In Alabama, fishing licenses are required if fishing commercially in freshwater, as a non-resident over the age of sixteen fishing recreationally in freshwater, as a resident fishing recreationally in freshwater outside of your resident county, and fishing in saltwater. Alabama residents fishing recreationally in their resident counties or those older than 65 years of age do need a fishing license. 

In this article, we’ll inform you about the different types of fishing licenses required in Alabama and the circumstances under which you would need to purchase one. We’ll also provide you with a website to keep updated on any changes in license procedure and where to purchase Alabama fishing licenses. 

What Kind of Fishing Licenses Are Available in Alabama?

 

Fishing licenses in Alabama available for purchase include resident and non-resident recreational freshwater fishing licenses, commercial freshwater fishing license, and saltwater recreational fishing license. 

What Are the Fishing License Requirements for Recreational Freshwater Fishing in Alabama?

 

All fishing licenses expire on August 31 and must be renewed if you fall into a category which requires a license. For residential applicants, you must be able to provide a valid Alabama driver’s license or state ID card. If you are over 65, you are exempt from needing a recreational freshwater resident fishing license. 

If you go recreational freshwater fishing in your resident county and use hook and line with live bait, you do not need a fishing license but make sure to carry your valid Alabama ID. Non-residents of Alabama are required to purchase a recreational freshwater fishing license if over the age of sixteen.

What Are the Fishing License Requirements for Commercial Freshwater Fishing in Alabama?

 

Commercial freshwater fishing licenses in Alabama are available for both residents and non-residents, although the resident price is cheaper. Nongame and live fish dealer licenses are also available at wholesale and retail prices. 

What Are the Fishing License Requirements for Saltwater Fishing in Alabama?

A saltwater fishing license is required in Alabama for both resident and non-residents over the age of sixteen and under the age of sixty-five. This license also includes using gear such as flounder gigs, cast nets, and recreational crab traps. Licenses can be purchased as a seven day trip limit, an annual license, or a pier fishing license which restricts the holder to fishing exclusively from a pier. 

The saltwater fishing areas of Alabama include the Mississippi Sound, Mobile Bay, Bon Secour Bay, and the Gulf of Mexico out to the boundary of Federal Waters. These waters extend from Grand Bay in the west to Perdido Bay in the east and licenses are required not only for the capture but also the possession of fish in these saltwater areas.