Alligator Hunting Rules 2026 | Hattiesburg News

Alligator hunting season is officially open in 2026—starting August 28 at noon—with two distinct periods: public waters end September 7, private lands go until September 21. Hunters need a $25 alligator license plus a combo fishing/hunting permit (lifetime holders may be exempt). Each permit allows two gators, four feet or longer, with only one over seven feet. Baiting is banned—you must catch them alive using snares, hooks, harpoons, or bowfishing gear. Every hunter must report their harvest within 24 hours via app or online—even if they didn’t catch anything. Tag your catch immediately and know your zone rules, especially for private land. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/64e09089f84e8a31