Spearfishing
Mississippi Spearfishing
Regulations 2026
Allowed species, endorsement requirements, and freshwater vs. saltwater rules for spearfishing in Mississippi. Mississippi allows spearfishing in marine waters with a saltwater fishing license. Some freshwater spearfishing of rough fish is permitted.
Saltwater Allowed
Freshwater Allowed
2026 Spearfishing Quick Facts
Verified 2026
Resident Fee
$9.00
Saltwater license for marine; freshwater license for fresh water.
Non-Resident Fee
$35.00
Annual license
Saltwater
Allowed
With restrictions
Freshwater
Allowed
Game fish may be banned
Species Regulations
Allowed & Prohibited Species in Mississippi
Allowed Species
Non-game fish in freshwater; flounder, sheepshead in saltwater
Prohibited Species
Game fish in freshwater; protected marine species
Step-by-Step
How to Get a Spearfishing License in Mississippi
1
Purchase a Fishing License
All spearfishing in Mississippi requires a valid fishing license as the base credential. Purchase through Mississippi Dept. of Wildlife, Fisheries & Parks online, at license agents, or by phone. Spearfishing license fee: $9.00.
2
Know the Rules
Review the specific allowed and prohibited species for the waters you intend to spearfish.
Saltwater spearfishing is permitted with appropriate licensing. Check for any marine protected area restrictions at your planned dive site.
3
Check Location-Specific Rules
Marine protected areas, state parks, and wildlife management areas may have additional restrictions or prohibitions on spearfishing. Always verify the specific rules for your dive location with Mississippi Dept. of Wildlife, Fisheries & Parks before entering the water.
Requirements
Mississippi Spearfishing Requirements
Valid Mississippi fishing license required.
Important Notes
Mississippi-Specific Regulations
Mississippi allows spearfishing in both freshwater and saltwater with a valid Mississippi Fishing License. In saltwater, spearguns and pole spears are legal for most finfish in the Mississippi Sound and Gulf waters; red snapper and grouper are subject to federal bag limits under the Gulf of Mexico fishery management plans. Freshwater spearfishing in Mississippi is limited to non-game species such as buffalo, drum, and rough fish; largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish may not be taken by spear.
Source: Mississippi Dept. of Wildlife, Fisheries & Parks (www.mdwfp.com).
Regulations verified 2026. Always confirm current species rules and location restrictions directly with Mississippi Dept. of Wildlife, Fisheries & Parks.