Some areas in the Talladega National Forest are providing better conditions for finding a few coveys of quail. Photo by Polly Dean.

Alabama is blessed with many other hunting opportunities in addition to those for deer and turkeys. Although the big-game species like deer and turkeys receive a lion's share of the attention, the Cotton State's small-game hunting is excellent and for the most part underutilized.

Although budding hunters now often jump right into spending time in the deer and turkey woods, this hasn't always been the case. Before the resounding successes in re-establishing and rebuilding deer and turkey populations, small-game species like rabbits, squirrels and quail were what most hunters went afield in search of. Small-game hunting wasn't just a sport, but also a way to put food on the table. Many hunters kept a few hounds or bird dogs, and many winter afternoons were spent with friends and families stomping through the brush with scattergun at the ready, watching the dogs work a hot scent.

In those days, many people could and did hunt right out their back door. For youngsters just starting to bloom into avid hunters, even the few hours of weak winter light following the school day offered the opportunity to turn the dogs loose for a quick hunt before supper and homework had to be attended to.

As times and attitudes have changed over the years, those opportunities have become more limited. However, there still is no better way to introduce youngsters to the sport of hunting than by pursuing small game. Unlike big-game hunting, a large time investment isn't required to ensure success, shooting opportunities abound, and the woodsmanship skills learned pursuing small game can be utilized throughout a lifetime spent in the woods.

Let's take a look at how Alabama small-game species are doing and some of the best places to hunt them this season. Depending on your quarry and with a little asking around, small-game hunting can be found nearly anywhere, but to keep things simple, the focus will be on public-land hunting opportunities.

There are 36 wildlife management areas across the state containing more than 760,924 acres. The WMAs are operated by the Alabama Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries and provide valuable public access for hunting and other recreational activities. Hunting, fishing, camping and other permitted uses vary from area to area. Be sure to double-check the regulations for any last-minute changes before planning your Alabama WMA hunting trip.

Rabbits
Rabbits are one of the most popular small-game species and offer great hunting opportunities. Serious rabbit hunters head afield with a pack of beagles to help flush the critters from the thick cover and bring them around for a shot. But some success can be had just walking them up yourself, if you are willing to plow through the thickest briar patch you can find. Use a stop-and-go gait that will test the nerves of even the most well hidden rabbit.

Quick reflexes are a must to get off a shot at a rabbit suddenly exploding from thick cover on afterburners and looking for a safer place to hide.