When Does Gun Season Open in Alabama?
Alabama is renowned for its rich hunting heritage, with a wide range of species to hunt, including whitetail deer, wild turkeys, and small game. If you’re planning a hunting trip to the Yellowhammer State, it’s essential to know when gun season opens for the species you’re interested in hunting.
Gun Season Dates for Deer and Turkey
In Alabama, gun season for deer and turkey typically runs from late October to early December. Here are the specific dates for the 2022-2023 hunting season:
- White-tailed Deer Gun Season:
- October 15-23: Archery-only season (antlerless deer)
- October 29-November 5: Gun season (antlered and antlerless deer)
- November 12-20: Gun season (antlered and antlerless deer)
- Wild Turkey Gun Season:
- November 12-20: Fall gun season (spring season turkeys only)
Important Dates to Keep in Mind
Before planning your hunting trip, keep the following dates in mind:
- License Expiration Date: Make sure your hunting license is current and not expired.
- Youth Hunting Day: October 15th is designated as Youth Hunting Day, where youth under 16 years old can hunt deer and turkey under the supervision of a licensed adult.
- CWD (Chronic Wasting Disease) Check-Station Dates: Check the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) website for specific dates and locations for CWD check-stations.
Bag Limits and Regulations
To ensure a successful and safe hunting experience, familiarize yourself with the bag limits and regulations for deer and turkey in Alabama:
- Deer:
- Daily Bag Limit: 2 antlered deer (including 1 buck with a minimum of 4 points on one antler or a minimum of 17 inches of outside spread) and 2 antlerless deer
- Season Bag Limit: 4 antlered deer and 4 antlerless deer
- Hunting Hours: 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset
- Wild Turkey:
- Daily Bag Limit: 2 gobblers
- Season Bag Limit: 4 gobblers
- Hunting Hours: 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset
Additional Regulations and Reminders
Remember to follow these additional regulations and reminders:
- Shooting Hours: Only allow hunting during designated shooting hours.
- Hunter Education: Ensure you have completed a hunter education course before hunting in Alabama.
- Permits: Make sure you have the necessary permits and licenses for the species you’re hunting.
- Property Rights: Always obtain permission from the landowner before hunting on private property.
Pre-Hunt Checklist
To ensure a successful and safe hunting trip, complete the following pre-hunt checklist:
- Check License and Permits: Ensure your hunting license and permits are current and not expired.
- Check Gear: Make sure your firearm, bow, and arrows are in good condition.
- Check Weather Forecast: Plan your hunt accordingly based on weather conditions.
- Check Hunting Area: Familiarize yourself with the hunting area and any specific regulations or restrictions.
Conclusion
Knowing when gun season opens in Alabama is crucial for planning a successful and enjoyable hunting trip. By understanding the specific dates, bag limits, and regulations for deer and turkey, you can ensure a safe and productive hunt. Remember to stay informed about any changes in regulations and to always follow safe hunting practices. Happy hunting in Alabama!
