Message from the Governor

Office of the Governor
State Capitol
Montgomery, Alabama 36130
(334) 242-7100
fax: (334) 242-0937

Robert Bentley, Governor

Each year time seems to speed up and life becomes more demanding. One way to lessen the stresses of life is to engage with our natural world through hunting and fishing. Most of what you need to know about those activities can be found in the pages of the 2011–2012 Alabama Hunting and Fishing Digest.

First, I’d like to say “thank you” to all hunters and anglers in Alabama on behalf of everyone who enjoys seeing wildlife in our beautiful state. Your purchase of hunting and fishing equipment and licenses helps to maintain and improve wildlife habitats and populations. You play a major role in ensuring future generations will experience the natural wonders of Alabama.

Don’t forget that while hunting, please remember to keep safety first. Last year, falls from treestands were the leading cause of injuries for Alabama hunters. The most successful hunting trip is the one you return from unharmed. You can learn more about hunting safety on this website.

Several times during the year Alabama hosts special youth hunts and community fishing programs. These events help connect people of all ages with our natural heritage. Information on these events can be found throughout this digest.

Alabama’s hunting and fishing community is also leading the way with new technology to protect its wildlife. With the GameWatch and CoastWatch programs you can anonymously report hunting and fishing violations via text message. You can learn more about these programs by visiting www.outdooralabama.com.

Take advantage of this digest and the richness of the information it provides. With subjects ranging from fish species identification and creel limits to where, when and what to hunt, this publication covers it all. Above all, have a safe and enjoyable year outdoors.