Alligator Hunting
Alabama Alligator
Hunting Tags 2026
Tag requirements, draw system, fees, and season information for alligator hunting in Alabama. Alabama manages alligator hunting through a limited lottery tag system. Hunters apply annually for tags in designated management zones across the southern part of the state.
Draw Required
CITES Tag Required
Max 1 Tags/Resident
2026 Tag Quick Facts
Verified 2026
Resident Fee
$55.00
Tag fee paid after successful draw; hunting license required separately.
Non-Resident Fee
$455.00
Per tag
Draw Required
Yes
Competitive draw; odds vary by management unit. Success rates approximately 15–30%.
Season
August season, typic...
Typical period
Step-by-Step
How to Get an Alligator Hunting Tag in Alabama
1
Purchase a Alabama Hunting License
A valid state hunting license is required before applying for or receiving alligator tags. Purchase through Alabama Dept. of Conservation & Natural Resources.
2
Apply for the Draw
Alabama requires a draw application for alligator tags.
Competitive draw; odds vary by management unit. Success rates approximately 15–30%. Applications are typically submitted in summer for fall seasons. Check Alabama Dept. of Conservation & Natural Resources's website for current year application deadlines.
3
Receive Your Tag & CITES Documentation
If selected in the draw, you'll receive your alligator tag(s) for $55.00 (resident) and official CITES documentation tags. Maximum 1 tag(s) per resident hunter.
4
Attach CITES Tag at Harvest
Immediately upon harvesting an alligator, attach the CITES documentation tag to the carcass. The tag must remain with the hide and meat through processing and transport. Failure to tag a harvested alligator is a federal violation.
Season Information
2026 Alligator Season in Alabama
August season, typically two weekends in mid-August.
Requirements
Alabama Alligator Tag Requirements
Valid Alabama hunting license required. Must complete mandatory alligator hunter orientation.
Important Notes
Alabama-Specific Information
Alabama alligator hunters must attach a numbered CITES export tag (provided with the hunt permit) to the alligator's tail immediately upon harvest, as all US alligator hides entering commerce require CITES documentation under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species. Successful hunters are required to report the harvest to the Alabama Department of Conservation & Natural Resources (ADCNR) Wildlife Section within 24 hours and must present the carcass for measuring and hide inspection at a designated check station. The hide, skull, and meat may be retained by the hunter, but hides intended for commercial sale must be accompanied by a valid CITES tag and a completed harvest report submitted to ADCNR.
Source: Alabama Dept. of Conservation & Natural Resources (www.outdooralabama.com).
Requirements verified 2026. Always confirm current draw dates and tag availability with Alabama Dept. of Conservation & Natural Resources.