SPORT FISHING YOUTH ANGLER OPPORTUNITIES | PAGE 31 - eRegulations
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YOUTH ANGLER OPPORTUNITIES | PAGE 31
2021
G E O R G I A
SPORT
FISHING R EGU L AT I O N S
Supports Marine Habitats
Supports Trout Streams
G E O R G I A
SPORT
FISHING
R E G U L AT I O N S
Contents
Commissioner's Message............................................................2
Wildlife & Sport Fish Restoration Program.............................2
Fisheries Section Offices & Public Fishing Areas...................4
Definitions......................................................................................6 Georgia Bass Slam
Protected Aquatic Species...........................................................6 See page 33.
Free Fishing Days..........................................................................8
License Requirements..................................................................8 2021 FRESHWATER AND SALTWATER
Buying Licenses.............................................................................8 SPORT FISHING REGULATIONS
Recreational License Prices.......................................................10 Brian P. Kemp, Governor
Boating Regulations....................................................................15 Mark Williams, Commissioner, Department of Natural Resources
Fish Kill Reporting......................................................................18 Ted Will, Director, Wildlife Resources Division
Turn in Poachers Contact Information....................................18 Doug Haymans, Director, Coastal Resources Division
Public Fishing Areas...................................................................19 Thomas Barnard, Colonel, Law Enforcement Division
Get Kids Hooked.........................................................................31
Angler Awards Program............................................................32 BOARD OF NATURAL RESOURCES*
Guidelines for Eating Fish................................................... 34-38 First District Tenth District
Measuring Fish Length..............................................................43 Alfred W. “Bill” Jones, III Ray P. Lambert, Jr.
Second District Eleventh District
Jeff “Bodine” Sinyard Robert D. Leebern, Jr.
Freshwater Section.................................... 12
Seasons..........................................................................................12 Third District Twelfth District
Patrick Denney Duncan N. Johnson, Jr.
Length Limits...............................................................................12
Fourth District Thirteenth District
Daily Limits..................................................................................13 Dwight H. Evans Billy E. New, Jr.
Fishing Methods..........................................................................14
Fifth District Fourteenth District
Agreements with Bordering States ................................... 16-17 Paul Shailendra Delos H. Yancey, III
Trout Fishing.......................................................................... 22-25
Sixth District Coastal District
Commercial Fishing....................................................................25 Dwight J. Davis Nancy A. Addison
Sale of Fish....................................................................................25
Seventh District Members-At-Large
Freshwater Fish Identification............................................ 26-27 Thomas M. “Mike” Phelps, Jr. Joe Hatfield
State Freshwater Record Fish...................................................28 Eighth District
Nick Ayers
Handling & Releasing Fish........................................................48 Miki Thomaston
Vacant
Tim Lowe
Ninth District
Saltwater Section....................................... 40 William A. Bagwell, Jr.
State Saltwater Record Fish.......................................................42 * List of Board Members was current as of press time. To see a
Finfish Limits and Information.................................................43 current list of Board Members please go to www.GADNR.org.
Saltwater Fish Identification............................................... 44-45
Sport Bait Shrimping..................................................................46 Note: The Wildlife Resources & Coastal Resources Divisions
Crabs..............................................................................................47 designed this guide to help you quickly find and understand
Shellfish.........................................................................................47 regulations for fishing in Georgia. The Game & Fish Code and rules
Bait Minnows...............................................................................47 of the Department of Natural Resources are the final authority on
questions on law. This publication was partially paid for by the
Recompression Tools..................................................................48
sale of advertising. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources
Handling & Releasing Fish .......................................................48
does not necessarily endorse products or services listed.
Editor: John W. Bowers, Georgia Wildlife Resources Division
Assistant Editor: Aubrey Pawlikowski, Georgia Wildlife Re-
sources Division
Advertising: J.F. Griffin Publishing
(413) 884-1001
Cover Photo provided by David Cannon
of David Cannon Photography
Table of Contents Photo provided by
Neal McEwen/GNPA
SPORTFISHING
COMMISSIONER'S MESSAGE
CREATING MORE FISHING OPPORTUNITIES
As a Georgia native, I was afforded the incredible oppor-
tunity to live in one of the most beautiful states with an
abundance of natural resources and wildlife. I have always
felt connected to nature with a passion for all outdoor
recreation, whether it’s hunting, fishing, or simply taking
a hike and exploring all that nature has to offer. Serving as
the Commissioner of the Department of Natural Resources
has blessed me with a chance to be in such a position to
connect with and advocate for individuals who share the
same passion for our natural resources. Williamstown, MA | Birmingham, AL
Wetting a line is one of my favorite outdoor sports and
one of the most popular outdoor sports for many fellow
Georgians. With over 1 million anglers in Georgia, I am
About This Guide
pleased that the love for fishing is vast and growing
across our great state. DNR is working hard every day to
accommodate and provide more access to fish and fishing
opportunities for Georgia’s sportsmen and sportswomen.
DNR’s expert biologists and technicians conduct a variety
of regularly scheduled surveys to gather biological, distribution, habitat, and catch data that This high-quality guide is offered to you
guides our efforts to grow populations of Georgia’s recreationally important species. The by the Georgia Department of Natural
information gathered from our projects gives DNR the knowledge we need to make the best Resources through its unique partnership
decisions on managing access and habitat. We stock our waters with more than five million
with J.F. Griffin Publishing, LLC.
sport fish annually from black bass to trout to walleye, which allows us to keep our lakes, rivers,
and streams full of fish even as fishing demand increases. The revenue generated through ad sales
However, none of this is possible without DNR’s unwavering community of supporters who significantly lowers production costs and
push conservation and wildlife management efforts and help protect our wildlife; for them generates savings. These savings translate
we are forever grateful. Your continuous support by simply buying a fishing license each year into additional funds for other important
generates the large source of funds that allows us to continue conserving our natural resources agency programs.
and growing Georgia’s fishery. We appreciate every way you support us to fulfill DNR’s mission.
I am excited to get on the water and hope to see you out there! If you have any feedback or are inter-
ested in advertising, please contact us at
Mark Williams 413.884.1001 or at www.JFGriffin.com
Commissioner, Georgia Department of Natural Resources
Graphic Design:
Jon Gulley, Dane Fay, John Corey,
Evelyn Haddad, Chris Sobolowski
Your dollars make a difference. The Wildlife and
Sportfish Restoration Program creates a direct link among
anglers and industries needed to expand and enhance
opportunities for saltwater and freshwater resources.
Better fishing,
boating, hunting & 6 1 Anglers, hunters,
boaters purchase
wildlife-associated fishing/hunting
recreation. equipment &
motor boat fuels.
State
agencies 5 2 Manufacturers
pay excise tax on
implement that equipment
programs & and boaters pay
projects. fuel taxes.
This guide is also
available online at
States receive grants. 4 3 U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service allocates
funds to state fish & wildlife agencies.
2 2021 | G E O R G I A S P O R T F I S H I N G R E G U L AT I O N S
W W W.G O F I S H G E O R G I A .C O M
REEL IN A GREAT DEAL FROM
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$
172/MONTH 1
When it comes to caring for your piece of Georgia, you need the ultimate productivity partner.
That’s our 1023E Sub-Compact Tractor Package. The loader attaches in minutes so that you can get
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22 GEORGIA LOCATIONS
AgProCo.com
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Monthly payment based on 10% down, 2.5% participation fee on remaining financed amount and 0% APR for 72 months. Taxes could increase the monthly payment. Prices and
model availability may vary by dealer. Some restrictions apply; other special rates and terms may be available, so see your dealer for details and other financing options. Available at
participating dealers. While supplies last. Equipment pictured may not be an accurate representation of model included in the price of packages.
SPORTFISHING
CONTACT INFORMATION & OFFICES
STATEWIDE OR GENERAL OFFICES
Wildlife Resources Division State Headquarters CATOOSA TOWNS
2067 US Highway 278 SE, Social Circle, GA 30025
DADE RABUN
MURRAY
FANNIN
UNION WRD & LED
WHITFIELD
Headquarters
2
WALKER
Main Number�����������������������������������������������������������706-557-3333
GILMER HABERSHAM
WHITE
CRD Headquarters
Toll Free���������������������������������������������������������������������833-557-3303
LUMPKIN STEPHENS
GORDON
CHATTOOGA PICKENS
DAWSON HALL
Game Management��������������������������������������������������706-557-3350
1
FRANKLIN
Go Fish
HART
BANKS
FLOYD
Education Center
Fisheries Management��������������������������������������������706-557-3305
BARTOW CHEROKEE
FORSYTH
JACKSON MADISON ELBERT
Law Enforcement�����������������������������������������������������770-918-6408 POLK
COBB GWINNETT
BARROW
CLARKE
Wildlife Conservation����������������������������������������������706-557-3213
PAULDING
OGLETHORPE
OCONEE
HARALSON WALTON WILKES LINCOLN
FULTON DEKALB
DOUGLAS ROCK-
Wildlife Resources Conservation Center CARROLL CLAYTON
DALE
NEWTON
MORGAN GREENE TALIAFERRO
2065 US Highway 278 SE, Social Circle, GA 30025
COLUMBIA
3
FAYETTE HENRY
WARREN MCDUFFIE
Boating Registration������������������������������������������������800-366-2661
COWETA RICHMOND
JASPER PUTNAM
HEARD BUTTS
SPALDING HANCOCK
GLASCOCK
Hunting & Fishing Licenses�����������������������������������800-366-2661 PIKE LAMAR BALDWIN JEFFERSON BURKE
Boating Education����������������������������������������������������770-918-6408
MERIWETHER
TROUP JONES
MONROE
WASHINGTON
Hunter Education�����������������������������������������������������706-557-3355
UPSON
BIBB WILKINSON JENKINS
SCREVEN
Special Permits Unit������������������������������������������������770-918-6408
HARRIS
TALBOT CRAWFORD JOHNSON
TWIGGS
PEACH EMANUEL
4
Private Lands Program��������������������������������������������478-994-7583
HOUSTON
TAYLOR
MUSCOGEE
LAURENS
MARION BLECKLEY CANDLER
TREUTLEN BULLOCH
CHATTA- EFFINGHAM
MACON
HOOCHEE
Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center
5
SCHLEY MONT-
PULASKI GOMERY
DOOLY EVANS
543 Elliott Trail, Mansfield, GA 30055 STEWART
WEBSTER SUMTER
DODGE WHEELER TOOMBS
TATTNALL
BRYAN CHATHAM
Visitors Center����������������������������������������������������������770-784-3059
WILCOX
CRISP TELFAIR
QUITMAN
TERRELL LIBERTY
JEFF DAVIS
LEE
Go Fish Education Center
RANDOLPH BEN HILL APPLING LONG
TURNER
6
1255 Perry Pkwy, Perry, GA 31069
CLAY IRWIN
COFFEE BACON WAYNE
CALHOUN WORTH MCINTOSH
DOUGHERTY TIFT
Main Number����������������������������������������������������������� 478-988-6701 EARLY
BAKER
BERRIEN
ATKINSON
PIERCE
GLYNN
MITCHELL
Coastal Resources Division Headquarters
COLQUITT BRANTLEY
MILLER COOK
WARE
One Conservation Way, Brunswick, GA 31520
LANIER
SEMINOLE
CLINCH CAMDEN
Main Number�����������������������������������������������������������912-264-7218
DECATUR CHARLTON
GRADY THOMAS
BROOKS LOWNDES
ECHOLS
Coastal Law Enforcement���������������������������������������912-264-7237
REPORT A FISH KILL/RANGER HOTLINE �������������800-241-4113
WRD FISHERIES REGIONAL South Central Region (4)����������������������� 912-285-6094
108 Darling Ave., PO Box 2089, Waycross, GA 31502
OFFICES AND FACILITIES
Law Enforcement (Metter)���������������������������������������912-685-2145
Northwest Region (1)���������������������������� 706-295-6102 Ocmulgee PFA
2650 Floyd Springs Road, Armuchee, GA 30105
Bowens Mill Hatchery
Law Enforcement (Acworth)����������������������������������770-529-2424
Law Enforcement (Atlanta)������������������������������������770-769-9680 Hugh M. Gillis PFA
Rocky Mountain PFA & Recreation Area Dodge County PFA
Summerville Hatchery Paradise PFA
Northeast Region (2)���������������������������� 770-535-5498 Southwest Region (5)��������������������������� 229-430-4256
2150 Dawsonville Hwy, Gainesville, GA 30501 2024 Newton Road, Albany, GA 31701
Law Enforcement (Gainesville)������������������������������770-535-5499 Law Enforcement (Albany)�������������������������������������229-430-4252
Buford Trout Hatchery Big Lazer Creek PFA
Burton Hatchery Cordele Hatchery
East Central Region (3)������������������������ 478-825-6151 Silver Lake PFA
1014 MLK Blvd., Fort Valley, GA 31030 Steve Cocke Hatchery
Law Enforcement (Thomson)��������������������������������� 706-595-4211
Law Enforcement (Augusta)����������������������������������706-737-1480 Coastal Region (6)���������������������������������� 912-727-2112
130 Hatchery Drive, Richmond Hill, GA 31324
Thomson Office�������������������������������������706-595-1619 Law Enforcement (Brunswick)��������������������������������912-264-7237
Walton Hatchery Evans County PFA
Marben PFA Richmond Hill Hatchery
McDuffie Hatchery & PFA
Flat Creek PFA >> See pages 19-21 for Public Fishing Area Information.
4 2021 | G E O R G I A S P O R T F I S H I N G R E G U L AT I O N S
W W W.G O F I S H G E O R G I A .C O M
SPORTFISHING
DEFINITIONS
Artificial Lure by any device or method and directly assisting Nongame Fish
Any lure made completely of natural or colored any person in catching or attempting to catch Any fish not designated as game fish under
wood, cork, feathers, hair, rubber, metal, plastic, fish or seafood. Daily Limits (see pages 13 and 43).
tinsel, styrofoam, sponge, string, or any combi-
nation of such materials, in imitation of or as a Game Fish Public Fishing Area
substitute for natural bait. This does not include Fish that are listed under Daily Limits Designated areas owned and/or operated by
any item sprayed with or containing scented (see pages 13 and 43). the Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife
or chemical attractants. Resources Division, Fisheries Section for the
Immediate Family primary purpose of fishing and are open to the
Daily Limit All persons living in one household under one public. These are listed on pages 19–21.
The number of fish that may be taken, caught, head of household and bearing a blood or depen-
or killed during any one day. dent relationship to the head of household. Resident
Resident means any person who has been
Fishing Mountain Trout domiciled within the State of Georgia (declared
Catching, capturing, taking, or killing fish, Rainbow, brook, and brown trout. Referred to Georgia the only state of legal residence) for a
mussels and all seafood and includes all lesser in this Guide as “Trout.” period of at least three months. A valid Georgia
acts such as attempting to catch, capture, or kill driver’s license or Georgia ID is required to
show residency. Nonresident full time Georgia
college students with a valid college ID living
in Georgia, and nonresident active duty mili-
tary personnel with a valid U.S. DOD Common
What’s New Access Card with Uniformed Services affiliation
and the dependents of such military personnel
• New camping reservation system available at GoOutdoorsGeorgia.com may obtain resident hunting and fishing licenses
• Reservations can be made up to 13 months in advance, online or by other than resident lifetime, disability and
calling 1-800-366-2661. honorary licenses. Nonresident landowners
• RV camping now available at Evans County PFA, and McDuffie PFA must purchase a nonresident license.
• PFAs are open 365/24/7 to fit any work or sleep schedule
• Hold your special occasions at the new event center at Evans County PFA
Protected Species May Be Encountered While Fishing
It is unlawful to capture, kill, or harm any protected species. If you accidentally capture a protected species while fishing or
collecting bait, please release it unharmed immediately.
There are 58 fish, 10 salamanders, one frog, one snail, 27 mussels, 20 crayfish and 14 turtles under protection in Georgia.
Exception: all native crayfish, including state protected species, can be used as bait as long as they are not harvested
from burrows. Bait species should never be transferred between water ways.
For more information contact
DNR’s Wildlife Conservation
Section at (706) 557-3213.
Search the rare species data portal
for a list of protected species in
your watershed at our website. MAP TURTLE ALLIGATOR
Aquatic turtle with prominent spiny SNAPPING TURTLE
keel on midline of shell. Found in large Huge aquatic turtle that may weigh
streams, rivers in northwest and south- more than 100 lbs. Occurs in large
west portions of state. streams, rivers, reservoirs in the
southwest corner of the state. Jaws
Up to 29" in length, are powerful— keep a safe distance!
REDHORSE SUCKER 11–20" typical
There are several protected species
of redhorse suckers that can easily be
confused with common carp while bow EASTERN HELLBENDER ALTAMAHA SHINER
fishing. For more information on sport Large, harmless salamander A state protected minnow that is com-
fish and carp identification, please visit found in clear, rocky mountain mon in rocky sections of large rivers and
GeorgiaWildlife.com/fishing/identification. streams such as trout streams. streams in the Oconee and Ocmulgee
river systems.
6 2021 | G E O R G I A S P O R T F I S H I N G R E G U L AT I O N S
W W W.G O F I S H G E O R G I A .C O M
Coastal RiveR ChaRteRs
EVANS COUNTY PFA A Premiere Inshore Fishing & SightSeeing Company
Savannah, GA • Tybee Island, GA
Your one-stop shop for camping, fishing, and all of your event needs! 912.441.9930
Capt. Jack McGowan
The Event Center can accommodate up to 85 people and offers a full commercial-style
www.coastalrivercharters.com
kitchen, indoor restrooms, a covered grilling facility and beautiful views of the lake. After
your event, make yourself at home for the weekend at one of the RV campsites and wet
a line on each of the three stocked lakes!
WELL-CRAFTED PLANS FOR
THE CABIN OF YOUR DREAMS
WEBSITE: shopatmc.com
EMAIL: fmartinconst@aol.com
Sewell Marine
770-253-7996
172 Temple Ave., Newnan, GA 30263
Sewellmarineinc.com
Make your reservations at GoOutdoorsGeorgia.com
Make it a family fishing trip
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Where Georgia
adventureMeets North
walk hand Carolina
in hand.
Find more adventures in Troup County, Georgia at:
GoLakeChatuge.com • 1 (800) 984-1543 7
FRESHWATER & SALTWATER
LICENSE REQUIREMENTS
Buying Licenses their land. See definition of immediate family NONRESIDENTS
You can purchase a Georgia fishing license: on page 6. • Nonresidents 16 or older, regardless of phys-
• Online 24 hours a day, 7 days a ical condition, must have a valid nonresident
week at GoFishGeorgia.com or RESIDENTS Georgia fishing license to fish in Georgia
GoOutdoorsGeorgia.com. • Proof of residency is a Georgia driver’s license freshwater and saltwater, except in private
• Using the Go Outdoors GA App, see page 12. or official State of Georgia ID card and is ponds. See also Agreements for Bordering
• In person at license dealers statewide required to purchase a resident fishing license. States on pages 16–17.
including most WRD/CRD regional offices; • Georgia resident military veterans that were • Nonresidents under 16 do not require a
state parks; marinas; major retailers; and on active duty for 90 or more consecutive fishing license or trout license.
sporting goods, bait and tackle, and hard- days and who were honorably discharged on
ware stores. A complete list of license agents or after July 1, 2005 may obtain one annual
can be found at GoFishGeorgia.com. Honorary Hunting and Fishing License free
Lands Pass
Any person age 16 and older, entering a WMA or
• By telephone at 800-366-2661, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. of charge. Such veterans may obtain this
PFA must have a valid license that allows fishing
M–F, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. S–S. license by providing a copy of their DD Form
or hunting or a Lands Pass (exclusions apply,
Notes: Social Security Number is required 214 and a completed DNR application.
visit GeorgiaWildlife.com/LandAccess). A
for the purchase of all licenses to meet • Senior Citizens: Georgia residents born
Lands Pass is available as an alternative and
requirements for Georgia Code 19-11-9.1(a.). on or before June 30, 1952 may obtain a
allows access only, but is the more expensive
Lifetime Sportsman’s License free of charge.
option. Designated fee areas are marked with
Who Needs a An optional Lifetime Sportsman’s Plastic
a sign at the site or area entrance.
Fishing License Card may be purchased for $10. Reduced cost
Anglers age 16 and older must have a current licenses are available for residents age 65 and
Georgia fishing license in their possession older born after June 30, 1952 (see page 10). Reciprocal Agreements
while fishing in fresh or salt water in Georgia. • Discount Disability License: Georgia resi- for Bordering States
Additionally, a free SIP is required to fish in dents who are permanently and totally disabled Georgia DNR has Agreements with Alabama,
saltwater. A temporary authorization number may obtain a discounted Disability License. A Florida, North Carolina, and South Carolina
obtained by telephone or internet sale may qualifying disability is an impairment of a allowing holders of Georgia fishing licenses to
be used for seven days until the paper copy permanent and total nature and is certified as fish in the waters covered without obtaining
is received or printed. Game Wardens may such by the Department of Veterans Affairs, a fishing license from the bordering state.
require photo identification when checking Social Security Administration, Medicaid, See Agreements with Bordering States
fishing licenses. Exception: A fishing license Medicare or Railroad Retirement System. on pages 16–17.
is not required to fish in private ponds (does • Any resident who is totally blind may
not include ponds owned by governments— apply for a Lifetime Honorary Fishing License Trout Licenses
city, county, state, or federal) nor by a resident and must provide a Physician’s Certification • All resident anglers ages 16 and older must
and their immediate family when fishing on of Blindness with the application. have a trout license and Georgia fishing
license to fish in designated trout waters
and to fish for or to possess trout. See page
23 for Waters Creek special regulations.
• All nonresident anglers, 16 or older, regard-
less of physical condition, must possess a
nonresident fishing license and nonresident
trout license to fish for or possess trout or to
fish in designated trout waters.
• Lifetime Sportsman’s, Sportsman’s, Honorary
(free), and Discount Disability licenses
include the trout fishing privilege.
• Landowners and their immediate families
(see definition on page 6) may fish on their
premises without a trout license.
• State park visitors are not required to
have a trout license to fish in the impounded
waters of the Park. However, those visitors
wishing to harvest trout will need to have a
trout license in their possession.
• See Public Fishing Areas on pages 19–21.
8 2021 | G E O R G I A S P O R T F I S H I N G R E G U L AT I O N S
W W W.G O F I S H G E O R G I A .C O MShooters & Hunters:
Help Prevent Wildfires.
T
he target shooting and hunting
community prides itself on being safe • Make it a point to know the
and responsible with firearms in all regulations and rules related to
situations—from using them outdoors to storing shooting in areas experiencing dry
them safely at home. Sometimes, however, and hot conditions, whether on public
unusual conditions such as extremely dry or private land or at shooting ranges.
environments require an extra level of awareness Many national forests, for example, do
and safety on the part of shooters. not allow recreational shooting when
Wildfires have many possible causes. The National fire restrictions are in effect.
Shooting Sports Foundation, the trade association • Consider the type of ammunition and
for the firearms and ammunition industry, reminds targets you are using. Minimize the
all shooters that during dry and hot weather risk of fires by not using steel-jacketed
conditions their use of certain ammunition and
ammunition, ammunition with steel-core
targets could accidentally ignite a wildfire. NSSF
components, tracer rounds or exploding
reminds all target shooters and hunters, as well
targets in fire-prone areas.
as other outdoor enthusiasts, to consider the
potential consequences of their activities in fire- • Remember that equipment, such as
prone environments. cars and ATVs, can have extremely
hot exhaust systems that could
ignite dry vegetation, so park only in
designated areas.
• Extinguish and dispose of smoking
materials safely.
• Follow guidelines to extinguish
campfires.
• Warn others of potential dangers and
behaviors for starting wildfires.
• Report any wildfire you see to
authorities.
• Spread this message to other target
shooters, hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.
NSSF.ORGFRESHWATER & SALTWATER
RECREATIONAL FISHING LICENSE FEES
LICENSE TERM RESIDENT NON-RESIDENT
Combo Hunting & Fishing Licenses
Combo Hunting & Fishing License
Annual
One-Day
$30.00
$5.00
$150.00
$30.00
Make a
+Additional Day $1.00 $10.00 Difference
Apprentice Hunting & Fishing License One-Day $5.00 $30.00
The Trout Unlimited license plate
Fishing Licenses provides vital funding for Georgia’s
Annual $15.00 $50.00 trout conservation and management
Fishing License (Resident: 16–64,
Nonresident: 16+)
One-Day see combo $10.00 programs. For only $25 more than
+ Additional Day see combo $3.50 the standard plate, you can help
Optional Youth Fishing License (YOUR PASSION. Hunting and Fishing Adventures
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LEARN MORE:
888 MAX GAME • 888.629.4263
warnell.uga.edu woodsnwaterinc.com
11FRESHWATER
GENERAL REGULATIONS
Freshwater Game fish shorter than the minimum length indicated • The minimum length is 27 inches on the Savannah
Species Daily Limits for that species. River and its tributaries downstream of J. Strom
• It is unlawful to take in one day or to possess Thurmond Dam (2 fish limit).
at any one time, except at a residence or LARGEMOUTH BASS • See table on page 13 for full details
commercial storage facility, more than the 12 inches statewide except:
daily limit for each species. It is unlawful to • Lake Blackshear: 14 inches TROUT
possess more than a total of 50 individuals of • Lake Blue Ridge: no minimum (0 inches) No minimum length limit for trout except:
all the game fish listed in this section, except • Lake Burton: no minimum (0 inches) • Waters Creek:
channel and flathead catfish. New: See page • Lake Juliette: no minimum (0 inches) – Brown and rainbow trout: 22 inches
13 for actual creel limits. • Lake Lanier: 14 inches – Brook trout: 18 inches
• Once the daily limit for a particular species • Lake Oconee: 14 inches • Noontootla Creek and its tributaries on Blue
is taken, it is unlawful to continue to fish • Lake Lindsay Grace: bass between 15 and Ridge WMA
for that species. 22 inches must be released immediately. All – All trout: 16 inches
Exception: Daily limits differ on certain others may be kept. In addition, only one bass
waters shared by Georgia and South Carolina. may be greater than 22 inches. Fishing Gear Must Be
See Agreements with Bordering States • Lake Walter F. George: 14 inches Regularly Checked
(pages 16–17). • West Point Reservoir: 14 inches • Attend to gear such as limb lines. (Anglers are
• Public Fishing Area lakes operated by the encouraged to check all gear within 24 hours)
Seasons Department of Natural Resources: 14 inches. • Make every reasonable effort to retrieve lost gear
There is no closed season for fishing in fresh- This limit will not apply to lakes which have (including hooks, line and lead sinkers).
water in Georgia except for the following: been posted as having a different length limit • Recycle used fishing line.
• Trout Seasons: All designated trout waters for largemouth bass.
are now open year round. Creel and Possession
• Flint, Chattahoochee and Spring Creeks: SHOAL BASS Note to Anglers
The Flint River and its tributaries from the • Lake Lanier: 14 inches Creel and possession limits are per person. For
Georgia Power Co. dams at Albany to the US • Flint River and its tributaries (below Warwick Game Wardens to correctly determine compliance
Hwy 84 bridge; the Chattahoochee River and its Dam): 12 inches with these limits, each individual should keep trout
tributaries from the Columbia Lock and Dam • Flint River and its tributaries (above Warwick or other fish on separate stringers or in separate
to the GA Hwy 91 bridge; and Spring Creek Dam): 15 inches creels. It is unlawful for one individual to possess
and its tributaries downstream to GA Hwy more than the legal limit of any fish species.
253 are CLOSED to striped bass fishing and SPOTTED BASS
spear fishing from May 1–October 31 each year. • Lake Lanier: 14 inches FRESHWATER TURTLES
• Lakes Seminole: All fishing, including spear Individuals may not possess more than 10
fishing, for any species in the marked areas STRIPED BASS, WHITE BASS, & freshwater turtles (any combination of species)
around five fish refuges in Lake Seminole is HYBRID WHITE-STRIPED BASS without a valid permit. There is no closed season
prohibited from May 1–October 31 each year. You may only keep two fish of the total limit for the harvest of freshwater turtles, however,
• Coosa River: The season for taking lake that are 22 inches or longer, except: taking of species protected by federal or state
sturgeon from the Coosa River and its tribu- • See agreement with South Carolina law is prohibited (for a list of species access:
taries is CLOSED. See GoFishGeorgia.com (page 16) GeorgiaWildlife.com/species#reptiles). For
for more information on this closure and how • The minimum length for all fish is 22 inches more information on turtling regulations see
to identify this fish. on the North Newport River, Medway River GeorgiaWildlife.com/turtling.
• Noodling or Grabbling: The season is open including Mount Hope Creek, Little Ogeechee
March 1–July 15 statewide in freshwater. River, Ogeechee River; Oconee River down- Fishing on Wildlife
stream of GA Hwy 22 in Milledgeville; Management Areas
Length Limits Ocmulgee River downstream of GA Hwy Unless otherwise posted, fishing is allowed on
Note: There are no minimum length limits on 96 bridge between Houston and Twiggs coun- WMAs according to statewide regulations. Alcohol
freshwater game fish unless they are listed ties; Altamaha River, Saint Mary's River, use is prohibited on WMAs except in designated
below. All lengths are Total Length (see “How Satilla River, and the tributaries to these river camping areas. Refer to the Hunting Regulations
to Measure Fish,” page 43). You must release all sections; and from saltwater. Guide for a complete list of WMA regulations.
Fishing Without Permission
WHAT CAN I DO Purchase new licenses right It is unlawful to fish on someone else’s property
WITH THE GO in the app, and even set up
your account to auto-renew
so you’ll never miss a
without permission. Game Wardens and other law
enforcement officers are charged with enforcing
OUTDOORS GA APP? chance to fish again.
this law. Always ask permission before entering
private land.
Volunteer
Determine sunset/sunrise
information,
education, news
times based on GPS Permission is not required to fish in the Chatta-
location, and check tides
and more.
and seas. hoochee or Oconee National Forests, on Wildlife
Resources Division Public Fishing Areas (PFAs) or
Store your licenses and the Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs), or in Georgia
whole family’s on your
phone, plus other permits
State Parks (gastateparks.org) as long as all appli-
Use maps and tools to enhance
and privileges. No need to your recreational experience. cable state regulations are followed.
carry paper copies!
What are you waiting for?
Download the Go Outdoors GA App in the App Store or Google Play Store today.
12 2021 | G E O R G I A S P O R T F I S H I N G R E G U L AT I O N S
W W W.G O F I S H G E O R G I A .C O MFRESHWATER
GAME SPECIES DAILY LIMITS (See page 19 for special limits on Public Fishing Areas.)
SPECIES DAILY LIMIT EXCEPTIONS
Largemouth, Redeye (Coosa),
Bass Shoal, Smallmouth, Spotted, 10 • Lake Lindsay Grace (Wayne Co.) — Only one bass may be greater than 22 inches.
and/or Suwannee bass
Catfish Channel and/or Flathead No limit —
Crappie Black and/or White 30 —
Pickerel Chain, Grass and/or Redfin 15 —
Shad American and/or Hickory 8 —
• Limit taken from the North Newport River, Medway River including Mount Hope
Creek, Little Ogeechee River, Ogeechee River, Oconee River downstream of GA
Hwy 22 in Milledgeville, Ocmulgee River downstream of the GA Hwy 96 bridge
between Houston and Twiggs counties, Altamaha River, St. Mary’s River, Satilla
15, only two of River, and the tributaries to these river sections; and from saltwater is a two fish
Striped Bass, limit, both of which must be 22 inches in length or longer.
which can be
White Bass
— 22 inches or • Limit taken from the Savannah River and its tributaries downstream of J. Strom
and/or Hybrid Thurmond Dam is a two fish limit, both of which must be 27 inches in length or longer.
longer.
White-Striped Bass
• Limit taken from Lake Richard B. Russell from the Russell Dam to Lake Hartwell
Dam and Lake Secession Dam, all tributaries to Lake Richard B. Russell is two (2)
striped bass per day, only one (1) of which can exceed 34 inches in length.
• See the Fishing Regulations for shared waters for Georgia and South Carolina on
page 16.
Bluegill, Flier, Redbreast, Redear,
Sunfish or Bream Rock bass, Spotted sunfish, 50 Bream: See South Carolina Agreement on page 16.
Warmouth and/or Shadow bass
See Amicalola Creek, Chattahoochee River, Chattooga River, Smithgall Woods,
Brook, Rainbow,
Trout 8 Smith Creek, Toccoa River, and Waters Creek on pages 22–25. See the new limits
and/or Brown trout
for shared waters of Georgia and South Carolina on page 16.
Walleye — 8 —
See table on page 43 for other species that may be found in freshwater
Sturgeon - May not be taken in fresh or saltwater in Georgia.
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W W W.G O F I S H G E O R G I A .C O M 13
Purchase a license online at www.GoFishGeorgia.com or by phone 1-800-366-2661FRESHWATER
FISHING METHODS
Hook & Line Set Hooks & Jugs Seines, Cast Nets, Bow Nets
• There is no restriction on the number of poles • Only catfish and nongame fish (year round) • Only nongame fish 5 inches in length or less
and lines used to fish for game fish except: and American and Hickory shad during shad may be taken using a minnow seine and
– Fishing for trout in designated trout season may be taken with set hooks and jugs. are not to be sold or used for commercial
waters: 1 pole • It is illegal to use jugs and set hooks on Lake purposes.
– Fishing on Public Fishing Areas: 2 poles Tobesofkee or any State Park Lake. • All other fish and eels taken in minnow seines
– Sport shad fishing: 2 poles • A sport fishing license is required to fish with must be released immediately unharmed into
• Anglers using more than two poles and lines set hooks and jugs in Georgia. the water.
to fish for shad must abide by commercial • There are no other restrictions on the use of • A minnow seine must be less than 20 feet in
shad regulations. set hooks and jugs (number of, dimensions, length and have a 3⁄8 inch or less mesh (square
• Landing nets may be used to land fish legally materials, etc.) or diameter).
caught. • DNR encourages anglers using these • Minnow seines may not be used in desig-
• Game fish may be used as live bait (where methods to check them regularly, remove nated trout waters.
live bait is legal) if they are taken legally and them at the end of the fishing day, and avoid • Minnow traps are illegal in freshwater.
you do not exceed daily creel and posses- areas popular with recreational boaters. • Dip nets and cast nets may be used to take
sion limits. threadfin shad, gizzard shad, and blueback
Spear Fishing herring for bait except cast nets may not be
Sport Trotlines • “Spearing” is the use of a handheld spear or used in State Park Lakes.
• A sport trotline is one line or a combina- similar device and the use of a weapon, other • Bow nets are considered sport shad fishing
tion of lines using less than 51 hooks. Sport than a firearm, which propels the spear to which gear and shall have a minimum legal size of
trotlines must be: a wire, rope, line, etc. is attached and secured 3½ inches stretched mesh.
1. Marked with the owner’s name and to the weapon or the person using the weapon.
address and with visible buoys, and • Only nongame fish, and catfish as described Bow Fishing
2. Submerged at least three feet below the below, may be speared in freshwater and are Nongame fish (does not include channel or
surface of the water, and not to be sold or used for commercial purposes. flathead catfish, see note below) may be taken
3. Attended regularly and removed after • The taking of flathead and channel catfish by by bow and arrow from freshwater under the
the completed fishing trip. spear may be done any time day or at night following conditions:
• Unmarked or unattended trotlines will be by light in the Savannah River and its tribu- • Possession of a sport fishing license is
confiscated by DNR. It is unlawful to use taries and impoundments in the Savannah required to bow fish in Georgia.
any sport trotline within one-half mile below River Basin only. • Arrows must be equipped with barbs or
any lock or dam. • All spears must have barbs or other devices similar devices for recovering fish and must
• Only catfish and nongame fish (year-round) to recover fish and must be attached to a line be attached to the person or bow by a line
and American and Hickory shad during shad secured to the person using the weapon. sufficient for recovering the arrow and fish.
season may be taken with trotlines. • A sport fishing license is required to spear • Poisonous or exploding arrowheads are illegal.
• Trotlines are not permitted on Lake fish in Georgia. • Arrows cannot be discharged into the water
Tobesofkee or any State Park Lake. • The person spearing fish must be completely closer than 150 feet to anyone engaged in any
• Use of 51 or more hooks is considered submerged. other means of recreation.
Commercial Fishing (see page 25). • Legal hours for fishing with bow and arrow
Note: See Seasons on page 12.
are from sunrise to sunset, except that fish
(nongame) may be taken at night while using
a light in reservoirs over 500 acres in size.
In Georgia It Is Unlawful To: • Any game fish with an open wound possessed
by a person bow fishing will be considered
• Possess or use live blueback herring for bait in all fresh waters except evidence of taking fish illegally.
the following: Lakes Bartlett's Ferry, Blue Ridge, Chatuge, Goat Rock, • Know your target - the take of protected
Juliette, Lanier, Nottely, Oliver, and West Point; and the Altamaha species is unlawful (see pg. 6).
River watershed downstream of the following: Juliette dam on the • Note: Channel and flathead catfish are game
Ocmulgee River, Lake Juliette dam on Rum Creek, Lake Tobesofkee fish, and may not be taken by bow and arrow,
dam on Tobesofkee Creek, Lake Sinclair dam on the Oconee River; except in the Savannah River and its tribu-
taries and impoundments in the Savannah
and watersheds of all other streams that flow directly into the Atlantic
River basin by bow and arrow any time
Ocean (this drainage includes Lakes Hartwell, Russell, Clarks Hill,
during the day or at night by the use of a light.
Burton, Tugaloo, and Rabun). For maps of restricted waters go to
www.GoFishGeorgia.com and see “Freshwater Regulations” section. Noodling
• It is unlawful to possess and fish with live blueback herring in Alabama waters. • Flathead, channel and blue catfish may be
taken by hand, without the aid of any device,
• Fish for game fish, except American shad, hickory shad, channel catfish, hook, snare, net or other artificial element and
blue catfish, or flathead catfish, by any means other than pole and line. without the use of any scuba equipment, air
hose or other artificial breathing apparatus.
• Take any fish from public freshwater by any method other than the • Noodling is legal in the fresh waters of the
methods listed on this page. Snagging fish is illegal. state from March 1–July 15 each year.
• A sport fishing license is required to noodle
• Use electronic devices, explosives, poisons, or firearms to take fish. in Georgia.
• It is illegal to take game fish (other than the
• Stock or release fish or bait into any public waters except the water from catfish species listed above) or any other
which it was taken. species of fish by hand.
• It is not legal to alter any natural or man-
• Discard fish caught in public waters.
made features in order to attract or capture
• Take protected species (see pg. 6). fish by hand. It is not legal to raise any part of
a natural or artificial device out of the water
to aid in the hand capture of enclosed fish.
14FRESHWATER
BOATING
PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICES BOATING SAFETY
• A wearable personal flotation device (PFD) • No vessel may be operated over idle speed
is required for each person aboard a vessel. within 100 feet of any moored or anchored
PFDs must be readily accessible to all occu- vessel, vessel adrift, or any wharf, pier, piling,
pants, in good and serviceable condition, or persons in the water, or shoreline next to
legibly marked with the US Coast Guard a full-time or part-time residence, public
approved number, and of appropriate size park, public beach, public swimming area,
for the occupants. One Type IV throwable marina, restaurant, or other public use area.
device must also be on board all vessels • Recreation boaters in coastal waters please
except Class A vessels (boats less than 15’ note: Tybee, Sea Island, St. Simons, and Jekyll
11” which also includes personal-watercraft, Islands have temporal (May 1 – Sept. 30) 1,000
canoes and kayaks). ft. safety zones.
• Children under age 13 must wear a PFD when • Alcohol and boats do not mix! It is unlawful
the vessel is under way, unless the child is to operate a boat while under the influence
within a fully enclosed cabin. of alcohol or drugs.
• PFDs must be worn by each person aboard a • To learn requirements for operating your
vessel in an area marked as “hazardous area.” boat please visit GoBoatGeorgia.com or
BOAT REGISTRATION obtain the Handbook of Georgia Boating Laws
• All boats that carry any means of mechanical OUTBOARD MOTOR RESTRICTIONS from any DNR Law Enforcement Office.
propulsion (electric trolling motor and/or gas • No motor in excess of 9.9 hp may be operated • To learn about a boating safety course please
motor) and all sailboats 12 feet and longer on the Ogeechee River upstream of State visit GoBoatGeorgia.com or contact the
must be registered. Hwy 119. Boating Education Coordinator at 770-918-
• You may register or renew online at • No motor in excess of 25 hp may be operated 6414 or any DNR Law Enforcement Office
GoBoatGeorgia.com on Lake Juliette or Lake Tugalo. (see page 4).
• A Boat Registration Application by mail can • Georgia State Park lakes often have boat and
See GoBoatGeorgia.com for complete
be obtained from GoBoatGeorgia.com motor restrictions. Check with the Park Office
boating regulations.
• Register or renew by phone at 800-366-2661. at each park for details.
• Georgia honors all other states’ registrations,
provided the boat is not used in excess of 60
consecutive days in Georgia.
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W W W.G O F I S H G E O R G I A .C O M 15
Purchase a license online at www.GoFishGeorgia.com or by phone 1-800-366-2661FRESHWATER
AGREEMENTS WITH BORDERING STATES
Agreements with bordering states allow Georgia - South Carolina Border Waters
holders of Georgia fishing licenses to fish in Reciprocal Agreement
the waters covered without obtaining a fishing
license from the bordering state. SPECIES POSSESSION
WATER BODY SIZE LIMIT
Note: Regulations under these agreements LIMIT
may differ from Georgia’s general laws and Striped bass or hybrid bass only 3 may be over
Lakes Hartwell and Clarks Hill 10
regulations. If this is the case, the laws and or combination 26 inches
regulations of the agreement explained in this Striped bass or hybrid bass only 1 may be over
Lake Russell 2
section are to be followed. or combination 34 inches
Striped bass, hybrid bass, Savannah River downstream of 27-inch minimum
2
white bass or combination Clarks Hill dam length limit
Alabama
All border waters covered
WATERS COVERED White bass
except for Savannah River
10 no size limit
The banks and waters of only that portion of downstream of Clarks Hill dam
the Chattahoochee River forming the boundary (see above for size limit).
between Georgia and Alabama and Lakes Trout All border waters covered 5 no size limit
Bartletts Ferry (Harding), George W. Andrews, Bass (largemouth, spotted, 12-inch minimum
redeye, smallmouth or All border waters covered 10 length for
Goat Rock, Oliver, Seminole, Walter F. George
combination) largemouth bass
(Eufaula) and West Point; however, this agree-
Walleye or Sauger or
ment does not include that portion of West Point All border waters covered 8 no size limit
combination
Reservoir lying upstream (north) of Georgia Hwy aggregate of all game fish
109 bridge on the Chattahoochee River arm of the All border waters covered 40
(does not include catfish)*
reservoir. The waters covered by this agreement
All other laws and regulations of Georgia apply in the Georgia portion of waters covered by
do not include other streams or tributaries which this agreement.
flow into the Chattahoochee River or its impound- * List of Game Fish in South Carolina differs from Georgia.
ments or the portion of Lake Seminole covered Note: South Carolina regulations differ for crappie and bream.
by the agreement with Florida or Lake Weiss.
• Note: It is illegal to possess and fish with Creek Lake (except that portion on the Stevens
LICENSES
live blueback herring in Alabama waters Creek arm upstream of South Carolina Hwy 53).
All persons meeting the sport fishing require-
covered by this agreement. The agreement does not apply to any flowing
ments of Georgia or Alabama may fish from
portions of tributary streams to these impound-
the banks and in the waters covered without
having to obtain any other license.
South Carolina ments nor to tributary streams of the Savannah,
Tugaloo and Chattooga Rivers.
WATERS COVERED
MINIMUM LENGTH LIMITS On the banks and in the waters of all channels of
LICENSES
• Largemouth bass: the Savannah River from its mouth to the junc-
• All persons meeting the freshwater license
– Lake West Point: 14 inches tion of the Tugaloo (Toogaloo) and Seneca Rivers;
requirements of Georgia or South Carolina may
– Lake Walter F. George: 14 inches the Tugaloo River from its mouth to the junction
fish from the banks and in the waters covered
• All other fishing laws and regulations of of the Tugaloo and Chattooga Rivers; and the
without having to obtain any other license.
the State of Georgia apply in Georgia waters Chattooga River to the North Carolina state line
• This agreement does not apply to commercial
covered by this agreement. (35th parallel of North latitude at Ellicott’s Rock).
fishing or saltwater sport fishing.
This agreement also applies to all the waters and
• A South Carolina saltwater fishing license
CREEL AND POSSESSION LIMITS banks of Clarks Hill Reservoir (Strom Thurmond),
is required when fishing from a boat on the
All creel and possession limits on waters Richard B. Russell Reservoir, Hartwell Reservoir,
SC side of the Savannah River downstream
covered by this agreement are the same as Yonah Lake, Tugaloo (Toogaloo) Lake, the New
of where the CSX Railroad trestle crosses
Georgia’s statewide limits. Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam, and Stevens
the Back River.
STOP THE SPREAD!
Help keep Aquatic Nusiance Species (ANS) out of Georgia. Non-native or introduced species present problems for
many of our native fish and plant populations. You can help by practicing the 4 Rs:
• REFRAIN from relocating fish or aquatic plants to areas in which they are not native
• REMOVE any non-native species you catch while fishing
• REPORT any non-native species you encounter to your local fisheries office
• REMEMBER to practice CLEAN, DRAIN AND DRY after returning to the boat ramp
Visit georgiawildlife.com/ans to learn more.
ISLAND
NORTHERN SNAKEHEAD ZEBRA MUSSEL TIGER SHRIMP LIONFISH ASIAN SWAMP EEL APPLE SNAIL FLATHEAD CATFISH
16 2021 | G E O R G I A S P O R T F I S H I N G R E G U L AT I O N S
W W W.G O F I S H G E O R G I A .C O MLENGTH, CREEL AND Talmadge Bridge across the Chattahoochee North Carolina
POSSESSION LIMITS River (please see map at GoFishGeorgia.com).
WATERS COVERED
See GA-SC chart above for the length, creel and
Lake Chatuge and all tributary branches lying in
possession limits for the border waters covered LICENSES
Georgia or North Carolina which are accessible
by this agreement. • Any person who has a valid fishing license
by boat from the main body of the reservoir.
and properly issued permits or licenses, or
GENERAL NOTES both, required by Georgia or Florida in their
LICENSES
• Any person using baskets, jugs, minnow possession may sport fish for freshwater fish
• Holders of a valid Georgia or North Carolina
seines, trot lines, or other set hooks in the in the waters covered.
fishing license may fish with hook and line
waters covered must comply with the laws, • Georgia Honorary Disability License is not
in Lake Chatuge only from boats. Boats may
rules and regulations of the state in which the recognized by Florida under this agreement.
not be anchored to the shore or to a pier or
baskets, jugs, minnow seines, or trot lines are • A nonresident fishing license is required to
boat dock connecting to the shore.
fished, regardless of their residence. fish, castnet, seine, crab, gig, sport bait trawl,
• Senior citizen and youth license exemptions
• No person may carry to either state or possess in or harvest shell fish in saltwater in Georgia.
authorized by either state are honored by
such state more fish than the laws of that state or • A Florida saltwater fishing license is required
both states on Lake Chatuge.
those of this agreement permit, even though the to fish for or to possess saltwater fish on the
• All other laws and regulations of Georgia
fish were caught in the waters of the other state. Florida side of the St. Mary's River.
apply to the Georgia portion of Lake Chatuge.
All other laws and regulations of North
Florida CREEL AND POSSESSION LIMITS
Carolina apply to the North Carolina portion
• The limit for striped bass, white bass, and hybrid
WATERS COVERED of Lake Chatuge.
white-striped bass on the St. Mary's River is two
• The waters and the banks of the St. Mary's
fish which must be 22 inches or longer.
River, not including its tributaries.
• For all other species in the waters covered,
• The waters and banks of Lake Seminole,
bounded on the west by Florida State Road
Georgia's statewide creel and possession Did You Know?
limits (page 13) apply. The Wildlife Resources Division
No. 271; on the south by the Jim Woodruff
• All other fishing regulations of the State of fisheries staff maintain 11 Public
Dam; on the east by the line immediately east
Georgia apply on the Georgia side of the St.
of the Chattahoochee Marina (also known as Fishing Areas all across Georgia.
Mary's River and the Georgia portion of Lake
the Booster Club) running northwest across Fish one today!
Seminole. Florida laws and regulations apply
the reservoir to the tip of land at the junction
of the Flint and Chattahoochee Rivers, west of
on the Florida side of the St. Mary's River and GeorgiaWildlife.com/allpfas
the Florida portion of Lake Seminole.
Spring Creek; and on the north by the Herman
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W W W.G O F I S H G E O R G I A .C O M 17
Purchase a license online at www.GoFishGeorgia.com or by phone 1-800-366-2661You can also read
