Shrimp lovers across Alabama have something to look forward to as the state’s annual shrimping season officially gets underway this weekend. Whether you’re casting nets for a fresh catch or waiting to enjoy it on your dinner plate, the return of shrimp season marks a Gulf Coast tradition welcomed by both harvesters and seafood fans alike.

The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR), through its Marine Resources Division (MRD), has announced that shrimp harvesting will open at 6 a.m. on June 1 in all inside state waters not permanently closed by law or regulation.

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This includes well-known fishing grounds such as Mobile Bay, Bon Secour Bay, Mississippi Sound, Perdido Bay, Arnica Bay, Wolf Bay, and Little Lagoon.

Additionally, licensed live bait dealers with permits for Special Live Bait Areas will have access to a designated area near the Battleship Alabama, south of the Tensaw River Bridge. This area will be open daily from one hour before sunrise until sunset, running June 1 through December 31, 2025.

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Shrimpers are reminded to follow all applicable laws and regulations during the season.

For additional details or regulation guidance, contact the Marine Resources Division at (251) 861-2882 or visit www.outdooralabama.com.

Sherri Blevins is a writer for Mountain Valley News and a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].