Yes, spearguns are legal in Arkansas for recreational spearfishing, provided users comply with Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) regulations and state wildlife codes. The AGFC classifies spearguns as legal underwater fishing devices, but restrictions apply to protect aquatic ecosystems and ensure public safety. Violations may result in fines or confiscation under Arkansas Code § 18-4-301 et seq.
Key Regulations for Spearguns in Arkansas
- License Requirements: A valid Arkansas fishing license is mandatory for residents and non-residents engaging in spearfishing. Spearguns are prohibited for use in designated No Fishing zones, such as certain portions of the Buffalo National River.
- Device Specifications: Spearguns must not exceed 48 inches in length, and mechanical spearguns (e.g., band-powered) are permitted only in freshwater bodies. Explosive or chemically propelled devices are explicitly banned under AGFC Rule 18.04.
- Species & Seasonal Limits: Spearguns may only target non-game species or those with open seasons (e.g., carp, gar). Harvesting game fish (e.g., bass, trout) with spearguns is illegal year-round, aligning with AGFC’s 2026-2027 Wildlife Management Plan revisions.
Local ordinances in cities like Little Rock or Eureka Springs may impose additional restrictions, such as prohibiting speargun use in municipal reservoirs. The AGFC’s 2026 compliance updates emphasize electronic reporting for spearfishing catches in Lake Ouachita, requiring users to log harvests via the AGFC’s MyWildLife portal within 24 hours. Failure to report may trigger audits under Arkansas’s Wildlife Resource Act. Always verify county-specific rules, as some areas classify spearguns as “prohibited weapons” under local ordinances.