The following refuge units have been opened for hunting and/or fishing, and are listed in alphabetical order with applicable refuge-specific regulations.
Bald Knob National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of duck, goose, coot, snipe, woodcock, and dove on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. We require refuge hunting permits. The permits (found on the front cover of the annual hunt brochure/permit--signature required) are nontransferable, and anyone on refuge land in possession of hunting equipment must sign, possess, and carry the permits at all times.
2. We prohibit migratory game bird hunting in the Farm Unit during the Quota Gun Deer Hunt.
3. With the exception of hunting for woodcock, we prohibit migratory game bird hunting after 12 p.m. (noon) during the regular State waterfowl hunting season.
4. We allow hunting for woodcock daily throughout the State seasons.
5. We prohibit commercial hunting/guiding.
6. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot shells for hunting while in the field (see Sec. 32.2(k)) in quantities of 25 or fewer. The possession limit includes shells located in/on vehicles and other personal equipment. The field possession limit for shells does not apply to goose hunting during the State Conservation Order.
7. We prohibit hunting closer than 100 yards (90 m) to another hunter or hunting party.
8. You must remove decoys, blinds, boats, and all other equipment (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter) daily by 1 p.m.
9. Waterfowl hunters may enter the refuge at 4 a.m.
10. Boats with the owner's name and address permanently displayed or displaying valid registration may be left on the refuge from March 1 through October 31. We prohibit the use of boats from 12 a.m. (midnight) to 4 a.m. during duck season.
11. Hunters may use and possess only biodegradable materials to mark trails.
12. We prohibit building or hunting from permanent blinds. We prohibit driving or screwing any metal object into a tree or hunting from a tree in which a metal object has been driven or screwed to support a hunter (see Sec. 32.2(i)).
13. We prohibit cutting of holes or manipulation of vegetation (i.e., cutting bushes, mowing, weed-eating, herbicide use, etc.) and hunting from manipulated areas (see Sec. 27.51 of this chapter).
14. We allow use of dogs for migratory game bird hunting.
15. We allow waterfowl hunting from refuge roads and levees.
16. Any hunter born after 1968 must carry a valid hunter education card. An adult at least age 21 must supervise hunters under age 16 and remain within sight and normal voice contact with the youth. Hunters under age 16 do not need to have a hunter education card if they are under the direct supervision (within arm's reach) of an adult (at least age 21) holder of a valid hunting license. An adult may supervise up to two youths for migratory bird and upland game hunting but may supervise only one youth for big game hunting. We will honor home State hunter education cards.
17. We prohibit target practice or nonhunting discharge of firearms (see Sec. 27.42 of this chapter).
18. We allow vehicle use only on established roads and trails (see Sec. 27.31 of this chapter). We limit vehicle access on the Mingo Creek unit to ATV use only, only on marked ATV trails, September 1 through February 28, and only to provide access for hunting beyond Parking Areas. Hunters may use conventional vehicles on the Farm Unit from March 1 through November 14 only. Hunters may only use ATVs from September 1 through February 28 and only to provide access for hunting beyond Parking Areas. We prohibit driving around a locked gate, barrier, or beyond a sign closing a road to vehicular traffic (see Sec. 27.31 of this chapter).
19. We prohibit entry into or hunting in waterfowl sanctuaries from November 15 through February 28.
20. Hunters must adhere to all public use special conditions and regulations on the annual hunt brochure/permit.
21. We prohibit airboats, hovercraft, and personal watercraft (Jet Ski, etc.).
22. We prohibit the possession or use of alcoholic beverages while hunting (see Sec. 32.2(j)) and open alcohol containers on refuge roads, all-terrain vehicles (ATV) trails, boat ramps, observation platforms, and parking areas.
23. We prohibit loaded hunting firearms or muzzleloaders in or on a vehicle, ATV, or boat while under power (see Sec. 27.42(b) of this chapter). We define ``loaded'' as shells in the firearm or ignition device on the muzzleloader.
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of squirrel, rabbit, quail, raccoon, opossum, beaver, muskrat, nutria, armadillo, and coyote on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following special conditions:
1. Conditions A1, A6, A11 through A13, and A17 through A23 apply.
2. Hunters may use shotguns only with approved nontoxic shot (see Sec. 32.2(k)) and rifles chambered for rimfire cartridges.
3. We allow squirrel hunting September 1 through February 28 on the Mingo Creek Unit and on the Farm Unit, except for season closure on the Farm Unit during the Quota Gun Deer Hunt. We allow dogs.
4. We allow rabbit hunting in accordance with the State season on the Mingo Creek Unit and on the Farm Unit, except for season closure on the Farm Unit during the Quota Gun Deer Hunt. We allow dogs.
5. We allow quail hunting in accordance with the State season except for season closure on the Farm Unit during the Quota Gun Deer Hunt. We allow dogs.
6. We allow hunting of raccoon and opossum with dogs on all refuge hunt units. We require dogs for hunting of raccoon/opossum at night. We list annual season dates in the refuge hunting brochure/permit. We prohibit field trials and organized training events.
7. We prohibit the use of horses and mules.
8. Hunters may take beaver, muskrat, nutria, armadillo, and coyote during any refuge hunt with those weapons legal during those hunts, subject to State seasons.
9. We prohibit hunting from refuge roads except by waterfowl hunters.
10. We prohibit hunting from a vehicle.
11. We limit nighttime use to fishing, frogging, and/or raccoon/opossum hunting, and the angler or hunter must possess the appropriate tackle or gear.
12. We prohibit transportation, possession, or release of live hog on the refuge.
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of deer, feral hog, and turkey on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A1, A6, A11 through A13, A17 through A23, and B8 through B12 apply.
2. We divide the refuge into two hunting units: Farm Unit and Mingo Creek Unit.
3. The archery/crossbow hunting season for deer begins on the opening day of the State season and continues throughout the State season in the Mingo Creek Unit and Farm Unit except for the season closure on the Farm Unit during the Quota Gun Deer Hunt. We provide annual season dates and bag limits on the hunt brochure/permit (signature required).
4. Muzzleloader hunting season for deer will begin in October and continue for a period of up to 9 days in all hunting units with annual season dates and bag limits provided on the hunt brochure/permit.
5. The modern gun hunting season for deer will begin in November and continue for a period of up to 9 days on the Farm Unit with annual season dates and bag limits provided on the hunt brochure/permit. We close the Mingo Creek Unit.
6. You may take feral hog during the refuge muzzleloader or Quota Gun Deer Hunt with those weapons legal during those hunts.
7. The fall archery/crossbow hunting season for turkey will begin on the opening day of the State season and continue throughout the State season on the Mingo Creek Unit only.
8. We prohibit spring and fall gun hunting for turkey.
9. Immediately record the zone 002 on your hunting license and check all harvested game according to State regulations.
10. You may use only shotguns with rifled slugs, muzzleloaders, and legal pistols for modern gun deer hunting.
11. We allow only portable deer stands capable of being carried in their entirety by a single individual. Hunters may erect stands 7 days prior to the refuge deer season and must remove them from the waterfowl sanctuaries prior to November 15, except for stands used by Quota Gun Deer Hunt permit holders (signature required), which hunters must remove by the last day of the Quota Gun Deer Hunt. Hunters must remove all stands on the remainder of the refuge within 7 days of the closure of archery season (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter). Hunters must permanently affix the owner's name and address to their deer stands on the refuge.
12. We prohibit hunting from a vehicle or use of a vehicle as a deer stand.
13. We prohibit the use of dogs.
14. We prohibit the possession or use of buckshot for hunting on all refuge lands.
15. We prohibit hunting from mowed and/or graveled road right-of-ways.
16. Refuge lands are located in State-designated Flood Prone Region B, and we will close them to all deer hunting when the White River Gauge at Augusta reaches 31 feet (9.3 m), as reported by the National Weather Service at http://www.srh.noaa.gov/data/LZK/RVSLZK and reopen them when the same gauge reading falls below 30 feet (9.1 m) and the White River Gauge at Georgetown falls to, or below, 19 feet (5.7 m).
17. We allow only Quota Gun Deer Hunt permit holders on the Farm Unit during the Quota Gun Deer Hunt and only for the purposes of deer hunting. We close the refuge to all other entry and public use during the Quota Gun Deer Hunt.
18. We close waterfowl sanctuaries to all entry and hunting from November 15 to February 28, except for Quota Gun Deer Hunt permit holders who may hunt in the sanctuary when the season overlaps with these dates.
D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing and frogging in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A11, A19 through A23, B11, and C18 apply.
2. We close waterfowl sanctuaries to all entry and fishing/frogging from November 15 to February 28. We also close the Farm Unit to all entry and fishing during the Quota Gun Deer Hunt.
3. We prohibit commercial fishing.
4. We prohibit the take or possession of turtles and/or mollusks (see Sec. 27.21 of this chapter).
5. We prohibit mooring houseboats to the refuge bank on the Little Red River.
Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. [Reserved]
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of squirrel, rabbit, raccoon, nutria, coyote, beaver, and opossum on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. We require refuge hunt permits. The permits (found on the front cover of the annual hunt brochure/permit--signature required) are nontransferable and anyone on refuge land in possession of hunting equipment must sign and carry the permit at all times.
2. We provide annual season dates for squirrel, rabbit, raccoon, and opossum hunting in the refuge hunting brochure/permit.
3. We allow take of nutria, beaver, and coyote during any refuge hunt with the device allowed for that hunt subject to State seasons.
4. Any hunter born after 1968 must carry a valid hunter education card. An adult age 21 or older must supervise and remain within sight and normal voice contact with hunters under age 16 who have a valid hunter education card. Hunters under age 16 do not need to have a card if they are under the direct supervision (within arm's reach) of an adult (age 21 or older) holder of a valid hunting license. An adult may supervise up to two youths for upland game hunting but may supervise only one youth for big game hunting. We will honor home State hunter education cards.
5. We prohibit target practice or any nonhunting discharge of firearms (see Sec. 27.42 of this chapter).
6. You may take opossum when hunting raccoon.
7. We require dogs for night hunting of raccoon and opossum. We prohibit field trials and organized training events.
8. When hunting, you may only use shotguns with approved nontoxic shot (see Sec. 32.2(k)) and rifles chambered for rimfire cartridges.
9. We prohibit boats from November 1 through February 28, except on that portion of the refuge open for public fishing with electric motors and Ditch 28.
10. We prohibit hunting from mowed and/or gravel road right-of-ways.
11. We prohibit ATVs (see Sec. 27.31(f) of this chapter).
12. We prohibit horses and mules.
13. We limit nighttime use to fishing, frogging, and/or raccoon/opossum hunting, and the angler or hunter must possess the appropriate tackle or gear.
14. We prohibit driving around a locked gate, barrier, or beyond a sign closing a road to vehicular traffic (see Sec. 27.31 of this chapter).
15. We prohibit the possession or use of alcoholic beverages while hunting (see Sec. 32.2(j)) or open alcohol containers on refuge roads, all-terrain vehicles (ATV) trails, boat ramps, parking areas, fishing piers, observation decks, and photo blinds.
16. You must adhere to all public use special conditions and regulations on the annual hunt brochure/permit.
17. We prohibit loaded hunting firearms or muzzleloaders in or on a vehicle, ATV, or boat while under power (see Sec. 27.42(b) of this chapter). We define ``loaded'' as shells in the firearm or ignition device on the muzzleloader.
18. We prohibit transportation, possession, or release of live hog on the refuge.
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions B1, B3 through B5, and B9 through B18 apply.
2. We allow archery/crossbow hunting for white-tailed deer. We provide annual season dates in the hunt brochure/permit.
3. Hunters may use only bows or crossbows.
4. We prohibit dogs.
5. Hunters may possess or use only biodegradable materials to mark trails.
6. Upon harvest of deer, hunters must immediately record the deer zone 030 on their license and later on official check station records.
7. We allow only portable deer stands capable of being carried in their entirety by a single individual. Hunters may erect stands 7 days prior to the refuge deer season and must remove them within 7 days of the closure of archery season (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter). Hunters must permanently affix the owner's name and address to stands on the refuge.
8. We prohibit driving metal or other objects into trees or hunting from trees in which objects have been driven (see Sec. 32.2(i)).
9. We prohibit cutting, pruning, or trimming vegetation (see Sec. 27.51 of this chapter).
10. We prohibit target practice or any nonhunting discharge of firearms (see Sec. 27.42 of this chapter).
11. Hunters may enter the refuge no earlier than 4 a.m.
D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing and frogging on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions B9 and B11 through B17 apply.
2. Anglers may launch boats only in designated areas.
3. We prohibit airboats, personal watercraft, Jet Skis, and hovercraft (see Sec. 27.31 of this chapter).
4. We allow frogging from the beginning of the State frogging season through October 31.
5. We allow the take of largemouth bass in accordance with State regulations.
6. We prohibit the take or possession of turtles and/or mollusks (see Sec. 27.21 of this chapter).
7. We require a Special Use Permit (FWS Form 3-1383) for all commercial fishing activities on the refuge.
Cache River National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of duck, goose, coot, snipe, woodcock, and dove on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. We require refuge hunting permits. These permits (found on the front cover of the annual hunt brochure/permit--signature required) are nontransferable, and anyone on the refuge in possession of hunting equipment must sign and carry the permit at all times.
2. We prohibit migratory game bird hunting in the Farm Unit during the Quota Gun Deer Hunt.
3. With the exception of hunting for woodcock, we prohibit migratory game bird hunting after 12 p.m. (noon) during the regular State waterfowl hunting season.
4. We allow hunting for woodcock daily throughout the State seasons.
5. We prohibit commercial hunting and/or guiding.
6. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while hunting in the field (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
7. You must remove decoys, blinds, boats, and all other equipment (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter) daily by 1 p.m.
8. Waterfowl hunters may enter the refuge at 4 a.m.
9. Boats with the owner's name and address permanently displayed or displaying valid registration may be left on the refuge from March 1 through October 31. We prohibit boats on the refuge from 12 a.m. (midnight) to 4 a.m. during duck season.
10. Hunters may possess or use only biodegradable materials to mark trails.
11. We prohibit building or hunting from permanent blinds. We prohibit driving or screwing any metal object into a tree or hunting from a tree in which a metal object has been driven or screwed to support a hunter (see Sec. 32.2(i)).
12. We prohibit cutting of holes or other manipulation of vegetation (e.g., cutting bushes, mowing, weed-eating, herbicide use, and other actions) or hunting from manipulated areas (see Sec. 27.51 of this chapter).
13. We allow use of dogs for migratory game bird hunting.
14. We allow waterfowl hunting on flooded refuge roads.
15. Any hunter born after 1968 must carry a valid hunter education card. An adult at least age 21 must supervise and remain within sight and normal voice contact with hunters younger than age 16 who have a valid hunter education card. Hunters younger than age 16 do not need to have a card if they are under the direct supervision (within arm's reach) of a holder of a valid hunting license of at least age 21. An adult may supervise up to two youths for migratory bird and upland game hunting but may supervise only one youth for big game hunting. We will honor home State hunter education cards.
16. We prohibit target practice or any nonhunting discharge of firearms (see Sec. 27.42 of this chapter).
17. We prohibit ATVs except from September 1 through February 28, on designated roads, trails, or established parking areas, and only to provide access for hunting. We prohibit driving around a locked gate, barrier, or beyond a sign closing a road to vehicular traffic (see Sec. 27.31 of this chapter).
18. We prohibit entry into or hunting in waterfowl sanctuaries from November 15 through February 28.
19. You must adhere to all public use special conditions and regulations on the annual hunt brochure/permit.
20. We close all other hunts during the Quota Gun Deer Hunt. We allow only Quota Gun Deer Hunt permit (signature only required) holders to enter the refuge during this hunt and only for the purpose of deer hunting.
21. We prohibit airboats, hovercraft, and personal watercraft (Jet Ski, etc.) (see Sec. 27.31 of this chapter).
22. We prohibit the possession or use of alcoholic beverages while hunting (see Sec. 32.2(j)) or open alcohol containers on refuge roads, all-terrain vehicles (ATV) trails, boat ramps, observation platforms, and parking areas.
23. We prohibit loaded hunting firearms or muzzleloaders in or on a vehicle, ATV, or boat while under power (see Sec. 27.42(b) of this chapter). We define ``loaded'' as shells in the firearm or ignition device on the muzzleloader.
24. We prohibit vehicles and ATVs to be left unattended overnight.
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of squirrel, rabbit, quail, raccoon, opossum, beaver, muskrat, nutria, armadillo, and coyote on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A1, A6, A10 through A12, and A16 through A24 apply.
2. We allow squirrel hunting September 1 through February 28 except for refuge-wide season closure during the Quota Gun Deer Hunt. We allow dogs.
3. Rabbit season corresponds with the State season except for refuge-wide season closure during the Quota Gun Deer Hunt. We allow dogs.
4. Quail season corresponds with the State season except for refuge-wide season closure during the Quota Gun Deer Hunt. We allow dogs.
5. We allow hunting of raccoon and opossum with dogs. We require dogs for hunting of raccoon/opossum at night. We provide annual season dates in the refuge hunting brochure/permit. We prohibit field trials and organized training events.
6. We prohibit horses and mules.
7. You may take beaver, muskrat, nutria, armadillo, and coyote during any refuge hunt with those weapons legal during those hunts.
8. We prohibit hunting from mowed and/or graveled refuge roads except by waterfowl hunters during flooded conditions.
9. We prohibit hunting from a vehicle.
10. You may use only shotguns with approved nontoxic shot (see Sec. 32.2(k)) and rifles chambered for rimfire cartridges when hunting.
11. We limit nighttime use to fishing, frogging, and/or raccoon/opossum hunting, and the angler or hunter must possess appropriate tackle or gear.
12. We prohibit transportation, possession, or release of live hog on the refuge.
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of deer, feral hog, and turkey on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A1, A6, A10 through A12, A16 through A24, B6 through B9, B11, and B12 apply.
2. Archery/crossbow hunting season for deer begins on the opening day of the State season and continues throughout the State season except for refuge-wide season closure during the Quota Gun Deer Hunt. We provide annual season dates and bag limits in the refuge hunting brochure/permit.
3. Muzzleloader hunting season for deer will begin in October and will continue for a period of up to 9 days with annual season dates and bag limits provided on the hunt brochure/permit.
4. Modern gun deer hunting will begin in November and continue for a period of up to 11 days with annual season dates and bag limits provided in the refuge hunt brochure/permit.
5. You may take feral hog during refuge muzzleloader or Quota Gun Deer Hunt with those weapons legal during those hunts.
6. The fall archery/crossbow hunting season for turkey will begin on the opening day of the State season and continue throughout the State season on refuge lands that are located within the State fall archery/crossbow turkey zone except for refuge-wide season closure during the Quota Gun Deer Hunt. We do not open for fall gun hunting for turkeys.
7. The spring gun hunt for turkey will begin on the opening day of the State season and continue throughout the State season on all refuge lands located south of Interstate 40. The remainder of the refuge is closed with the exception of those refuge lands included in the combined Black Swamp Wildlife Management Area/Cache River National Wildlife Refuge quota permit hunts administered by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.
8. Immediately record the zone 095 on your hunting license and check all harvested game according to State regulations.
9. Hunters may only use shotguns with rifled slugs, muzzleloaders, or legal pistols for modern gun deer hunting on the Dixie Farm Unit Waterfowl Sanctuary, adjacent waterfowl hunt area, and the Plunkett Farm Unit Waterfowl Sanctuary.
10. We allow only portable deer stands capable of being carried in their entirety by a single individual.
11. We prohibit use of a vehicle as a deer stand.
12. You must permanently affix the owner's name and address to all deer stands on the refuge.
13. Hunters may erect stands 7 days prior to the refuge deer season and must remove them from the waterfowl sanctuaries prior to November 15, and from the rest of the refuge within 7 days of the closure of archery season (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
14. We prohibit the use of dogs.
15. We prohibit the possession or use of buckshot for hunting on all refuge lands.
16. We prohibit hunting from mowed and/or graveled road right-of-ways.
17. We will close refuge lands located in State-designated Flood Prone Region B to all deer hunting when the White River gauge at Augusta reaches 31 feet (9.3 m), as reported by the National Weather Service at http://www.srh.noaa.gov/data/LZK/RVSLZK and reopen them when the same gauge reading falls below 30 feet (9.1 m) and the White River gauge at Georgetown falls to, or below, 19 feet (5.7 m).
18. We will close refuge lands located in State-designated Flood Prone Region C to all deer hunting when the Cache River gauge at Patterson exceeds 10 feet (3 m), as reported by the National Weather Service at http://www.srh.noaa.gov/data/LZK/RVSLZK and reopen them when the same gauge reading falls below 8.5 feet (2.6 m).
19. We will close refuge lands located in Flood Prone Region D to all deer and turkey hunting when the White River gauge at Clarendon reaches 28 feet (8.4 m), as reported by the National Weather Service at http://www.srh.noaa.gov/data/LZK/RVSLZK and reopen them when the same gauge reading falls to, or below, 27 feet (8.1 m).
D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing and frogging on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A10, A18, A20, A22 through A24, and B11 apply.
2. We close waterfowl sanctuaries to all entrance and fishing/frogging from November 15 to February 28. We prohibit refuge-wide entry and fishing during the Quota Gun Deer Hunt.
3. We require a Special Use Permit (FWS Form 3-1383) for all commercial fishing activities on the refuge.
4. We prohibit the take or possession of turtles and/or mollusks (see Sec. 27.21 of this chapter).
5. We prohibit the mooring of houseboats to refuge property.
Felsenthal National Wildlife Refuge
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. We allow hunting of duck, goose, and coot on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. We allow hunting of duck, goose, and coot during the State waterfowl season except during scheduled quota refuge Gun Deer Hunts.
2. Hunting of duck, goose, and coot ends at 12 p.m. (noon) each day.
3. We allow only portable blinds. You must remove all duck hunting equipment (portable blinds, boats, guns, and decoys) (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter) from the hunt area by 1:30 p.m. each day.
4. You may possess only approved nontoxic shells when hunting (see Sec. 32.2(k)) in quantities of 25 or less each day during waterfowl season; hunters may not discharge more than 25 shells per day.
5. We close areas of the refuge posted with ``Area Closed'' signs and identify them on the refuge hunt brochure map as a waterfowl sanctuary. Waterfowl sanctuaries are closed to all public entry and public use during waterfowl hunting season.
6. No person will use the services of a guide, guide service, outfitter, club, organization, or other person who provides equipment, services, or assistance on Refuge System lands for compensation (see Sec. 27.97 of this chapter).
7. Hunters must possess and carry a signed Refuge Public Use Regulations Brochure/Access Permit (signed brochure) while hunting.
8. We prohibit possession and/or use of herbicides.
9. We prohibit marking trails with tape, ribbon, paint, or any other substance or material.
10. We prohibit possession or use of alcoholic beverage(s) while hunting (see Sec. 32.2(j)). We prohibit consumption or possession of opened container(s) of alcoholic beverage(s) in parking lots, on roadways, and in plain view in campgrounds.
11. All persons born after 1968 must possess a valid hunter education card in order to hunt.
12. All youth hunters age 15 and younger must remain within sight and normal voice contact of an adult age 21 or older, possessing a valid hunting license. One adult may supervise no more than two youth hunters.
13. We allow only all-terrain vehicles/utility-type vehicles (ATVs/UTVs) for hunting and fishing activities. We restrict ATVs/UTVs to designated times and designated trails (see Sec. 27.31 of this chapter) marked with signs and paint. We identify these trails and the dates they are open for use in the refuge hunt brochure. We limit ATVs/UTVs to those having an engine displacement size not exceeding 700cc. We limit ATV/UTV tires to those having a centerline lug depth not exceeding 1 inch (2.5 cm). You may use horses on roads and ATV/UTV trails (when open to motor vehicle and ATV/UTV traffic respectively) as a mode of transportation for on-refuge, hunting and fishing activities.
14. We prohibit hunting within 150 feet (45 m) of roads and trails open to motor vehicle use (including ATV/UTV trails).
15. We prohibit target practice with any firearm, archery tackle, or crossbow or any nonhunting discharge of firearms (see Sec. 27.42 of this chapter).
16. We allow camping only at designated primitive campground sites identified in the refuge hunt brochure, and we restrict camping to individuals involved in wildlife-dependent refuge activities. Campers may stay no more than 14 days during any 30 consecutive-day period in any campground and must occupy camps daily. We prohibit all disturbances, including use of generators, after 10 p.m. You must unload all hunting weapons (see Sec. 27.42(b) of this chapter) within 100 yards (90 m) of a campground.
17. You may take beaver, nutria, and coyote during any daytime refuge hunt with weapons and ammunition allowed for that hunt. There is no bag limit. You may not transport or possess live hog.
18. We prohibit blocking of gates, roadways, and boat ramps (see Sec. 27.31(h) of this chapter).
19. We allow the use of retriever dogs.
20. We prohibit the use or possession of any electronic call or other electronic device used for producing or projecting vocal sounds of any wildlife species.
21. We prohibit leaving any boat on the refuge.
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of quail, squirrel, rabbit, and furbearers (as defined by State law) on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A4 through A18, A20, and A21 apply.
2. We allow hunting for the species listed above on the refuge during State seasons for this zone through January 31. We list specific hunting season dates annually in the refuge hunt brochure. We close upland game hunting during refuge quota deer hunts. We annually publish dates for these quota deer hunts in the refuge hunt brochure.
3. We do not open for spring squirrel hunting season, summer/early fall raccoon hunting season, or spring bobcat hunting season.
4. We prohibit possession of lead ammunition except that you may possess rimfire rifle lead ammunition no larger than .22 caliber for upland game hunting. We prohibit possession of shot larger than that legal for waterfowl hunting. During the deer and turkey hunts, hunters may possess lead ammunition legal for taking deer and turkey. We prohibit buckshot for gun deer hunting.
5. You may use dogs for squirrel and rabbit hunting from the opening of furbearer (as defined by State law) hunting season through January 31. You may also use dogs for quail hunting and for raccoon/opossum hunting during open season on the refuge for these species. At other times, you must keep dogs and other pets on a leash or confined (see Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter).
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer, feral hog, and turkey on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A6 through A11, A13 through A18, A20, and A21 apply.
2. We allow archery deer hunting on the refuge from the opening of the State season for this deer management zone through January 31.
3. We close archery deer hunting during the quota gun deer hunts.
4. The refuge will conduct no more than two muzzleloader deer hunts and no more than four quota modern gun deer hunts.
5. We allow muzzleloader deer hunting during the October State Muzzleloader season for this deer management zone. The refuge will conduct one 4-day quota modern gun hunt for deer, typically in November. The refuge also may conduct one mobility-impaired hunt for deer typically in early November.
6. The quota muzzleloader and modern gun deer hunt bag limit is two deer, one doe and one buck, or two does on each hunt, one antlered and one antlerless as defined by State law. See refuge brochure for specific bag limit information.
7. Hunters must check all harvested deer during quota hunts at refuge deer check stations on the same day of the kill. We identify the check station locations in the refuge hunt brochure. Carcasses of deer taken must remain intact (except you may field dress) until checked.
8. You may only use portable deer stands erected no earlier than 2 days before the opening of the State deer season and you must remove them no later than February 2 each year (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
9. We prohibit the use of deer decoy(s).
10. We prohibit horses and mules during refuge quota deer hunts.
11. We open spring archery turkey hunting during the State spring turkey season for this zone. We do not open for fall archery turkey season.
12. We close spring archery turkey hunting during scheduled turkey quota gun hunts.
13. The refuge will conduct no more than three quota permit spring turkey gun hunts and no more than two 3-day quota spring turkey hunts (typically in April). Specific hunt dates and application procedures will be available at the refuge office in January. We restrict hunt participants to those selected for a quota permit, except that one nonhunting adult age 21 or older possessing a valid hunting license must accompany the youth hunter age 15 and younger.
14. An adult age 21 or older possessing a valid hunting license must accompany and be within sight and normal voice contact of hunters age 15 and younger. One adult may supervise no more than one youth hunter.
15. We prohibit leaving any tree stand, ground blind, or game camera on the refuge without the owner's name and address clearly written in a conspicuous location.
16. We restrict hunt participants for quota hunts to those drawn for a quota permit (OMB 1018-0140). These permits are nontransferable and permit fees are nonrefundable. If conditions prevent the hunts from taking place, there will be no refunds or permits carried over from year to year. Hunt dates and application procedures will be available at the refuge office in July for deer and January for turkey.
17. We allow the taking of feral hogs on the refuge only during the Muzzleloader and Modern Gun Quota Permit Deer Hunts and with weapons and ammunition allowed for that hunt. There is no bag limit. You may not transport or possess live hog.
D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing, frogging, and crawfishing for personal use on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A6, A8, A9, A13, A16, A18, and A21 apply.
2. We prohibit fishing in the waterfowl sanctuary area during the waterfowl hunting season, with the exception of the main channel of the Ouachita and Saline Rivers and the borrow pits along Highway 82. We post the waterfowl sanctuary area with ``Area Closed'' signs and identify those areas in refuge hunt brochures.
3. We allow fishing only in areas accessible from the Oauchita and Saline Rivers and Eagle, Jones, and Pereogeethe Lakes during the refuge quota gun hunts.
4. You must reset trotlines when receding water levels expose them.
5. We prohibit consumption or possession of opened container(s) of alcoholic beverage(s) in parking lots, on roadways, and in plain view in campgrounds (see Sec. 32.5(c)).
Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. [Reserved]
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of squirrel, rabbit, raccoon, opossum, beaver, armadillo, coyote, and bobcat on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. We require refuge hunting permits. The permits are nontransferable, and anyone on refuge land in possession of hunting equipment must sign, possess, and carry the permits at all times.
2. You may only take all upland game mentioned above during the refuge archery season.
3. We allow gun hunting of raccoon and opossum with dogs every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday until legal sunrise during the month of February. We prohibit pleasure running or training of dogs (see Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter).
4. We prohibit target practice or any nonhunting discharge of firearms (see Sec. 27.42(a) of this chapter).
5. We prohibit possession or use of alcoholic beverage(s) while hunting (see Sec. 32.2(j)).
6. We allow ATVs only for hunters with disabilities. We require a refuge ATV permit (Special Use Permit; FWS Form 3-1383) issued by the refuge manager.
7. We prohibit the use of horses.
8. We prohibit hunting from a vehicle.
9. We only allow vehicle use on established roads and trails (see Sec. 27.31 of this chapter).
10. Hunters must enter and exit the refuge from designated roads and parking areas.
11. We prohibit hunting within 150 feet (45 m) of roads open to motor vehicle use and nature trails.
12. We prohibit marking trails with tape, ribbon, paint, or any other substance other than biodegradable materials.
13. We allow the use of nonmotorized boats during the refuge fishing/boating season (March 1 to October 31), but we prohibit hunters leaving boats on the refuge overnight (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of deer and turkey on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions B1 and B4 through B13 apply.
2. We allow archery/crossbow hunting for white-tailed deer. We provide annual season dates in the hunt brochure/permit (name, address, signature required).
3. The refuge will conduct one youth-only (between ages 12-15 at the beginning of the gun deer season in Zone 7) quota deer hunt. This hunt will take place after the archery season (typically in December). Specific hunt dates and application procedures will be available at the refuge office in September. We restrict hunt participants to those selected for a quota permit, except that one nonhunting adult age 21 or older must accompany the youth hunter during the youth hunt.
4. We open spring and fall archery turkey hunting during the State spring and fall turkey season for this zone.
5. We close spring archery turkey hunting during scheduled turkey quota gun hunts.
6. The refuge will conduct one 2-day youth-only (age 15 and under at the beginning of the spring turkey season) quota spring turkey hunt and one 2-day quota spring turkey hunt (typically in April). Specific hunt dates and application procedures will be available at the refuge office in January. We restrict hunt participants to those selected for a quota permit, except that one nonhunting adult age 21 or older must accompany the youth hunter during the youth hunt.
7. An adult age 21 or older must accompany and be within sight or normal voice contact of hunters age 15 and under. One adult may supervise no more than one youth hunter.
8. We allow only portable deer stands. Hunters may erect stands 2 days before the start of the season and must remove the stands from the refuge within 2 days after the season ends (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).
9. Hunters must permanently affix the owner's name and address to all deer stands on the refuge.
10. We prohibit the use of dogs during big game hunting.
11. We prohibit hunting from paved, graveled, and mowed roads and mowed trails (see Sec. 27.31 of this chapter).
12. We prohibit hunting with the aid of bait, salt, or ingestible attractant (see Sec. 32.2(h)).
13. We prohibit all forms of organized drives.
14. You must check all game at the refuge check station.
D. Sport Fishing. We allow sport fishing and frogging in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions B6, B7, and B9 apply.
2. Waters of the refuge are only open for fishing March 1 through October 31 during daylight hours.
3. We do not require a permit to fish but do require an entrance pass to the refuge.
4. We limit free-floating fishing devices, trotlines, and tree limb devices to 20 per person. Each device must have the angler's name and address.
5. You must reset trotlines and limb lines when receding water levels expose them.
6. We prohibit leaving trotlines and other self-fishing devices overnight or unattended.
7. We will allow only bank fishing in Long Lake year-round from legal sunrise to legal sunset. Access to this bank fishing area is through the parking area off of Hwy 155.
8. We allow only bow fishing from legal sunrise to legal sunset during August.
9. We allow frogging from May 1 to May 31. We allow only frogging on those areas of the old river channel that connect with the Arkansas River.
10. Anglers must enter and exit the refuge from designated roads and parking areas.
11. We prohibit anglers from leaving their boats unattended overnight on any portion of the refuge (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
12. We require a Special Use Permit for all commercial fishing activities on the refuge.
13. We prohibit possessing turtle (see Sec. 27.21 of this chapter).
14. We prohibit hovercraft, personal watercraft (Jet Skis, etc.), and airboats.
Overflow National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of duck, goose, and coot on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. We allow hunting of duck, goose, and coot during the State waterfowl season. We do not open during the September teal season.
2. Hunting of duck, goose, and coot ends at 12 p.m. (noon) each day.
3. We allow only portable blinds. Hunters must remove portable blinds, boats, and decoys from the hunt area by 1:30 p.m. each day (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
4. You may only possess approved nontoxic shotshells (see Sec. 32.2(k)) in quantities of 25 or less per day during waterfowl hunting season; hunters may not discharge more than 25 shells per day.
5. We close areas of the refuge by posting ``Area Closed'' signs and identifying them on the refuge hunt brochure map as ``Sanctuary'' and closed to all public entry and public use. Exception: We open the area identified as ``North Sanctuary'' on the refuge hunt brochure map to all authorized public use activities from 2 days prior to the opening of deer archery season through October 31.
6. No person will use the services of a guide, guide service, outfitter, club, organization, or other person who provides equipment, services, or assistance on Refuge System lands for compensation (see Sec. 27.97 of this chapter).
7. You must possess and carry a Refuge Public Use Regulations Brochure/Access Permit (signed brochure) while hunting.
8. We prohibit possession and/or use of herbicides (see Sec. 27.51 of this chapter).
9. We prohibit marking trails with tape, ribbon, paint, or any other substance or material.
10. We prohibit possession or use of alcoholic beverage(s) while hunting (see Sec. 32.2(j)). We prohibit consumption or possession of opened container(s) of alcoholic beverage(s) in parking lots and roadways.
11. Hunters under age 16 do not need to have a hunter education card if they are under the direct supervision (within arm's reach) of a holder of a valid hunting license who is at least age 21.
12. All youth hunters age 15 and younger must remain within sight and normal voice contact of an adult age 21 or older, possessing a valid hunting license. One adult may supervise no more than two youth hunters.
13. We allow only all-terrain vehicles/utility-type vehicles (ATVs/UTVs) for hunting activities. We restrict ATVs/UTVs to designated times and designated trails (see Sec. 27.31 of this chapter) marked with signs and paint. We identify those trails and the dates that they are open for use in the refuge hunt brochure. We limit ATVs/UTVs to those having an engine displacement size not exceeding 700cc. We limit ATV/UTV tires to those having a centerline lug depth not exceeding 1 inch (2.5 centimeters). You may use horses on roads and ATV/UTV trails (when open to motor vehicle and ATV/UTV traffic respectively) as a mode of transportation for on-refuge, hunting activities.
14. We prohibit hunting within 150 feet (45 m) of roads and trails open to motor vehicle use (including ATV/UTV trails).
15. We prohibit target practice with any firearm, archery tackle, or crossbow or any nonhunting discharge of firearms (see Sec. 27.42 of this chapter).
16. We prohibit blocking of gates, roadways, and boat ramps (see Sec. 27.31(h) of this chapter).
17. You may take beaver, nutria, and coyote during any daytime refuge hunt with weapons and ammunition legal for that hunt. There is no bag limit. We prohibit transportation or possession of live hog.
18. We allow retriever dogs.
19. We prohibit hunting with the aid of bait, salt, or any ingestible attractant (see Sec. 32.2(h)).
20. We prohibit hunting from a tree in which a metal object has been driven to support a hunter (see Sec. 32.2(i)).
21. If you harvest a deer or turkey on the refuge, you must immediately record the zone 490 on your deer/turkey tag as the zone of kill.
22. We prohibit the taking of wildlife or plants (including cutting trees or brush) other than specified in this brochure (see Sec. 27.51 of this chapter).
23. We prohibit leaving any boat on the refuge.
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of quail, squirrel, rabbit, and furbearers (as defined by State law) on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A4 through A17, A19, and A23 apply.
2. We allow hunting during State seasons (see State regulations for the appropriate zone) for the species listed above through January 31. We list specific hunting season dates annually in the refuge hunt brochure.
3. We do not open for the spring squirrel hunting season, summer/fall raccoon hunting season, or the spring bobcat hunting season.
4. When upland game hunting, we prohibit possession of lead ammunition except that you may possess rimfire rifle lead ammunition no larger than .22 caliber. We prohibit possession of shot larger than that legal for waterfowl hunting. During the deer and turkey hunts, we allow possession of lead ammunition legal for taking deer and turkey. We prohibit buckshot for gun deer hunting.
5. You may use dogs for squirrel and rabbit hunting from December 1 through January 31. You may also use dogs for quail hunting and for raccoon/opossum hunting during open season on the refuge for these species. At other times, you must keep dogs and other pets on a leash or confined (see Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter).
6. Overflow National Wildlife Refuge is a day-use area only, except while raccoon and opossum hunting.
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer, feral hog, and turkey on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A5 through A11, A13 through A17, A19, and A23 apply.
2. We allow muzzleloader deer hunting during the first State muzzleloader season for this zone (see State regulations for appropriate zone).
3. Bag limit for the muzzleloader deer hunt is two deer, with no more than one buck.
4. You may use only portable deer stands erected no earlier than 2 days before the opening of the State deer season, and you must remove them no later than February 2 each year (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
5. We prohibit the use of deer decoy(s).
6. We prohibit horses and mules during the muzzleloader deer hunt.
7. We allow spring archery turkey hunting during the State spring turkey season. See State regulations for appropriate zones.
8. The refuge will conduct no more than one quota permit youth spring turkey gun hunt. Specific hunt dates and application procedures will be available at the refuge office in January. We restrict hunt participants on these hunts to those selected for a quota permit, except that one nonhunting adult age 21 or older and possessing a valid hunting license must accompany a youth hunter.
9. We do not open for the fall turkey archery season or spring turkey gun season.
10. We do not open for the gun deer season or the second (and December) muzzleloader deer season.
11. An adult age 21 or older possessing a valid hunting license must accompany and be within sight or normal voice contact of hunters age 15 and younger. One adult may supervise no more than one youth hunter.
12. We prohibit leaving any tree stand, ground blind, boat, or game camera on the refuge without the owner's name and address clearly written in a conspicuous location.
13. We allow the taking of feral hogs on the refuge only during the Muzzleloader Hunt and with weapons and ammunition allowed for that hunt. There is no bag limit. You may not transport or possess live hogs.
D. Sport Fishing. [Reserved]
Pond Creek National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of duck, coot, and goose on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. We allow hunting of migratory game birds during the State waterfowl seasons, except we close during scheduled quota refuge gun deer hunts.
2. Hunting ends at 12 p.m. (noon) each day.
3. We allow only portable blinds. You must remove portable blinds, boats, and decoys from the hunt area by 1:30 p.m. each day (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
4. No person will use the services of a guide, guide service, outfitter, club, organization, or other person who provides equipment, services, or assistance on Refuge System lands for compensation (see Sec. 27.97 of this chapter).
5. You must possess and carry a Refuge Public Use Regulations Brochure/Access Permit (signed brochure) while hunting.
6. We prohibit possession and/or use of herbicides (see Sec. 27.51 of this chapter).
7. We prohibit marking trails with tape, ribbon, paint, or any other substance or material (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
8. We prohibit possession or use of alcoholic beverage(s) while hunting (see Sec. 32.2(j)). We prohibit consumption or possession of opened container(s) of alcoholic beverage(s) in parking lots, on roadways, and in plain view in campgrounds.
9. All persons born after 1968 must possess a valid hunter education card in order to hunt.
10. Hunters under age 16 do not need to have a hunter education card if they are under the direct supervision (within arm's reach) of a holder of a valid hunting license who is at least age 21. An adult age 21 or older must supervise youth hunters under age 16 who have a valid Hunter Education Card, and youth hunters must remain in sight and normal voice contact with the adult. One adult may supervise no more than two youth hunters for any hunting season.
11. We allow only all-terrain vehicles/utility-type vehicles (ATVs/UTVs) for hunting and fishing activities. We restrict ATVs/UTVs to designated times and designated trails (see Sec. 27.31 of this chapter) marked with signs and paint. We identify those trails and the dates they are open for use in the refuge hunt brochure. We limit ATVs/UTVs to those having an engine displacement size not exceeding 700cc and a total width not to exceed 63 inches (160.02 cm). We limit ATV/UTV tires to those having a centerline lug depth not exceeding 1 inch (2.5 cm). You may use horses on roads and ATV/UTV trails (when open to motor vehicle and ATV/UTV traffic respectively) as a mode of transportation for on-refuge, hunting and fishing activities.
12. We prohibit hunting within 150 feet (45 m) of roads and trails open to motor vehicle use (including ATV/UTV trails).
13. We prohibit target practice with any firearm, archery tackle, or crossbow or any nonhunting discharge of firearms (see Sec. 27.42 of this chapter).
14. We allow camping only at designated primitive campground sites identified in the refuge hunt brochure. We restrict camping to the individuals involved in refuge wildlife-dependent activities. Campers may stay no more than 14 days during any consecutive 30-day period in a campground and must occupy the camps daily. We prohibit all disturbances, including use of generators, after 10 p.m. You must unload all hunting firearms and crossbows (see Sec. 27.42(b) of this chapter) within 100 yards (90 m) of a campground.
15. You may take beaver, nutria, and coyote during any daytime refuge hunt with weapons and ammunition allowed for that hunt. We prohibit the use of dogs to take these species. There is no bag limit. You may not transport or possess live hog.
16. We prohibit blocking of gates, roadways, and boat ramps (see Sec. 27.31(h) of this chapter).
17. We allow the use of retriever dogs during the refuge waterfowl season.
18. We prohibit the use or possession of any electronic call or other electronic device used for producing or projecting vocal sounds of any wildlife species.
19. We prohibit possession, placement, or hunting over bait, salt, or any other ingestible attractant (see Sec. 32.2(h)).
20. We prohibit the use of an artificial light to locate wildlife (exception: raccoon/opossum hunting with dogs).
21. We prohibit taking of wildlife or plants (including cutting trees or brush) other than what we allow in the refuge brochure (see Sec. 27.51 of this chapter).
22. We prohibit placement of metal objects (screw, nail, spike, etc.) into a tree to support a hunter or hunting from a tree with such metal objects placed (see Sec. 32.2(i)).
23. We prohibit possessing, using, or leaving any tree stand, game camera, or boat on the refuge without the owner's name and address affixed in a conspicuous manner.
24. We prohibit camping on the refuge while hunting off of the refuge.
25. We prohibit fires outside of campgrounds.
26. We prohibit taking or possessing turtles or mollusks (see Sec. 27.51 of this chapter).
27. We prohibit possession or use of fireworks.
28. We prohibit geocaching.
29. We prohibit searching for or removing any object of antiquity including arrowheads, pottery, or other artifacts.
30. We prohibit firearms, including State-permitted concealed carry handguns, in all refuge buildings.
31. We prohibit horses and mules off the open all-terrain vehicle (ATV)/utility-type vehicles (UTV) trails and main gravel roads.
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of squirrel, rabbit, and furbearers (as defined by State law) on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. We allow hunting on the refuge during State seasons for this zone for the species listed above through January 31. We list specific hunting season dates annually in the refuge hunt brochure. We close upland game hunting during refuge quota deer hunts. We annually publish dates for these quota deer hunts in the refuge hunt brochure.
2. We do not open to spring squirrel hunting season, summer/early fall raccoon hunting season, or the spring bobcat hunting season.
3. Conditions A4 through A16, A18, and A24 through A31 apply.
4. We prohibit possession of lead ammunition when hunting except that you may possess rimfire rifle lead ammunition no larger than .22 caliber for upland game hunting. We prohibit possession of shot larger than that legal for waterfowl hunting. During the deer and turkey hunts, we allow possession of lead ammunition legal for taking deer and turkey. We prohibit buckshot for gun deer hunting.
5. You may use dogs for squirrel, rabbit, raccoon, and opossum hunting from the opening of furbearer (as defined by State law) hunting season through January 31. At other times you must keep dogs and other pets on a leash or confined (see Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter).
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer, feral hog, and turkey on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. We allow archery deer hunting on the refuge from the opening of the State season through January 31 (see State regulations for appropriate zone).
2. Conditions A4 through A9, A11 through A16, A18, and A24 through A31 apply.
3. We close archery deer hunting during the quota Gun Deer Hunts.
4. We allow muzzleloader deer hunting for the first 5 days of the early State muzzleloader season for this deer management zone. The bag limit for the refuge muzzleloader hunt is two deer, with no more than one buck.
5. The refuge will conduct no more than three quota gun deer hunts.
6. We restrict hunt participants for quota hunts to those drawn for a quota permit. These permits are nontransferable and permit fees are nonrefundable. If conditions prevent the hunts from taking place, there will be no refunds or permits carried over from year to year. Hunt dates and application procedures will be available at the refuge office in July.
7. The quota Gun Deer Hunt bag limit is two deer, with no more than one buck (one buck and one doe). Exception: Youth hunters participating in the refuge youth deer hunt and hunters participating in the refuge mobility-impaired hunt may harvest the legal State bag limit without antler restrictions.
8. You must check all deer at the refuge deer check station on the same day of kill. You must keep carcasses of deer taken intact (you may field dress) until checked.
9. We prohibit horses and mules during refuge muzzleloader and quota deer hunts.
10. We open spring archery turkey hunting during the State spring turkey season for this zone. The State bag limit for this turkey hunt applies. We do not open for fall archery turkey season.
11. We close spring archery turkey hunting during scheduled turkey quota permit gun hunts.
12. You may use only portable deer stands erected no sooner than 2 days before the opening of the State deer season, and you must remove them no later than January 31 each year (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
13. We prohibit the use of deer decoy(s).
14. The refuge will conduct no more than two quota permit spring turkey gun hunts. Specific hunt dates and application procedures will be available at the refuge office in January. We restrict hunt participants on these hunts to those selected for a quota permit, except that one nonhunting adult age 21 or older and possessing a valid hunting license must accompany a youth hunter.
15. An adult age 21 or older possessing a valid hunting license must accompany and be within sight and normal voice contact of hunters age 15 and younger. One adult may supervise no more than one youth hunter during big game hunts.
16. We prohibit leaving any tree stand, ground blind, boat, or game camera on the refuge without the owner's name and address clearly written in a conspicuous location.
17. We prohibit conducting or participating in deer drives.
18. We prohibit all public use, except fishing and access for fishing, during quota hunts.
19. We prohibit hunting from an area where a shooting lane has been cut.
20. We allow the taking of feral hogs on the refuge only during the Muzzleloader and Modern Gun Quota Permit Deer Hunts and with weapons and ammunition allowed for that hunt. There is no bag limit. You may not transport or possess live hogs.
D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing, frogging, and the taking of crawfish for personal use on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. You must reset trotlines when exposed by receding water levels.
2. Conditions A4 through A16 and A18 through A31 apply.
3. We prohibit consumption or possession of opened container(s) of alcoholic beverage(s) in parking lots, on roadways, and in plain view in campgrounds (see Sec. 32.2(j)).
Wapanocca National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of snow geese on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. We require refuge hunting permits. The permits (found on the front cover of the annual hunt brochure/permit--signature required) are nontransferable and anyone on refuge land in possession of hunting equipment must sign and carry them at all times.
2. We provide annual season dates on the hunt brochure/permit.
3. You must adhere to all public use special conditions and regulations on the annual hunt brochure/permit.
4. Hunters may enter the refuge at 4 a.m.
5. We prohibit ATVs.
6. Any hunter born after 1968 must carry a valid hunter education card. An adult age 21 or older must supervise hunters younger than age 16 who have a valid hunter education card and remain within sight and normal voice contact with the adult. Hunters younger than age 16 do not need to have a card if they are under the direct supervision (within arm's reach) of a holder of a valid hunting license of at least age 21. An adult may supervise up to two youths for migratory bird and upland game hunting but may supervise only one youth for big game hunting. We honor home State hunter education cards.
7. Hunters may possess or use only biodegradable materials to mark trails (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
8. We prohibit target practice or any nonhunting discharge of firearms (see Sec. 27.42 of this chapter).
9. We prohibit driving around a locked gate, barrier, or beyond a sign closing a road to vehicular traffic (see Sec. 27.31 of this chapter).
10. We prohibit the possession or use of alcoholic beverages while hunting (see Sec. 32.2(j)) and open alcohol containers on refuge roads, all-terrain vehicle (ATV) trails, boat ramps, parking areas, fishing piers, observation decks, and photo blinds.
11. We prohibit loaded hunting firearms or muzzleloaders in or on a vehicle, ATV, or boat while under power (see Sec. 27.42(b) of this chapter). We define ``loaded'' as shells in the firearm or ignition device on the muzzleloader.
12. Roundpond and Pigmon Units are closed to all migratory bird hunting.
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of squirrel, rabbit, raccoon, nutria, beaver, coyote, feral hog, and opossum in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A1 through A12 apply.
2. You may use only shotguns with approved nontoxic shot (see Sec. 32.2(k)) and rifles chambered for rimfire cartridges when hunting.
3. We provide annual season dates for squirrel, rabbit, raccoon, and opossum hunting on the hunt brochure/permit. We allow dogs.
4. You may take nutria, beaver, and coyote during any refuge hunt with those weapons legal during those hunts, subject to State seasons.
5. You may take feral hog only during the refuge Quota Gun Deer Hunt.
6. We require dogs for night hunting of raccoon/opossum. We prohibit field trials and organized training events.
7. We prohibit horses and mules.
8. We limit nighttime use to raccoon/opossum hunting and the hunters must possess appropriate gear.
9. We close all other hunts during the Quota Gun Deer Hunt. We allow only Quota Gun Deer Hunt permit (signature only required) holders to enter the refuge during this hunt and only for the purpose of deer hunting.
10. We prohibit transportation, possession, or release of live hog on the refuge.
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of big game on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A1 through A12, B4, B5, and B7 through B10 apply.
2. We prohibit hunting from mowed and/or graveled road right-of-ways.
3. We specify annual season dates, bag limits, and hunting methods on the annual hunting brochure/permit.
4. Immediately record the deer zone 640 on the hunter's license and check deer according to State regulations.
5. We prohibit dogs.
6. We allow only portable deer stands capable of being carried in their entirety by a single individual. Hunters may erect stands 7 days prior to the refuge deer season and must remove them from the waterfowl sanctuaries by December 1. Hunters must remove all stands on the remainder of the refuge within 7 days of the closure of archery season (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter). Hunters must permanently affix their name and address on stands on the refuge.
7. We prohibit hunting from a vehicle or use of a vehicle as a deer stand.
8. We prohibit the possession or use of buckshot for hunting on all refuge lands.
D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing on the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A3, A5, A9 through A11, B7, and B8 apply. We allow fishing from March 1 through October 31 from \1/2\ hour before legal sunrise to \1/2\ hour after legal sunset.
2. We prohibit the possession or use of live carp, shad, buffalo, or goldfish for bait.
3. We prohibit the possession or use of yo-yos, jugs, or other floating containers, drops or limb lines, trotlines, or commercial fishing tackle.
4. We allow bank fishing.
5. We prohibit the take or possession of frogs, mollusks, and/or turtles (see Sec. 27.21 of this chapter).
6. Anglers may launch boats only in designated areas.
7. Anglers must remove all boats daily from the refuge (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter). We prohibit airboats, personal watercraft, and hovercraft.
White River National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of duck and coot on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. We require all refuge users to sign and possess a refuge user brochure/permit (signature required).
2. We allow duck hunting from legal shooting hours until 12 p.m. (noon).
3. We allow retriever dogs for migratory game bird hunting.
4. You must remove blinds, blind material, and decoys (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter) from the refuge by 1 p.m. each day.
5. You may take duck and coot during the State season in designated areas.
6. North Unit waterfowl season and youth waterfowl hunts are concurrent with State season dates.
7. We restrict the South Unit waterfowl season to the Jack's Bay hunt area as indicated in the refuge user brochure/permit. We open to hunting every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday of the concurrent State season dates, including State youth waterfowl hunt dates.
8. Waterfowl hunters may enter and access the refuge no earlier than 4 a.m.
9. We prohibit boating December 1 through January 31 in the South Unit Waterfowl Hunt Area, except from 4 am to 1 pm on designated waterfowl hunt days.
10. We prohibit marking trails with materials other than biodegradable paper flagging or reflective tape/tacks (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
11. We prohibit use and/or possession of alcoholic beverages while hunting (see Sec. 32.2(j)) or open alcohol containers on refuge roads, ATV trails, and parking areas.
12. We prohibit cutting of holes in or other manipulation of vegetation or hunting in such areas (see Sec. 27.51 of this chapter).
13. We prohibit waterfowl hunting on Kansas Lake Area (indicated in refuge user brochure/permit).
14. We prohibit loaded hunting weapons in or on a vehicle, ATV, or boat while under power (see Sec. 27.42(b) of this chapter). We define ``loaded'' as shells in the gun or ignition device on a muzzleloader.
15. We allow duck hunting on specific scattered tracts of land, in accordance with the North Unit regulations. Consult the refuge office for further information.
16. We only allow ATVs for wildlife-dependent hunting and fishing activities. We restrict ATVs to designated yellow-marked trails throughout the refuge, unless marked otherwise. We prohibit the use of ATVs after December 15 each year in designated South Unit areas as shown in refuge user brochure/permit. We define ATV as an off-road vehicle with factory specifications not to exceed the following: A maximum dry weight of 1,550 lbs (697.5 kg), tires having a centerline lug depth of one inch (2.5 cm) or less and a maximum tire pressure of 15 psi as indicated on the tire by the manufacturer. We allow only those vehicles originally designed by their manufacturer to be ATVs; we prohibit mini trucks or other modified off-road vehicles.
17. We require hunters born after 1968 to carry a valid hunter education card. We do not require hunters under age 16 to have a hunter education card while under direct supervision (within arms reach) of a holder of a valid hunting license and at least age 21. Youth hunters under age 16 must remain within sight and normal voice contact of an adult age 21 or older, possessing a valid hunting license. An adult may supervise only one youth for big game hunting but may supervise up to two youths for waterfowl and small game hunting.
18. We allow take of beaver, nutria, coyote, and feral hog incidental to any daytime refuge hunt with weapons authorized for that hunt. We prohibit take of beaver, nutria, and feral hog with the aid of dogs or after the hunter has taken the daily bag limit for that hunt.
19. No person, including but not limited to, a guide, guide service, outfitter, club, or other organization, will provide assistance, services, or equipment on the refuge to any other person for compensation unless such guide, guide service, outfitter, club, or organization has obtained a Special Use Permit (FWS Form 3-1383) from the refuge. For purposes of this regulation, we will consider any fees or services rendered to a person for lodging, meals, club membership, or similar services as compensation.
20. We prohibit hunting, taking, possessing, or attempting to take wildlife with a guide, guide service, outfitter, club, or organization providing assistance, service, or equipment that does not possess and carry the required refuge Special Use Permit (FWS Form 3-1383).
21. We allow camping only in designated sites and areas identified in the refuge user brochure/permit, and we restrict camping to individuals involved in wildlife-dependent activities. Campers may stay no more than 14 days during any 30 consecutive-day period in any campground site or area and must occupy camps daily. We prohibit all disturbances, including use of generators, after 10 p.m. You must unload all hunting weapons (see Sec. 27.42(b) of this chapter) within 100 yards (90 m) of a campground.
22. We allow refuge users to leave boats 16 feet (4.8 m) or less in length unattended overnight from March 1 to October 31 as long as the owner clearly and prominently displays his or her complete name and physical address.
23. We prohibit all access in the Demonstration and Dry Lake Waterfowl Rest Areas as indicated in the refuge brochure/permit.
24. We require a refuge Special Use Permit (FWS Form 3-1383) for all commercial use activities including, but not limited to, fishing, trapping, timber management, or collecting acorns.
25. We prohibit hovercraft, personal watercraft (e.g., jet skis, wetbike, etc.) and airboats.
26. You must adhere to all public use special conditions and regulations on the annual refuge user brochure/permit.
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of squirrel, rabbit, beaver, coyote, raccoon, and opossum on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A1, A9, A10, A11, A12, A14, and A16 through A26 apply.
2. We allow hunting of rabbit and squirrel on the North Unit from September 1 until January 31.
3. We allow dogs for hunting of rabbit and squirrel from December 1 through January 31 on the North Unit.
4. You may hunt rabbit and squirrel on the South Unit from September 1 until November 30.
5. We prohibit dogs on the South Unit for the purpose of squirrel or rabbit hunting.
6. You may only possess approved nontoxic shot when hunting upland game, except turkey (see Sec. 32.2(k)). We allow the possession of lead shot for hunting turkey.
7. We close all upland game hunts during quota Gun Deer Hunt and quota Muzzleloader Deer Hunt.
8. We allow furbearer (as defined by State law) hunting in accordance with season dates posted in the refuge user brochure/permit (signed brochure). We allow furbearer hunting only with rimfire weapons and shotguns.
9. We allow the use of dogs for hunting furbearers from legal sunset to legal sunrise. Hunters must tether or pen all dogs used for furbearer hunting from legal sunrise to legal sunset and any time they are not involved in actual hunting.
10. We allow upland game hunting on specific scattered tracts of land, in accordance with State-wide regulations.
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow the hunting of white-tailed deer and turkey on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A1, A9, A10, A11, A12, A14, and A16 through A26 apply.
2. Archery deer and turkey seasons on the North Unit are from the beginning of the State archery season until the end of January except for refuge-wide season closure during quota muzzleloader and quota gun deer hunts. We provide annual season dates and bag limits in the refuge user brochure/permit.
3. Archery deer and turkey seasons on the South Unit are from the beginning of the State archery season until the end of December except for refuge-wide season closure during quota muzzleloader and quota gun deer hunts. We provide annual season dates and bag limits in the refuge user brochure/permit.
4. Muzzleloader season for deer will begin in October and will continue for a period of up to 3 days of quota hunting and 4 days of nonquota hunting in the North and/or South Units with annual season dates and bag limits provided in the annual refuge user brochure/permit.
5. The gun deer hunt will begin in November and will continue for a period of 3 days of quota hunting in the North and South Units, and 4 days of nonquota hunting in the North and/or South Units with annual season dates, bag limits, and areas provided in the annual refuge user brochure/permit.
6. We restrict hunt participants for quota hunts to those drawn for a quota permit. The permits are nontransferable and nonrefundable. Hunt dates and application procedures will be available at the refuge office in April.
7. We do not open for the bear season on all refuge-owned lands, including out-tracts and refuge lands in the Trusten Holder Wildlife Management Area.
8. If you harvest deer or turkey on the refuge, you must immediately record the zone number (Zone 660 South Unit and Zone 661 North Unit) on your hunting license and later check deer and/or turkey through State phone or on-line checking system.
9. We close the refuge to all nonquota hunting during refuge-wide quota muzzleloader and quota gun deer hunts.
10. We close refuge lands on the North Unit to all deer hunting and fall turkey hunting when the White River Gauge at St. Charles (station no. 53) reaches 23 feet (7 m) as reported by the following Web site: http://www.srh.noaa.gov/lzk/html/whitervr.htm. The season will reopen when the gauge reading reaches 21 feet (6 m) as reported by the same Web site.
11. We close refuge lands on the South Unit to all deer hunting and fall turkey hunting when the White River gauge reading at St. Charles (station no. 53) reaches 23 feet (7 m) and the gauge at Lock and Dam 1 (station no. 55) reaches 145 feet (msl) (43.5 m) simultaneously as reported by the following Web site: http://www.srh.noaa.gov/lzk/html/whitervr.htm. The season will reopen when the same gauge readings reach 21 feet (6 m) and 143 feet msl (mean sea level) (43 m), respectively.
12. We prohibit the placement or hunting with the aid of bait, salt, or ingestible attractant (see Sec. 32.2(h)).
13. We prohibit the use of dogs other than those specified in the user permit.
14. We prohibit all forms of organized deer drives.
15. We prohibit firearm hunting from or across roads, ATV trails, levees, and maintained utility rights-of-way for deer only.
16. We prohibit hunting from a tree into which a metal object has been driven (see Sec. 32.2(i)).
17. You may only use portable deer stands (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter). You may erect stands up to 7 days before each hunt, but you must remove them within 7 days after each hunt. All unattended deer stands on the refuge must have the owner's complete name and physical address clearly displayed.
18. We prohibit target practice or any nonhunting discharge of firearms (see Sec. 27.42 of this chapter).
19. We prohibit firearms deer hunting on the Kansas Lake Area after October 30 and all other types of hunting after November 30.
20. We prohibit the possession and use of buckshot on the refuge.
D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing, frogging, and crawfishing for personal use on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A1, A9, A10, A11, A16, and A21 through A26 apply.
2. We allow fishing year-round in LaGrue, Essex, Prairie, Scrubgrass and Brooks Bayous, Big Island Chute, Moon and Belknap Lakes next to Arkansas Highway 1, Indian Bay, the Arkansas Post Canal and adjacent drainage ditches; those borrow ditches located adjacent to the west bank of that portion of the White River Levee north of the Graham Burke pumping station; and all refuge-owned North Unit and scattered tract waters. We open all other South Unit refuge waters to sport fishing from March 1 through November 30 unless posted otherwise.
3. We allow frogging on all refuge-owned waters open for sport fishing as follows: We allow frogging on the South Unit from the beginning of the State season through November 30; we allow frogging on the North Unit for the entire State season.
4. We require a Special Use Permit (FWS Form 3-1383) for all commercial fishing on the refuge in addition to compliance with State regulations governing commercial fishing.
5. We prohibit all commercial and recreational harvest of turtle on all property administered by White River National Wildlife Refuge.
6. We allow commercial fishing on all refuge waters from 12 p.m. (noon) September 30 through 12 p.m. (noon) November 30. However, when the White River exceeds 23.5 feet (7 m) at the St. Charles, Arkansas gauge or 146 feet msl (mean sea level) (43.8 m) at the tailwater gauge at Lock and Dam 1 on the Arkansas Post Canal, we allow commercial fishing on all refuge waters from 12 p.m. (noon) March 1 through 12:00 p.m. (noon) September 30.
7. We prohibit take or possession of any freshwater mussel, and we do not open to mussel shelling. [58 FR 5064, Jan. 19, 1993, as amended at 58 FR 29073, May 18, 1993; 59 FR 6689, Feb. 11, 1994; 59 FR 55184, Nov. 3, 1994; 60 FR 62040, Dec. 4, 1995; 61 FR 45366, Aug. 29, 1996; 61 FR 46393, Sept. 3, 1996; 62 FR 47376, Sept. 9, 1997; 65 FR 30778, May 12, 2000; 65 FR 56400, Sept. 18, 2000; 68 FR 57316, Oct. 2, 2003; 69 FR 54362, 54365, Sept. 8, 2004; 69 FR 55995, Sept. 17, 2004; 70 FR 54160, Sept. 13, 2005; 73 FR 33167, June 11, 2008; 74 FR 45679, Sept. 3, 2009; 76 FR 3946, Jan. 21, 2011; 76 FR 56064, Sept. 9, 2011; 77 FR 56036, Sept. 11, 2012; 80 FR 51887, Aug. 26, 2015]