Fishing is a popular pastime in Alabama, with the state boasting a diverse array of freshwater and saltwater fisheries. Whether you’re a resident or a non-resident, it’s important to understand the fishing license requirements in Alabama to ensure you’re fishing legally and responsibly. In this article, we’ll explore who needs a fishing license in Alabama in 2024 and provide an overview of the different types of licenses available.
Residency Requirements
Before we dive into the specifics of fishing licenses, it’s crucial to understand the definition of residency in Alabama. According to the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR), residency is determined by your driver’s license or non-driver’s ID card. If you hold a valid Alabama driver’s license or non-driver’s ID card, you are considered a resident for the purpose of purchasing fishing licenses.
Non-residents, on the other hand, are individuals who hold a driver’s license or ID card from a state other than Alabama or are not U.S. citizens. It’s important to note that even if a non-resident holds a valid Alabama driver’s license, they are still considered a non-resident for the purpose of purchasing fishing licenses.
Age Requirements
In Alabama, fishing licenses are required for individuals 16 years of age and older, both for residents and non-residents. This means that anyone under the age of 16 can fish without a license, regardless of their residency status.
However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, residents 65 years of age and older are not required to purchase a freshwater fishing license. Additionally, residents can fish from the bank in their county of residence with hook and line (live bait only) without purchasing a license, as long as they can provide proof of residency (Alabama driver’s license) while fishing.
Types of Fishing Licenses
Alabama offers a variety of fishing licenses to cater to different needs and preferences. Here are some of the most common types of licenses:
**Resident Freshwater Fishing Licenses:** – Annual Freshwater Fishing License: $16.15 – Daily Public Fishing Lakes License: $7.30 – Annual Wildlife Heritage License: $13.30 Non-Resident Freshwater Fishing Licenses:
Annual Freshwater Fishing License: $62.60
7-day Freshwater Fishing License: $35
3-day Sport Fish Freshwater Family Trip: $35 (license for NR age 16 and up and up to four immediate family members)
Resident Saltwater Fishing Licenses:
Annual Saltwater Fishing License: $28.50
7-day Saltwater Trip: $11.80
Non-Resident Saltwater Fishing Licenses:
Annual Saltwater Fishing License: $61.35
7-day Saltwater Fishing License: $33.75
In addition to these basic licenses, Alabama also offers combination licenses that combine freshwater, saltwater, and/or hunting privileges into one license, as well as lifetime licenses and sportsman’s packages.
Where to Purchase Fishing Licenses
Fishing licenses in Alabama can be purchased online through the ADCNR website (www.outdooralabama.com) or from licensed agents across the state. When purchasing a license in person, you’ll need to present a valid ID.
It’s important to note that all fishing licenses in Alabama expire on August 31st of each year, regardless of when they were purchased. This means that if you purchase a license in late August, it will still expire on August 31st of the following year.
Free Fishing Days
Alabama hosts a Free Fishing Day on the 2nd Saturday in June, where no angler needs a fishing license to fish most public waters. However, it’s important to note that state public fishing lakes still require permits on the Free Fishing Day, and permission is still required from the owners of private ponds to fish on their properties. Some piers may also require permits.
For 2024, the Free Fishing Days will be June 8-16, 2024.
In conclusion, understanding the fishing license requirements in Alabama is essential for both residents and non-residents who wish to enjoy the state’s abundant fisheries. By familiarizing yourself with the residency and age requirements, as well as the different types of licenses available, you can ensure that you’re fishing legally and responsibly in Alabama in 2024.