AGFF Kids Zone returns to 2026 Big Buck Classic Feb. 6-8 

LITTLE ROCK — Gather up the young hunters in your family and head to the 36th annual Arkansas Big Buck Classic, rescheduled for Feb. 6-8 in anticipation of this weekend’s severe winter weather, at the Arkansas State Fairgrounds.

In addition to all the festivities surrounding success stories from the 2025-26 deer hunting season, families will once again be greeted by the Arkansas Game and Fish Foundation’s Kids Zone, sponsored by Thacha, at the Arts and Crafts Building.

This area remains free for children after general admission and provides hands-on excitement for the next generation of hunters and anglers. Highlights include an indoor trout pond where children can catch live rainbow trout, an inflatable BB gun range, and a hover ball archery shoot, where young archers try to hit a pingpong ball suspended by a column of air. Expert instruction will be provided by the Bowfishers of Arkansas and the Arkansas Bowhunters Association. The Kids Zone is also the home of Bwana Jim’s Wildlife Show.

“We are deeply dedicated to supporting the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts across Arkansas, and there truly is no better place to do that than the Arkansas Big Buck Classic,” Deke Whitbeck, Arkansas Game and Fish Foundation president, said. “You don’t have to be an experienced deer hunter to enjoy this event; it is an incredible environment for newcomers to learn about our state’s traditions. For many children, this is the very spot where they will catch their first fish! This event has become a cornerstone of Arkansas’s outdoor culture, and we are honored to support the tireless work of Tommy and Catherine Murchison, who started this event 36 years ago.”

In addition to the Foundation’s Kids Zone, you’ll find Arkansas Game and Fish Commission biologists at the Greenway Equipment booth to promote conservation efforts on private land and the recently expanded Deer Management Assistance Program, where deer clubs can receive professional guidance on managing the deer herd and improving wildlife habitat on the club. Greenway is a cultivating partner of the AGFC’s Private Lands Habitat Division and works hand-in-hand with Commission staff to help increase the quality of wildlife habitat throughout The Natural State.

Hunters from across Arkansas are encouraged to bring the antlers from deer harvested during the last two seasons to have them scored and entered into the competition. Categories for archery, crossbow, muzzleloader and modern gun all offer prizes. Special youth and ladies divisions also offer additional prizes for women and children.

There is no charge to participate in the AGFF Kids Zone, but admission to the show is $15 for adults and $5 for kids 5- to 12-years old. Admission for children under 5 is free.

Visit www.bigbuckclassic.com for more information on events.

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