Blind Bound

Exploring The Hunting Hot Spots Of Arkansas.

By Caleb Patton

Through the crunch of fallen leaves and the clinging fog of every breath, Arkansan hunters far and wide see beyond the unyielding chill of winter. They hear the call of adventure and bounty, frequently earning bragging rights from their spoils as hunting seasons begin. The game is afoot, and hotspots throughout Arkansas have sounded the call.

Stuttgart

Synonymous with duck hunting, this charming town is nestled in the heart of the Mississippi Flyway. Over many years, it has earned its reputation as the “Duck Hunting Capital of the World.” With its rich history, world-class duck-calling competitions and abundant waterfowl, Stuttgart offers an unforgettable experience for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.

The town’s deep-rooted hunting tradition dates to the early 20th century when rice farming transformed the region. The creation of rice fields provided an ideal habitat for waterfowl, attracting hunters from far and wide. Stuttgart’s strategic location, combined with such an abundant waterfowl population, has made it a premier destination for duck hunters.

One of the year’s highlights in Stuttgart is the Wings Over the Prairie Festival. It offers a variety of activities for the entire family. This annual event features live music, food vendors, carnival rides and educational exhibits. Visitors can also explore the town’s historic downtown district, home to unique shops and restaurants.

While exploring the festival, witness the annual World Championship Duck Calling Contest. This prestigious event attracts the best duck callers nationwide who compete for the coveted title of World Champion. The contest showcases these callers’ incredible skill and artistry as they accurately mimic the sounds of mallard hens, specklebelly geese, and more.

Headquartered in Stuttgart, RNT Calls is the renowned manufacturer of many high-quality duck calls used during the competition. Founded by legendary duck caller Butch Richenback, RNT has been at the forefront of duck call innovation for over four decades. The company’s commitment to producing realistic and durable calls has made it a favorite among hunters worldwide.

The city’s premium location within the Mississippi Flyway provides unparalleled access to waterfowl hunting opportunities. The area’s abundant wetlands, rice fields, and bottomland hardwoods offer diverse habitats for many waterfowl species, including mallards, teal, pintails and wood ducks.

Beyond its reputation as a hunting paradise, Stuttgart is a vibrant community with a strong sense of tradition. The town’s annual festivals and events celebrate its heritage and provide opportunities for residents and visitors to unite.

One such event is the annual High Cotton on the Bayou Festival, which showcases the region’s agricultural history. This festival features live music, carnival rides and a variety of competitions, including a cotton-picking contest.

Stuttgart is also home to the Arkansas Grand Prairie Museum, which tells the story of the region’s rich history. The museum houses exhibits on agriculture, wildlife and local culture. Visitors can learn about the area’s past and present and gain a deeper appreciation for its unique heritage.

Whether you’re a seasoned or novice hunter, festival-goer, or just passing through, Stuttgart has something to offer. Local hunting guides can provide expert advice and assistance, ensuring a successful hunting experience. With its rich history, world-class duck calling and abundant wildlife, Stuttgart remains a must-visit destination for waterfowl enthusiasts.

Did you know?

Founded in 1878 by Reverend Adam Buerkle, a Lutheran minister from Stuttgart, Germany, the city was named after his hometown, reflecting its German roots.

DON’T MISS: Stay a night or two at The Schoolhouse Lodge, a home-away-from-home while you visit Stuttgart. See more at theschoolhouselodge.com.

Bald Knob

While Stuttgart may be the heart of duck hunting in Arkansas, Bald Knob offers a quieter, more intimate hunting experience. Nestled between the Ozark Mountains and the Mississippi Delta, this charming town uniquely blends natural beauty and Southern hospitality.

Bald Knob’s strategic location makes it a prime spot for hunting a variety of game, including deer, turkey and waterfowl. The nearby White and Little Red Rivers offer excellent fishing opportunities, attracting anglers from all over the state. The abundant wildlife and diverse landscapes make Bald Knob a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, Bald Knob offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking and birdwatching. The town’s historic downtown district is home to several unique shops and restaurants, making it a great place to explore.

One of the highlights of Bald Knob is the Arkansas Traveler Hobbies & Museum, which houses an extensive collection of model trains and railroad memorabilia. It’s a must-see for train enthusiasts of all ages and the perfect stop-in while you take a respite.

Another popular destination is the Henry Gray Hurricane Lake WMA, which encompasses over 17,000 acres of prime bottomland hardwoods just east of Bald Knob. This refuge is home to diverse wildlife available for hunting, including deer, quail, rabbit and local waterfowl.

From seasoned hunters to casual outdoor enthusiasts to history buffs, Bald Knob has something to offer. So, as you’re planning out your hunting spots this season, add this hidden gem to your itinerary.

DON’T MISS: Bald Knob National Wildlife Refuge Over 15,000 acres of protected wetlands and an extremely important player in the life of migratory birds.

DeWitt

DeWitt, quaintly nestled west of the banks of the White River, offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty and Southern charm. With its rich heritage and stunning landscapes, DeWitt is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

One of DeWitt’s highlights is its historical significance. The town has a fascinating past, dating back to its origins as an Indian village. It later became a thriving river town, serving as a transportation hub for the region. Today, visitors can explore the town’s historic district and admire the beautiful architecture of its historic buildings.

For outdoor enthusiasts, DeWitt offers a variety of recreational opportunities. The White River provides excellent fishing and boating, while the surrounding wetlands are home to diverse wildlife. Hunters can enjoy pursuing waterfowl, deer and other game in the area.

When it comes to dining, there are various options to satisfy every palate. From classic Southern cuisine to fresh seafood, there’s something for everyone passing through. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor a delicious meal at the historic restaurant Kelly’s on the Square, located in the second oldest building in the town square.

DON’T MISS: Stay a night or two at Grandview Acres Lodge, a premier hunting lodge with all the comforts of home, while you visit DeWitt. See more at grandviewacreslodge.com.

Did you know?

DeWitt was named by a hat draw in honor of New York’s sixth governor, DeWitt Clinton. The town was platted in 1854 and has had a post office since 1856.

Hunting Lodges of Southeast Arkansas

Southern Speck Outfitters
Providing guided tours, meals and lodging in one easy package. Tichnor. southerspeckoutfitters.com.

Five Oaks Duck Lodge
Over 6,000 acres of innovative, conscientious land providing year-round hunting habitats. Humphrey. fiveoaksducklodge.com.

The Elms Lodge
A 19th-century mansion turned hunting lodge, perfect for the history and hunting aficionado. Altheimer. historichome.theelmslodge.com.

Bayou LaGrue Lodge
Home-cooked meals and a beautiful, natural landscape perfect for hunting, fishing and wildlife watching. DeWitt. 870-946-5511.

Delta Heritage Lodge
Less than 5 miles from the confluence of the Arkansas and Mississippi rivers, experience the true Mississippi Flyway. Dumas. deltaheritagelodge.com.

Ducks-N-Dogs Lodge
World-class duck and waterfowl hunting and down-home Southern hospitality at its finest. St. Charles. ducks-n-dogs.com.