Aspiring Mississippi alligator hunters are now able to apply for a permit to hunt during the fall season.
The application period for alligator hunting permits will be open until 10:00 a.m. on June 8. The 2023 10-day public water alligator hunting season begins on August 25 at 12 p.m. and runs through September 4.
In order to purchase an Alligator Possession Permit ($200), one will have to also purchase an Alligator Hunting License ($25). In addition, one is not eligible to purchase an alligator permit unless the individual possessed one of the following valid licenses:
- Sportsman, All Game H/F, Small Game H/F, Apprentice Sportsman, Apprentice All Game, Apprentice Small Game, Senior Exempt, Disabled Exempt, or Lifetime License.
- Lifetime License holders are exempt from the purchase of the Alligator Hunting License ($25).
- Hunter’s Education requirements do apply. If you have been certified in hunter education and are unable to attend a hunter education course prior to the hunt, you may purchase an Apprentice License in lieu of a combination type license. The apprentice License is available as a one-time purchase for hunters who have never been certified in hunter education. It is valid for only one year.
More information on alligator hunting applications can be found here.
The Mississippi Alligator Hunting Training Course is available online through a series of 11 video segments. The training course provides information on alligator history, biology, MDWFP Alligator Program, all alligator hunting regulations, capture methods, capture gear, harvest methods, processing meat and hides, harvest reporting and documentation, how/where to purchase licenses and possession permits, and more.