New recreational licenses are now available at the Pike County Courthouse, announced Probate judge Michael Bunn.

“We’re excited to have several new items to offer the public. We invite anyone who is interested in purchasing these new licenses, stamps, and permits to visit the Pike County Probate Office. We encourage residents to come and pick up a copy of the new Alabama Hunting and Fishing Digest, which gives information on the coming year requirements, fees and season dates.“

There are several new offerings this year, Bunn said.

One major change is the legalization of hunting over bait on private lands, with proper licensing.

“The Bait Privilege License allows hunting of white-tailed deer and feral swine only,” Bunn said. “All hunters wanting to hunt over bait must purchase the license – there are no exceptions. This will apply to private land only. Baiting is still prohibited on public land.”

Also, the Gulf Reef Fish Endorsement will now be required for any person possessing, taking or attempting to take any gulf reef fish species. This endorsement is required for all resident and non-resident anglers 16 years or over, including disabled, veteran appreciation, 65 and older, lifetime license holders, pier licenses, trip and annual saltwater licenses. This will apply to many popular saltwater fish.

Disabled military veterans will now be able to get a discounted annual saltwater fishing license. Resident veterans 20 percent or more disabled are eligible to get a discounted license. A certification of disability is required. These will only be available through the probate office.

There are now eight different collectible hard card designs for selected recreational licenses, with designs changing annually. Residents can now also round up their license cost to the next dollar and select to donate to support hunting, freshwater fisheries or saltwater fisheries research.

Alabama has been selected as a participating state in the E-Federal Duck Stamp Program. The electronic version of the federal stamp will be available. The Federal Duck Stamp is a stand-alone privilege and is issued separately from other license privileges. An electronic stamp will be issued and will be good for 45 days. The physical stamp will be mailed to the customer.