Arkansas - Selecting harvest regulations to meet management objectives can be a challenge since biologists have to account for the variability of fish populations and differing angler desires for each waterbody. Arkansas Game & Fish Commission has a standard protocol for selecting appropriate regulations. First, biologists complete a thorough assessment utilizing data from sampling, population modeling, and angler surveys to determine whether pursuing regulations is warranted, and which regulations best meet management objectives. Biologists then present their proposed regulations for peer review to the AGFC Fisheries Division’s Management Section and to Fisheries Administration. If the proposed regulations make it through this rigorous review, the AGFC Fisheries Division’s Administration formally presents them to the AGFC Commissioners for consideration. Afterward, the AGFC collects public comments on all proposed regulations through a formal 30-day public comment period. Finally, the AGFC Commissioners review the public comments and information provided by staff to decide whether to approve or reject regulation proposals. Fishing regulations are set on a two-year cycle. New fishing regulations go into effect on January 1 of odd years.
New Black Bass Regulations for 2023
- The Norfork Lake black bass regulations have changed for all three species; Largemouth, Smallmouth, and Spotted Bass. The new regulation says Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass must be 13 inches or longer to keep, and there is no length limit on Spotted Bass. With all the recent high water years at the lake, there are a lot of small fish in the lake and anglers are encouraged to keep smaller bass to improve growth rates.
- On Sugarloaf Lake, the 13 to 16 inch Largemouth Bass slot limit was removed, and anglers can now keep bass of any size. That slot limit has led to the lake becoming overpopulated with stunted bass. Again, anglers are now encouraged to keep smaller bass in order to help improve growth rates at the lake.
- Lake Monticello has reopened for use, but all gamefish must be immediately released.
You can view the latest Fishing Regulations Guidebook online any time to see all regulations currently in effect.