Trail Overview
This 13,626-acre area is composed of 5,866 acres of state-owned land and 7,760 acres leased from International Paper and Potlatch timber companies.The primary objective of this management area is to provide high-quality wildlife habitat and public hunting opportunities. Bois d' Arc Lake provides excellent fishing and bird-watching opportunities.The area consists primarily of bottomland hardwood habitats. This includes a 660-acre greentree waterfowl area. Little Grassy Duck Area is a 150-acre moist-soil management unit.Bois d' Arc Lake and the associated creeks and sloughs are also home to the American Alligator. Caution should be used at all times, especially during warm weather, and swimming is not allowed. The lake also has numerous stumps and logs which require slow boat operations. Primitive campsites are available around the lake and on the west side of the WMA.
History
This 13,626 -acre wildlife management area was originally named for Bois d'Arc Creek when it was established in the 1950 s. The Commission re named the area Dr. Lester Sitzes III Bois d'Arc WMA in 2004 to honor its former chairman. The AGFC owns 5,866 acres of bottom land hardwood s on the property and leases 7,760 acres of intensively managed pine. The area Is noted for excellent duck, deer, turkey, squirrel and rabbit hunting. A system of levees and water-control structures enhances waterfowl habitat, including a 660-acre greentree reservoir, a 150-acre moist-soil unit and a 185acre waterfowl rest area. The AGFC also manages deer, turkey and alligator hunts on the property through a permit draw system. The 650 - acre Dr. Lester Sitzes III Bois d'Arc Lake was renovated in 2002 and provides excel lent year-round bird -watching and fishing opportunities. Swimming is prohibited because of the area's American alligator population. Two large camping area s and four public access areas are available on the lake. For additional information, contact the Hope Regional Office toll free at (877 )777-5580.
