Boating fatalities in Arkansas reached their highest level in more than a decade in 2025, according to a newly released year-end report from the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.
The report shows 17 people died in boating-related incidents last year, the highest total since 2009. The number of accidents also increased, with 73 reported statewide — the most since 2020.
Sgt. Sydney Grant, the commission’s boating law administrator, said a combination of hazardous conditions and increased activity contributed to the rise in accidents and fatalities.
Heavy rainfall and flooding throughout the spring created dangerous conditions on many rivers and streams, particularly for those unfamiliar with navigating swift currents.
“We had a lot of water and current in most of our streams and rivers from heavy rains,” Grant said. “Conditions were not good for people who weren’t familiar with navigating those areas.”
Grant noted that nine of the vessels involved in accidents were rentals, suggesting a level of inexperience among some operators. While many boaters involved had significant time on the water, that did not always translate to experience with specific vessels or conditions.
Even experienced boaters can underestimate the force of moving water, which can pin boats or individuals against obstacles with significant force, Grant said.
The report also highlighted a sharp increase in boating accidents related to duck hunting. Eleven such incidents were recorded in 2025, more than double the five reported in 2024, including one fatality.
Grant said duck hunting conditions often involve low visibility and navigating flooded timber, increasing the risk of accidents — particularly when combined with high speeds.
“You’re already boating during a low-visibility time of day, and you’re driving through flooded forests with hidden hazards,” Grant said. “Some are going too fast for the conditions.”
The data also showed that accidents were not limited to younger boaters. The average age of operators involved in accidents was 44, while the average age in fatal incidents was 53.
Motorboats accounted for the majority of vessels involved in accidents, though incidents were also reported involving pontoons, personal watercraft, kayaks, canoes and paddleboards.
Life jacket use remains a major concern. Only 33 percent of boaters involved in accidents were wearing a life jacket. Of the 17 fatalities, just one victim was wearing a life jacket, and none of the drowning victims had one on at the time.
While officials noted a slight increase in life jacket usage compared to previous years, Grant emphasized that more progress is needed.
“It only takes a moment to get into a situation that is nearly impossible to escape,” Grant said. “The main message is to respect moving water and know your limits.”
