Alabama Fishing License Requirements
In Alabama, anglers are required to obtain a fishing license to ensure the preservation and improvement of the state's aquatic resources. These requirements apply to both residents and non-residents.
Residents
Residents aged 16 and older must possess a recreational fishing license to fish in Alabama. However, there are exceptions for the following individuals:
- Residents aged 65 and older with valid proof of residence and age.
- Resident landowners and their immediate family.
- Residents on military leave with proper identification and documentation.
- Residents fishing from the bank in their county of residence using a hook and line with live bait only.
Non-residents
Non-residents aged 16 and older must also obtain a fishing license to fish in Alabama.
Freshwater Fishing Licenses and Costs
Recreational anglers who wish to fish in freshwater bodies need to purchase a license. It's worth noting that reciprocal fishing licenses with Mississippi and Tennessee are honored at specific locations, as indicated on the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources' map. The cost of certain fishing licenses may vary based on residency.
Resident Licenses
Residents must provide proof of residency, typically through a driver's license or non-driver's ID card. The following freshwater licenses are available to residents, with costs for 2021:
- Annual License: Valid from September 1 to August 31. Current cost: $14.05.
- Daily License: For fishing in State-owned county Public Fishing Lakes for a single day. Cost: $6.45.
- Lifetime License: Valid for the lifetime of the license holder, regardless of residency changes. Cost varies based on the age at the time of issuance.
- Disabled Licenses: Discounted fishing licenses available for 100% physically disabled individuals ($3.05) and disabled military veterans ($3.15).
- Wildlife Heritage License: Allows residents aged 16-64 to fish in freshwater bodies and hunt small game in Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. Cost: $11.60.
- Spearfishing License: Requires a freshwater fishing license and costs $6.00.
Non-resident Licenses
Non-residents must obtain the appropriate recreational license to fish in Alabama. The available options are as follows:
- Annual License: Louisiana residents pay $62.50, Mississippi residents pay $66.29, and residents of other states pay $54.20.
- 7-day Trip License: Florida residents pay $32.20, Georgia residents pay $33.20, and residents of other states pay $30.40.
- Family 3-day Trip License: Florida residents pay $32.20, Georgia residents pay $33.20, and residents of other states pay $30.40.
- College Student Hunting/Fishing License: Available to full-time students in an Alabama higher education institute who are non-residents. Cost: $14.05.
- Public Fishing Lakes License: Valid only in state-owned Public Fishing Lakes. Costs vary based on location and time of purchase.
- Spearfishing License: Annual license for non-residents costs $8.50, and a 7-day trip license costs $3.50. Requires a freshwater fishing license.
Saltwater Fishing Licenses and Costs
Saltwater licenses are required in specific areas of the Mississippi Sound, Mobile Bay, Bon Secour Bay, and the Gulf of Mexico. The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources website provides a map indicating where a saltwater fishing license is mandatory. Both residents and non-residents can obtain saltwater licenses.
Resident Licenses
For 2021, the costs of resident saltwater licenses are as follows:
- Annual: $24.35
- 7-day Trip: $10.15
- Pier: $6.40
- Spearfishing: $6.00
- Disabled and Disabled Veterans: $3.05 and $3.15, respectively
- Reef Fish Endorsement: $10.00
Non-resident Licenses
For non-residents, the costs of saltwater licenses for 2021 are as follows:
- Annual: Louisiana residents pay $91.10, Floridians pay $48.10, and residents of other states pay $52.50
- 7-day Trip: Louisiana residents pay $28.85, Florida residents pay $30.10, and residents of other states pay $28.85
- Pier: $11.85
- Spearfishing: $8.50
- Reef Fish Endorsement: $10.00
Please refer to the current pricing for Alabama Fishing Licenses.
It's important to note that even if you have not been required to purchase an annual saltwater license, such as those who are 65 or older or only fishing exclusively from a pier, you'll still need to complete the saltwater angler registration. Registration is free.
Where to Buy Your Alabama Fishing License
You can purchase an Alabama fishing license online. You can pay with a debit or credit card and immediately print your license.
You can also purchase your license in person. There are several ways to do this:
- Tanner or Jacksonville District Offices of the Department
- Your local probate office
- Your local license commissioner
- Various license agents