When planning your next fishing trip in Alabama, it’s crucial to ensure you have the proper fishing license. This guide will walk you through the process of obtaining an Alabama fishing license online and provide details on requirements and costs.
Alabama Fishing License Requirements
In Alabama, fishing licenses are required to protect and enhance the state’s aquatic resources, and these rules apply to both residents and non-residents.
Residents
- Residents aged 16 and older are required to have a recreational license, with some exceptions, including:
- Residents aged 65 and older with valid proof of residence and age
- Resident landowners and their immediate family
- Residents on military leave with proper ID and paperwork
- Residents fishing from the bank in their county of residence with a hook and line (live bait only)
Non-residents
- All non-residents aged 16 and older must have a fishing license.
Freshwater Fishing Licenses and Costs
For freshwater fishing in Alabama, residents and non-residents have different options and costs:
Resident
- Annual License: Valid from September 1 to August 31, priced at $14.05.
- Daily License: For fishing in state-owned county Public Fishing Lakes for a day, it costs $6.45.
- Lifetime License: Prices vary by age at the time of issuance.
- Disabled Licenses: Discounts available for disabled anglers.
- Wildlife Heritage License: Allows residents aged 16-64 to fish in freshwater bodies and hunt small game for $11.60.
- Spearfishing License: Priced at $6.00, in addition to a freshwater fishing license.
Non-resident
- Annual License: Costs vary depending on your state of residence.
- 7-day Trip License: Available for non-residents at different prices based on their state of residence.
- Family 3-day Trip License: Pricing varies for different states.
- College Student Hunting/Fishing License: For non-residents who are full-time students in an Alabama higher education institute.
- Public Fishing Lakes License: Costs vary based on location and time of purchase.
- Spearfishing License: Available for non-residents, priced at $8.50 for annual and $3.50 for a 7-day trip.
Saltwater Fishing Licenses and Costs
Saltwater licenses are required in specific areas in Alabama, and both residents and non-residents have options:
Residents
- Annual: $24.35
- 7-day trip: $10.15
- Pier: $6.40
- Spearfishing: $6.00
- Disabled and disabled veterans: $3.05 and $3.15 respectively
- Reef fish endorsement: $10.00
Non-residents
- Annual: Costs vary by the state of residence.
- 7-day trip: Different pricing based on your state of residence.
- Pier: $11.85
- Spearfishing: $8.50
- Reef fish endorsement: $10.00
Note: For the most up-to-date pricing, refer to our Alabama Fishing License Pricing Page.
Where to Purchase Your Alabama Fishing License
Getting your Alabama fishing license is a straightforward process, offering you both online and in-person options for your convenience. Here’s how you can obtain your license:
Online
- Secure your fishing license from the comfort of your home using your debit or credit card. You can also print it immediately upon completion.
In Person
You can also purchase your fishing license in person at the following locations:
- Tanner or Jacksonville District Offices of the Department: Visit these offices to acquire your license with the help of friendly staff.
- Your Local Probate Office: Check with your local probate office for in-person license procurement.
- Your Local License Commissioner: License commissioners are available to assist you with your fishing license needs.
- Various License Agents: Look for authorized license agents in your area who can provide you with a fishing license.
With these options, you can easily obtain your Alabama fishing license to ensure a smooth and enjoyable fishing experience.