Alabama License Price Calculator
How Much Is a Fishing License in Alabama?
An Alabama resident annual fishing license costs $17.00. Non-residents pay $66.25 for the same annual license.
Alabama's fishing license reciprocity goes further than most: a valid Alabama license is honored on the entire Chattahoochee River (and its impoundments) where it forms the Alabama–Georgia border, under a long-standing agreement with Georgia — so you can fish both banks without buying a second state's license, except on West Point Reservoir north of the Georgia Highway 109 bridge. (Outdoor Alabama)
Alabama Fishing License Price Table (2026)
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $17.00 | $66.25 | Freshwater fishing statewide |
| 7-Day (Non-Res) | N/A | $37.00 | Short-term option |
| Reef Fish Endorsement | $10.00 | $10.00 | See notes below |
| Youth (Under 16) | Free | Free | Most states exempt young anglers |
Freshwater and Saltwater Are Separate Licenses
Alabama doesn't sell one license that covers both. The $17.00 resident freshwater license only covers inland waters; Gulf and coastal saltwater fishing requires its own $30.05 resident annual license. Non-residents face the same split, so budget for both if your trip covers both types of water.
The Reef Fish Endorsement Is a Separate Add-On
Targeting red snapper or other reef species in Alabama's Gulf waters requires a $10.00 annual Reef Fish Endorsement on top of your saltwater license. Alabama also offers a $220 lifetime version for anglers who fish reef species regularly enough to make the one-time cost worthwhile.
Alabama Fishing Seasons & Bag Limits (2026)
These are Alabama's default statewide season windows and bag/size limits for the most commonly targeted species. Many individual lakes, rivers, and reservoirs carry their own special regulations that override these defaults — always confirm the rules for your specific water before you fish.
| Species | Season | Min. Size | Daily Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black Bass (combined species) | Year-round | Varies by reservoir (Guntersville/Pickwick/Wheeler 15"; Eufaula 14") | 10/day combined (max. 5 smallmouth) |
| Crappie | Year-round | 9" min. (most public waters; Weiss Reservoir 10") | 30/day |
Where to Buy a Alabama Fishing License Locally
In addition to the official state portal linked above, Alabama fishing licenses are typically available at Walmart, Bass Pro Shops, Cabela's, and Dick's Sporting Goods locations statewide, along with independent bait & tackle shops. Call ahead if you need a specific license type (combination, lifetime, or trout stamp) since not every retail counter carries every product.
Alabama Fishing License — FAQs
How much is an Alabama fishing license?
A resident annual freshwater fishing license in Alabama costs $17.00. Non-residents pay $66.25 for the same annual freshwater license. Saltwater fishing requires a separate license.
Is saltwater fishing covered by Alabama's regular fishing license?
No. Alabama sells freshwater and saltwater licenses separately. The resident saltwater annual license is $30.05, distinct from the $17.00 freshwater license.
What is the Reef Fish Endorsement?
It's a required $10.00 annual add-on (or $220 one-time lifetime option) for anyone targeting reef species like red snapper in Alabama's Gulf waters, on top of the saltwater license.
When do Alabama fishing licenses expire?
All Alabama recreational fishing licenses expire on August 31 each year, regardless of purchase date.
Where can I buy an Alabama fishing license?
Buy online at outdooralabama.com, through the Outdoor Alabama mobile app, or at license agents statewide.