-gauge with improved cylinder or modified choke is a solid choice for quail. A 20-gauge shotgun is particularly suitable for quail hunting due to its balance of power and ease of handling.
Using the right hunting gear, including a well-chosen shotgun, is crucial for a successful quail hunt.
Are there any upland restoration efforts in Arkansas?
Yes. The state has several habitat restoration projects aimed at improving conditions for bobwhite quail. Wildlife resources play a crucial role in managing hunting areas to ensure sustainable practices.
These efforts are part of a broader strategy that includes habitat management to promote responsible hunting practices.
Can non-residents hunt upland birds in Arkansas?
Yes. Understanding local regulations and permit requirements is crucial for a successful hunting experience. Non-residents can purchase the required licenses and hunt all open public lands.
What kind of terrain should I expect?
Terrain ranges from pine woods and glades to farmland edges and brushy thickets depending on the region.