Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources designates one Saturday each June as Free Fishing Day statewide. Gulf Coast anglers have a special reason to take notice this year. Free Fishing Day falls during Alabama's red snapper season, opening a rare window for saltwater fishing without the usual costs. No fishing license, no saltwater fishing license, and no reef fish endorsement are required that day.

This year's Free Fishing Day is tomorrow, Saturday, June 13, 2026. On that date, anyone may cast a line in Alabama's public saltwater and freshwater without a fishing license. The one-day waiver from ADCNR applies to all public waters statewide.

For Gulf Coast residents, the overlap with red snapper season makes this a standout opportunity. Anglers who might otherwise hold back because of licensing costs can head offshore or into nearshore waters without restriction. The coast's public saltwater access points will be open to all.

A few exceptions apply even on Free Fishing Day. Anglers fishing at Alabama State Public Fishing Lakes still need a fishing permit. Private pond fishing always requires the landowner's permission before heading out.

Some piers along the coast may still charge fees or require permits. Visitors are encouraged to call ahead of arrival. Alabama State Parks do not require a fishing license on Free Fishing Day, though standard gate entry fees still apply at those locations.

ADCNR also notes that all standard fishing license and reef fish endorsement requirements resume after Free Fishing Day ends. Anglers should plan accordingly for any trips later in the season.

ADCNR will also host a separate learn-to-fish event on June 13, 2026, from 9 a.m. to noon at Foscue Creek Park in Demopolis, Alabama, in partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Space is limited to 30 participants, and pre-registration is required. Questions may be directed to Kasie McKee at Kasie.McKee@dcnr.alabama.gov. 

ADCNR offers interactive maps on its website to help anglers locate public access points for freshwater and saltwater fishing and Alabama State Parks near them across the Gulf Coast region.

Freshwater Public Access  |  Saltwater Public Access |  Alabama State Parks