Try for an Elk Permit at Arkansas’ Buffalo River Festival

If you missed out in the month of May on applying for an Arkansas elk hunting permit, the door is not closed. You can apply during the Buffalo River Elk Festival at Jasper on Friday, June 28, and Saturday, June 29.

It is different from the online-only process of the regular elk applications. You have to apply in person and fill out a paper form at the festival. Applications can be made at the Senior Center from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.

Requirements are the same as in the online process. Only Arkansas residents can apply. You must have a current Arkansas hunting license. In case of persons under 16, a hunter education number is required. And you must be present for the drawing of the three permits at 5 p.m. Saturday.

The onsite draw is a separate drawing from the online applicants. Hunters can apply online and also at the festival.

Other features of the Elk Festival are a variety of music, street dancing until 11 p.m. Friday, a talent show, an elk calling contest, fishing derby, Dutch oven cooking contest and a pie contest.

This year’s elk hunting season for 28 permit holders will be Oct. 7-11 and Oct. 28-Nov. 1 on public land. A private land hunt will be Oct. 28-Nov. 1. It will be the 16th year of elk hunting in Arkansas after the game animals were restored beginning in 1981. The limited hunting started in 1998.

Arkansas Game and Fish Commission

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission plays an important role in keeping The Natural State true to its name. During the last 100 years, the agency has overseen the protection, conservation and preservation of various species of fish and wildlife in Arkansas. This is done through habitat management, fish stocking, hunting and fishing regulations, and a host of other programs.