BISMARCK, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – North Dakota’s biggest unofficial holiday kicks-off at 12 PM today and continues through November 24th.

The North Dakota Game & Fish Department reports that tags issued this year are up by around 10,000. Game & Fish Wildlife Biologist Doug Leier says there’s always a lot of excitement surrounding the state’s deer opener.

Leier says amidst the excitement, it’s important to not forget the biggest rule; safety.

Leier says once the deer is bagged, the hunter must immediately follow the law.

Party hunting is also not allowed in North Dakota. Leier offered a few other tips for hunters once the season begins.

You can catch Doug Leier each Thursday at 7:35 AM on Big Dog 95.5 FM with JD in the Morning.