Arkansas is a duck hunters Mecca. A long tradition exists in the state of successful duck and goose hunts. Arkansas has some of the greatest public land available that foster healthy duck populations. The National Wildlife Refuge and the Arkansas Fish & Game Commission Wildlife Management Areas are good for hunters wanting to hunt alone.

   Many Arkansas businesses exist that cater to the hunter and offer guide services. Some notable guide services are in areas such as Walnut Ridge, Brinkley, Little Rock, Stuttgart, and Dewitt. These guides can be a wealth of information, especially if you're not familiar with the Arkansas landscape and it's waterfowl.

   Many of the guide services offer extraordinary meals, comfortable lodging, and personal service. Your hunting needs are at the heart of their business. When hunting with a guide, most hunts will start early in the morning, often before dawn; over coffee and a continental breakfast, the guide will discuss the day's hunt. After a thorough gear check, the party is off to the hunting site. Hunts will normally last until around noon, depending on the hunting conditions and weather, though some guide services also offer evening hunts for the interested hunter.

   One challenge for the hunter looking to enlist the services of a guide is finding one with a good reputation. Hiring a guide can be an expensive adventure, so doing the research to find the one that fits each hunter's needs is essential. The best way to find a guide is always through word of mouth. Call some local sporting goods stores and ask if they're familiar with any good guides.

   A good sporting goods store will always have information about the local hunting scene, good or bad. Make sure that the guide service as an established record. The purpose of hiring a guide is to find someone who knows the land and the ducks. Someone new to the business isn't going to be as experienced as someone who's been operating for a few years. Ask for references from the service, if they have a good track record, they'll be happy to share the information. Another great resource is online.

   Many areas have local sportsmen's forums where hunters gather to talk about all things related to hunting, from duck population, to gear, to guides. A good guide is worth his money, so do the research to ensure a positive experience.

   The best time for duck hunting in Arkansas is generally December to January, with January typically having the best weather and hunting conditions. In northeast Arkansas, the best time is generally a little earlier in the season than in places in the south.

   For up to date rules, regulations, and dates the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission should be contacted. Arkansas requires that all hunters over sixteen register with the Harvest Information Program. The daily bag limit is one duck, and hunting is only allowed during open shooting hours. It is the hunter's responsibility to know the laws to ensure a safe and successful hunt.