HB602 Alabama 2021 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Tommy Hanes

Republican

Co-Sponsors

Mike HolmesEd OliverVan SmithAndrew SorrellTim Wadsworth

Session

Regular Session 2021

Title

Catfish, size and number limit, no size or number limit, rule of Conservation and Natural Resources superseded

Summary

HB602 would remove all size and quantity limits on catfish by overruling the current DNCR rule.

What This Bill Does

If passed, the bill would supersede the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources' rule that restricts taking or possessing catfish to no more than one fish 34 inches or longer per day. It would make it legal for anyone to take or possess catfish without any limit on the number or size. The new rule would take effect on the first day of the third month after the bill is passed and approved by the Governor, or when it otherwise becomes law.

Who It Affects

• Catfish anglers and other fishers in Alabama, who would be allowed to take and possess an unlimited number and size of catfish.
• The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, whose current size/quantity limit rule would be superseded by this act.

Key Provisions

• Section 1: Notwithstanding any DNCR rule, it shall be lawful for any person to take or have in possession catfish without any limit on the number or size of the catfish.
• Section 2: This act becomes effective on the first day of the third month following its passage and approval by the Governor, or upon becoming law by other means.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 22, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Catfish