MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Bow deer hunting season opens Tuesday in Alabama. And so does the Alabama Black Belt Adventures Association’s annual “Big Buck” photo contest.

Called a “hunter’s paradise” by Buckmasters founder Jackie Bushman, Alabama’s Black Belt is home to some of the best deer hunting anywhere. The Black Belt gets its name from its dark, rich soil, which produces vegetation that makes for ideal habitat for wild game, especially deer.

The “Big Buck” photo contest is open to any hunter who bagged his or her trophy deer in any of the 23 counties (stretching across the state’s midsection) that comprise the Black Belt. The winner will receive a $100 gift card to Bass Pro Shops.

Even though the contest kicks off with the opening of bow season, it isn’t limited to bow hunters. Entries from both bow and gun hunters are welcome. Deer season runs through Jan. 31, and you have until Feb. 14 to submit your photos.

Awards will be given in three age categories: 12 and under, 18 and under, and adults over 18. Photos will be posted on the Alabama Black Belt Adventures Association’s Facebook page, and the number of “likes” they receive will determine the winners.

To enter, email photos to: amandaingram@alabamablackbeltadventures.com. Please include your name and the county in which the deer was taken. Entries must be from the current hunting season.

More information is available on ALBBAA’s Facebook page, www.facebook.com/AlabamaBlackBeltAdventures.