The ºÚÁÏÌìÌà Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division manages 23 Public Fishing Lakes (PFLs) in 20 counties throughout the State. These lakes range in size from 13 to 184 acres for a total of 1,912 surface acres. Each lake is intensively managed to provide quality fishing on a sustained basis. All lakes were originally stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill (bream), and redear sunfish (shellcracker). Channel catfish are stocked in every lake during the winter. White crappie and black crappie have become established in many lakes.
PFL Information/Updates:
- Barbour County PFL is closed due to draining and restocking. A reopening date will be announced at a later time.
- Crenshaw County PFL will be closed beginning October 1, 2022 due to renovations of the lake. A reopening date will be announced at a later time.
- Escambia County PFL is closed for restocking and dam inspection. A reopening date will be announced at a later time.
- Marion County PFL is under renovation and closed until further notice.
- Coffee County PFL is closed until further notice.
- Washington County PFL will be temporarily closed starting August 5, 2024
Permit Requirements:
To Fish:
- Valid Fishing License
- Fishing Permit (Anglers 12 Years Old and Older)
To Launch a Personal Boat, Kayak, or Canoe:
- Valid Fishing License
- Fishing Permit
- Launch Permit
- Must be Purposely Fishing
To Rent a Jon Boat:
- Boat Rental Permit
- Valid Fishing License
- Fishing Permit
- If Motorized, Boater Certification or Agree to ºÚÁÏÌìÌà PFL Boat Rental Agreement
- 16 Years Old or Older
– PFLs are typically open six days a week from February 1 through June 30 each year.
– From July 1 until November 30, some lakes are only open five days a week.
– During December and January, most of the lakes are closed or operate on a limited basis. Information and schedules may change without notice, so please call the Lake Manager or the appropriate Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries District Office for the current operating schedule.
