A jubilee is a naturally occurring phenomenon that happens in only two locations in the world, Mobile Bay and Tokyo Bay, during which large numbers of fish and crustaceans are forced into shallow water due to low dissolved oxygen in the water. Jubilees are not "fish kills," and the fish, shrimp and other marine life generally return to normal behavior when the conditions change. However, the events bring sea life right to the shore where they can be seen and harvested.

These events are special times in the lives of coastal residents and visitors. It is impossible to predict the exact location, time and duration of a jubilee, which makes planning uncertain for participation in this uniquely Alabama event. Individuals must abide by creel limits, size regulations and other laws and regulations that protect Alabama's valuable marine resources from overharvest during these events.

The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has worked with Rep. Matt Simpson, who represents parts of the Eastern Shore of Mobile Bay where most jubilees occur, to provide information to residents and visitors alike to ensure they can participate in these events within the law and enjoy the bounty of Mobile Bay. Although still required to remain within size and creel limits, persons can use a handheld net or can pick up flounder, crabs, shrimp and other marine life by hand without having to first obtain a saltwater fishing license, including during jubilees.

"Jubilees are a special occurrence unique to our wonderful Bay and are something that has been a part of so many families' histories and stories for decades here in Baldwin County, so I am thankful and appreciative for Commissioner Blankenship's hard work and cooperation to help us make sure that residents and visitors alike can enjoy them safely and legally," Simpson said. "This is a great example of government helping people without getting in the way, making sure that a legacy event like a jubilee can continue to be enjoyed by everyone."

"I have enjoyed the conversations with Rep. Simpson on jubilees and life on the coast and am glad we have legislators that are passionate about the resources we are so richly blessed with in Coastal Alabama," ADCNR Commissioner Chris Blankenship said. "As a longtime coastal resident and the place where I have spent the majority of my career with the department, I look forward to residents and visitors having a great spring and summer of fishing and outdoor recreation on Mobile Bay."

More information on saltwater fishing including size and creel limits, public access sites, and information on obtaining a saltwater fishing license can be found at www.outdooralabama.com.

Chris Blankenship was appointed as the commissioner of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources by Gov. Kay Ivey on Aug. 11, 2017, after serving as acting conservation commissioner since June 1, 2017. He most recently served as the deputy commissioner and as director of DCNR Marine Resources Division from 2011 to 2017. He has worked at the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources since 1994 when he was hired as a conservation enforcement officer.

Matt Simpson has been a member of the Alabama House since 2018. District 98 covers all or a portion of Daphne and Spanish Fort as well as Montrose, Belforest, Malbis, Blakeley, Bromley and Stapleton. He is a previous chairman of the Baldwin County Republican Party and has also previously served as chairman of the Baldwin County Young Republicans. Simpson has served on the Alabama Republican Party State Executive Committee and is the current ALGOP Vice-Chairman for Congressional District 1.