Alabama’s hunting traditions run deep, with generations of sportsmen enjoying the state’s abundant wildlife. For those planning to participate in this cherished outdoor activity, understanding the firearm regulations is crucial. Alabama permits the use of shotguns, muzzleloaders, handguns, and certain rifles for hunting, but each weapon type has specific caliber and ammunition requirements.

Shotguns must be 10 gauge or smaller, using buckshot, slugs, or single round balls for big game. Muzzleloaders and black powder handguns are allowed if they are .40 caliber or larger. For those preferring modern firearms, centerfire handguns with mushrooming ammunition are legal. Long bows, compound bows, and crossbows are also permitted, provided they meet state regulations.

It’s important to note that fully automatic firearms are prohibited for hunting in Alabama. Additionally, hunters should be aware of special youth hunts and season-specific regulations that may affect their choice of firearm. By adhering to these guidelines, hunters can safely and legally pursue game while preserving Alabama’s rich outdoor heritage.

Alabama Department of Conservation Overview

The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources manages the state’s hunting programs and regulations. It oversees licensing, education, and wildlife conservation efforts to ensure sustainable hunting practices.

Hunting Licenses

Alabama requires hunters to obtain appropriate licenses before engaging in any hunting activities. Licenses are available for residents and non-residents, with various options based on game species and hunting duration. Prices vary depending on the license type and hunter’s age.

Annual hunting licenses cover most game species. Specialty licenses exist for specific animals like deer, turkey, and waterfowl. Multi-year and lifetime licenses offer convenience for frequent hunters.

License revenues directly support wildlife conservation programs in Alabama. Hunters can purchase licenses online, through authorized vendors, or at county probate offices.

Hunter Education Course

Alabama mandates hunter education for most hunters born after August 1, 1977. The course covers firearm safety, hunting ethics, wildlife conservation, and state regulations. It aims to create responsible, knowledgeable hunters and reduce hunting-related accidents.

In-person courses typically span 10 hours, split over multiple days. They include classroom instruction and hands-on training. Experienced instructors lead these sessions, often incorporating practical demonstrations and field exercises.

Upon successful completion, participants receive a hunter education certification card. This card is valid in Alabama and recognized by most other states.

Online Course Availability

Alabama offers an online hunter education option for those unable to attend in-person classes. This course covers the same material as traditional classes but allows students to learn at their own pace.

The online course includes interactive modules, videos, and quizzes to ensure comprehension. Students must pass a final exam to receive certification. Some age restrictions may apply for online courses.

While convenient, the online option lacks hands-on training. As a result, new hunters are encouraged to seek additional practical experience before their first hunt. The Alabama Department of Conservation provides resources for finding mentors and supervised hunting opportunities.

Legal Requirements and Prohibitions

Alabama’s hunting regulations establish specific rules for firearms, safety equipment, and permissions. These laws aim to ensure ethical and safe hunting practices across the state.

General Hunting Regulations

Hunters must possess a valid Alabama hunting license. Licenses are required for residents and non-residents aged 16 and older. Youth hunters under 16 must be accompanied by a licensed adult. Bag limits and seasons vary by species and are strictly enforced.

Hunting is prohibited at night, except for specifically designated night hunts. Baiting game animals is illegal on public lands. Hunters cannot use artificial lights to locate game, except when hunting raccoons, opossums, and foxes.

It’s illegal to shoot from a vehicle or across public roads. Hunters must wear hunter orange during firearms deer season.

Legal Arms and Ammunition

Alabama allows various firearms for hunting:

• Shotguns: 10 gauge or smaller, using buckshot, slugs, or single round balls
• Muzzleloaders: .40 caliber or larger
• Handguns: Centerfire with mushrooming ammunition
• Bows: Longbows, compound bows, and crossbows

Fully automatic firearms are prohibited for hunting. Rifles and handguns must use centerfire ammunition.

For big game, like deer and bear, hunters must use:

• Shotguns with slugs or buckshot
• Rifles .223 caliber or larger
• Handguns .357 caliber or larger
• Muzzleloaders .40 caliber or larger

Hunter Orange Requirement

During gun deer season, all hunters must wear hunter orange. This applies to all hunters in the field, regardless of what they’re hunting. The requirement includes:

• A solid hunter orange hat
• A minimum of 144 square inches of hunter orange on the chest and back

Exceptions exist for hunters in enclosed tree stands over 12 feet high and those hunting on privately-owned lands.

Hunter orange increases visibility, reducing the risk of hunting accidents.

Permission for Hunting on Private Land

Hunters must obtain written permission from landowners before hunting on private property. This rule applies even if the land is not posted. Written permission should include:

• Hunter’s name
• Dates permission is granted
• Landowner’s signature

Hunters should carry this document while in the field. Hunting without permission can result in trespassing charges.

Landowners have the right to revoke permission at any time. Respecting private property helps maintain positive relationships between hunters and landowners.

Seasons and Specifications

Alabama’s hunting regulations establish specific seasons, limits, and rules for various game species. These guidelines ensure sustainable wildlife management and hunter safety across the state.

Deer Hunting Regulations

White-tailed deer hunting in Alabama is divided into distinct seasons based on weapon type and location. The gun deer season typically runs from mid-November to early February.

Antlered bucks may be taken throughout the season, while either-sex harvest is allowed during designated periods. Bag limits are set at three antlered bucks per hunter per season.

Dog deer hunting is permitted on private lands from late November to mid-January. On public lands, this practice is restricted to specific areas and dates.

Hunters must follow strict antler restrictions. Bucks must have at least three points on one side or a 15-inch minimum spread.

Waterfowl and Migratory Birds

Waterfowl season in Alabama generally spans from late November to late January. Specific dates may vary by zone and species.

Duck limits are typically set at 6 per day, with restrictions on certain species. Goose limits vary by type, with Canada geese often limited to 5 per day.

Migratory bird hunters must possess a valid hunting license, state and federal duck stamps, and a Harvest Information Program (HIP) permit.

Steel shot or other approved non-toxic ammunition is mandatory for waterfowl hunting. Lead shot is prohibited.

Small Game and Other Wildlife

Squirrel season runs from mid-October to early March. Daily bag limit is usually 8 per hunter.

Rabbit hunting is permitted from mid-September through the end of February. Hunters may take 8 rabbits per day.

Wild turkey season occurs in spring, typically from mid-March to early May. Bag limit is set at 1 gobbler per day, 5 per season.

Unprotected wildlife, such as coyotes and feral hogs, may be hunted year-round with no bag limits.

Daytime vs. Nighttime Hunting

Most hunting in Alabama is restricted to daylight hours. Legal hunting time typically begins 30 minutes before sunrise and ends 30 minutes after sunset.

Nighttime hunting is allowed for certain species, including raccoons, opossums, and foxes. This activity requires a valid hunting license and adherence to specific regulations.

Feral hog hunting at night is permitted on private lands with landowner permission. Hunters must use artificial lights and comply with firearm restrictions.

Nighttime deer hunting is strictly prohibited. Violations can result in severe penalties, including fines and license revocation.

Hunting Limitations

Alabama’s hunting regulations include important restrictions on bag limits, species protections, and special rules for certain animals. These limitations help maintain healthy wildlife populations and ensure sustainable hunting practices.

Bag Limits and Game Check

Hunters in Alabama must adhere to strict bag limits for various game species. For deer, the seasonal limit is three antlered bucks. Daily bag limits vary by species. For example, turkey hunters can take one gobbler per day with a season limit of five.

The Game Check system is mandatory for deer and turkey hunters. All harvested deer and turkeys must be reported through Game Check within 48 hours. This can be done via the Outdoor Alabama app, website, or phone.

Game Check data helps wildlife biologists monitor populations and adjust management strategies. Failure to comply with Game Check requirements can result in fines.

Protected and Unprotected Species

Alabama law designates certain species as protected, making it illegal to hunt, capture, or kill them without proper permits. Protected species include:

• Bald eagles
• Ospreys
• All songbirds
• Bats
• Alligators (except during regulated seasons)

Unprotected species that can be hunted year-round without a license include:

• Coyotes
• Feral hogs
• Nutria

Hunters should always verify a species’ status before hunting to avoid legal issues.

Special Regulations for Certain Animals

Some game animals have unique rules and seasons in Alabama:

Bobcats: No bag limit. Season runs November 23, 2024 – February 28, 2025.

Groundhogs: No closed season or bag limit on private lands.

Other Game Birds:

• Quail: Daily bag limit of 8, November 2, 2024 – February 28, 2025
• Dove: Daily bag limit of 15, split season starting September 7, 2024
• Wood duck: Daily bag limit of 3, part of regular waterfowl season

Special regulations may apply on wildlife management areas or other public lands. Always consult the current Alabama Hunting and Wildlife Regulations guide for the most up-to-date information.

Safety and Ethics

Responsible hunting in Alabama requires adhering to safety protocols, ethical practices, and legal requirements. These principles protect hunters, wildlife, and the environment while promoting a positive image of the sport.

Firearm Safety and Best Practices

Always treat firearms as if they’re loaded. Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction and finger off the trigger until ready to shoot. Wear blaze orange during firearm deer season for visibility. Know your target and what’s beyond it before firing. Unload firearms when crossing obstacles or entering vehicles.

Store guns and ammunition separately when not in use. Clean firearms regularly to prevent malfunctions. Use proper ear and eye protection when shooting. Take a hunter education course to learn more about safe firearm handling.

Never shoot at flat, hard surfaces or water. Bullets can ricochet unpredictably. Avoid alcohol and drugs while hunting.

Hunting Ethics and Respect for Land

Practice fair chase by giving game a reasonable chance to evade. Take only ethical shots within your skill level. Track wounded animals diligently and utilize as much of harvested game as possible.

Obtain permission before hunting on private land. Leave gates as you found them. Pack out all trash and spent shells. Avoid damaging crops or property.

Respect other hunters and non-hunters using the outdoors. Keep a low profile and minimize noise. Share hunting spots and opportunities when appropriate.

Support conservation efforts through license purchases and habitat improvement projects. Follow bag limits and seasons to ensure sustainable wildlife populations.

Legal Requirements for Legally Blind Hunters

Legally blind hunters in Alabama must be accompanied by a licensed hunter who is at least 21 years old. The accompanying hunter cannot carry a firearm or bow while assisting. Legally blind hunters must possess a valid hunting license and hunter education certification.

Special accommodations may include the use of laser sighting devices or other adaptive equipment, subject to approval. Blind hunters should inform landowners or wildlife officials of their status when obtaining permissions.

Safety remains paramount. Ensure clear communication between the blind hunter and assistant regarding targets and surroundings. Choose hunting areas with minimal obstacles and clear shooting lanes.

Specialized Hunting Practices

Alabama offers diverse hunting opportunities with specific regulations for various methods. These practices require specialized equipment and permits, ensuring ethical and safe hunting experiences.

Bow Hunting Regulations

Compound bows and crossbows are legal for hunting in Alabama. Hunters must use broadhead arrows with a minimum cutting diameter of 7/8 inch and 2 sharpened edges. Crossbows must have a minimum draw weight of 125 pounds.

Bow hunters can pursue deer, turkey, and other game animals during designated archery seasons. These seasons often start earlier and last longer than firearm seasons, providing extended hunting opportunities.

Hunters must complete a bowhunter education course before obtaining an archery license. This course covers safety, ethics, and proper shooting techniques.

Falconry and Falconry Permit Information

Falconry, the art of hunting with trained birds of prey, is permitted in Alabama. Falconers must obtain a state falconry permit and a federal falconry permit.

The application process includes passing a written exam and a facilities inspection. Apprentice falconers must have a sponsor for at least two years before advancing to general or master class.

Falconry seasons typically align with other small game hunting seasons. Permitted raptors include red-tailed hawks, Cooper’s hawks, and great horned owls.

Falconers must follow strict regulations regarding the capture, housing, and care of their birds. Annual reports on bird acquisition and hunting activities are required.

Use of Muzzleloaders and Black Powder Handguns

Muzzleloaders and black powder handguns are popular for deer hunting in Alabama. These firearms must be .40 caliber or larger for big game hunting.

Muzzleloaders can be used during special primitive weapons seasons, offering hunters additional opportunities. These seasons often occur before regular firearm seasons.

Black powder handguns must use centerfire, mushrooming ammunition. Hunters can use these during regular firearm seasons for deer and other big game.

Inline muzzleloaders with scopes are permitted. However, during primitive weapons seasons, only open or peep sights are allowed on muzzleloaders.

Hunters using muzzleloaders or black powder handguns must follow all standard hunting regulations, including wearing hunter orange during firearm seasons.

Legal Hunting Hours and Seasons

Hunting hours in Alabama generally begin 30 minutes before sunrise and end 30 minutes after sunset. Specific times vary by date and location within the state.

Alabama’s hunting seasons are structured around different game species. The 2024-2025 deer season runs from November 23, 2024, to February 10, 2025, for privately owned or leased land.

On open permit-public land, the deer season is divided into segments:

• November 23 – December 13, 2024: Antlered bucks only
• December 14, 2024 – January 5, 2025: Either sex
• January 6 – February 10, 2025: Antlered bucks only

Turkey hunting season typically occurs in spring. Exact dates vary by region and are set annually by the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

Mourning dove season is split into three segments, usually beginning in early September and ending in mid-January. Bobwhite quail hunting season generally runs from mid-November to late February.

Hunters must adhere to bag limits and possession limits for each species. These limits are subject to change each season and are detailed in the annual Alabama Hunting and Wildlife Regulations guide.

It’s crucial for hunters to check the most current regulations before planning their hunting activities, as seasons and rules may be adjusted yearly to ensure sustainable wildlife management.

Additional Information

Alabama’s hunting regulations extend beyond firearm rules to encompass public land guidelines, conservation efforts, and educational resources. These areas work together to support sustainable hunting practices and preserve the state’s outdoor heritage.

Public Land Hunting Guidelines

Public land hunting in Alabama requires adherence to specific rules. Hunters must possess a valid hunting license and management area permit when applicable. Scouting is permitted during daylight hours only. Baiting and hunting over bait are prohibited on public lands.

Camping is allowed in designated areas, typically limited to 14 consecutive days. Hunters should be aware of property boundaries and respect adjacent private lands. Vehicle use is restricted to maintained roads open for public use.

Hunters must wear the required amount of hunter orange during firearm deer seasons. Treestands and hunting blinds on public land must be removed daily unless otherwise specified.

Recognition of Alabama’s Hunting Heritage and Conservation Efforts

Alabama’s hunting heritage dates back centuries and plays a crucial role in wildlife conservation. The state recognizes this legacy through various programs and initiatives.

The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources implements wildlife management plans to ensure sustainable populations of game species. These efforts are funded in part by hunting license fees and excise taxes on hunting equipment.

Youth hunting programs introduce new generations to the sport and its conservation ethic. The state also supports habitat restoration projects, benefiting both game and non-game species.

Alabama’s Forever Wild Land Trust program acquires and manages lands for public hunting access and wildlife conservation.

Hunting Resources and Continued Education

Alabama offers numerous resources for hunters to enhance their skills and knowledge. The state provides hunter education courses, which are mandatory for most new hunters born after August 1, 1977.

Online resources include digital hunting regulations, interactive maps of public hunting areas, and wildlife identification guides. The Outdoor Alabama app allows hunters to purchase licenses, report harvests, and access regulations in the field.

Workshops on topics such as game processing, wildlife tracking, and habitat management are offered throughout the year. Local hunting clubs and conservation organizations provide additional opportunities for mentorship and skill development.

The state’s Archery in the Schools program introduces archery skills to students, fostering interest in bowhunting and outdoor recreation.