FORT RUCKER, Ala. -- Hunting and fishing on post are encouraged, but there are still several rules all participants must follow, according to Directorate of Public Safety and Outdoor Recreation officials.

Recently, Fort Rucker game wardens have observed several fishermen who were not able to produce proper fishing licenses or Fort Rucker fishing permits, said Maj. Jay Massey, Directorate of Public Safety deputy provost marshal.

Being unable to produce a license or permit can result in a one-year suspension from hunting or fishing on post for a first offense. A second offense can result in complete revocation of hunting or fishing privileges on the installation, he added.

“If people want to hunt or fish on post, they have to be familiar with the state requirements and they’ve also got to know the requirements outlined in Fort Rucker regulation 215-1,” Massey said. “People who are fishing here have to have a fishing license and a post permit on hand.”

According to Fort Rucker Regulation 215-1, anyone hunting or fishing on post must have a state license and a post permit. All personnel 16 years of age or older who hunt or fish on post must also have in their possession a valid Fort Rucker hunting or fishing permit, as applicable. Permits are issued only to eligible individuals who possess a valid state license, view the unexploded ordnance video, pay the appropriate permit fee as prescribed and, for hunters, have proof of completion of a state-certified hunter education course from any of the 50 states, Canada or Germany.

According to John Clancy, Fort Rucker Outdoor Recreation program manager, fishermen under the age of 16 do not need a fishing license or a Fort Rucker permit to fish on post.

Clancy said those coming on post to fish can expect to catch a variety of types, including large-mouth bass, several types of catfish, crappie and brim.

Massey added that the Directorate of Family, Morale, Welfare and Recreation sets the penalties for violations and DPS is there to enforce them.

“If, for example, a hunter harvest a turkey and fails to take their harvested bird to the collection station for processing, they are in violation of Fort Rucker Regulation 215-1 for failure to report harvested game which could result in a 365 day suspension as a first offense. The DPS Game Wardens are absolutely going to enforce the Alabama state rules and post regulations governing boating, hunting and fishing to the fullest extent,” Massey said. “We provide the citation to DFMWR and they determine the appropriate penalty.”

Some people who choose to fish on post also want to use boats, Massey added. Those people must have a boating license and Lake Tholocco Boater Safety Certificate if choosing to fish on the lake.

For more information on fishing and hunting, call outdoor recreation at 255-4305.

Related Links:

Fort Rucker Regulation 215-1: Hunting, Fishing, Water Safety, and Trapping