Alligator Hunting
Mississippi Alligator
Hunting Tags 2026
Tag requirements, draw system, fees, and season information for alligator hunting in Mississippi. Mississippi operates a limited alligator hunting season with tags distributed by lottery. Hunting is restricted to designated public and private lands in the southern counties where alligator populations are established.
Draw Required
CITES Tag Required
Max 2 Tags/Resident
2026 Tag Quick Facts
Verified 2026
Resident Fee
$50.00
Tag fee post-draw; hunting license additional.
Non-Resident Fee
$300.00
Per tag
Draw Required
Yes
Limited public-land tags; private land hunters may receive tags based on reported alligators.
Season
Typically one weeken...
Typical period
Step-by-Step
How to Get an Alligator Hunting Tag in Mississippi
1
Purchase a Mississippi Hunting License
A valid state hunting license is required before applying for or receiving alligator tags. Purchase through Mississippi Dept. of Wildlife, Fisheries & Parks.
2
Apply for the Draw
Mississippi requires a draw application for alligator tags.
Limited public-land tags; private land hunters may receive tags based on reported alligators. Applications are typically submitted in summer for fall seasons. Check Mississippi Dept. of Wildlife, Fisheries & Parks'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 $50.00 (resident) and official CITES documentation tags. Maximum 2 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 Mississippi
Typically one weekend in late August to early September.
Requirements
Mississippi Alligator Tag Requirements
Mississippi hunting license required. Must attend mandatory orientation meeting.
Important Notes
Mississippi-Specific Information
Mississippi alligator hunters receive a CITES-compliant numbered harvest tag with their permit that must be physically attached through the alligator's tail or lower jaw immediately upon harvest in accordance with Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries & Parks (MDWFP) regulations. All successful hunters must check in their harvested alligator at an official MDWFP check station within 24 hours, where the animal is measured, the hide is inspected, and the legal CITES tag is validated for the hide to enter commerce. Alligator meat may be used for personal consumption without additional permits, but any hide, skull, or meat intended for commercial sale must be accompanied by a completed and validated CITES export document issued at the MDWFP check station.
Source: Mississippi Dept. of Wildlife, Fisheries & Parks (www.mdwfp.com).
Requirements verified 2026. Always confirm current draw dates and tag availability with Mississippi Dept. of Wildlife, Fisheries & Parks.