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When Is the Rut in Central & South AR?

Arkansas rut phase dates for the 2026 season. Central & South AR is one of 2 distinct rut zones in Arkansas — timing here runs on its own schedule.

Short answer: peak rut in Central & South AR typically runs Nov 15 to Nov 28.
Compared with the rest of Arkansas: peak rut in Central & South AR runs about 5 days later than Northwest Arkansas.

Central & South AR Rut Phases

Region Pre-Rut Seeking Peak Rut Post-Rut
Central & South AR Oct 28 – Nov 8 Nov 8 – Nov 15 Nov 15 – Nov 28 Nov 28 – Dec 10

Every Rut Zone in Arkansas

Hunting a different part of the state? Peak dates shift.

Region Pre-Rut Seeking Peak Rut Post-Rut
Northwest Arkansas Oct 22 – Nov 3 Nov 3 – Nov 10 Nov 10 – Nov 22 Nov 22 – Dec 5
Central & South AR ← you are here Oct 28 – Nov 8 Nov 8 – Nov 15 Nov 15 – Nov 28 Nov 28 – Dec 10
How to use these dates. Rut timing is driven mainly by photoperiod, so these windows hold up well year to year. What moves is visible daylight activity — cold fronts, wind, and hunting pressure shift when deer move inside the window. Use the dates to pick your week, then the daily forecast to pick your morning. Always verify seasons with your state agency.
Check today's hunting conditions → All Arkansas rut dates

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