Didn't Arkansas just open up bear baiting on private land? If so, why not try your luck at baiting? Lots of hard work, but could prove successful for you. If that doesn't work for you how about some calling in an area w/ lots of bear sign. Being your hunting in Arkansas, I wouldn't waste my time trying to spot and stalk for bears. I know the bears are on the rise there and F&G is urging hunters to take them, but I still have never seen a bear in Arkansas, only scat.

Good luck,
Jim