In the state of Alabama, fishing licenses are required for residents and non-residents alike. However, the age requirements and exemptions vary depending on your residency status. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the details of obtaining a fishing license in Alabama in 2024.
Resident Fishing License Requirements
Alabama residents between the ages of 16 and 64 are required to purchase a fishing license to fish in public waters. This includes fishing with a rod and reel, hook and line, or from a boat. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule:
- Residents 65 years of age and older are exempt from purchasing a fishing license, provided they have a valid Alabama driver’s license or non-driver ID card as proof of age and residency.
- Residents can fish from the bank in their county of residence using hook and line with live bait without a license, but they must be able to provide proof of residency (Alabama driver’s license) while fishing.
- Alabama residents visiting home on military leave are exempt from needing a fishing license.
To be considered an Alabama resident, you must declare Alabama as your only state of residence and not have a valid driver’s license from any other state.
Non-Resident Fishing License Requirements
Non-residents 16 years of age and older are required to purchase a fishing license to fish in Alabama’s public waters, regardless of the tackle used. There are several types of non-resident licenses available:
- Annual Fishing License: Allows fishing in public freshwaters for 12 months.
- Saltwater Fishing License: Required for fishing in saltwater, with additional endorsements needed for certain species.
- Trip Licenses: Valid for 168 consecutive hours, available for both freshwater and saltwater fishing.
- Public Fishing Lakes Daily License: Allows fishing for one day at many state-owned county public fishing lakes.
- Freshwater Fishing Family Trip License: Allows non-residents to add up to four immediate family members to their Sport Fishing License for a 3-day trip.
Non-resident college students between the ages of 17 and 23 can obtain a residency exception from their local probate office, license commissioner, marine resource office, or any authorized outdoor recreation office, allowing them to purchase a special license at the same price as a resident.
How to Obtain a Fishing License in Alabama
Fishing licenses in Alabama can be purchased through several methods:
- Online at the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources website.
- In person at any authorized license agent, such as sporting goods stores, bait and tackle shops, and county probate offices.
- By phone through the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
When purchasing a license, you will need to provide the following information:
- Name
- Date of birth
- Address
- Driver’s license, ID, or passport number
- Social Security number (for U.S. residents)
- Form of payment
It’s important to note that all recreational fishing licenses in Alabama expire on August 31 annually.
Fishing License Fees
The cost of a fishing license in Alabama varies depending on the type of license and the residency status of the angler. Here are some examples of license fees:
| License Type | Resident Fee | Non-Resident Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Freshwater Fishing | $16.15 | $62.60 |
| Annual Saltwater Fishing | $28.50 | $61.35 |
| Freshwater Fishing Trip (168 hours) | N/A | $35.00 |
| Saltwater Fishing Trip (168 hours) | $11.80 | $33.75 |
| Public Fishing Lakes Daily License | $7.30 | $8.55 |
Discounted licenses are available for disabled individuals, 100% disabled veterans, and residents 65 years of age and older.
Fishing License Exemptions
In addition to the age-based exemptions mentioned earlier, there are a few other cases where a fishing license is not required in Alabama:
- Anyone under the age of 16 is exempt from needing a fishing license.
- If you’re fishing with an Alabama saltwater guide or charter, your license is covered by the boat.
- You don’t need a license if you’re fishing in a private pond located entirely within your property.
It’s important to note that while these exemptions exist, certain privileges, such as the ability to fish for certain species or use certain methods, may still require a license or additional endorsements.
Conclusion
Obtaining a fishing license in Alabama is a straightforward process that ensures the conservation and management of the state’s aquatic resources. By understanding the age requirements, residency status, and available license types, anglers can enjoy fishing in Alabama’s public waters while complying with state regulations.