Alabama Hunting Seasons
& Bag Limits 2026

Federal Rule: Baiting is federally prohibited for all migratory birds including dove. Hunting over planted and harvested standing grain fields is legal. Placed or scattered grain is not.

Waterfowl hunting requires a HIP permit (free, obtained when purchasing license), Federal Duck Stamp ($25), and state license. Duck identification is critical — species-specific limits apply within the 6-duck daily limit.

Feral hogs are classified as a nuisance species in Alabama. Any legal means may be used on private land year-round. This includes firearms, archery, trapping, and dogs. Night hunting with lights is permitted on private land with landowner permission.

One of Alabama's longest seasons. Both gray squirrels and fox squirrels count toward the 8-bird daily limit. Fox squirrels are less common and more restricted in some states — confirm current regulations before targeting them specifically.

Wild bobwhite quail populations have declined significantly across North Alabama over the past three decades due to habitat loss — clean agricultural practices, timber management changes, and fire suppression have eliminated much of the native bunchgrass and brushy edge habitat quail require. Wild bird hunting still exists in parts of South Alabama's Black Belt. In North Alabama, most quail hunting happens on privately managed preserves that stock birds. A hunting license is required. Dogs are legal and traditional for quail hunting in Alabama.

The Alabama sandhill crane season is a federally-approved quota hunt. Permits are issued by lottery through ADCNR. Applications typically open in fall. The season is small (limited permit numbers) and highly sought after.