For some, Alabama is best known for its legacy in space exploration or agriculture, but did you know it’s also one of the Deep South’s prime hunting destinations? Thanks to its rich biodiversity, varied terrain, and mild winters, Alabama provides avid hunters with the ideal conditions for finding different types of game. Plus, since Alabama still has protected parks and vast tracts of land for sale, it’s easy to invest in properties or land plots that take advantage of hunting excursions.
Although buying hunting land in Alabama is an exciting prospect, it’s also a significant investment that requires careful planning and consideration. Be sure to review all of the implications of owning hunting land in Alabama, including key benefits, drawbacks, and the practical steps to ensure you’re making an intelligent investment.
Why Buy Hunting Land for Sale in Alabama?
Alabama is a paradise for hunters. Not only is there a diverse range of fauna in the Yellowhammer State, the local environment and laws make it easy to take advantage of all these opportunities. Even if you’re not personally interested in hunting, this state’s reputation for nature and recreation is an advantage for investors involved in fields like tourism.
● Abundant game: Alabama is particularly well known for its population of white-tailed deer in the Black Belt region, but there are also plenty of wild turkeys in the central and northern forests. Plus, you’ll find plenty of waterfowl, swamp rabbits, and wild hogs throughout the state, to name a few.
● Affordable land prices: Alabama offers relatively cheap land prices compared to other states with comparable hunting opportunities. Thanks to the reasonable average land prices and the lower cost of living, investors can buy larger tracts even if they’re on a budget.
● Mild winters and extended hunting seasons: Thanks to Alabama’s mild climate in the Deep South, you’ll enjoy an extended hunting season than more northern states. In fact, Alabama has one of the longest hunting seasons in the country, giving you more time to enjoy your investment.
● Potential for passive income: If you own hunting land in Alabama, you can lease it out to other hunters and collect passive income throughout the year. Alternatively, you might use your hunting land investment to explore other revenue streams like ecotourism, agriculture, or harvesting timber.
Key Factors to Consider When Buying Hunting Land in Alabama
If you’re excited about the potential that Alabama hunting land has but unsure where to begin, there are a few considerations to keep in mind when searching for your land plot.
1. Location and Accessibility
Whenever people talk about making a land investment, location is inevitably a top consideration. You have to be sure that the area you choose to invest in has all the natural features and amenities you want. Also, since Alabama isn’t the most developed state, the land you’re looking into may not be suitable for the type of infrastructure you need to build.
For instance, if you plan to build a cabin with basic facilities, you must ensure your land has water, electricity, and sewage readily available. Also, take care to review the road access for different land options so you know how to navigate in and out of your property.
2. Terrain and Habitat Diversity
Related to the last point, choosing a varied terrain — such as a mix of forested areas, wetlands, and open fields — will provide you with multiple habitats perfect for diverse wildlife. Alternatively, you could choose to focus on one land area if you’re most interested in a specific type of hunting.
A few common types of Alabama terrain include:
● Wooded areas: Dense forests are best suited for those interested in deer hunting as they offer both easy cover and food sources.
● Water sources: Rivers, lakes, and ponds attract various game animals like waterfowl and help sustain wildlife populations.
● Open fields: Fields or meadows can attract game animals like turkeys and offer prime spots for food plots or game feeders.
Generally speaking, Northern Alabama is best known for its hilly terrain and large deer population, which makes it ideal for those interested in challenging hunts. By contrast, Central Alabama provides a mix of forests and agricultural land with game like deer, turkey, and waterfowl. At the bottom of the state, Southern Alabama has the most flatlands, rivers, and marshy areas suitable for waterfowl and hog hunting.
3. Soil Quality Inspection
You don’t need to be interested in agriculture to pay careful attention to soil quality. Remember, the soil type and quality on your Alabama land will influence the growth of vegetation, which in turn impacts food availability for game. For this reason, it’s beneficial to order a thorough soil analysis, especially if you plan to cultivate food in the future.
4. Wildlife Population and Habitat Quality
To check on the wildlife in your zone, you can start by checking with the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) for detailed game population data. After reviewing this information, you can spend some extra time on the land to see first-hand how active animals in the area are. Observe any signs of game presence and make note of tracks, trails, or droppings so you better understand your investment.
5. Zoning Laws and Land Restrictions
Before you get too carried away with building plans, take note of all the local zoning laws and land use restrictions you must abide by. Some properties have limitations on the types of structures you can build or regulations on hunting that impact how you can use your land investment. Speak with local authorities or a knowledgeable land broker if you have any questions about these policies, and don’t rush into a decision until you know that your intended uses align with local regulations.
Ready To Start “Hunting” For Alabama Land?
Buying hunting land in Alabama could be a rewarding investment, especially if you’re an outdoors junkie. Although most properties in Alabama offer convenient access to hunting wild game, there are differences throughout this state’s terrain. For help on your “land hunt,” it helps to work with a professional Alabama land broker who knows about this state’s opportunities. With a professional by your side, you’ll better understand your options and how they align with your goals.
