THE EXPERT – Jonesboro Right Now – As the crisp air settles into Northeast Arkansas, hunters know exactly what time it is.

Fall means prime hunting season, and thousands of sportsmen are hitting the woods, from the rolling timber of Crowley’s Ridge to the agricultural fields and bottomlands of the Delta.

Hunting is a proud tradition and a popular pastime across North America. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) reported 14.4 million hunters nationwide in 2022, spending tens of billions on equipment–and a big chunk of that happens right here in the Natural State.

But whether you’re a seasoned veteran or heading out for your first opening morning, strict adherence to safety protocol must always be a priority.

At DNW Outdoors, our team has lived and breathed Northeast Arkansas hunting since 1987. We love outfitting you with the best gear, but our ultimate goal is making sure you return home safely after every hunt. Here is our field-tested safety guide to ensure a secure and successful season in Craighead County.

See and Be Seen

Whether you’re hunting public ground like the St. Francis Sunken Lands or sitting on a private lease, visibility is essential. Wearing blaze orange minimizes the chances of anyone being mistaken for game.

According to wildlife experts, deer aren’t entirely color-blind, but they lack the ability to distinguish colors like red and orange from green and brown. Wearing blaze orange won’t make you stand out to a whitetail, but it absolutely makes you visible to other hunters.

Secure Your Tree Stand

Perching above the landscape gives hunters a clear view of the game below. However, falls remain the most common cause of hunting-related injuries, with the average fall from a tree stand being 15 feet.

Avoid trusting permanent wooden stands that deteriorate over time due to unpredictable Arkansas weather; hunters should rely on quality, temporary climbing or lock-on stands instead. Always inspect your straps and ladder rungs, and never climb without a high-quality safety harness.

Dress for the Delta & Know Your Limits

Hunting often demands walking over rough terrain, carrying a rifle or heavy gear, and dragging out game.

This strenuous exercise pushes the body hard and can increase the risk of a health emergency for those unaccustomed to it. Take frequent breaks and try to hunt in pairs in case someone needs to call for help or administer first aid.

Additionally, Arkansas weather is notoriously unpredictable. A freezing morning can quickly turn into a warm afternoon. Dress accordingly to avoid frostbite and hypothermia by layering your clothing.

Practice Firearm Safety & Know Your Target

Treat every firearm as if it is loaded—no exceptions.

Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, and keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot. Never assume a firearm is unloaded. Furthermore, the FWS advises always certifying your target—and what lies beyond it—before taking a shot. This ensures that people, pets, or non-target animals are never in your line of fire.

A Reminder for Non-Hunters

Even if you aren’t participating in the hunt, safety is crucial during the fall. Nature lovers hiking local trails or walking dogs near hunting zones should learn when and where hunting is taking place.

Stay out of designated hunting areas and stick strictly to established trails to improve public safety. Non-hunters should also wear bright clothing in the woods—and tying a brightly colored bandana or piece of fabric around your dog’s neck is a simple but vital way to protect your four-legged friend.

Get Field-Ready at DNW Outdoors

From safety harnesses and high-performance ammo to top-tier boots and layered outerwear, the team at DNW Outdoors is ready to get you set up for another unforgettable—and safe—season in Craighead County.

Stop by the store today, talk with our local experts, and make sure you’re fully prepared when shooting light breaks!