The first Big Buck Contest, sponsored by  Rountree Outdoors and The Selma Times-Journal has already attracted a strong field of competition in the first month of rifle season.

Rountree Outdoors owner Chet Chappelle said 113 people have already thrown their name in the hat, which has been a pleasant surprise this early in the season.

“I thought if we got 100 it would be great, and we would like to see 200,” Chappelle said. “The response has been good, and people who have signed up are excited about it because of the chance to win the cash, mount and tree stand. Everybody is excited.”

Soon, Chappelle said, the season will reach a fever pitch as hunters hit the woods in search of monster bucks searching for a mate.

“I still feel like we will get a few more because the rut hasn’t started yet,” he said. “Once the rut comes in I feel like we will pick up anywhere from 20 to 40 more people. We have plenty of time because when January hits, that is when the big bucks start moving.”

There is still plenty of time for hunters to get in on the action by stopping by Rountree Outdoors. It’s important for hunters to keep up with their ticket stub because it must be presented at Mims Taxidermy when the deer is scored.

All deer must be scored by noon on Feb. 1 to be qualified for prizes.

Hunters must comply with all Alabama hunting and conservation laws, must be killed within 24 hours of being scored, registered 24 hours prior to scoring a deer, must have head and cape present and taken by the Alabama rules of fair chase in the open field only.

The deer and shooter will be photographed with all deer scored. There are two separate categories to be scored. There is a 15-and-under category and an overall Big Buck for all ages.

The grand prize includes $1,000 cash, a free head mount and tree stand.

First prize for the youth contest is $500.

For more information, visit Rountree Outdoors, 2613Citizens Parkway, or call 872-2651.