Honoring Dr. Bob Shipp and Understanding Alabama Fishing Limits
By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida
I’ve come to appreciate how deeply the health of our fisheries and the passion of our fishing community are tied together. One name that continues to echo across docks, marinas, and science forums is Dr. Bob Shipp—a marine biologist, professor, and advocate whose work helped shape the way we fish, conserve, and connect with our Gulf waters today.
Whether you’re considering buying a coastal property or planning a deep sea charter, understanding Alabama’s fishing regulations is essential to the lifestyle we enjoy here.
A Legacy Rooted in the Gulf
Dr. Shipp, who passed away at the age of 81, was a cornerstone of marine science in Alabama. After earning his Ph.D. in biology from Florida State University, he joined the University of South Alabama in 1972, helping to found the Department of Marine Sciences and later serving as its chair. He also played a critical role on the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council for 27 years and taught at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab.
His influence? Nothing short of transformative. From challenging outdated red snapper stock assessments to contributing to Alabama's vast artificial reef system, Dr. Shipp ensured science was accessible and usable for fishers, policymakers, and everyday Gulf Coast residents.
"There are more red snapper in the Alabama reef zone than the feds say are in the entire Gulf of Mexico,” he once claimed—and over time, his common-sense, data-driven approach proved he was right.
Fishing Regulations: Know Before You Go
Before heading out with your local fishing charter, make sure you’re up to date on the latest rules. Here's a brief overview of Alabama's creel and size limits by species. For a full list, I always recommend checking with the Marine Resources Division or your OBFA (Orange Beach Fishing Association) member captain.
Red Snapper
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Season: Year-Round (federal regulations apply)
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Minimum Size: 16" TL
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Limit: 2 per person
Amberjack (Greater)
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Season: Year-Round
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Minimum Size: 34" FL
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Limit: 1 per person
Flounder
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Season: Late Spring to Early Fall
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Minimum Size: 12" TL
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Limit: 10 per person
Sharks
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Atlantic Sharpnose/Bonnethead: No size limit, 1 per person/day
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Other Sharks: 54" minimum TL, 1 per person/day
Mahi, Wahoo, Tuna
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Species like Wahoo and Yellowfin Tuna are plentiful in late spring to fall near offshore rigs. No creel limits, but federal licensing may apply.
For the full list and reef aggregate limits, visit www.searchthegulf.com and navigate to the fishing section under local resources or reach out to me directly—I keep a printed copy on hand and can always help you plan accordingly.
What This Means for Homeowners and Anglers
Fishing isn’t just a pastime here—it’s part of our coastal lifestyle. Whether you're setting up at a waterfront property in Orange Beach or heading out with a six-pack charter from Zeke’s Marina or Fort Morgan, your understanding of these guidelines ensures you’re a steward of the Gulf.
We owe much of our current fishing clarity and conservation policy to minds like Dr. Shipp. His legacy reminds us that science and real-world experience belong together—and that living along the Gulf means embracing both the beauty and the responsibility of these waters.
If you're looking to buy a home with boating access, or just want to experience what it's like to live surrounded by natural abundance, I’d be honored to help guide you.
Meredith Amon is a Gulf Coast Expert Real Estate Advisor, licensed in Alabama and Florida. She specializes in helping buyers and sellers navigate the buying and selling of homes along the Gulf Coast.
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