Prohibited Fish

Fish Whose Possession is Prohibited in Alabama

Several species of fish may not be possessed in Alabama.  Regulation 220-2-.26 prohibits the possession of exotic fish that may affect populations of native fish:

Any Walking Catfish or any other fish of the genus Clarias; 
Any Piranha or any fish of the genus Serrasalmus;

Any Black Carp of the genus Mylopharyngodon;    

Any native or non-native Sturgeon;  

Any Chinese Perch (Siniperca spp.);

Any Snakeheads (Channa spp.);  

Any Mud Carp (Cirrhinus spp.);  

or any Blueback Herring (Alosa aestivalis).  

Regulation 220-2-.93 prohibits the importation and possession of the fishes

rudd  and roach.

It is against the law to release any fish, mussel, snail or crayfish to any public water in Alabama without a permit.  This includes releasing bait and releasing pet fish.

Regulation 220.-2-.92 prohibits the possession of native fish whose populations are of concern:

The possession of some species is restricted by the federal endangered species program, which is administered by the US Fish and Wildlife Service.

The possession of Paddlefish is prohibited under Regulation 220-2-.94. 

The possession of Shoal Bass in Alabama is prohibited under Regulation 220-2-.35.  

Possession of Game Fish is regulated under Regulation 220-2-.35.

Commercial Fish are regulated as to how they may be harvested.