Alligator hunting has become more popular after the television show 'Swamp People' became popular. The plentiful reptiles are seen on local golf courses, area lagoons and even at the beach. Decades ago the Gulf Shores Police even had a large alligator which maintained residence at the station.

Alabama's alligator population has grown to the extent that they pose a nuisance in some areas. Implementing a regulated alligator hunt on a small scale is an important step toward controlling populations and better managing this unique reptile.

Registration for the 2025 alligator hunting season will open at 8 a.m. on Tuesday, June 3, 2025. You will need your Conservation ID number and date of birth to access your application and selection status.

The hunting season is still a ways off but the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources would like for you to register early if you plan on participating.

The Coastal Season starts From Official Sunset Time on the second Thursday in August until Official Sunrise Time on the Sunday immediately following the second Thursday in August; from Official Sunset Time on the third Thursday in August until Official Sunrise Time on the Sunday immediately following the third Thursday in August; and from Official Sunset Time on the second Thursday in September until Official Sunrise Time on the Sunday immediately following the second Thursday in September.

Eligible Hunters:  Alabama Residents and Lifetime Hunting License holders of the State of Alabama who are sixteen (16) years of age or older holding any valid all game or small game Alabama Hunting License may apply for Resident Alligator Harvest Permit (see License Requirements).

Non-residents who are sixteen (16) years of age or older holding any valid all game or small game Alabama Non-resident Hunting License may apply for a Non-resident Alligator Harvest Permit (see License Requirements).

If you want to know more about alligator hunting visit Outdoor Alabama. They even provide a training video about safely hunting the prehistoric beast.