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.

Looking for something to do in Alabama in 2013? 

Alabama's Department of Tourism has a calendar of events that will direct you to the great events planned statewide for 2013.  You can view the calendar here.

Another great source for information on events is the Alabama Cooperative Extension System.  Its mission is to help people and communities improve their quality of life and economic well-being through the Extension's program areas.

Find out what ACES is doing in your community  by clicking here.

 

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