LITTLE ROCK — Hunters interested in helping manage urban deer populations can now register for the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s 2026 Urban Deer Hunt Program.
The archery-only hunts are scheduled in Cherokee Village, Fairfield Bay, Heber Springs, Helena-West Helena, Horseshoe Bend and Russellville. The program provides a low-cost, effective way to address overpopulation of nuisance deer in these communities.
Deer harvested during the urban hunts do not count toward a hunter’s regular seasonal bag limit, and there is no limit on the number of deer that may be taken. Participants must donate their first harvested deer to Arkansas Hunters Feeding the Hungry, which processes the venison into ground meat for distribution to food pantries across the state.
To take part, hunters must complete several safety and qualification steps, including passing the International Bowhunters Education Program, attending a hunt orientation session, reviewing local regulations and passing a shooting proficiency test.
The commission encourages early registration and completion of all required training before specific hunt dates are announced.
More information and registration details are available through the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s Urban Hunt Program.
