General Information Arkansas, actually an Indian name meaning,"the wind," is also referred to as the Natural State, and for good reason. The Land of Opportunity has within its 53,187 square miles 2.4 million acres of national forest land, over 8 million acres of harvested cropland, and approximately 600,000 acres of lakes. Arkansas' limestone bluffs and temperate climate entice many recreationists seeking solace in the numerous outdoor activities within the state parks, thousands of miles of rivers and streams and the many mountain lakes in the heart of the Ozark Mountains. Capital City: Little Rock Largest City: Little Rock National Parks and Forests: Buffalo National River Ouachita National Forest Ozark National Forest St. Francis National Forest Sport Fishing Historically a warmwater fishery for popular species of bass, Arkansas in recent years has become a popular attraction for trout fishermen with the state's program of reservoir construction. Along with its many miles of natural rivers and streams, the Army Corps of Engineers development of flood-control and hydroelectric reservoirs has created secondary fisheries downstream of the many dams that release chilled water. Excellent fisheries have been created through trout stocking below Norfork Reservoir, Bull Shoals, Greer's Ferry Reservoir, Beaver Reservoir and Table Rock Reservoir. The White River and North Fork of the White have been famous southern destinations for trout anglers, and in 1992 Arkansas' Little Red River produced a world record 40lb. 4oz. brown trout. The record still stands today. The Natural State's numerous mountain lakes, rivers and streams also produce catches of native largemouth and smallmouth bass, walleye, crappie, striped bass and hybrid bass. Hunting Arkansas is probably best known for its reputation as the duck-hunting capital of the world. Its strategic location in the heart of the Mississippi Flyway and its many flooded woodlands, swamps and rice fields attract many species of waterfowl. White-tailed deer and black bear are a popular species sought by the big-game hunter, and the Ozark Mountains and surrounding area offer excellent habitat which sustains a large population of wild turkey. Small-game hunting for rabbit and squirrel is also a favorite pastime for many Arkansans. For information about hunting licensing fees and certain requirements, contact the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission at 800-364-4236, or consult the Arkansas Hunting Regulations publication printed by the commission.