Hayden’s Ferry Review Opens Submissions for Issue 78 and Spring 2026 Web Folio

Hayden’s Ferry Review (HFR) has opened its submission window for print issue 78 and its Spring 2026 web folio, running from November 1–30, 2025. While the print issue is unthemed, the spring web folio invites work responding to the theme “aftercare”—a concept rooted in attentiveness following intensity, rupture, or transition. The editors seek writing that lingers in recovery: tending wounds, rebuilding, recalibrating breath, and rediscovering gentleness after chaos.

Writers can find full guidelines and submit through Submittable when the portal opens on November 1.

To help you refine your work before submitting, you may find these related craft resources useful:

• Explore how theme deepens meaning in fiction in this guide to thematic concept.
• Improve pacing and emotional resonance with this article on effective character pauses.

Submission Guidelines for Hayden’s Ferry Review

Poetry 

• Submit up to 3 poems, maximum 8 pages total, in a single file.
• Include your name and contact information on the first page.
• Submit only one packet at a time.
• Accepted file types: .doc, .docx, .pdf.
• The journal does not accept book-length works.
• HFR strongly encourages reading previous issues before submitting; samples are available on their site.

Prose

• HFR accepts fiction and nonfiction.
• Submit one piece, up to 20 pages (they prefer under 17 pages).
• Double-space all prose.
• Include your name and contact information on the first page.
• One prose submission per window.

Translation Guidelines

• Submit translations into English, with both the original and translated text included.
• The translator must secure rights.
• Submit up to 6 poems/microfictions, or one essay/story.
• Year-round translation submissions are welcome.
• During general windows, HFR offers 50 free submissions for underrepresented translators.

Art Guidelines

• Submit 5–8 pieces of visual art.
• Previously published work on personal sites/social media is accepted (but not in journals).
• Upon acceptance, HFR will request high-resolution files, an artist bio, and an artist statement.
• HFR publishes full-colour art and selects 2–4 artists per issue, with one featured on the cover.

General Submission Notes for Hayden’s Ferry Review

• Send one submission per genre for print and web.
• Submit simultaneously—if another publication accepts it, inform the editors immediately.
• Withdraw via Submittable.
• Contributors receive one print copy of the issue.
• No previously published material is (except for art posted on personal pages).
• Those affiliated with Arizona State University must wait 3 years after affiliation ends before submitting.
• Previous contributors must wait 2 years before submitting again.
• Only Submittable submissions will be reviewed.
• HFR aims to respond within six months.

Readers are encouraged to explore the magazine; subscriptions are available through their store.

Free Submissions for Underrepresented Writers

HFR offers at least 50 free submission slots per genre during open reading periods for writers from historically underrepresented communities, especially:

• Black
• Indigenous
• People of Color
• LGBTQIA+ writers
• Writers with disabilities

However, anyone who considers their identity or experience underrepresented in the industry may submit through this category.

 

Accessibility Note

For visually impaired writers unable to use Submittable, HFR accepts submissions via email (haydensferryreview@gmail.com) in PDF format, but only during open windows and only for genres currently being read.

Hayden’s Ferry Review Fiction & Poetry Contest

HFR  hosts an annual fiction and poetry contest. The 2026 contest will open in February 2026; full 2025 contest guidelines are available on their website.

Book Reviews & Interviews (closed)

HFR accepts books for possible reviews or interviews from September to April.
To submit a book for consideration:

• Email haydensferryreview@gmail.com
• Use subject line: “Book for Review/Interview Consideration”
• Include summary, relevant details, and a digital copy (if available)

Due to volume, not all books can be reviewed.

Submit

You can submit your work during the window via Submittable:
Submit to HFR