February 1 marked the return of fishing season at 20 of Alabama’s 23 State Public Fishing Lakes. Commonly known as state lakes or county lakes, these waters are noted for their amenities and their quality fishing for bream, largemouth bass, channel catfish, and crappie (in some lakes). Because these smaller lakes warm more quickly than larger reservoirs, early spring fishing can be excellent. Anglers may fish from the pier, bank, rental boat or personal boat.

“State public fishing lakes are the ultimate family fishing destination,” said Jack Turner, State Lakes Supervisor for the Alabama Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division (WFF). “All lakes except Pike County Lake have a concession building with snacks, drinks, restrooms and personnel who provide fishing advice. The concessionaires have mowed areas along the shoreline for fishing.

Outdoor Alabama has announced that some Alabama State Parks are offering special lodging packages for hunters now through February 2013.

“Hunters are an important part of Alabama’s natural heritage,” said Alabama State Parks Director Greg Lein. “The funding generated by hunting license sales is combined with federal matching dollars, which helps support public lands such as WMAs. Without Alabama’s hunters, access to public recreational land could be more limited. We appreciate all of what our hunters do for wildlife and land conservation.”

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Source: Outdoor Alabama

Alabama's 22 State Parks is offering free admission for veterans this Veterans Day weekend, starting tomorrow, November 10th.

In honor of Veterans Day, Alabama State Parks will waive the entrance fee for veterans at all of its 22 state parks on Saturday and Sunday, November 10 and 11. Anyone who indicates they are a veteran will be admitted into the park day-use areas without charge. No identification will be required.

For more information, click here.

Source: Outdoor Alabama