Every year, alligator hunting season in Alabama opens on the first Saturday in September and lasts for 60 days. The state of Alabama issues around 400 alligator hunting permits each year, and each permit holder is allowed to harvest two alligators. If you’re interested in alligator hunting in Alabama, there are a few things you should know before getting started.
In this blog post, we will cover everything from the application process to the equipment you will need to have a successful hunt.
Alligator Hunting Laws in Alabama
There are a few things to know before heading out on an alligator hunt in Alabama. First, alligators may only be hunted during the official hunting season, which runs from late August to early November.
Secondly, hunters are required to have a permit in order to hunt alligators, which can be obtained through the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
Finally, it is important to be aware of the state’s alligator hunting laws and regulations in order to ensure a successful and safe hunt.
The first step in planning an alligator hunt is to obtain a hunting permit from the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. Permits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis, and there is a limit of two permits per person.
Once you have your permit, you will need to purchase an Alligator Hunting License, which allows you to take one alligator per year. Alligators may only be hunted during the official hunting season, which runs from late August to early November.
When heading out on your hunt, it is important to be aware of the state’s alligator hunting laws and regulations.
For example, it is illegal to shoot an alligator from a moving vehicle or vessel. Additionally, alligators must be killed humanely and cannot be shot with any type of firearm other than a shotgun loaded with buckshot or slugs.
Finally, it is important to remember that alligators are protected by state law and therefore cannot be taken for their meat.
Related: Hog Hunting in Alabama
Do you need a license to hunt alligators in Alabama?
Yes, you need a license to hunt alligators in Alabama. The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) Alligator Program issues two types of licenses: an Annual Alligator Hunting License and a Five-Year Alligator Hunting License. You can purchase these licenses at any ADCNR office or license agent, online at the ADCNR website, or by calling 1-888-848-6887.
Alligator Hunting Seasons in Alabama
Alligator hunting season in Alabama generally runs from September 1 to October 31. Alligators may be taken only by persons with an alligator hunting permit and alligator tags. The daily bag limit is two alligators, and the possession limit is four alligators.
During the day, alligator hunters must use artificial lights that comply with state and federal regulations to take alligators. At night, they may use any legal method to take alligators, including firearms.
All harvested alligators must be reported within 24 hours to the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) through the Online Game Check system or by calling 1-888-848-6887. The ADCNR will provide each successful hunter with a certificate of registration for each alligator harvested.
Alligator hunting is not allowed in any wildlife management areas, national parks, national forests, or state parks in Alabama. A complete list of areas open to public hunting can be found on the ADCNR website.
Can you hunt alligators at night in Alabama?
Yes, you can hunt alligators at night in Alabama. There are a few things you need to know before you go out, though. First, you’ll need to get a permit from the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
Next, you’ll need to find a good spot to hunt. Alligators are most active at night, so you’ll want to find a place where they’re likely to be feeding.
Finally, you’ll need to be prepared for the fight. Alligators can be dangerous animals, so it’s important to be safe and follow the rules when hunting them.
Bag limits for hunting Alligator in Alabama
There is no bag limit for alligator hunting in Alabama. You can take as many alligators as you want, as long as you have the proper permits. Alligators must be at least 4 feet long to be harvested.
Legal ways to hunt Alligators in Alabama
In Alabama, it is legal to hunt alligators on private property with written permission from the landowner or lessee. Alligators may also be taken during open seasons in wildlife management areas (WMAs) and national wildlife refuges (NWRs) that have been approved for an alligator hunting season.
A detailed list of these areas can be found on the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources website. The taking of alligators is prohibited in Baldwin and Mobile counties.
Alligator hunting seasons are determined each year by the ADCNR Commissioner based on recommendations from the Alligator Management Program Biologists. The length of the season, bag limits, and other regulations are published in the Alabama Administrative Code, Chapter 220-2-.107 – Alligator Hunting Seasons.
A person must possess a valid Alabama hunting license and an Alligator Harvest Tag to hunt alligators in Alabama. The Alligator Harvest Tag must be obtained prior to hunting and is only available through the ADCNR’s online license system.
The tag fee for residents is $6 and $21 for non-residents. Each tag is valid for one alligator regardless of size, sex, or location harvested within the state during the open season for which it was issued.
A person may take no more than two alligators per calendar year.
Can you use dogs to hunt alligators in Alabama?
Yes, you can use dogs to hunt alligators in Alabama. Alligators are often found near water, so using a dog to help you find them is a great way to narrow down your search area. Dogs can also help you track an Alligator if it goes into the water.
Can you hunt Alligator from a vehicle in Alabama?
Yes, you can hunt alligators from a vehicle in Alabama. There are a few things to keep in mind, though. First, you’ll need to get a permit from the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
Second, you’ll need to be in a group of at least four people, with each person having a valid hunting license. Finally, you’ll need to be on public land that is approved for alligator hunting.
Final Thoughts
As our trip came to an end, we reflected on all that we had learned about alligator hunting. We were grateful to have had the opportunity to participate in this unique form of hunting and to have been able to harvest two alligators.
Moreover, we will never forget the experience of hearing the alligators bellowing in the wild or the excitement of finally getting a shot at one.
We hope that this article has given you a better understanding of alligator hunting and what it entails. If you are ever considering going on an alligator hunt, we highly recommend it. Just be sure to do your research ahead of time and be prepared for an adventure of a lifetime.
Important Notice: The articles published on this website are only for informational purposes and we do not promote hunting/ killing animals. If you are willing to hunt please refer to Authorized sources for correct and updated information. Writer/ Website owner will not be responsible for any consequences due to information provided on this website. You can refer to relevant Government sources for updated information.
