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Governor Kay Ivey on Thursday signed a proclamation celebrating National Hunting and Fishing Day which takes place on Saturday, September 23, 2023. Since 1972, the fourth Saturday in September has been designated as National Hunting and Fishing Day to highlight the vital role that hunters and anglers play in conservation efforts in the U.S.
“Hunting and fishing are traditions that we cherish in Alabama,” said Governor Ivey. “I take great pride in recognizing our hunters and anglers with this proclamation, and I thank them for their continued support for conservation and stewardship of our public lands.”
Hunting, fishing and shooting sports fund the majority of conservation efforts in Alabama through the purchase of recreational licenses and excise taxes collected on specific hunting and fishing equipment. License dollars are federally matched nearly three to one through the Wildlife Restoration and Sport Fish Restoration acts to fund the management of the state’s wildlife and fisheries for the benefit of all Alabamians.
“With more than a million acres of public hunting land, 23 state public fishing lakes, excellent bass fishing and one of the largest artificial reef systems in the world, Alabama is a hunting and fishing paradise,” said Commissioner of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) Chris Blankenship. “Even if you do not hunt or fish, you can still enjoy the state’s abundant natural resources thanks to the conservation efforts of our hunters and anglers. We encourage all Alabamians to explore the many outdoor recreation opportunities our state has to offer.”
In addition to supporting the conservation of popular game species like white-tailed deer, wild turkey and largemouth bass, the purchase of a hunting or fishing license benefits a wide variety of nongame and protected species through wildlife and habitat management, including the red-cockaded woodpecker, gopher tortoise and Eastern indigo snake as well as native plants, bats and songbirds.
Outdoor recreation is also a major driver of the state’s economy.
“Outdoor recreation isn’t just a pastime or tradition, it is an engine that fuels our state’s economy, providing natural resources, education initiatives and economic opportunity,” said Governor Ivey. “When we take part in the activities of our great outdoors, like hunting and fishing, we are creating a more prosperous future for all.”
“Hunting, fishing and shooting sports have a huge impact on our state economically,” said Commissioner Blankenship. “It’s a multibillion-dollar industry. That means a lot of jobs for Alabamians. It’s not only the recreation opportunities but it puts people to work in the hunting, fishing and firearms industries.”
For Alabamians with limited outdoors experience, ADCNR offers beginner courses in hunting, fishing and firearms safety taught by skilled mentors. To learn more about these programs as well as a variety of other outdoor recreation opportunities, visit www.outdooralabama.com.
