In Alabama, anglers aged 16 and older are required to possess a valid fishing license to fish in public waters, with a few exceptions. The rules apply to both residents and non-residents alike. However, the process of obtaining a fishing license may vary depending on your residency status and whether you have a driver’s license or not.
Alabama Residents and Fishing Licenses
For Alabama residents, the definition of residency is determined by your driver’s license or non-driver’s ID card. If you have a valid Alabama driver’s license or non-driver’s ID card and have resided continuously in Alabama for at least 90 days, you are eligible for resident fishing license privileges. To purchase a resident fishing license, you must provide proof of residency, such as your Alabama driver’s license or non-driver’s ID card, and have a Social Security number.
However, there are some exceptions for Alabama residents who do not have a driver’s license or non-driver’s ID card. If you are an Alabama resident fishing from the bank in your county of residence using hook and line with live bait only, you do not need to purchase a fishing license. You must be able to provide reasonable proof of residency, such as your Alabama driver’s license, while fishing.
If you are an Alabama resident without a valid driver’s license or non-driver’s ID card and want to purchase a fishing license, you can do so through the probate office or license commissioner. You will need to provide at least two of the following documents as proof of residency: school registration, tax return, voter registration card, home property tax forms, health insurance forms with address, last 3 months utility bills with address listed, or a certificate of employment (including proof of residency).
Non-Residents and Fishing Licenses
For non-residents, the rules are slightly different. If you have a driver’s license or ID card from a state other than Alabama or if you are not a U.S. citizen, you are considered a non-resident and must purchase a non-resident fishing license. Non-residents aged 16 and older are required to have appropriate recreational licenses to fish in public waters.
Non-resident licensed drivers applying for a hunting or fishing license must present a valid driver’s license. Non-resident non-drivers must present some form of ID, preferably with a picture, such as a school ID or employment ID.
Non-resident college students between the ages of 17 and 23 who reside in Alabama and are enrolled in an approved Alabama higher education institute may qualify for resident licenses. They must present proof of enrollment and residency at the probate office or license commissioner’s office.
Non-resident military personnel stationed in Alabama for 30 days or more may also be eligible for resident licenses. They must present a copy of their orders assigning them to Alabama, a valid U.S. driver’s license, and a military ID card. This exemption includes their spouse and dependents living with them.
In conclusion, while Alabama residents can fish from the bank in their county of residence without a license using hook and line with live bait only, they must still be able to provide reasonable proof of residency, such as their Alabama driver’s license. Non-residents and those who do not meet the residency requirements must purchase the appropriate fishing license to fish in Alabama’s public waters.