Alabama fishing guide

Welcome to your key source for all fishing-related information in Alabama. Discover not only the prime fishing spots but also learn about the diverse species inhabiting these waters. Stay informed about the latest fishing regulations and licensing requirements for fishing in Alabama

1563 spots
60 fish
15 lakes
11 rivers

Licenses for fishing in Alabama

For complete and up-to-date information on fishing licenses in Alabama, please visit the official website of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources at www.outdooralabama.com. This site offers the ability to purchase the necessary licenses and access detailed information for both residents and non-residents.

Category License Type Resident Non-Resident
Sport Fishing (Freshwater) Annual $16.15 $62.60
  7-Day - $35.00
Sport Fishing (Saltwater) Annual $28.50 $61.35
  7-Day $11.80 $33.75
  Gulf Reef Fish Endorsement $10.00 $10.00
Public Fishing Lakes Daily $7.30 $8.55
Disabled Fishing License Freshwater Annual (totally disabled) $3.40 -
  Saltwater Annual (totally disabled) $3.40 -
Veterans Appreciation Freshwater & Saltwater $3.50 -
Commercial Fishing Freshwater Annual $119.00 Varies
  Retail Freshwater Fish Dealer $13.00 $13.00
  Wholesale Freshwater Fish Dealer $31.00 $31.00
Spear Fishing Annual $6.00 $8.50
  7-Day - $3.50

Fishing Regulations in Alabama

Prohibited Gear and Fishing Methods
  • Use of explosives, poisons, or electrical devices for fishing is illegal.
  • Fishing with nets, traps, or seines is restricted to specific permits and designated areas.
  • Use of live fish as bait is limited in certain waters to protect native species and ecosystems.
  • Snagging fish is not allowed except in designated areas during specific seasons.
  • Spearing and bowfishing are permitted for certain species in specified waters.
Catch Limits
  • Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass: Daily limit of 10, with size restrictions in some waters.
  • Crappie: Daily limit of 30, with a minimum size of 9 inches.
  • Catfish: Daily limits vary by species, often no more than 1-2 over a certain size.
  • Trout: Daily limit varies by area, typically 5 fish with size restrictions.
  • Striped Bass: Daily limit and size restrictions vary, especially in freshwater reservoirs and rivers.
  • Bream (Bluegill, Sunfish): No daily limit, no size limit.
  • Walleye: Daily limit varies by water body, often with size restrictions.
  • Sauger: Daily limit varies, often 5-10 fish with size restrictions.
  • Pickerel: Daily limit of 6, no size limit.
  • Flounder: Daily limit and size restrictions vary, especially in coastal waters.
Restrictions on Access to Water Bodies
  • Access to some waters may be restricted for environmental conservation or public safety reasons.
  • Fishing on private property requires explicit permission from the landowner.
  • Special regulations for fishing in state parks and wildlife refuges.
  • No fishing zones enforced around certain infrastructures like dams and fish hatcheries.
  • Seasonal access restrictions in certain areas for fish spawning and habitat management.
Zones of Special Regulation
  • Catch-and-release areas for certain species, especially trout and bass.
  • Areas with gear restrictions, such as artificial lures only or fly fishing zones.
  • Slot limits for bass and other species in certain lakes and rivers.
  • Special regulations in waters with high fishing pressure or ecological sensitivity.
  • Trophy fisheries with enhanced size and bag limits in selected areas.
Protection of Rare Species
  • Fishing for endangered or threatened species is strictly prohibited.
  • Special regulations in habitats of rare or sensitive aquatic species.
  • Research fishing for rare species requires special permits.
  • Reporting accidental catches of rare species is important for conservation efforts.
  • Areas with significant ecological value may have additional fishing restrictions.
Seasonal Restrictions
  • Closed seasons for specific species during spawning or migration periods.
  • There are no special rules for ice fishing in Alabama, because the climate does not allow for thick enough ice to fish safely.
  • Seasonal closures in sensitive ecological areas for species protection and habitat restoration.
  • Temporary closures during environmental events or for population studies.
  • Special regulations for early and late fishing seasons in certain areas.
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