In response to the angling community’s interest, the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources is expanding its pilot program for permitted managed shark-fishing at the Gulf State Park Saltwater Fishing Pier in July. The next shark-fishing events will take place on the south end of the pier – called the octagon – from 7 p.m. until 7 a.m. the next morning for the following Sundays and Tuesdays: July 8, 10, 15, 17, 22, 24, 29 and 31.
The octagon will close to routine use 30 minutes prior to these events, and reopen to routine use 30 minutes following them. During the events, the octagon area of the pier will be designated for the exclusive use of participating anglers and their designated assistants. The remainder of the pier will be open to anglers and other pier guests as normal.
The July managed shark-fishing events will allow for 15 anglers per occasion, with no more than one rod and reel per angler in use. Each angler may have one additional assistant, and anglers are encouraged to assist one another while fishing. This allows for a maximum of 30 individuals on the octagon area during each event.
Angler gear shall allow for larger reel sizes, but otherwise remain the same as provided for under existing pier rules, and anglers are required to provide their own gear.
After monitoring the shark-fishing events in July, the agency will evaluate the program and make decisions for upcoming months.
Registration for the shark-fishing events is ongoing and anglers will continue to be selected in the order in which applications are received. To register for participation, visit www.alapark.com/shark-fishing. Applicants will need to provide contact information for notification of selection and will be notified a week or
