Fish Art Contest | Outdoor Alabama

Fish Art & Writing Contest for K-12 Students

The Fish Art Contest is 100% free to enter and open to all students worldwide in grades K–12.

Students can showcase their creativity by submitting up to two entries (one per category):

2D Artwork: Drawings, paintings, and collages.
- Size limit: Must be no larger than 11”x17” and 2” thick (check your state's specific rules, as some vary).
3D Artwork: Sculptures, wood carvings, and plastic portraits.
- Important: 3D submissions are judged separately from 2D entries.
Creative Writing: Every artwork entry must include a creative writing piece. (Writing is optional for grades K–3).

Note: Previous contest entries are not eligible for submission.

All entries—including those being mailed in—must be submitted through our online entry form first.

For 2D Entries: Submit your form online. If mailing the physical artwork and essay, ensure it meets the size requirements.
For 3D Entries: Upload high-quality photos to the online form. Do not mail physical 3D artwork to prevent damage during transit.
For Teachers: Dedicated Group Entry Forms are available for educators submitting on behalf of two or more students.

Many U.S. states host their own official Fish Art Contests.

State Contests (2D Only): If your state hosts a contest, you must submit using your specific state's entry form. State rounds may have unique rules regarding specific fish species, artwork dimensions, or mailing addresses. Always check your state's online form for exact details.
The 3D Exception: 3D entries are not included in state-level contests. All 3D artwork must be submitted via the General 3D Entry Form only.

Review the Rules: Download the contest Rules and Guidelines PDF below.
Choose Your Fish: Select an approved Alabama fish to highlight in your artwork. 2027 Alabama fish are: Paddlefish, Gulf sturgeon, Black Crappie, Northern Red Snapper, Largemouth Bass, Vermilion Darter
Research and Create: Explore your fish species and craft an original, hand-drawn piece of art.
Write About It: Submit a short essay, poem, or story about your chosen species. Writing is optional for K-3 participants.
Submit Your Entry: Follow the guidelines to submit your work digitally. Submissions are due by February 28th, 2027

Winners are recognized in four age groups:

First-place state winners advance to national judging for top honors!

Top participants receive prizes, certificates, and the opportunity for national recognition.

Teachers can access free lesson plans, videos, and other materials to integrate conservation education into the classroom. View educator resources here: Lesson Plans | Enhance Learning Opportunities — Art of Conservation