Arkansas offers some of the best freshwater fishing in the country, from largemouth bass in its lakes to rainbow trout in mountain streams. Before you cast your line, you need to understand the state’s licensing requirements to stay legal and avoid fines.
If you are 16 years or older, you must carry a valid Arkansas fishing license to fish in the state’s public waters. The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission manages these licenses and uses the revenue to protect fish populations and maintain waterways across the state. Different license types exist for residents and non-residents, with varying costs and privileges.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Arkansas fishing license requirements. You’ll learn which license fits your situation, how much it costs, where to buy one, and what special permits you might need for trout fishing or specific waters.
Whether you’re a lifelong resident or visiting for a weekend fishing trip, understanding these rules helps you fish with confidence.
Types of Fishing Licenses Available in Arkansas
Arkansas offers several fishing license options to meet different needs and budgets. Your choice depends on your residency status, age, and how often you plan to fish.
Resident Licenses
If you live in Arkansas, you can purchase a Resident Fisheries Conservation License for $10.50. This allows you to fish anywhere in the state with sport fishing tackle. You need to buy this license annually, and it expires on June 30 each year.
The Combination Sportsman’s License costs $35.50 and includes both hunting and fishing privileges. This option saves you money if you do both activities.
Short-Term Options
A Resident 3-Day Trip Fishing License costs $6.50 and works well for occasional anglers. Nonresidents pay $30 for the same three-day period or $60 for an annual license.
Special Permits and Lifetime Licenses
Most anglers need a trout permit to fish in certain waters or keep trout. Residents pay $10 for this permit, while nonresidents pay $20.
Arkansas residents aged 65 and older can purchase a 65-Plus Lifetime Fishing License for just $10.50. This gives you fishing privileges for life, though you still need to buy a lifetime trout permit separately for $10.
The Nonexpiring Lifetime Resident Hunting and Fishing Sportsman’s Permit costs $1,000 but waives fees for trout permits and other special permits. This license works for any age and never expires.
Youth aged 10 and younger can access a limited Natural State Lifetime Combination License for $500, providing lifetime hunting and fishing rights.
Who Needs a Fishing License in Arkansas
If you’re 16 or older, you must carry a valid fishing license to fish in Arkansas waters. This rule applies to all anglers trying to catch fish in public waters across the state.
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission enforces these requirements for both Arkansas residents and out-of-state visitors. You need a license whether you’re fishing from a boat, the shore, or a dock.
Key groups who need licenses:
- Anyone 16 years old or older
- Both residents and nonresidents
- Anglers fishing in public lakes, rivers, and streams
- People fishing for trout in designated waters
Who gets exemptions:
- Children under 16 years old
- People fishing in licensed “put-and-take” pay lakes
- Holders of certain lifetime permits
- Arkansas residents 65 and older with a lifetime license
Your regular fishing license covers basic fishing, but the AGFC requires additional permits for specific situations. You need a separate trout permit to fish in tailwaters below Beaver Lake, Bull Shoals Lake, Norfork Lake, and Greers Ferry Lake. You also need this permit to keep any trout you catch.
Arkansas residents pay $10.50 for an annual fishing license. Nonresidents pay $60.00 for the same coverage. The state offers three-day trip licenses at lower rates if you’re only visiting for a short time.
Make sure you carry your license while fishing. Game wardens can ask to see it at any time.
How to Obtain a Fishing License in Arkansas
Getting your Arkansas fishing license is simple and convenient. You can purchase it online, in person, or through authorized dealers across the state.
The easiest method is buying your license online through the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission website. You’ll need to create an account or log in if you already have one. The website walks you through selecting your license type and completing payment with a credit or debit card.
Purchase Options:
- Online – Available 24/7 through AGFC’s website
- Licensed Dealers – Sporting goods stores, bait shops, and outdoor retailers
- AGFC Regional Offices – In-person assistance available during business hours
- AGFC Nature Centers – For certain license types
If you prefer buying in person, visit any authorized dealer or AGFC office. Bring a valid photo ID to verify your residency status. Arkansas residents pay lower fees than non-residents, so proving residency saves you money.
You’ll receive your license immediately after purchase. Keep it with you whenever you fish, either as a printed copy or on your mobile device through the AGFC app.
What You’ll Need:
- Valid government-issued photo ID
- Payment method (credit card, debit card, or cash at physical locations)
- Proof of Arkansas residency (for resident rates)
- Social Security number or driver’s license number
Remember that most fishing licenses expire on June 30 each year, regardless of when you buy them. Plan your purchase timing accordingly to get the most value.
Fishing License Costs and Validity Periods in Arkansas
If you’re 16 or older, you need a valid fishing license to fish in Arkansas waters. Fishing license costs in Arkansas vary based on your residency status and the type of license you choose.
Resident License Options:
- Resident Fisheries Conservation License (FSH) – $10.50, valid through June 30
- Resident 3-Day Trip Fishing License (RT3) – $6.50 for three consecutive days
- Combination Sportsman’s License (CS) – $35.50, includes hunting and fishing privileges through June 30
- Resident Trout Permit (TPR) – $10.00, required for trout fishing in certain waters
Nonresident License Options:
- Nonresident Annual Fishing License (NRF) – $60.00
- Nonresident 3-Day Trip Fishing License (NT3) – $30.00
- Nonresident Trout Permit (TPN) – $20.00
Most annual licenses remain valid through June 30 of each year, regardless of when you purchase them. This means buying a license in May gives you less time than purchasing in July. The 3-day trip licenses work differently and cover only the specific three-day period you select.
Special License Categories:
Seniors 65 and older can purchase a 65-Plus Lifetime Fishing License for just $10.50. This one-time fee covers your basic fishing privileges for life. You still need to buy a lifetime trout permit separately if you plan to fish trout waters.
Totally disabled residents qualify for a 3-Year Disability Combination License at $35.50, which includes both hunting and fishing privileges. You need disability certification from Social Security Administration, Veteran’s Affairs, or Railroad Retirement to qualify.
