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  3. Do You Need a Fishing License For That?

Fishing License Requirements

In Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

David Rainer
November 5, 2024

One of the most common questions visitors to the beautiful Alabama Gulf Coast pose is who needs a fishing license to enjoy the abundant fishing opportunities. Before you cast your line, let's clarify who needs a fishing license in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.

The answer is almost everyone will need some form of a fishing license or be on the saltwater registry to fish in coastal waters. The exception is if you take a trip with one of the many inshore, nearshore or offshore charter vessels, which will have a boat license that covers its clients.

Fishing at The Pass in Orange Beach

Where to Fish with an Alabama Saltwater Fishing License

The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Marine Resources Division provides a map to determine the waters where saltwater fishing licenses are required.

Surf Fishing

If you’re fishing the surf outside your condo, you need a fishing license or be on the registry. You must have a valid Alabama saltwater fishing license with you at all times and be prepared to show it to local authorities if requested.

Fishing rods set up on the shore for surf fishing in Gulf Shores

Boat Fishing

If you’re in your or a friend’s boat and are trying to catch speckled trout and redfish in Little Lagoon, Perdido Bay, Wolf Bay or the Bon Secour River, you need a fishing license or be on the registry. 

Aerial view of Gulf State Park Fishing Pier in Gulf Shores

Pier Fishing

An Alabama Saltwater fishing license is required for pier fishing in the Gulf as well. Those who visit the Gulf State Park Pier will receive a daily license that's included in the pier's required $10 fishing fee. Anglers who cast a line on the Fort Morgan Fishing Pier will need a saltwater license and angler registry.

Pier at Orange Beach Waterfront Park

Alabama Freshwater Fishing License

Depending on the species you're after, you may need a freshwater fishing license when casting off in the Intercostal Waterway. When driving on Canal Rd, you'll notice cars parked on the Northside of the road as people fish into the Intercostal. The pier at Orange Beach Waterfront Park is an excellent spot for fishing without a vessel in Wolf Bay.

man fishing in lake Shelby in gulf state park, freshwater fishing in Gulf Shores

License Exemptions for Fishing on Alabama's Beaches

Residents and non-residents under 16 are exempt from needing a license. Residents aged 65 and over are also exempt. However, free saltwater registration is required for all residents 16 and over who take, catch, kill, or possess fish or attempt to catch, kill, or possess fish in the saltwater jurisdiction of Alabama. This includes residents not required to purchase an annual saltwater fishing license, such as those over the age of 64 with a lifetime saltwater license or who fish exclusively on a pier that has purchased a pier fishing license. Gulf State Park Pier has its own license structure. 

Hands holding a red snapper caught off a fishing charter in Orange Beach

Types of Fishing Licenses in Alabama Beaches

Annual and seven-day trip fishing licenses are available for residents and non-residents. This license is also required for cast netting, flounder gigging, and recreational crab traps. 

Reef Fish Endorsement

If you’re planning to head into the Gulf of Mexico on a private boat to catch the numerous reef fish species, like red snapper, triggerfish, or grouper, you will need a Reef Fish Endorsement, which is $10 per individual. Again, charter boats have a vessel endorsement that covers all their clients. You can learn more on the Alabama Outdoor site.

Angler holding a triggerfish caught on a fishing charter caught in the Gulf of Mexico

Reciprocal License System

Alabama uses a reciprocal license system for non-residents, charging the residents of that state a similar fee an Alabama resident would pay in their state. For instance, a Louisiana resident would pay $129.15 for an annual saltwater fishing license in Alabama. Florida residents would pay $48.15 for the same license. All other states are charged $57 for the yearly license.

Man watching the sunset from a fishing charter boat in Orange Beach

How to Purchase Your Alabama Fishing License

You can purchase a fishing license or register on the saltwater fishing registry here. Disabled veterans and disabled individuals can go to Alabama Outdoor’s website and click on the links at the bottom of the page to apply for those discounted licenses. Be sure to learn about Alabama’s residency requirements first.

The great news is the fishing along the Alabama Gulf Coast is so good it’s well worth purchasing a license to enjoy the many saltwater fishing opportunities.

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