Shellfish & Clamming
Alabama Shellfish License 2026
Requirements, fees, and regulations for harvesting clams, oysters, and mussels in Alabama. Alabama regulates oyster and clam harvesting along its Gulf Coast. Recreational harvesters need a basic fishing license; commercial operators require a separate shellfish license.
Clam Season Open
Oyster Available
2026 License Quick Facts
Verified 2026
Recreational Fee
$17.00
Included in basic fishing license for recreation; commercial requires separate shellfish endorsement.
Commercial Fee
$125.00
Commercial license
Daily Limit
2 gallons shucked oysters; ½ bushel clams
Per harvester
Clam Season
Open
Check current closures
Shellfish Species
Shellfish Available in Alabama
Species availability depends on coastal habitat, water quality, and active management programs.
Clams ✓
Oysters ✓
Mussels
Step-by-Step
How to Get a Shellfish License in Alabama
1
Verify Open Areas
Before purchasing a license, check that shellfish beds in your target area are currently open. Alabama Dept. of Conservation & Natural Resources maintains an up-to-date list of approved harvesting areas. Water quality closures can occur quickly after rain events.
2
Purchase Your License
Purchase online at Alabama Dept. of Conservation & Natural Resources, or in person at authorized license agents throughout Alabama.
Recreational fee: $17.00.
3
Know Your Limits
Daily limit in Alabama: 2 gallons shucked oysters; ½ bushel clams.
Size minimums also apply — undersized shellfish must be returned to the water. Keep your license on your person while harvesting.
4
Harvest Responsibly
Use appropriate gear (clam rakes, oyster tongs) and handle shellfish carefully to minimize disturbance to the surrounding habitat. Replace any rocks or substrate you disturb and never harvest from closed or unclassified waters.
Requirements
Alabama Shellfish License Requirements
Valid Alabama fishing license required. Commercial harvesters must register vessel with ADCNR.
Important Notes
Alabama-Specific Information
Alabama shellfish harvesting is regulated by the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) and the ADPH Division of Shellfish Control, which conducts regular water-quality testing and issues closures when coliform bacteria or biotoxin levels exceed safe thresholds. Recreational oyster and clam collection in Mobile Bay and coastal Alabama requires a valid Alabama Saltwater Fishing License; commercial harvest requires a separate ADPH shellfish license and dealer permit. Harvest from posted or closed areas is a serious violation and can result in significant fines and license revocation.
Source: Alabama Dept. of Conservation & Natural Resources (www.outdooralabama.com).
Requirements verified 2026. Always confirm current water quality closures and regulations directly with Alabama Dept. of Conservation & Natural Resources before harvesting.