State officials rooted in Coastal Alabama understand the importance of Mobile Bay’s Jubilees.

This naturally occurring phenomenon happens in only two locations in the world: The Mobile Bay in Alabama and the Tokyo Bay in Japan. During which, large numbers of fish and crustaceans are forced into shallow water because of low dissolved oxygen in the water.

State Rep. Matt Simpson (R-Daphne), who represents part of the bay area, and the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources have teamed up to ensure that the area’s visitors and residents have the necessary information to participate in the events associated with the jubilees.

“Jubilees are a special occurrence unique to our wonderful bay and are something that has been a part of so many families’ histories and stories for decades here in Baldwin County,” said Simpson.

“So I am thankful and appreciative of Commissioner Blankenship’s hard work and cooperation to help us make sure that residents and visitors alike can enjoy them safely and legally. This is a great example of government helping people without getting in the way, making sure that a legacy event like a Jubilee can continue to be enjoyed by everyone.”

Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Commissioner Chris Blankenship is no stranger to the jubilees, having lived in coastal Alabama for most of his time with the agency.

“I have enjoyed the conversations with Representative Simpson on Jubilees and life on the coast, and I’m glad we have legislators that are passionate about the resources we are so richly blessed with in coastal Alabama,” said Blankenship.

“As a longtime coastal resident and the place where I have spent the majority of my career with the department, I look forward to residents and visitors having a great spring and summer of fishing and outdoor recreation on Mobile Bay.”

During the jubilees, individuals must abide by creel limits, size regulations, and other laws and regulations that protect Alabama’s valuable marine resources from overharvest during these events.

However, while required to remain within size and creel limits, persons can use a handheld net or can pick up flounder, crabs, shrimp, and other marine life by hand without having to first obtain a saltwater fishing license.

Austen Shipley is the News Director for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten