Sheepshead (also known as Convict Fish, Sheephead) in Alabama. Minimum legal size, daily bag limit, possession limit — verified against the ADCNR Marine Resources guide, 2026.
In Alabama, the minimum legal size for Sheepshead is 12 in and the daily bag limit is 8 per person. There is no closed season in AL.
No closed season
Gulf / Alabama state waters out to 3 nm. STATE waters (within 3 nm): 12" min FL, 8 per person. The recreational bag was reduced from 10 to 8 in 2025 (effective on the live ADCNR table). NOTE: some third-party mirrors of Ala. Admin. Code r. 220-3-.30 still show the pre-2025 value of 10 — the current/correct figure is 8.
These limits are pulled from the ADCNR Marine Resources saltwater recreational size and creel limits. Last verified June 2026.
Always check the official guide before keeping any fish. Regulations change. Alabama Marine Resources Division (Department of Conservation and Natural Resources) updates its guide annually and occasionally mid-year. Fines for over-bag or undersized fish are significant.
Alabama requires a Saltwater Fishing License for all persons fishing or possessing fish in salt water (exemptions for under-16, residents aged 65+, and fishing from a licensed public pier). Alabama saltwater licences.
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