Applications for the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s managed permit-only turkey hunts are open through February 15. Here’s what to know.
LITTLE ROCK, Arkansas — Hunters in Arkansas have just under a month to apply for a chance at one of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s managed permit-only turkey hunts.
The hunts will take place on select wildlife management areas throughout the state this spring, and hunters can apply for a permit until 11:59 p.m. on February 15, 2026.
Turkey hunt permits will be drawn on February 17, and applicants who are chosen will be notified by February 18. Hunters who draw a permit for a special WMA turkey hunt will also need to claim their free permit upon being notified of their draw status.
Leftover permits will be made available through the AGFC licensing site beginning at 8:00 a.m. February 23, 2026.
Aside from the WMA Turkey Hunting Permits, all turkey hunters must carry a valid Arkansas hunting license that allows the harvest of big game, as well as a Nonresident Turkey Permit ($100), Resident Turkey Tag (free), Nonresident Youth Turkey Tag (free), or a Resident Youth Turkey Tag (free).
Each person holding a permit is allowed to bring one hunting mentor who did not draw a permit on their hunt.
However, hunting mentors must have a valid hunting license, and they are not allowed to harvest a bird or hunt any other in-season game animals, but they can call for the permitted hunter and help them learn the ropes
Wildlife management area hunt applications can be found under the “Special Hunt Permits” section of the licensing system. To apply for a license, please click here.