You can’t be in Alabama, and not hear about the thrill of fishing in its fresh waters or salt waters. Alabama is the home of all anglers, and this sounds exciting right?, but before you can begin to enjoy this lifetime adventure, you must have an Alabama Fishing license. An Alabama fishing license gives you the authorization to fish in its waters, and keep your catch.
Who Needs the Alabama Fishing License?
The rules apply a bit differently for Alabama residents and non-residents. Either way, if you are between age 16 and age 65, then you are required to purchase an Alabama fishing license.
There are some special groups of people that do not require a license, let’s consider them below.
- If you are a resident under age 16 or above age 65, then you don’t need a license
- If you are in the military, and also a resident of Alabama on a leave, then you don’t need a license.
- If you are a resident of the state, and you are fishing from a local bank, then you don’t need a license, because your proof of residency can serve that purpose.
- If you are fishing with a charter or an AL saltwater guide, then you don’t need a license
- If you are a college student (non-resident) between the age of 17 and 23, then you don’t need a license as you could get a residency exemption from your local probate officer, or any authorized source.
How Much Does the Alabama Fishing License Cost?
The cost for this license varies based on different factors. As a resident, you will get to pay a lower rate than a non-resident. There are also special treats for those with disabilities, military veterans and individuals included.
| Type of License | Duration Length | Cost for Residents | Cost for Non – Residents |
| Saltwater | 7 Days Per Year | $10.15 $24.35 | $28.85 $52.50 |
| Freshwater | 7 Days Per Year | N/A $13.85 | $29.50 $53.30 |
| Public Fishing Lakes Daily Fishing License | Per Year 1 Day | N/A $6.50 | $12.95 $7.50 |
| Spearfishing Family Trip License (4 additional family members) | Per Year 7 Days | $6.00 N/A | $8.50 $3.50 |
| Freshwater Fishing Family Trip License (4 additional family members) | 3 Days | N/A | $29.95 |
Here are the special treats for those with disabilities:
| Type of License | Duration Length | Cost for Residents | Cost for Non – Residents |
| Physically Disabled Saltwater Fishing Event (up to 20 disabled guests) | 3 Days | $100 | $100 |
| Disabled Freshwater Fishing License (totally disabled) | Per Year | $3.05 | N/A |
| Disabled Saltwater Fishing License (totally disabled) | Per Year | $3.05 | N/A |
| Veteran’s Appreciation (20% disabled or more) Freshwater License | Per Year | $3.15 | N/A |
Note:
- If you are spearfishing, you should know that you will need the required sport fishing license, added to your already existing spearfishing license.
- You can also get a discount, if you are a non – resident member of the military stationed – you just need to contact your local probate officer or an authorized channel, and then bring your document to Alabama.
Can I Buy an Alabama Fishing License Online?
The answer is yes. You can purchase your Alabama fishing license online straight from the Alabama Department of conservation & natural resources, or you could get it from any approved license agent.
When Do Alabama Fishing License Expire?
When you purchase an Alabama fishing license, you should know that it will definitely expire somedays, but that depends on the type of license that you purchased.
- Your annual license expires on August 31st annually.
- Your 7-Day license is valid for 168 consecutive hours from the time you purchased it.
- Your 3-Day license is valid for 72 hours.
- Your 1-day license is valid for only 24 hours.
How can I renew my license?
In a case where your license gets expired, you can easily renew it via the outdoor Alabama online portal, at a probate office, the license state commissioner, or at any other official retailer.
What happens if my license gets stolen? or misplaced?
Just the way it can be renewed, it can also be replaced via the same methods stated earlier. It is quite an easy process, but you must know also that if your license was revoked or voided, then it cannot be replaced.
Is Fishing Without A License an Offense?
Yes, it is an offense to fish without a license. You can be fine a fee of $10 to $25 and be charged with a misdemeanor. It is best to get a license and avoid any form of embarrassment.
Can I use my Alabama fishing license in other fishing states?
Well, the answer is a yes, and a no. wait, let me explain. You cannot use your Alabama fishing license in the gulf; however, the state of Alabama has an agreement with the state of Mississippi which permits the license to be valid in the Tennessee River, the Florida state line, the Mississippi state line, or the Perdida bay to the east.
As a Senior, Can I Fish for Free?
Yes, you can fish for free as a senior resident of Alabama. However, you are encouraged to pay a one-time $35.00 support fee to the state’s wildlife and freshwater program, and this would earn you a lifetime embossed card style license.
Is There A Lifetime Fishing License?
If you are an ardent angler, then you can purchase a one-time license. All you need to have is a valid driver’s or non-driver’s license and you must also be a resident of the state.
Can Everyone Apply for a Discounted License?
No, this special treat is available for only people with disabilities, and you should also know that you have to be a resident of Alabama to be qualified for this discount offer.
What Are the Different Types of Fishing Licenses?
There are various types of fishing licenses, and they fit various purposes. The most common licenses are the saltwater and freshwater licenses. Others include
- Wildlife Heritage Licenses.
- Spearfishing Licenses.
- Wire basket Licenses.
- Freshwater Commercial Fishing Licenses.
Final Thoughts
We have been able to answer the most common and important details you need to know in order to have a great fishing experience, and all that is left for you to do is to make that step for a lifetime experience. Have Fun!!!
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