WMA Rules and Regulations | Outdoor Alabama

Important

All hunters must be familiar with these WMA Regulations. These regulations contains complete rules for hunting on WMA property. Click below to read more about each regulation.

Section 220-2-.55 Wildlife Management Areas of Alabama

(1) It shall be unlawful on ALL DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES, WILDLIFE AND FRESHWATER FISHERIES DIVISION MANAGED WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS, COMMUNITY HUNTING AREAS, SPECIAL OPPORTUNITY AREAS, PHYSICALLY DISABLED HUNTING AREAS, AND REFUGE AREAS, all of which are established as "Wildlife Management Areas" by Rule 220-2-.22 and all of which are hereinafter sometimes collectively referred to herein as "AREAS" or "AREA":

(a) To hunt; trap; use dogs; or possess firearms (see (b) for exceptions), traps, or bow and arrow, except bow fishing equipment, without a valid Wildlife Management Area (WMA) License (required for deer, turkey, and waterfowl), PLUS the applicable Resident or Non-resident Hunting License [for Alabama residents 16 through 64 years of age and non-residents 16 years of age and older]. Provided however, that properly licensed persons under the "Wildlife Heritage License" may hunt legal small game, except waterfowl, on AREAS without the other licenses described herein unless required for limited quota hunt registration. PLUS, in order to hunt waterfowl on AREAS, all licensed hunters must have, in addition to the otherwise required licenses, a current HIP certification, a valid State Waterfowl Stamp (if required) and a valid Federal Waterfowl Stamp (if required). In addition to license and stamp requirements, an AREA Permit and a WMA Daily Permit are required unless using the Outdoor Alabama WMA Check-In application to check in and out each hunt day. For those using the WMA Daily Permit, the tear-off stub with the number matching the Daily Permit must be deposited in the return slot of the self-service box. The remaining Permit portion is to be retained in possession of the hunter while hunting, filled out completely, and deposited into the return slot of the self-service box at an AREA check station or kiosk for each day hunted lawfully authorized handguns possessed for personal protection.

(b) Nothing in this regulation prohibits the possession of handguns by lawfully authorized persons for personal protection. Refer to 220-2-.126 for Public Shooting Range Regulation pertaining to the use of shooting ranges located on AREAS. All other possession of arms and ammunition must align with scheduled AREA seasons during legal hunting hours and are limited to those permitted for each game species as detailed in this regulation

(c) To use dogs for stalk hunting of deer or for turkey hunting. (Leashed dogs may be used for the expressed purpose of retrieving wounded deer, limited to two (2) dogs for each tracking event.)

(d) To use dogs for hunting of feral swine or small game where dogs are expressly prohibited (except for the scheduled special feral swine dog hunt on W.L. Holland and Mobile-Tensaw Delta WMAs).

(e) To use dogs for hunting, training, or any other purpose outside any AREA established season.

(f) To conduct organized man drives during stalk deer hunts outside the hours of 10:00AM - 2:00PM.

(g) For any person under 16 years of age to hunt on any AREA unless accompanied by an adult who is either 21 years of age or older or the parent, and who is in possession of all state hunting licenses, stamps, and permits required to hunt on an AREA.

(h) To exceed daily or seasonal regular state bag limit for any game species unless otherwise specified for AREA.

(i) To have in possession any fully automatic rifle or any firearms, ammunition, or bow and arrow except as described below:

1. DEER: Stalk Hunting - Rifles using centerfire mushrooming ammunition, pre-charged pneumatic arrow shooting rifles using an arrow equipped with a broadhead which has a minimum cutting diameter of 7/8" and two (2) sharpened edges, pre-charged pneumatic air powered guns .30 caliber or larger, shotguns 10 gauge or smaller using slugs or single round balls, muzzle-loading firearms .40 caliber or larger, or handguns or pistols using centerfire mushrooming ammunition. All applicable laws regarding possessing and carrying handguns must be followed.

2. DEER: Stalk Hunting - Primitive Weapons Hunt - Muzzle-loading rifle, or muzzle-loading handguns .40 caliber or larger, muzzle-loading shotguns, pre-charged pneumatic arrow shooting rifles using an arrow equipped with a broadhead which has a minimum cutting diameter of 7/8" and two (2) sharpened edges, pre-charged pneumatic air-powered guns .30 caliber or larger, or bow and arrow (including crossbow, see (1)(i)13. below).

3. DEER: Stalk Hunting - Archery - bow and arrow (including crossbows, see (1)(i)13. Below).

4. DEER: Dog Hunts - Shotguns 10 gauge or smaller using buckshot only.

5. FERAL SWINE SPECIAL SEASONS: The same provisions as set out in (1)(i)1. and (1)(i)2. above, except at Seven Mile Island where Primitive Weapons Stalk Deer Hunt provisions only apply, as set out in (1)(i)2. above, with the addition of shotguns with slugs. OUTSIDE SPECIAL SEASONS: May be killed during any scheduled AREA hunt using arms and ammunition that are legal for such designated hunts during daylight hours only.

6. TURKEY: Shotguns 10 gauge or smaller using No. 2 shot or smaller and bow and arrow (including crossbows, see (1)(i)13. below).

7. DOVE, WOODCOCK, SNIPE, AND RAIL: Shotguns 10 gauge or smaller, plugged with a one-piece filler incapable of removal without disassembling the gun or otherwise incapable of holding more than 3 shells, using No. 2 shot or smaller and bow and arrow (including crossbows, see (1)(i)13. below).

8. WATERFOWL & SANDHILL CRANE: Shotguns 10 gauge or smaller, plugged with a one-piece filler incapable of removal without disassembling the gun or otherwise incapable of holding more than 3 shells, using steel shot, T size or smaller and bow and arrow (including crossbows, see (1)(i)13. below). Waterfowl may also be hunted with other U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service approved shot and sizes.

9. QUAIL: Shotguns 10 gauge or smaller using No. 4 shot or smaller and bow and arrow (including crossbows, see (1)(i)13. below).

10. SQUIRREL, CROW, AND RABBIT: Shotguns 10 gauge or smaller using No. 4 shot or smaller, rimfire firearms, muzzleloading rifles and muzzle-loading handguns .40 caliber or smaller, rifles operated by air, and bow and arrow (including crossbows, see (1)(i)13. below).

11. RACCOON AND OPOSSUM - Daylight hours: Shotguns 10 gauge or smaller using No. 4 shot or smaller, rimfire firearms, and bow and arrow (including crossbows, see (1)(i)13. below). Nighttime hours: Shotguns using No. 4 shot or smaller or .22 caliber rimfire firearms.

12. BOBCAT, COYOTE, AND FOX: May be hunted during any scheduled AREA hunt using weapons and ammunition that are legal for such designated hunts during daylight hours only.

13. BOW AND ARROW (including Crossbows): Conforming to the provisions of Rule 220-2-.03, will be legal on all AREA scheduled hunts. Crossbows will be legal during any open bow and arrow season dates for any species. All archery equipment used during the bow fishing season of March 1 - August 31 must conform to the provisions of Rule 220-2-.46, relating to bow fishing.

14. FALCONRY: Will be legal on all AREA scheduled small game hunts for legally permitted falconers.

15. TRAPPING: Standard .22 caliber or smaller rimfire firearms only (no magnums), during daylight hours only.

(j) To trap furbearers except as permitted under 220-2-.30 and as specified for each AREA in 220-2-.56.

(k) For any person to possess or to carry in or on a vehicle, any of the following: any firearms [including pistols/handguns, except as described in (1)(ii) below] with ammunition in the magazine, breech or clip attached to firearms, or black powder weapons with primer, cap or flash powder in place, or cocked crossbows.

(l) For hunters on dog deer hunts to leave stand assigned to them until instructed. The Geneva State Forest WMA dog hunt will be limited to 100 standers, registered and permitted through a limited quota hunt registration. Further, it shall be unlawful for any hunter to release a dog not approved by Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division (WFF) personnel on the Geneva State Forest WMA during the hunt.

(m) To camp on any AREA except in designated sites. Campers using generators must camp in site designated for generator use. On AREAS located on U. S. Forest Service lands, hunters must camp in designated camping areas, unless excepted by U.S. Forest Service rules specific to a Ranger District . Individuals or groups may camp on AREAS for a period not to exceed nine (9) days in any thirty (30) day period. Campfires must be extinguished before departing. No warming fires shall be permitted away from camping area. All campers (portable shelters on wheels) must be removed from Barbour or Freedom Hills WMAs by sundown on the first Sunday following the last day of turkey season; otherwise, the camper may be towed from the AREA at the owner's expense; or, may be relocated to another portion of the AREA without WFF personnel being responsible for any damages or loss and the owner assessed a $10.00 a day storage fee. No campers are permitted on Barbour or Freedom Hills WMAs, until September 1, unless approved by written permit issued by the AREA biologist. All campers left unattended overnight must display the owner's contact information to include name, address, and phone numbers.

(n) To kill or willfully molest any species of wildlife except designated game species while legally hunting.

(o) To discharge fireworks at any time.

(p) To discharge firearms for target practice except on designated target ranges in accordance with listed rules during posted times and dates.

(q) To hunt or discharge firearms within 150 yards of any camping area, dwelling, dam or timber operation; within 100 yards of any paved public road or highway; within a posted safety zone; or from within the right-of-way of any developed road (paved or unpaved) which is open for vehicular traffic [provided, however, that standers hunting the WMA roads closed to vehicular traffic (roads closed with gates and/or signage indicating closed to vehicular traffic) on Geneva State Forest and Upper Delta WMAs are allowed during scheduled dog deer hunts; hunters using shotguns with No. 6 shot or smaller are allowed to hunt AREA roads and right-of-ways, excluding any named county or state roads]. On AREAS located within U.S. Forest Service lands, hunters must adhere to U.S. Forest Service rules specific to that Ranger District.

(r) To transport harvested deer or turkey from any AREA before reporting harvest in the Game Check System. Hunters must also submit such harvests at the WMA check station for data collection if hunt date is indicated as a mandatory check station day on the Outdoor Alabama WMA Application or AREA map Permit. All other harvested game must be recorded on the Outdoor Alabama WMA Application or WMA Daily Permit.

(s) For any person, except authorized personnel, to operate any motor driven vehicle behind, under, or around any locked gate, barricaded road, or sign which prohibits vehicular traffic. Individuals with a mobility disability may request authorization in writing to use motorized vehicles or other power-driven mobility devices on AREAS. Such request will be evaluated based on the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, as amended, and 28 C.F.R. § 35.137.

(t) For any unauthorized person to possess and/or operate ANY UNLICENSED MOTOR DRIVEN VEHICLE (i.e. ATV, UTV, motorcycle, or electric-powered bike) on Charles D. Kelley-Autauga, Black Warrior, Blue Spring, Boggy Hollow, William R. Ireland, Sr. - Cahaba River, Choccolocco, Coosa, David K. Nelson, Hollins, Jackson County Waterfowl Areas (except Coon Gulf Tract), Little River, Lowndes, Martin Community Hunting Area, Mulberry Fork, Oakmulgee, Perdido River, Red Hills, and Forever Wild Gothard - AWF Yates Lake AREAS.

(u) For any unauthorized person to possess or operate ANY UNLICENSED MOTOR DRIVEN VEHICLE on Barbour, Coon Gulf Tract of Jackson County Waterfowl Areas, Freedom Hills, Geneva State Forest, Grand Bay Savanna, James D. Martin-Skyline, Lauderdale, Mobile-Tensaw Delta, W.L. Holland, Sam R. Murphy, Riverton, Seven Mile Island, Swan Creek, Mallard Fox Creek, and Upper Delta AREAS, except when utilized for the express purpose of hunting, fishing, trapping, camping, or related activities; and when operated only on regularly used roads depicted on WMA map to be open for motorized vehicle traffic (excluding Geneva State Forest Zone B).

(v) For any unauthorized person to possess or operate ANY LICENSED MOTOR DRIVEN VEHICLE on any AREA, except when utilized for the express purpose of hunting, fishing, trapping, camping, or sanctioned activities (excluding AREAS established within the boundaries of U.S. Forest Service National Forests or other cooperating agency lands that otherwise regulate such activities); and when operated only on regularly used roads depicted on AREA Permit to be open for motorized vehicle traffic.

(w) For any unauthorized person to ride or possess horses on any AREA except on roads open to motorized vehicles, excluding Charles D. Kelley-Autauga and Geneva State Forest Zone A (where no horses are permitted); and in areas, roads, and trails, designated as open to horses, excluding Charles D. Kelley-Autauga and Geneva State Forest Zone A (where no horses are permitted). On Coosa WMA horses are not permitted in the campgrounds from October 1 until after the last day of turkey season.

(x) For any unauthorized person to ride or possess horses on any AREA on days of scheduled gun deer hunts and during legal hours of turkey hunting, except those portions of AREAS kept open to such activity by the National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, and except on Freedom Hills, James D. Martin-Skyline, the Jacinto Port Tract of W.L. Holland, and Mobile-Tensaw Delta AREAS where horses are only allowed on designated horse trails. At Freedom Hills, the Jacinto Port Tract of W.L. Holland, and Mobile-Tensaw Delta AREAS horses are only allowed from March 1 to the beginning of turkey season and May 15 to September 14. Riding or possession of horses on any AREA, except those on National Park Service lands, U.S. Forest Service lands, and Geneva State Forest, shall be restricted to holders of a valid WMA license and a valid AREA Permit.

(y) For any person to hunt or trap any wildlife species (except turkey, migratory birds, and while hunting legally designated species during legal nighttime hours) without wearing a minimum of 144 square inches of hunter orange or full-sized hunter orange hat, except when hunting from an elevated tree stand twelve (12) feet or more from the ground, when hunting in an enclosed blind, or when traveling in an enclosed vehicle. A small logo and/or printing is permitted on the front of the hunter orange hat.

(z) For any person except authorized personnel to block or otherwise stop traffic on any road or at any gate by parking a vehicle in such a way that passage around the vehicle, or access to the gate, is impeded.

(aa) For any person to possess, deposit, distribute, or scatter grain/corn, salt, litter, or any other materials on any AREA without receiving approval from the Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division.

(bb) To damage or remove any artifacts, trees, firewood, plants, dirt, gravel, or sod without legal authorization.

(cc) To erect any permanent tree stand; install any screw-in type steps, spikes, or nails; or otherwise damage any tree.

(dd) To intentionally cast a light of any kind, either handheld, affixed to a vehicle, or otherwise, between the hours of sunset and sunrise from motor vehicles except those vehicles traveling in a normal manner on an open established road.

(ee) To hunt from an elevated stand or platform without attaching themselves to the tree or platform with a full body safety harness capable of supporting their weight.

(ff) To violate any restrictions posted on the Outdoor Alabama WMA Check-In application, AREA map permit, or WMA Daily Permit, or posted restrictions regarding entry, hunting, fishing, or other conduct.

(gg) To release any animal, bird, fish, or other wildlife on any AREA without first obtaining written permission from the Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division.

(hh) To possess any open alcoholic beverages outside designated camping areas. Possession of alcoholic beverages shall be prohibited on the campgrounds of the Coosa WMA.

(ii) For any person to possess any firearm while hunting with bow and arrow or crossbow, except on days of hunter's choice gun deer hunts. Nothing in this regulation prohibits the possession of handguns by lawfully authorized persons for personal protection, provided the handguns are not used to hunt, take, or attempt to take wildlife except as otherwise provided by this regulation.

(jj) To possess or use any wild turkey calls to mimic sounds made by wild turkeys from March 1 until the opening day of youth turkey seasons and from the close of youth turkey season to the opening day of physically disabled turkey season or regular turkey season opening day on AREAs with turkey seasons.

(kk) For anyone 16 years of age or older to hunt any species on any AREA on days of youth gun deer hunts, or for anyone to hunt small game during primitive weapon or gun deer hunts, except on Grand Bay Savanna, W.L. Holland, and Mobile-Tensaw Delta WMAs, and except waterfowl in Upper Delta (Zone B) WMA.

(2) Individuals must follow the listed rules to participate in the scheduled youth hunts on any AREA.

(a) Youth participants must be accompanied by an adult supervisor. The adult supervisor is to remain within 30 feet of the youth at all times.

(b) Youth is defined as those individuals who have not reached their 16th birthday.

(c) Adult is defined as those individuals 21 years of age or older or the parent of the youth who are in possession of all required state hunting licenses, stamps, and permits as described in (1)(a).

(d) Only one firearm will be allowed for each youth. Only the youth hunter will be permitted to utilize the firearm for hunting.

(3) Special Opportunity Areas (SOA) - Hunting on Blackwater River, Cedar Creek, Choctaw NWR (Primitive Weapon Deer Hunt), Crow Creek, Fred T. Stimpson, Portland Landing, Prairie Glades, Uchee Creek, Upper State, Little River, and Thigpen Hill Special Opportunity Areas (SOA) will be permitted through a limited quota permit system determined by random computerized selection. In order to apply, ALL applicants are required to obtain a Conservation Identification Number (CID). Those residents who are 16 to 64 years of age and non-residents 16 years of age or older must have a valid WMA license to register for the SOA hunt selection process. Applicants must visit www.outdooralabama.com to register for a limited number of quota permits available for hunts on these AREAS.

Successful resident applicants 16 to 64 years of age and non-residents 16 years of age or older must obtain and have in possession a valid Alabama hunting license, WMA license, and state and federal duck stamps if applicable. Any violation of any rules, regulations, or laws by permit holder or guest while hunting on any SOA will result in those individuals forfeiting the remainder of their hunt and forfeiting their SOA eligibility for the remainder of the current season and the entire following season. Failure to participate in the solicited hunt without providing Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries 7 days prior notice of cancellation, by email to the hunt coordinator, will result in that individual losing their eligibility for future SOA hunts.

Permit holders and guests shall only hunt and scout in their assigned hunt unit(s) on specified dates. All other access on any SOA is restricted (excluding Choctaw NWR) to foot traffic and non-motorized vehicles only and only during daylight hours from May 15 to September 1; with the exception of Crow Creek, Fred T. Stimpson, Upper State, and Prairie Glades where all other access is restricted.

All deer and turkey hunters are required to report all harvests pursuant to the Game Check requirements in regulation 220-2-.146. It shall be unlawful for any limited quota permitted hunter to hunt without checking in and out of the SOA daily using the Outdoor Alabama WMA Check-In Application or with a WMA Daily Permit from self-service kiosk. When using the WMA Daily Permit, the tear-off stub with number matching Daily Permit must be filled out and deposited in return slot of selfservice box. The Harvest Report portion of the Permit is to be retained in possession of the hunter until the end of the day, then filled out and deposited in the self-service box before leaving the SOA each day. Hunters are required to email pictures of their harvest to the managing biologist within one week of hunt dates.

Other requirements for hunters participating in limited quota hunts on the SOAs include:

(a)District II -1.On Crow Creek SOA:(i) Archery Deer Hunts:

(I) It shall be unlawful to access or hunt on Crow Creek SOA unless selected for a limited quota permit for specific hunt dates on the assigned hunt unit. The permit holder and one properly licensed guest may only access (excluding approved scouting days) and hunt the assigned hunt unit for those permitted times and days.

(II) Hunters may enter the Crow Creek SOA 1½ hours prior to legal sunrise and must exit the SOA by 1½ hours after legal sunset; Hunt times begin and end at legal shooting hours. Travel to and from assigned hunt unit(s) may also occur between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM.

(III) It shall be unlawful to operate any motorized vehicle on the SOA without WFF written authorization.

(IV) It shall be unlawful to use gasoline-powered motors on the SOA.

(V) Permit holder may have one properly licensed guest. The guest may be a different person each hunt day, but the guest bag is cumulative.

(ii) Waterfowl Hunts:

(I) It shall be unlawful to access or hunt on Crow Creek SOA unless selected for a limited quota permit for specific hunt dates on the assigned SOA and hunt unit(s). The permit holder and four properly licensed guest(s) may only access (excluding approved scouting days) and hunt the assigned SOA and hunt unit(s) for those permitted times and days. The guests may be different people each hunt day.

(II) Hunters may enter the Crow Creek SOA at 4:00 AM; Hunting may begin at legal shooting hours; all hunting activity is prohibited after 12:00 noon; and all parties must exit the SOA no later than 1:30 PM. It shall be unlawful to leave assigned hunt unit except when departing the SOA for the day.

(III) It shall be unlawful to operate any motorized vehicle on the SOA without WFF written authorization.

(IV) It shall be unlawful to use gasoline-powered motors on the SOA.

(V) Temporary blinds may be used for the duration of the hunt and must be removed by permit holder on last hunt day.

(b)District III -1.On Cedar Creek and Portland Landing SOA:

(i) It shall be unlawful to hunt on Cedar Creek and Portland Landing SOA unless selected for a limited quota permit for specific hunt dates on the assigned SOA and hunt unit(s). The permit holder and allowed guest(s) may only access (excluding approved scouting days) and hunt the assigned SOA and hunt unit(s) for those permitted days.

(ii) Deer Hunts:

(I) Each deer hunt begins at 12:00 noon on day one and ends at 12:00 noon on day four. With the exception of the day one start time and day four end time, hunters may enter the SOA 1½ hours prior to legal sunrise and must exit the SOA by 1½ hours after legal sunset each day. Hunt times begin and end at legal shooting hours. Travel to and from assigned hunt unit(s) may also occur between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM.

(II) Antlered bucks harvested are required to have a minimum inside spread of 16" or 18" main beam (3x the length of the ear).

(III) Permit holder may have one properly licensed guest. The guest may be a different person each hunt day, but the guest bag is cumulative.

(IV) Deer hunters are required to record harvest date, sex, lactation status of doe, body weight, and antler measurements of bucks on provided data forms, as well as complete the provided hunter observation data sheet. Deer hunters are also required to extract a lower jawbone from deer harvested and leave it at SOA kiosk.

(iii) Youth Gun (Antlerless) Deer Hunts:

(I) Permit holder 21 years of age or older or the parent of one of the youth may be accompanied by up to two youth guest hunters. The permit holder may also have a properly licensed supervising adult being 21 years of age or older or a parent of one of the youth. Hunters may only hunt in their assigned hunt unit on their specified hunt date. Only the youth may hunt.

(II) On the specified two-day hunt, hunters may enter the SOA 1½ hours prior to legal sunrise and must exit the SOA by 1½ hours after legal sunset each day. Hunt times begin and end at legal shooting hours. Travel to and from assigned hunt unit(s) may also occur between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM.

(III) Deer hunters are required to record harvest date, sex, lactation status of doe, body weight, and antler measurements of bucks on provided data forms, as well as complete the provided hunter observation data sheet. Deer hunters are also required to extract a lower jawbone from each deer harvested and leave it at SOA kiosk.

(iv) Turkey Hunts:

(I) Hunters may enter the SOA 1½ hours prior to legal sunrise; each turkey hunt begins at and ends at legal shooting hours; hunters must exit the SOA by 1½ hours after legal sunset; each turkey hunt ends at 1:30 PM on the last day.

(II) Permit holder may have one properly licensed guest. The guest may be a different person each hunt day, but the guest bag is cumulative.

(III) Turkey hunters are required to record the harvest date, body weight, spur length, and beard length of all harvested turkeys on provided data forms, as well as complete the provided hunter observation data sheet.

(v) Small Game Hunts:

(I) Hunters may enter the SOA 1½ hours prior to legal sunrise; each small game hunt begins and ends at legal shooting hours; hunters must exit the SOA by 1½ hours after legal sunset. No scouting days prior to hunt dates.

(II) Permit holder may be accompanied by up to three properly licensed guests. The guests may be different people each hunt day.

(vi) Waterfowl Hunts:

(I) Hunters may enter the Portland Landing SOA (no waterfowl hunt on Cedar Creek SOA) at 4:00 AM; Hunting may begin at legal shooting hours; all hunting activity is prohibited after 12:00 noon; and all parties must exit the SOA no later than 1:30 PM. It shall be unlawful to leave assigned hunt unit except when departing the SOA for the day.

(II) Permit holder may be accompanied by three properly licensed guests. Guests may be different people each hunt day.

(c)District IV -1.On Uchee Creek SOA:

(i) It shall be unlawful to hunt on Uchee Creek SOA unless selected for a limited quota permit for specific hunt dates on the assigned SOA and hunt unit(s). The permit holder and allowed guest(s) may only access (excluding approved scouting days) and hunt the assigned SOA and hunt unit(s) for those permitted days.

(ii) Deer Hunts:

(II) Antlered bucks harvested are required to have a minimum inside spread of 16" or 18" main beam (3x the length of the ear).

(III) Permit holder may have one properly licensed guest. The guest may be a different person each hunt day, but the guest bag is cumulative.

(iii) Youth Gun (Antlerless) Deer Hunts:

(III) Deer hunters are required to record harvest date, sex, lactation status of doe, body weight, and antler measurement of bucks on provided data forms, as well as complete the provided hunter observation data sheet. Deer hunters are also required to extract a lower jawbone from each deer harvested and leave it at SOA kiosk.

(iv) Turkey Hunts:

(I) Hunters may enter the SOA 1½ hours prior to legal sunrise; each turkey hunt begins and ends at legal shooting hours; hunters must exit the SOA by 1½ hours after legal sunset; each turkey hunt ends at 1:30 PM on the last day.

(II) Permit holder may have one properly licensed guest. The guest may be a different person each hunt day, but the guest bag is cumulative.

(v) Small Game Hunts:

(II) Permit holder may be accompanied by up to three properly licensed guests. The guests may be different people each hunt day.

(vi) Waterfowl Hunts:

(I) Hunters may enter the SOA at 4:00 AM; hunting may begin at legal shooting hours; all hunting activity is prohibited after 12:00 noon; and all parties must exit the SOA no later than 1:30 PM. It shall be unlawful to leave assigned hunt unit except when departing the SOA for the day.

(II) Permit holder may be accompanied by three properly licensed guests. Guests may be different people each hunt day.

2. On Prairie Glades SOA:

(i) It shall be unlawful to access or hunt on Prairie Glades SOA unless selected for a limited quota permit for specific hunt dates on assigned SOA and hunt unit(s). The permit holder and one guest may only access (excluding approved scouting days) and hunt the assigned SOA and hunt unit(s) for those permitted days.

(ii) Deer Hunts:

(I) Hunters may enter the Prairie Glades SOA 1½ hours prior to legal sunrise and must exit the SOA by 1½ hours after legal sunset; hunt times begin and end at legal shooting hours. Travel to and from assigned hunt unit(s) may also occur between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM.

(iii) Dove Hunts:

(I) Travel to assigned hunt unit(s) shall be from 12:00 noon to 1:00 PM during the first season segment (September and October) and 11:00 AM to 12:00 noon during the second and third season segments (November, December, and January). All hunts end at legal sunset.

(II) Permit holder is allowed one properly licensed guest.

(d)District V -1.On Blackwater River SOA:

(i) It shall be unlawful to hunt on Blackwater River SOA unless selected for a limited quota permit for specific hunt dates on the assigned SOA and hunt unit(s). The permit holder and allowed guest(s) may only access (excluding approved scouting days) and hunt the assigned SOA and hunt unit(s) for those permitted days.

(ii) Deer Hunts:

(II) Permit holder may have one properly licensed guest. The guest may be a different person each hunt day, but the guest bag is cumulative.

2. On Choctaw NWR SOA:(i) Primitive Weapons Deer Hunt:

(I) It shall be unlawful to hunt on Choctaw NWR SOA during specific primitive weapons hunt dates unless selected for a limited quota permit on assigned hunt unit(s). The permit holder and allowed guest may only hunt the assigned SOA and hunt unit(s) for those permitted times and days.

(II) Each deer hunt begins at 12:00 noon on day one and ends at 12:00 PM on day four of the hunt. With the exception of the day one start time and day four end time, hunters may enter the SOA 1½ hours prior to legal sunrise and must exit the SOA by 1½ hours after legal sunset each day. Travel to and from assigned hunt unit(s) may also occur between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM.

(III) Permit holder is allowed one properly licensed guest each day. The guest may be a different person each hunt day, but the guest bag is cumulative.

3. On Fred T. Stimpson SOA:

(i) It shall be unlawful to hunt on Fred T. Stimpson SOA unless selected for a limited quota permit for specific hunt dates on the assigned SOA and hunt unit(s). The permit holder and allowed guest(s) may only access (excluding approved scouting days) and hunt the assigned SOA and hunt unit(s) for those permitted.

(ii) Archery Deer Hunts:

(II) Permit holder may have one properly licensed guest. The guest may be a different person each hunt day, but the guest bag is cumulative.

(iii) Youth Gun Deer Hunts:

(II) On the specified two-day hunt, hunters may sign in beginning at 5:00 AM. All hunters must be signed in prior to legal sunrise. All hunters must check out within 1½ hours after legal sunset. Travel to and from assigned hunt unit will be allowed between the hours of 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM.

(III) Deer hunters are required to record harvest date, sex, lactation status of doe, body weight, and antler measurements of bucks on provided data forms, as well as complete the provided hunter observation data sheet. Youth deer hunters are also required to extract a lower jawbone from each deer harvested and leave it at SOA kiosk.

(iv) Youth Squirrel Hunts:

(I) Permit holder 21 years of age or older or the parent of one of the youth must be accompanied by one youth hunter and will be allowed to have two additional youth guest hunters and one properly licensed supervising adult 21 years of age or older or a parent of one of the youth, for a maximum of five hunters to a party for each hunt unit. Hunters are only allowed to hunt in their assigned hunt unit on their assigned hunt date. Both youth and supervisors are allowed to hunt.

(II) Hunters may enter the SOA 1½ hours prior to legal sunrise; each small game hunt begins and ends at legal shooting hours; hunters must exit the SOA by 1½ hours after legal sunset. No scouting days prior to hunt date.

(v) Turkey Hunts:

(II) Permit holder may have one properly licensed guest. The guest may be a different person each hunt day, but the guest bag is cumulative.

4. On Little River and Thigpen Hill SOA:

(i) It shall be unlawful to hunt on Little River and Thigpen Hill SOA unless selected for a limited quota permit for specific hunt dates on the assigned SOA and hunt unit(s). The permit holder and allowed guest(s) may only access (excluding approved scouting days) and hunt the assigned SOA and hunt unit(s) for those permitted days.

(ii) Deer Hunts:

(II) Antlered bucks harvested are required to have at least three antler points (1 inch or longer) on at least one side.

(III) Permit holder may have one properly licensed guest. The guest may be a different person each hunt day, but the guest bag is cumulative.

(iii) Youth Gun Deer Hunts:

(iv) Turkey Hunts:

(II) Permit holder may have one properly licensed guest. The guest may be a different person each hunt day, but the guest bag is cumulative.

(v) Small Game Hunts:

(II) Permit holder may be accompanied by up to three properly licensed guests. The guests may be different people each hunt day.

5. On Upper State SOA:

(i) It shall be unlawful to hunt on Upper State SOA unless selected for a limited quota permit for specific hunt dates on the assigned SOA and hunt unit(s). The permit holder and allowed guest(s) may only access (excluding approved scouting days) and hunt the assigned SOA and hunt unit(s) for those permitted days.

(ii) Archery Deer Hunts:

(II) Permit holder may have one properly licensed guest. The guest may be a different person each hunt day, but the guest bag is cumulative.

(iii) Turkey Hunts:

(II) Permit holder may have one properly licensed guest. The guest may be a different person each hunt day, but the guest bag is cumulative.

Ala. Admin. Code r. 220-2-.55

Author: Christopher M. Blankenship

Statutory Authority:Code of Ala. 1975, §§ 9-11-301, 9-11-305.

PENALTY: As provided by law.

History: Filed September 30, 1982. Amended: October 18, 1983; October 13, 1984; October 19, 1985; October 17, 1986; October 22, 1987; September 23, 1988; December

21, 1988; November 16, 1989; November 16, 1990; November 13, 1991; January 18, 1992; October 24, 1992. Amended: Filed: September 14, 1993; effective October 19, 1993.

Amended: Filed September 13, 1994; effective October 19, 1994. Amended: Filed September 13, 1995; effective October 19, 1995. Amended: Filed August 20, 1996;

effective September 24, 1996. Amended: Filed August 11, 1997; effective September 16, 1997. Amended: Filed August 11, 1998; effective September 16, 1998. Amended: Filed

September 13, 1999; effective October 18, 1999. Amended: Filed August 10, 2000; effective September 14, 2000. Amended: Filed August 28, 2001; effective October 2,

2001. Amended: Filed September 16, 2002; effective October 21, 2002. Amended: Filed January 6, 2003; effective February 10, 2003. Amended: Filed August 21, 2003; effective

September 25, 2003. Amended: Filed October 18, 2004; effective November 22, 2004. Amended: Filed August 9, 2005; effective September 13, 2005. Amended: Filed

September 20, 2006; effective October 25, 2006. Amended: Filed September 17, 2007. Amended: Filed September 11, 2008; effective October 16, 2008. Amended: Filed

September 15, 2009; effective October 20, 2009. Amended: Filed October 6, 2010; effective November 10, 2010. Amended: Filed June 15, 2012; effective July 20, 2012.

Amended: Filed September 6, 2013; effective October 14, 2013. Amended: Filed July 16, 2014; effective August 20, 2014. Amended: Filed February 26, 2015; effective April 2,

2015. Amended: Filed October 14, 2015; effective November 18, 2015. Amended: Filed August 11, 2016; effective September 25, 2016. Amended: Filed August 14, 2017;

effective September 28, 2017. Amended: Filed December 12, 2017; effective January 26, 2018. Amended: Filed October 11, 2018; effective November 25, 2018. Amended: Filed

August 19, 2019; effective October 3, 2019. Amended: Filed August 7, 2020; effective October 15, 2020. Amended: Filed June 15, 2021; effective August 14, 2021. Amended:

Filed August 11, 2022; effective October 15, 2022.

Section 220-2-.164 Crow Creek, Mud Creek, and Raccoon Creek Wildlife Management Areas Waterfowl Hunting

(1) In addition to 220-2-.55, it shall be unlawful on Crow Creek, Mud Creek and Raccoon Creek Wildlife Management Areas (WMA):

(a) For any person to leave any vehicle parked at the established launching sites. Hunters must use the designated parking areas. However, physically disabled persons with approved handicapped vehicles may be parked at the designated handicap parking locations.

(b) For any person to create or hunt from any dug-out or excavated area.

(c) To construct and/or utilize permanent waterfowl hunting blinds (those using building materials, flooring, or flotation and/or remaining in position overnight) anywhere on the Jackson County Waterfowl (Mud Creek, Crow Creek, and Raccoon Creek) WMAs.

(d) For any blinds to be left in said areas for more than one (1) day. All such blinds shall be disposed of as deemed advisable by the Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

(e) For any person to leave waterfowl decoys overnight.

(f) For any person to access the water in the section of Mud Creek WMA that lies west of the railroad tracks and east of the furthest west Mud Creek WMA boundary 48 hours prior to waterfowl season openings. Persons may enter that area at 3:00 AM on waterfowl season opening days.

(g) To have more than 25 shotgun shells in the possession of each hunter (excluding youth hunters during the designated youth hunt days) while hunting waterfowl on all Jackson County Waterfowl Management Areas (Crow Creek WMA, Mud Creek WMA, and Raccoon Creek WMA).

(2) The following shall apply to the DEWATERING UNITS on Mud Creek and Raccoon Creek WMAs:

(a) All boats and/or boat blinds used for hunting waterfowl shall be launched and removed daily or shall be floated to an approved launching site for overnight mooring.

(b) It is unlawful for any person to use commercial fishing gear from October 31st through the second Saturday in February.

(c) Temporary blinds may be used for one (1) day only and removed by the hunter. All such blinds, except boat blinds, left for more than one (1) day shall be disposed of as deemed advisable by the Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

(d) All activity is prohibited from 7:00 PM to 3:00 AM during the period of Nov. 1 – Feb. 15 and 48 hours prior to waterfowl season openings.

(e) It is unlawful to use airboats.

(f) It is unlawful to hunt waterfowl on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, except during the Special Teal Season, the Special Early Goose Season, and the last two weeks of waterfowl season. All waterfowl hunting activity in the Mud Creek (Wannville) and Raccoon Creek dewatering units is prohibited on those days unless authorized by the personnel of the Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

(g) It is unlawful to use gasoline-powered motors in Mud Creek (Wannville) dewatering unit and Raccoon Creek dewatering unit (North of Hwy 117).

(h) It is unlawful to launch any vessel prior to 3:00 AM daily. All hunters preparing to hunt waterfowl are not allowed in the water prior to 3:00 AM daily.

(3) It is unlawful to operate airboats and air-cooled motors (go-devil type motors) on all portions of Crow Creek Refuge and North Sauty Refuge from November 1 to April 14 of each year. Airboats are prohibited on the Green Tree Reservoir in the Mud Creek WMA at all times.

Author: Christopher M. Blankenship

Statutory Authority: §§ 9-11-301, Code of Alabama, 1975.

Penalty: As provided by law.

History: New Rule: Filed June 15, 2021; effective August 14, 2021. Amended: Filed July 19, 2022; effective July 18, 2022.

Section 220-2-.165 Mallard-Fox and Swan Creek Wildlife Management Areas Waterfowl Hunting

(1) In addition to 220-2-.55, it shall be unlawful on Swan Creek and Mallard-Fox Creek Wildlife Management Areas (WMA):

(b) For any person to create or hunt from any dug-out or excavated area.

(c) To construct and/or utilize permanent waterfowl hunting blinds (those using building materials, flooring, or floatation and/or remaining in position overnight) anywhere on the Swan Creek or Mallard-Fox Creek WMAs, except on the Swan Creek WMA dewatering unit where specified. All such blinds shall be disposed of as deemed advisable by the Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

(d) For any person using waterfowl decoys on Swan Creek WMA to leave said decoys out overnight unless they are at a limited quota blind location.

(e) To have more than 25 shotgun shells in the possession of each hunter (excluding youth hunters during the designated youth hunt days) while hunting waterfowl on Swan Creek WMA and Mallard-Fox Creek WMA.

(2) The following shall apply to the dewatering unit on Swan Creek WMA:

(a) All boats and/or boat blinds used for hunting waterfowl shall be launched and removed daily or shall be floated to an approved launching site for overnight mooring.

(b) It shall be unlawful for any person to fish from October 31st through the second Saturday in February.

(d) All activity is prohibited when gates are closed. There shall be no activity from 7:00 PM to 3:00 AM, during the periods when gates are open. Gates are opened the morning of the November youth/military waterfowl hunt day and closed that night. Gates are opened the opening day of regular waterfowl season. Gates are closed each Monday night and opened each Friday morning of regular waterfowl season, until the last fourteen days of regular waterfowl season during which gates remain open. Gates are closed the night of the last day of regular waterfowl season and opened the morning of the February youth/military waterfowl hunt day and remain open until June 1st.

(e) It shall be unlawful to use airboats.

(f) It shall be unlawful to hunt waterfowl on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, except during the last two weeks of waterfowl season. During the dates between the youth/military waterfowl hunting days and regular season, gates to West Dike Road and the Main Launch Road will be locked.

(g) All limited quota blinds to be placed in the Swan Creek WMA dewatering unit must be registered in accordance with the following conditions:

1. The allocation of blinds will be determined through a limited quota system by random selection for individuals 16 years of age or older. In order to apply, ALL applicants are required to obtain a Conservation Identification Number (CID); those who are 16 to 64 years of age must have a hunting license (All Game, Small Game, or Heritage license), State Duck Stamp, and a WMA license to register for the blind drawing. Applicants will be processed through www.outdooralabama.com. Any violation of rules, regulations, or laws by permit holder or guest while hunting the dewatering unit will result in that individual losing their eligibility for the remainder of the waterfowl season and their blind being disqualified for the remainder of the season. The disqualified blind will have to be removed within 48 hours of notification. Any violator may be prevented from entering future online blind drawings, depending on the severity of the violation. All waterfowl hunting blinds of selected applicants must be at Swan Creek WMA between the hours of 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM on the third Saturday of October for inspection. Only thirty (30) selected blinds will be installed at predetermined sites in the dewatering unit. All registered blinds receiving one of the 30 predetermined sites must be installed at the predetermined blind location marker prior to gate closing on October 31st.

2. Blinds must meet "Selected Blind Specifications" established by theWildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division and deemed acceptable by an inspecting team to be approved for use. For information or a copy of the specifications, call (256) 353-2634.

3. All blinds passing inspection will be tagged by a Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries employee. The tag must remain attached to the blind for the duration of the blind's stay on the WMA. Tags may not be transferred to a different blind. It is the hunter's responsibility to make sure the blind they hunt from is properly tagged. No person may hunt from an untagged blind.

4. The Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division’s Blind Governing Committee shall be the final authority in resolving any dispute concerning selected waterfowl blinds. The Blind Governing Committee shall be made up of the following people: District I Conservation Enforcement Supervisor, two (2) Conservation Enforcement Officers, District I Supervising Wildlife Biologist, and the Wildlife Biologist for Swan Creek WMA.

5. Each selected blind must be completely camouflaged with natural material (cane, oak limbs, or other similar materials) except for the boat entrance and the shooting holes before being placed in the dewatering unit. Camouflaged netting, burlap, or other similar materials will not be accepted as camouflage, except when used to cover the boat entrance and/or shooting holes.

6. Selected blinds must be anchored within 10 feet of the appropriate blind location marker. Blinds must remain within 10 feet of the blind location marker during the entire waterfowl season. Blind markers shall not be moved or otherwise altered or tampered with. No blind may be attached to the location marker in any way. If a blind is found to be attached to a marker, all hunters in the blind will be deemed in violation of this regulation. If it is determined by the Blind Governing Committee that a blind marker has been moved, otherwise altered, or tampered with, that blind shall be subject to disqualification from hunting by the Blind Governing Committee.

7. Any blind location that is unoccupied by the selected party 30 minutes prior to legal shooting hours may be utilized by the public.

8. The removal of all blinds shall be conducted from the Sunday following the

February youth/military waterfowl day to no later than the third Sunday of February.

9. It shall be unlawful to hunt waterfowl within 150 yards of an occupied or unoccupied blind.

10. It shall be unlawful to be within the Swan Creek WMA dewatering unit on youth/military waterfowl hunt days unless you are an eligible hunter or are accompanying an eligible hunter (only the eligible hunter may hunt).

11. The committee shall have the authority to disqualify any blind if a dispute occurs and it cannot be resolved; or for any violation involving Selected Blind Specifications; or for any violation of any portion of this section of the regulation pertaining to the Swan Creek dewatering unit. Any blind that is disqualified by the committee shall be deemed immediately ineligible to be hunted from and shall be removed from the dewatering unit for the remainder of the waterfowl season following notification of the blind owner. The blind owner will have 48 hours in which to move the blind to an approved launch site for mooring and no more than seven days following notification of disqualification, for its complete removal from the WMA. Should the blind owner of a disqualified blind fail to move the blind to an approved launch for mooring and/or to completely remove any such blinds, trailers, or parts thereof from the WMA within the specified times listed above, the blind shall be deemed to be the property of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and shall be utilized or destroyed as deemed advisable by the Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division.

Author: Christopher M. Blankenship

Statutory Authority: §§ 9-11-301, Code of Alabama, 1975.

Penalty: As provided by law.

History: New Rule: Filed June 15, 2021; effective August 14, 2021.