JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – An unofficial holiday in North Dakota, deer gun season will kick-off on Friday, November 5th at Noon Central Time.

Game & Fish Wildlife Biologist Doug Leier says in the days leading up to the opener, hunters should be getting things squared away before the big day.

The Game and Fish Department must be contacted by phone at 701-328-6300, or email ndgf@nd.gov, to authorize the online purchase of a replacement tag. Printable applications are not available.

Leier says motorists should also start preparing for more deer along the roadways this time of the year.

Leier says always wear your seatbelt and don’t swerve or take the ditch to avoid hitting a deer. Try to brake as much as possible and stay on the roadway. Don’t lose control of your vehicle or slam into something else to miss the deer. You risk less injury by hitting the deer.

He added that scouting now is crucial to having a successful hunting experience.

For more information, visit gf.nd.gov.

Catch Doug Leier every Thursday at 7:35 AM on Bid Dog Country 95.5 FM.