Alabama has 23 public lakes located throughout the state in 20 different counties. The lakes range in size from 13 to 184 acres. Alabama State Lakes are stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, channel catfish, crappie and rainbow trout. In addition, some lakes also include a hybrid bass type which is a combination of white bass and striped bass.
At Chambers County Lake near Lafayette, Alabama, anglers can enjoy an 183-acre lake which has bass fishing year-round. Fishermen can stay on-site at self-contained or primitive campsites. Anglers can stock up on needed fishing essentials at the on-site concessions area which includes a variety of fishing tackle and bait. Boats are available for rent at Chambers County or guests can bring their own and use the launching ramp located at the lake.
The Lee County Public Fishing Lake near Opelika, Alabama has a 130-acre lake that is stocked with bass, bluegill and shell cracker. Catfish can be caught year-round at this facility, although summer months produce the best catches. Anglers that want to stay close to the action are able to find lodging at camping cabins overlooking the lake. Each cabin is equipped with standard amenities such as heating and air-conditioning, refrigerators, microwaves, bathroom, shower facilities and two twin beds. As of January 2011, anglers could indulge in the fishermen's special which includes three nights of lodging in one of the camping cabins for two people, two days worth of fishing, boat, motor and battery rental, life jackets, anchors and the required fishing permits.
One of the benefits of staying at a state park in Alabama for your fishing excursion, is the close proximity to the action. As of January 2011, Alabama offers fishing at more than 15 state parks located throughout the state. Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy both freshwater and saltwater fishing in Alabama.
At Gulf State Park in Gulf Shores, Alabama, anglers can fish for the likes of flounder, bluefish, tune, king mackerel, cobia and amberjack. After hitting the shores all day, enjoy some rest and relaxation at one of the 11 cottages or 20 modern cabins that the park offers on-site. All of the cottages are located along the northern shore of Lake Shelby and feature three bedrooms, three bathrooms and two screened porches. The cottages and cabins include all of the comforts of home, including fully equipped kitchens and linens.
Guests staying at Wind Creek State Park in Alexander City, Alabama, can take advantage of Lake Martin, a 41,000-acre clear water reservoir which can be used for fishing, boating and swimming. In addition, the park offers other amenities for anglers including a marina, camp store and fishing pier. For a complete outdoors experience, stay at one of Wind Creek's 626 camp sites. More than 100 of the sites are located directly on the waterfront. Fully equipped, modernized campgrounds include picnic tables, grills, water and electricity. Shower houses are located throughout the premises.
Fishing is typically available in Alabama year-round. The peak season for fishing is from February 1 until June 30, and most locations are open six or seven days a week during this time. Anglers searching for bass will want to visit the lakes between February and April for the largest catches. Those searching for catfish will find that the summer months yield the best results, and the lakes are stocked again each fall. Crappie fishing is good from late February through March. Many lakes are closed or only open during the weekends during the off-season, which lasts from December through January 31.
Anglers visiting the state of Alabama that intend to fish the native waters, must have a valid Alabama fishing license if they are over the age of 16. In addition, any child over the age of 12 must have a valid fishing permit. Anglers must follow the size and limit restrictions that are posted at each state fishing lake or state park. Generally, fishing is limited to daylight hours only, so take this into consideration when planning your trip. Live minnows for bait are limited to a small variety which includes goldfish minnows, golden shiners and fathead minnows.
