Mississippi Alligator Hunting Season Opens Aug. 28

The Mississippi alligator hunting season begins Aug. 28 at noon for public waters and runs until Sept. 7 at noon. On private lands, the season extends until Sept. 21 at 6 a.m., according to the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks.

Hunters must purchase a $25 alligator hunting license and hold a combination hunting and fishing license. Lifetime license holders may be exempt from this fee, department officials said. Each permit allows hunters to harvest up to two alligators measuring four feet or longer, with only one permitted to exceed seven feet.

Legal capture methods include snares, hooks, harpoons, or bowfishing gear. Baiting and baited hooks are strictly prohibited. Firearm use is limited to specific rules outlined in the season regulations.

All hunters must submit a harvest report and survey within 24 hours of harvesting an alligator, either online or through a mobile app. Even if hunters do not harvest an alligator or do not go hunting, they are still required to submit the report within 24 hours after the season ends.

Additional rules include mandatory tagging immediately upon harvest and hunters being responsible for knowing zone boundaries and private land requirements. The department recommends reviewing the full 2026 Alligator Hunting Guide for complete regulations, available online at the department’s website.

Photo courtesy of Ed Wall.

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