Many people are starting to find their way to their hunting equipment as the hunting season has opened.

On Wednesday, deer season opened, but hunters can only bring down a deer by using archery equipment until Nov. 22 when gun season officially opens.

“It is important for people to remember to follow the rules and regulations when it comes to hunting and fishing. The laws are there for a reason,” said Keith Guyse, assistant chief of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Wildlife Division.

Some of the rules and regulations that people may want to pay attention to are the fines for offenses. Last year’s legislature passed a bill that increased fines that had not changed for a long time to help keep repeat violations from occurring.

“The new laws were set up to help keep violations that happen most often down. It is hoped that people will learn the first time they have to pay such a large fine and not commit the same offense twice,” Guyse said.

Other rules and regulations are set up for the hunters and the animals safety. To check the rules and regulations in your area visit the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources online at http://www.alabamaoutdoors.com.

Guyse added, “Hunter safety is a big deal. It is important to keep yourself safe and following the rules helps in keeping you that way.”

Hunters should always treat every gun as if it were loaded and they should respect tree stands, for they are one of the top reasons of hunting accidents.