Georgia's 2002-2003 sport fishing regulations

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GEORGIA'S 2002-2003

SPORT FISHING REGULATIONS

Take me fishing, so we'll always have something in common.
DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES WILDLIFE RESOURCES DIVISION COASTAL RESOURCES DIVISION

TABLE OF CONTENTS

FRESHWATER SECTION
Agreements with Bordering States ................. 9-10 Angler Award Program ...................................... 18 Boating Regulations ............................................. 5 Buying Licenses ................................................... 4 Commercial Fishing ........................................... 12 Daily Limits ........................................................... 6 Definitions .......................................................... 25 Guidelines for Eating Fish ............................ 26-29 Finding a Place to Fish .............................. 19 & 38 Fish Identification .......................................... 22-23 Fish Kill Reporting .............................................. 10 Fisheries Section Offices & PFAs ...................... 19 Fishing Methods .................................................. 8 Free Fishing Days ................................................ 7 Handling & Releasing Fish .................................. 7 Length Limits ........................................................ 7

License Requirements ......................................... 4 Protected Species .............................................. 13 Public Fishing Areas ..................................... 20-21 Turn in Poachers ............................................... 33 Sale of Fish ........................................................ 12 Seasons ............................................................... 6 State Record Fish .............................................. 18 Trout Fishing ................................................. 13-17
SALTWATER SECTION
Bait Minnows ...................................................... 35 Crabs ................................................................. 35 Deflating Your Fish ............................................ 33 Finfish ........................................................... 31-32 Measuring Saltwater Finfish .............................. 32 Shellfish ............................................................. 35 Sport Bait Shrimping .......................................... 34

2002-2003 FRESHWATER AND SALTWATER SPORT FISHING REGULATIONS
Roy Barnes, Governor Lonice C. Barrett, Commissioner, Department of Natural Resources David Waller, Director - Wildlife Resources Division Susan Shipman, Director - Coastal Resources Division
The Wildlife Resources Division designed this guide to help you quickly find and understand regulations for fishing in Georgia. The Game and Fish Code and Department of Natural Resources rules are the final authority on questions of law.

BOARD OF
NATURAL RESOURCES
Bill M. Gilbert - Chair J.D. Caswell - Vice Chair Walter McNeely - Secretary Sally Bethea James E. Butler, Jr. Donald J. Carter Sara S. Clark Pierre Howard Walter A. Hudson Jamie Reynolds Ben G. Porter Bob Rutland Glenn E. Taylor Reese Thompson Loyce Turner Thomas W. Wheeler, Jr.

FISHERIES MANAGEMENT OFFICES, PUBLIC FISHING
AREAS & HATCHERIES
See page 19 for telephone numbers and locations of Fisheries Section offices.
MARINE FISHERIES MANAGEMENT OFFICE
Brunswick .................. 912-264-7218

Never buy a fishing or hunting license again!
For a one time price, Georgia's sportsmen and women can enjoy a lifetime of the state's great fishing and hunting opportunities!

LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICES
Boating Safety .. ........... 770-784-3068 Albany .......................... 229-430-4252 Brunswick ..................... 912-264-7237 Calhoun ........................ 770-769-9680 Calhoun .................... .... 706-624-1367 Gainesville ................... 770-535-5499 Macon .......................... 478-751-6415 Manchester .................. 706-846-8448 Metter ........................... 912-685-2145 Social Circle ................. 770-918-6414 Social Circle ................. 706-557-3034 Thomson ...................... 706-595-4211 Thomson (Augusta) ..... 706-737-1480 LE Headquarters .. ........ 770-918-6408 Turn in Poachers ...... 1-800-241-4113
RECENT CHANGES
Nonresident anglers under
16 are no longer required to

Infants under age 2: $200 Youth ages 2 - 15: $350 Adult ages 16 - 65: $500

The Lifetime License is now on sale at Wildlife Resources Division Offices or call 770-414-3333 for more information.

purchase a fishing license or trout license (see page 4). Changes have been made to the Type IV PFD requirement for boating (see page 5).

2002-2003 Sport Fishing Regulations

www.gofishgeorgia.com

Page 3

License Requirements

THREE CONVENIENT WAYS to Buy a Fishing License:
Over 1,000 license dealers statewide including WRD offices, major retailers, sporting goods, bait & tackle, marinas, and hardware stores.
Telephone 1-888-748-6887 Internet www.permit.com Telephone and Internet available 24 hours, 7 days a week.
All licenses may be purchased by mail from the Department of Natural Resources, License Unit, 2189 Northlake Parkway, Suite 108, Bldg. 10, Tucker, Georgia 30084. Orders by mail must include name, address, date of birth, weight and height with the proper payment.
WHO NEEDS A FISHING
LICENSE? Anglers age 16 and older must have a current Georgia fishing license in their possession while fishing in fresh or salt water in Georgia. Conservation Rangers may require identification when checking fishing licenses. EXCEPTION - a fishing license is not required to fish in private ponds (does not include ponds owned by governments-city, county, state, or federal) nor by a landowner and their immediate family when fishing on their land.
RESIDENTS: Proof of residence, such asa Georgia
driver's license, is required to purchase a resident fishing license.
Residents 65 years of age or older may fish with the Senior (65+) Lifetime License. This license can be obtained free from license

LIFETIME & ANNUAL
SPORTSMAN'S LICENSES
Lifetime licenses are available for anglers of all ages. See page 3 for full details. The Lifetime license satisifies all state license requirements for the life of the purchaser. Senior (age 65+) lifetime licenses are free ($10 for a permanent, plastic card). Annual Sportsman's license is a single license that covers all sport hunting & fishing licenses (except Federal Duck Stamp). Includes: Regular Hunting Lie., Primitive Weapons Lie., Big Game Lie., WMA Lie., GA Waterfowl Lie., Fishing Lie., Trout Lie. and H.I.P. permit.
dealers by furnishing proof of age (driver's license, birth certificate, etc.).
Residents that are permanently and totally disabled may obtain a Disability Honorary Combination Hunting and Fishing License by applying to the License Unit. Proof of disability must accompany the application. Proof of disability may come from the U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs, Social Security Admin., Railroad Retirement System or another government agency.
Persons that are blind can apply for a Lifetime Honorary Fishing License and must provide a Physician's certification of blindness with the application.
NOTE: Georgia DNR has Agreements with Alabama, Florida, North Carolina, and South Carolina that allow holders of Georgia fishing licenses to fish in the waters covered without obtaining a fishing license from the bordering state. See Agreements with Bordering States
on pages 9-10.

2002-2003 RECREATIONAL
FISHING LICENSE FEES
License Year: April 1, 2002- March 31, 2003

RESIDENT LICENSES: Sportsman's ..................... $60.00 Fishing .................................. 9.00 One-Day Fishing .................. 3.50 Trout ..................................... 5.00 CaonmdbFin.1asht.iionng.H...u..n.t..in..g............ 17.00 Wildlife Management Area .. 19.00

NONRESIDENT LICENSES: Annual Fishing ................. $24.00 One-Day Fishing .................. 3.50 7-Day Fishing ....................... 7.00 Trout ................................... 13.00 Wildlife Management Area .. 73.00

PUBLIC FISHING AREAS See page 20 for license requirements to fish on a PFA.
NONRESIDENTS: Nonresidents 16 or older, regardless
of physical condition, must have a valid nonresident Georgia fishing license to fish in Georgia, except in private ponds.
Nonresidents under 16 do not require a fishing license or trout license.
Florida residents 65 years of age or older-see Agreement with Florida on page 10.
College students (US citizens) enrolled full-time who are residing within the state may purchase a resident fishing license. A curfent student I.D. must be shown when purchasing a resident fishing license.
Military persons on active status stationed at a military base in Georgia and their immediate family members may purchase a resident fishing license. A current military I.D. must be shown when purchasing a resident fishing license.
Any violation of Georgia fishing laws or regulations can cause revocation of license.
TROUT LICENSE
All resident anglers ages16 to 64 must have a trout license and a Georgia fishing license to fish in designated trout waters and to fish for or to possess trout.
Resident Senior (65+) lifetime and honorary license holders are not required to have a trout license.
Landowners and their immediate families may fish on their premises without a trout license.
All nonresident anglers, 16 or older, regardless 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.
Florida residents, 16 or older, must possess a nonresident trout license to fish for or possess trout or to fish in designated trout waters.
STATE PARK VISITORS are not required to have a trout license to fish in the impounded waters of the park.

Pag_e 4 1-888-748-6887 for licenses

Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division

Boating

Boat Registration

Personal Flotation Devices

No motor in excess of 25 hp may be

All boats that carry any means of mechanical propulsion and all sailboats 12 feet and longer must be registered.
A Boat Registration Application can be obtained from any office of the Wildlife Resources Division, or from most marine dealers and marinas or by writing to: Georgia Department of Natural Resources, License & Boat Registration Unit, 2189 Northlake Parkway,Building 10, Suite 108,Tucker,Georgia 30084 or from the Internet, www.gofishgeorgia.com
For more information, call the Boat Registration Unit at 770-414-3337.
Georgia honors all other states' registrations, provided the boat is not used in excess of 60 consecutive days in Georgia.

A wearable personal flotation device (PFD) is required for each person aboard a vessel. PFDs must be readily accessible to all occupants, in good and serviceable condition, legibly marked with the US Coast Guard approved number, and of appropriate size for the occupants. One Type IV throwable device must also be on board all vessels except Class A vessels (which includes personalwatercraft, canoes and kayaks).
Children under age 10 must wear a PFD when the vessel is under way, unless the child is within a fully enclosed cabin.
PFDs must be worn by each person aboard a vessel in an area marked as "hazardous area".
Outboard Motor Restrictions
No motor in excess of 9.9 hp may be operated on the Ogeechee River upstream of State Hwy 119.

operated on Lake Juliette or Lake Tugalo. Georgia State Park lakes often have boat and motor restrictions. Check with the Park Office at each park for details.
Boating Safety
No vessel may be operated over idle speed within 100 feet of any moored or anchored vessel, vessel adrift, or any wharf, pier, piling, or persons in the water, or shoreline next to a full-time or part-time residence, public park, public beach, public swimming area, marina, restaurant, or other public use area.
Booze and boats do not mix! It is unlawful to operate a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
To learn more about requirements for operating your boat obtain the Handbook of Georgia Boating Laws

from any WRD Law Enforcement

Why Should You Buy a Fishing License?
Your purchase of a fishing license helps support the following Fisheries Section programs.

Office.
To learn about a boating safety course, contact the Boating Safety Coordinator at 770-784-3068 or any WRD Law Enforcement Office (see page 3 for contact information).

If you want to support fisheries management and

conservation, buy a fishing license in 2002!
Management: Fish populations are monitored and managed in over 500,000 acres of reservoirs and small lakes, 12,000 miles of streams and

Lost Your License?

rivers, and over 4,000 miles of trout streams.
Hatcheries: 6 warmwater hatcheries produce largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish, striped bass, hybrid striped bass, and other species to stock reservoirs, rivers, and ponds; 3 trout hatcheries stock over 1 million trout in trout streams.
Public Fishing Areas: Over 2,000 acres of water on nine PFAs provide quality fishing for bass, bream, crappie, and catfish. PFAs are perfect areas for family recreation. License sales help build new PFAs.
Pond Management guidance is provided to pondowners through consultation and on site visits.
Boat Ramps: 150 boat ramps are maintained statewide. New ramps are built each year to provide better access for anglers.
Aquatic Education: Over 30,000 kids are introduced to fish and fishing at over 500 Kids Fishing Events each year. Over 1,200 educators are trained each year to teach youth about Georgia's aquatic resources.

If you bought your license over the internet, you can replace it by printing out another if you bookmarked your original. If you bought your license by telephone, call 1-888-748-6887 for replacement.
If you bought your license at a license dealer, obtain a "Request for Replacement/ Refund" form from a license dealer and mail to the License Unit. There is a $3 replacement fee for each form submitted.

Publications: Reservoir and South Georgia River Fishing Prospects, Small Lakes Open to Public Fishing, Pond Management book, Trout Streams of Georgia map, Fishing Regulations, River Fishing Guides, and

To fish immediately, you must purchase a new license and request a refund for the second

many others are sent to thousands of anglers each year.

license by submitting a "Request

Fish Kills in public waters are investigated and polluters fined.

for Replacement/Refund" form.

2002-2003 Sport Fishing Regulations

www .gofishgeorgia.com

Page5

Freshwater Game Species Daily Limits

It is unlawful to take in one day or to possess at any one time, except at a residence or commercial storage facility, more than the daily limit for each species. It is unlawful to possess more than a total of 50 individuals of all the game fish listed in this section, except channel and flathead catfish.
Once the daily limit for a particular species is taken, it is unlawful to continue to fish for that species.
Exception: Daily limits differ on certain waters shared by Georgia and South Carolina. See Agreements Section (page 9).
BASS .......................................... 10 Largemouth, Redeye (Coosa),
Shoal, Smallmouth, Spotted (Kentucky), and/or Suwanee bass
CATFISH .......................... No Limit Channel and/or Flathead
CRAPPIE .................................... 30 Black and/or White
PICKEREL .................................. 15 Chain, Grass and/or Redfin

SAUGER ....................................... 8
SHAD ............................................ 8 American and/or Hickory
STRIPED BASS, WHITE BASS and/or HYBRID WHITE-STRIPED BASS (see Note & Exceptions)..15
Only two of which can be 22 inches or longer (there is no length restriction in waters covered in South Carolina agreement)
Note: The season for taking striped bass and hybrid whitestriped bass from the Savannah River and its tributaries downstream of New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam is closed.
SUNFISH or BREAM (see exception) ...................... 50
Bluegill, Flier, Redbreast, Redear, Rock bass, Spotted, Warmouth and/ or Shadow bass
TROUT (see exception) .............. 8 Brook, Rainbow, and/or Brown trout
WALLEYE (see exception) ......... 8
STURGEON may not be taken in fresh or saltwater in Georgia.

EXCEPTIONS:
BREAM: see South Carolina Agreement on page 9.
STRIPED BASS, WHITE BASS and/ or HYBRID WHITE-STRIPED BASS:
Limit taken from the North Newport River, Medway River including Mount Hope Creek, Little Ogeechee River, Ogeechee River, Oconee River down-stream of GA Hwy 22 in Milledgeville, Ocmulgee River downstream of the GA Hwy 96 bridge between Houston & Twiggs counties, Altamaha River, St. Mary's River, Satilla River, and the tributaries to these river sections; and from saltwater is a two fish limit. both mustbe22 inches in length orlonger.
See South Carolina Agreement on page 9.
TROUT: See Amicalola Creek, Chattahoochee River, Smithgall Woods, Smith Creek, and Waters Creek on page 16.
WALLEYE: Limit on Blue Ridge Reservoir is 15.

Seasons

There is no closed season for fishing in freshwater in Georgia except for the following:
Trout streams that are designated as seasonal trout streams are OPEN to fishing for any species from MARCH 30 - OCTOBER 31, 2002. Seasonal trout streams are closed to fishing for all fish species at all other times.
The Flint River and its tributaries

from the Georgia Power Co. dams at Albany to the US Hwy. 84 bridge; the Chattahoochee River and its tributaries from the Columbia Lock & Dam to the GA Hwy. 91 bridge; and Spring Creek and its tributaries downstream to GA Hwy. 253 are closed to striped bass fishing and spear fishing from May 10ctober 31.
All fishing, including spear fishing,

for any species in the marked areas around five fish refuges in Lake Seminole and in three fish refuges in Lake Blackshear is prohibited from May 1 - October 31.
The season for taking striped bass and hybrid white-striped bass from the Savannah River and its tributaries downstream of New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam is closed.


Don't release live bait fish or move live fish, aquatic plants, or mussels!

Moving live fish, aquatic plants, or mussels from one lake or stream to another is against the law and may

harm native fish and wildlife. Plants, fish, and other animals should be disposed of in bags and placed in

proper receptacles. Live fish and other animals should not be released.
* It is unlawful to stock or release fish in waters within the state without a permit from DNR, except for lawfully

obtained fish of legal species stocked in private ponds.

* Never release live bait fish, aquarium fish, or aquatic plants into our waters.
* Dispose of bait fish after fishing so that they cannot enter a lake, river, or stream.

* Remove all plant fragments and mussels from your boat, motor, trailer, livewell, and nets before leaving the

launch site.

* Clean your boat and equipment thoroughly before launching into new waters.





Page 6 1-888-748-6887 for licenses

Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division

Length Limits
There are no minimum length limits on freshwater game fish unless listed below:

Largemouth bass 12 inches statewide except: Lake Blackshear-14 inches Lake Blue Ridge-no minimum (0 in.} Lake Burton-no minimum (0 in.} Lake Juliette-no minimum (0 in.} Lake Lanier-14 inches Lake Oconee-bass between 11 and
14 inches must be released immediately. All others may be kept. Ocmulgee River from the Spring Street bridge crossing in Macon downstream to the confluence of the Ocmulgee River and the Oconee River-14 inches.
Lake Walter F. George-14 inches
West Point Reservoir-16 inches

Public Fishing Area lakes operated by the Department of Natural Resources-14 inches. This limit will not apply to lakes which have been posted as having a different length limit for largemouth bass.
Shoal bass: Lake Lanier-14 inches
Flint River and its tributaries12 inches
Spotted bass: Lake Lanier-14 inches
Striped bass, White bass, Hybrid white-striped bass-You may only keep two fish that are 22 inches or longer, except the minimum length is 22 inches on 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 GA Hwy 96 bridge between Houston and Twiggs counties; Altamaha River, Saint Mary's River, Satilla River, and the tributaries to these river sections; and from saltwater.
Trout - No minimum length limit for trout other than: Waters Creek-brown and rainbow
trout-22 inches; brooktrout-18 inches Noontootla Creek and its tributaries
on Blue Ridge WMA-16 inches for all trout.

How to Measure a Freshwater Fish
1. Place the fish on its side with the jaw closed 2. Squeeze the tail fin lobes together 3. Measure in a straight line from the tip of the snout to the
extreme tip of the tail 4. You must release all fish shorter than the minimum length
indicated for that species.

Lake Oconee's Largemouth Bass Slot Limit Make it Work by Harvesting Small Bass
Keeping bass less than 11" will improve bass growth! Keeping bass larger than 14" is your choice. Bass between 11" and 14" must be released.

Discover Fishing on Georgia's Free Fishing Days!

For information or comments, call 770-918-6418

June 1 & 8, 2002 and

Handling and Releasing A Fish

When releasing a fish, you can give the fish is hooked in the stomach or

the fish a better chance of survival by throat, cut the line and leave the

following these guidelines:

hook. The hook will dissolve without

Play and release the fish as rapidly harming the fish.

as possible.

Wet your measuring board before

Whenever possible, do not take the measuring the fish.

fish out of the water.

Hold the fish in an upright position

Handle the fish gently with bare, wet and move it gently back and forth so

hands. Do not squeeze the fish, put water runs over the gills. Release

your fingers in the eyes or gills or the fish when it is able to swim.

cause scale loss.

Operate live well aerators

Remove the hook as quickly as continuously when holding fish that

possible using needlenose pliers. If you plan to release.

September 28, 2002
No fishing or trout license required
All waters of the state Must be a Georgia resident Does not include fees at
private lakes No WMA license required to
fish on a Public Fishing Area or Waters Creek trophy trout stream All other Fishing Regulations apply

2002-2003 Sport Fishing Regulations

www.gofishgeorgia.com

Page 7

i

Fishing Methods

HOOK AND LINE
Game fish may be used as live bait (where live bait is legal) if they are taken legally and you do not exceed daily creel and possession limits.
There is no restriction on the number of poles and lines to fish for game fish except: fishing for trout - one pole; fishing on Public Fishing Areas - two poles; and sport shad fishing two poles.
Landing nets may be used to land fish legally caught.
Anglers using more than two poles and lines to fish for shad must abide by commercial shad regulations. Bow nets are considered sport shad fishing gear and shall have a minimum legal size of 3 inches stretched mesh.
SPORT TROTLINES Sport trotline is one line or a
combination of lines using less than 51 hooks. Sport trotlines must be: 1. marked with the owner's name
and address and with visible buoys 2. submerged at least three (3) feet below the surface of the water 3. attended regularly and removed after the completed fishing trip.
Unmarked or unattended trotlines will be confiscated by DNA. It is

unlawful to use any sport trotline within one-half mile below any lock or dam. Only catfish and nongame fish (yearround) and American and Hickory shad during shad season may be taken with trotlines.
Trotlines and jugs are not permitted on Lake Tobesofkee or any state park lake.
SPEAR FISHING "Spearing" is the use of a handheld
spear or similar device and the use of a weapon, other than a firearm, which propels the spear to which a wire, rope, line, etc. is attached and secured to the weapon or the person using the weapon. Only nongame fish may be speared in freshwater and are not to be sold or used for commercial purposes. It is illegal to spear game fish and all species of catfish. A sport fishing license is required to spear fish in Georgia. The person spearing fish must be completely submerged.
NOTE: SEE SECTION ON SEASONS
SEINES AND CAST NETS Only nongame fish less than 5
inches in length may be taken using a minnow seine and are not to be sold or used for commercial purposes. All other fish and eels taken in minnow seines must be released

immediately unharmed into the water. A minnow seine must be less than
20 feet in length and have a 3/a inch
or less mesh (square or diameter). Minnow seines may not be used in
designated trout waters. Dip nets and cast nets may be used
to take threadfin shad, gizzard shad, and blueback herring for bait except in state park lakes.
BOW FISHING Only nongame fish may be taken by bow and arrow from freshwater under the following conditions:
Possession of a sport fishing license is required to bow fish in Georgia.
Arrows must be equipped with barbs or similar devices for recovering fish and must be attached to the person or bow by a line sufficient for recovering the arrow and fish.
Poisonous or exploding arrowheads are illegal.
Arrows cannot be discharged into the water closer than 150 feet to any person.
Legal hours for fishing with bow and arrow are from sunrise to sunset, except nongame fish may be taken at night while using a light in reservoirs over 500 acres in size.
Any game fish with an open wound possessed by a person bow fishing will be considered evidence of taking fish illegally.

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Page 8 1-888-748-6887 for licenses

IT IS UNLAWFUL TO:
Possess or use live blueback herring for bait in all freshwaters except the following: Lakes Chatuge, Juliette, Lanier, and Nottely; and the Altamaha Riverwatershed downstream ofthe following: Juliettedam on the Ocmulgee River, Lake Juliette dam on Rum Creek, Lake Tobesofkee dam on Tobesofkee Creek, Lake Sinclair dam on the Oconee River; and watersheds of all other streams that flow directly into the Atlantic Ocean. Maps illustrating restricted waters are available at gofishgeorgia.com
Fish for game fish, except american shad, hickory shad, channel catfish, or flathead catfish, by any means other than pole and line.
Take any fish from public freshwater by any method other than the methods listed on this page. Snagging fish is illegal.
Use electronic devices, explosives, poisons, or firearms to take fish. Stock or release fish or bait into any public waters except the water from
which it was taken.
Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division

Agreements with Bordering States
Agreements with bordering states allow holders of Georgia fishing licenses to fish in the waters covered without obtaining a fishing license from the bordering state. Regulations under these agreements may differ from Georgia's general laws and regulations. If this is the case, the laws and regulations of the agreement explained in this section are to be followed.

AGREEMENT WITH ALABAMA

Waters Covered:
The banks and waters of only that portion of the Chattahoochee Riverforming the boundary between Georgia and Alabama and Lakes Bartletts Ferry (Harding), George W. Andrews, Goat Rock, Oliver, Seminole, Walter F. George (Eufaula) and West Point; however, this agreement does not include that portion of West Point Reservoir lying upstream (north) of Georgia Hwy. 109 bridge on the

Chattahoochee River arm of the reservoir. The waters covered by this agreement do not include other streams or tributaries which flow into the Chattahoochee River or its impoundments or the portion of Lake Seminole covered by the agreement with Florida or Lake Weiss.
Creel and Possession Limits:
All creel and possession limits on waters covered by this agreement are the same as Georgia's statewide limits.

Minimum Length Limits:
Largemouth bass: Lake West Point - 16 inches Lake Walter F. George - 14 inches
All other fishing laws and regulations of the State of Georgia apply in Georgia waters covered by this agreement.
Licenses: All persons meeting the sport fishing
requirements of Georgia or Alabama may fish from the banks and in the waters .covered without having to obtain any other license.

AGREEMENT WITH SOUTH CAROLINA

This agreement does not apply to commercial fishing or saltwater sport fishing.
A South Carolina saltwater fishing license is required when fishing from a boat on the SC side of the Savannah River downstream of where the CSX Railroad trestle crosses the Back River.
Any person using baskets, jugs, minnow seines, or trot lines in the waters covered must comply with the laws, rules and regulations of the state in which the baskets, jugs, minnow seines, or trot lines are fished, regardless of their residence.
No person may carry to either state or possess in such state more fish than the laws of that state or those of this agreement permit, even though the fish were caught in the waters of the other state.
Waters covered:
On the banks and in the waters of all channels of the Savannah River from its mouth to the junction of the Tugaloo (Toogaloo) and Seneca Rivers; the Tugaloo River from its mouth to the junction of the Tugaloo and Chattooga Rivers; and the Chattooga River to the North Carolina state line (35th parallel of

North latitude at Ellicott's Rock). This agreement also applies to all the waters and banks of Clarks Hill Reservoir (Strom Thurmond), Richard 8. Russell Reservoir, Hartwell Reservoir, Yonah Lake, Tugaloo (Toogaloo) Lake, the New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam (see NOTE), and Stevens Creek Lake (except that portion on the Stevens Creek arm upstream of South Carolina Hwy 53). The agreement does not apply to any flowing portions of tributary streams to these impoundments nor to tributary streams of the Savannah, Tugaloo and Chattooga Rivers.
Licenses: All persons meeting the freshwater
license requirements of Georgia or South Carolina may fish from the banks and in the waters covered without having to obtain any other license.
Length Limit: Largemouth bass caught in the
Georgia portion of the waters covered by this agreement that are shorter than 12 inches in length must be released immediately.

No person may have a rifle in their possession or in a boat on South Carolina waters.
All other laws and regulations of Georgia apply in the Georgia portion ef waters covered by this agreement.
There is no length limit for striped bass and hybrid bass taken from the waters covered by this agreement.
NOTE: The season for taking striped bass and hybrid whitestriped bass from the Savannah River and Its tributaries downstream of New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam is closed.
Creel and Possession Limits: Limits for taking fish from the waters
covered by this agreement are:
Largemouth bass, Spotted bass,
and/or Redeye (Coosa) bass ...... 1o
Trout .............................................. 8 Bream (all species) ..................... 30 Walleye ......................................... 8 Sauger .......................................... 8
Crappie (Black and/or White) ..... 30 White bass .................................. 30
Striped bass and/or Hybrid white-striped bass ........... 10
It is unlawful to possess a total of more than forty (40) of all species listed above.

2002-2003 Sport Fishing Regulations

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Page9

AGREEMENT WITH FLORIDA

Waters covered The waters and the banks of the St.
Marys River, not including its tributaries. The waters and banks of Lake
Seminole, bounded on the west by Florida State Road No. 271 ; on the south by the Jim Woodruff Dam; on the east by the line immediately east of the Chattahoochee Marina (also known as the Booster Club) running northwest across the reservoir to the tip of land at the junction of the Flint
m I
For Information on Water Safety, Recreation, Lake Levels, or Camping, Contact:
Hartwell Project P.O. Box278
Hartwell, GA 30643-0278 706-856-0300 * 1-888-893-0678
Richard B. Russell Project 4144 Russell Dam Drive Elberton, GA 30635-9271 706-213-3400 * 1-800-944-7207 J. Strom Thurmond Project
Rt. 1, Box 12 Clarks HIii, SC 29821-9701 864-333-1100 * 1-800-533-3478 http://www.sas.usace.army.mil
For Camping Reservations, Contact the National Recreation Reservation
Service (NRRS) toll free. at:
8n-444-6777 www.reseiveusa.com

and Chattahoochee Rivers, west of Spring Creek; and on the north by the Herman Talmadge Bridge across the Chattahoochee River.
Creel and Possession Limits:
The limit for striped bass, white bass, and hybrid white-striped bass on the St. Mary's River is two fish which must be 22 inches or longer.
For all other species in the waters covered, Georgia's statewide creel and possession limits (page 6) apply.
All other fishing regulations of the State of Georgia apply on the Georgia side of the St. Mary's River and the Georgia portion of Lake Seminole. Florida laws and regulations apply on the Florida side of the St. Mary's River and the Florida portion of Lake Seminole.
Licenses Any person who has a valid fishing
license and properly issued permits or licenses, or both, required by Georgia or Florida in their possession may sport fish for freshwater fish in the waters covered. A Florida saltwater fishing license is required to fish for or to possess saltwater fish on the Florida side of the St. Marys River. The Georgia Honorary Disability License is not recognized by Florida under this agreement.
Georgia Senior Citizens
Georgia Senior (65+) Lifetime License holders may fish in the freshwaters in Florida without charge.
A Florida saltwater fishing license is required to fish for or to possess saltwater fish on the Florida side of the St. Marys River.
Florida Senior Citizens
Florida residents more than 65 years of age (proof of age required) may fish in fresh waters in Georgia without charge, except a nonresident trout license is required to fish in designated trout waters and to fish for or possess mountain trout. A nonresident WMA license is also required in Waters Creek.
A nonresident fishing license is required to fish, castnet, seine, crab, gig, sport bait trawl, or harvest shell fish in saltwater in Georgia.

AGREEMENT WITH NORTH CAROLINA
Waters covered: Lake Chatuge and all tributary
branches lying in Georgia or North Carolina which are accessible by boat from the main body of the reservoir.
Licenses:
Holders of a valid Georgia or North Carolina fishing license may fish with hook and line in Lake Chatuge only from boats. Boats may not be anchored to the shore or to a pier or boat dock connecting to the shore.
Senior citizen and youth license exemptions authorized by either state are honored by both states on Lake Chatuge.
All other laws and regulations of Georgia apply to the Georgia portion of Lake Chatuge. All other laws and regulations of North Carolina apply to the North Carolina portion of Lake Chatuge.
REPORT FISH KILLS
Help protect our valuable fish resources. Report fish kills as quickly as possible. CALL TOLL FREE 1-800-241-4113 (24 hrs a day, seven days a week).

TAGGED FISH
The Department of Natural Resources (DNA) periodically tags fish for research purposes. Anglers who catch tagged fish are encouraged to return the tag to DNA. A reward may be offered for each tag returned.
In past years, some individuals have placed their own personal tags on fish which were then released. This activity has created confusion among anglers over the purpose for the tagging and the organization responsible for it. Tagging by an inexperienced person can result in the needless death of the fish. For these reasons, the Department of Natural Resources urges anglers not to tag fish in public waters unless they are cooperating in a recognized scientific tagging program.

Page 10 1-888-748-6887 for licenses

Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division

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Kmart Firearms and Ammunition Polley: Firearms and ammunition are sold in strict compliance with Federal, State and local laws. All purchases must be picked up in person. Purchaser of firearms must be a resident of the state in which the firearms were sold.
2002-2003 Sport Fishing Regulations

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Page 11

Sale of Fish

GAME FISH It is unlawful for any person to sell or purchase any game fish except under the following conditions:
Game fish may be sold by commercial fish hatcheries, wholesale and retail fish dealers, and pond owners (see following paragraph) who conform to the Game and Fish Code.
Game fish from a pond may be sold when the owner has obtained a valid permit from DNR Law Enforcement Section and the permit is displayed at the pond. A permit will be issued only once annually and limits the time for taking fish from the pond to 15 days. Permit applications require two weeks to process. To transport game fish taken from the pond, the fish must be packaged and labeled with the permit number and the number and pounds of each species contained

in the package. Fish must remain having an established population in

so packaged until processed or public waters in Georgia. The White

released into another pond.

Perch is not recognized as a domestic

Game fish shipped into Georgia fish. Persons in possession of

may be lawfully transported, sold, domestic fish from registered

and resold provided each person in aquaculturists must have an authentic

possession of said game fish has w bill of sale or lading which identifies

an authentic bill of sale or lading the seller, the date of transaction and

which details the source of the fish at least two of the following for each

and the species, number and fish species: number, weight, or

pounds of the fish.

average length.

DOMESTIC FISH

COMMERCIAL FISHING

Aquaculturists (fish farmers) must American shad, hickory shad,

register with the Department of Natural channel catfish, and flathead catfish

Resources in order to sell domestic taken while commerical fishing may

fish. Registration applications are be sold as described in the Game

available from any Fisheries Section and Fish Code. For a complete copy

office or by calling 770-918-6418. of the freshwater commercial fishing

Domestic fish are lawfully obtained regulations, contact the nearest

farmed fish which are held in Fisheries Section office or see the

confinement in private ponds, but only website www.gofishgeorgia.com. For

if they are fish species which are information concerning saltwater

either indigenous to Georgia or have commercial fishing, contact the

been recognized prior to 1992 as Coastal Resources Division.

CALL 1-88 8-GPC -LAKE to find out about some of the best
getaways in the state of Georgia. We have a wealth of forested parks and over 1,350 miles of unspoiled shoreline for you to explore. And you thought we were only good at maintaining the environment in your home.

GEORGIA A POWER
A SOUTHI RN COMPANY

Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division

Trout Fishing in Georgia

The Wildlife Resources Division uses special regulations (page 17) and stocking to provide quality trout fishing in Georgia. More than one million rainbow trout and brown trout are stocked each year from March through mid-September. The number of trout stocked and the stocking frequency depend on a stream's fishing pressure, public access, and water conditions. Streams with greater public access are

stocked more often with more trout. General information abouttrout stocking is available on the internet at the WRD web site(www.goflshgeorgla.com). The Trout Streams of Georgia Map is available from WRD and includes Georgia's trout streams, roads, and a list of recommended streams.
Trout need clean, cold water to survive. Georgians can be good trout managers by using proper land use practices.

Trees and other vegetation left along stream banks provide shade to keep water cold and help prevent soil from washing into the stream.
Many trout streams are located on privateproperty. The landownercontrols access to, and fishing rights in, such streams. Itis your responsibility to know when you cross a property line. Obtain permission from the landowner before fishing on private property.

TROUT SEASON
Trout season is from March 30-October 31, 2002. Many trout streams are open to fishing year-round. (see list below)
TROUT FISHING HOURS
Fishing hours on seasonal trout streams, except Waters Creek (page 16), are 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. Night fishing is not allowed.
Fishing 24 hours a day is allowed on year-round trout streams, except those in next paragraph, and on all impoundments on trout streams, except Dockery and Rock Creek lakes.
Fishing hours on the Chattahoochee River from Buford Dam to Peachtree Creek, the Conasauga River watershed upstream of the Georgia-

Tennessee state line and Smith Creek downstream of Unicoi dam are 30 minutes before sunrise until 30 minutes after sunset. Night fishing is not allowed.
TROUT FISHING RULES
Trout anglers are restricted to the use of one pole and line which must be hand held. No other type of gear may be used in trout streams.
Live bait-fish may not be used in any trout stream, except live bait-fish may be used on the Chattahoochee River downstream of the Roswell Road bridge (GA Hwy 9). Seining bait-fish is not allowed in any trout stream.
It is unlawful to fish for any fish species in a seasonal trout stream when the season is closed.

IMPOUNDMENTS ON TROUT STREAMS
ANGLERS CAN:
Fish for fish species other than trout without a trout license, except on Dockery and Rock Creek lakes.
Fish year-round, except on Dockery Lake.
Fish at night, except on Dockery and Rock Creek lakes.
If you fish for or possess trout, you must possess a trout license. If you catch a trout and do not possess a trout license you must release the trout immediately.
Visitors fishing impoundments on State Parks can fish for & possess trout without a trout license. State Park visitors fishing trout streams must
possess a trout license.

PROTECTED SPECIES l\li\Y BE ENCOl lNTERED \\'IIILE FISHING

Many rare and protected species such as the three pictured below live in or near water and may be encountered while fishing. There are currently 55 fish, 7 salamanders, 14 mussels, and 12 turtles on Georgia's protected species list. It is unlawful to capture, kill, or harm any protected species. If you accidentally capture a protected species while fishing, release it unharmed immediately. For more information, please contact the Nongame Wildlife and Natural Heritage section at 770-918-6411 or visit the website www.dnr.state.ga.us/dnr/wild/natural.html

EASTERN HELLBENDER Large, harmless salamander found in clear, rocky mountain streams such as trout streams.
2002-2003 Sport Fishing Regulations

MAP TURTLE Aquatic turtle with prominent spiny keel on midline of shell. Found in large streams, rivers in Northwest and Southwest portions of state.

ALLIGATOR
SNAPPING TURTLE Huge aquatic turtle that may weigh over 100 lbs. Occurs in large streams, rivers, reservoirs in the Southwest corner of the state. Jaws are powerful-keep a safe distance!

www .gofishgeorgia.com

Page 13

GEORGIA'S TROUT STREAMS BY COUNTY

Seasonal Trout Streams (S) are open March 30 - October 31, 2002 Year-round Streams (YR) are open to fishing throughout the year and are designated in dark blue type

Watershed: the stream and all its tributaries (streams flowing into that stream).

NOTE: The following trout streams have special regulations, see page 17 before fishing: Amicalola Creek, Chattahoochee River, Coleman River, Conasauga River, Hoods Creek, Jones Creek, Moccasin Creek, Mountaintown Creek,

Noontootla Creek, Smithgall Woods-Dukes Creek, Smith Creek, Stanley Creek, Walnut Fork Creek, Waters Creek.

BARTOW COUNTY $-Boston Creek watershed upstream from GA Hwy 20; Toms Creek watershed upstream from Bartow Co Rd 82. YR-Connesena Creek watershed; Dykes Creek watershed; Pine Log Creek watershed; Pyle Creek watershed; Salacoa Creek watershed; Spring Creek watershed; Stamp Creek watershed upstream from Bartow Co Rd 269; Two Run Creek watershed; Ward Creek watershed.
CARROLL COUNTY YR-Tallapoosa River watershed north of 1-20, not Including Little Tallapoosa River watershed.
CATOOSA COUNTY $-Hurricane Creek watershed UJ)stream from Peters Branch. YR-Dry Creekwatershed(part ofEast Chickamauga Creek watershed) upstream ofCatoosa Co Rd257; Little Chickamauga Creek watershed upstream from Catoosa Co Rd 387; Tiger Creek watershed upstream from GA Hwy 2.
CHATTOOGA COUNTY $-Allgood Branch watershed; Chappel Creek watershed; Chelsea Creek watershed; East Fork Little River watershed; Hinton Creek watershed; Kings Creek watershed; Mt. Hope Creek watershed (Coon Creek); Perennial Spring watershed; Raccoon Creek watershed upstream from GA Hwy 48; Ruff Creek watershed. YR-Little Armuchee Creek watershed upstream from Co Rd326; Storey MIii Creek watershed; Taliaferro Creek watershed.
CHEROKEE COUNTY S-Boston Creek watershed. YR-Bluff Creek watershed upstream of Cherokee Co Rd 114; Pine Log Creek watershed; Sa/acoa Creek watershed; Soap Creek watershed upstream of Cherokee Co Rd 116; Stamp Creek watershed; WIiey Creek watershed.
~ River downstream
to the mouth of Peachtree Creek.
DADE COUNTY S-East Fork Little River watershed; Rock Creek watershed.

YR- Al/Ison Creek watershed; Lookout Creek watershed upstream from Dade Co Rd 197.
DAWSON COUNTY S-Amicalola Creek watershed upstream from Dawson Co Rd 192 (Steele Bridge Rd) which is first bridge upstream from GA Hwy 53; Amicalola Creek tributaries from GA Hwy 53 upstream to Dawson Co Rd 192 (Steele Bridge Rd); Nimblewill Creek watershed; Shoal Creek watershed upstream from the mouth of Burt Creek; Sweetwater Creek watershed. YR-Amlca/ola Creek from Dawson Co Rd 192 (Steele Bridge Rd) downstream to GA Hwy53; Anderson Creek watershed; Long Swamp Creek watershed.
FANNIN COUNTY $-Charlie Creek watershed; Etowah River watershed; Jacks River watershed; Owenby Creek watershed; Persimmon Creek watershed; South Fork Rapier Mill Creek watershed; Star Creek watershed; Toccoa River tributary watersheds entering the river downstream from Blue Ridge Reservoir to the GA-Tennessee state line & upstream from the mouth of Stanley Creekexceptthose listed as year-round; Tumbling Creek watershed; Wilscot Creek watershed. YR-Conasauga River watershed (except Jacks River watershed); Ell/Jay River watershed; Flghtlngtown Creek watershed; Mountalntown Creek watershed; Noontootla Creek watershed; Rock Creek watershed; Rock Creek Lake; Toccoa River downstream from Lake Blue Ridge to the GA-Tennessee state line & upstream from the mouth of Stanley Creek (does not Include tributaries unless listed).
FLOYD COUNTY S-Johns Creek watershed upstream from Floyd Co Rd 212; Kings Creek watershed; Lavender Creek watershed upstream from Floyd Co Rd 893; Mt. Hope Creek watershed; Toms Creek watershed. YR-Dykes Creek watershed; Little Cedar Creek watershed; Sliver Creek watershed upstream of GA Hwy 1E (Floyd Co Rd 631); Spring Creek watershed (flows Into Etowah River).

FORSYTH COUNTY YR-Chattahoochee River.
FULTON COUNTY YR-Chattahoochee River downstream to the mouth of Peachtree Creek.
GILMER COUNTY S-Harris Creek watershed; Johnson Creek watershed; Tails Creek watershed; and all other streams or parts of streams not listed as yearround except: Coosawattee River downstream from Old GA Hwy 5 (Gilmer Co Rd 239); Talking Rock Creek; and tributaries to Carters Reservoir not listed as year-round (these may be fished year-round without a trout license). YR-Ball Creek watershed; Cartecay River watershed; Conasauga River watershed (except Jacks River watershed); Coosawatee River from confluence of Cartecay & Ell/Jay rivers downstream to old GA Hwy 5 bridge (GIimer Co Rd 239); Ell/Jay River watershed; Flghtlngtown Creek watershed; Mountalntown Creek watershed; Noontootla Creek watershed; Sevenmlle Creek watershed; Town Creek watershed; WIidcat Creek watershed.
GORDON COUNTY S-Johns Creek watershed; Pin Hook Creek watershed upstream from Gordon Co Rd 275; Rocky Creek watershed upstream from Gordon Co Rd 21 O; Snake Creek watershed. YR-Pine Log Creek watershed upstream from GA Hwy 53; Sa/acoa Creek watershed upstream from US Hwy 411.
GWINNETT COUNTY YR-Chattahoochee River.
HABERSHAM COUNTY $-Amy's Creek watershed upstream from GA Hwy 17; Chattahoochee River tributaries downstream to GA Hwy 255 (except Amy's Creek downstream from GA Hwy 17 & Sautee Creek downstream from GA Hwy 255 Alternate bridge); Left Fork Soque River upstream of GA Hwy 356 & all tributaries to the entire Left Fork Soque River; Middle Fork Broad River watershed; Nancytown Creek watershed upstream
(Continues on next page)

Page 14 1-888-748-6887 for licenses

Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division

S - SEASONAL STREAMS; YR - YEAR-ROUND STREAMS

from Nancytown Lake; Right Fork Soque River upstream of Wilson Falls &tributaries to the entire Right Fork Soque River; Soque River tributaries that enter the river from the confluence of the Left Fork & Right Fork Soque riversdownstreamtothemouthpfDeep
Creek. YR-Chattahoochee River downstream to GA Hwy 255; Left Fork SoqueRiverdownstreamofGAHwy 356 except tributaries; Liberty Cr~ek watershed; North Fork Broad River watershed; Panther Creek wa_tershed; Right Fo~k Soque R,ver downstream of Wilson Falls except
tributaries; Roberts Branch

North Prong Sumac Creek watershed; Rock Creek watershed upstream from Murray Co Rd 4 (most southern of two Rock Creeks which are in the Holly Creek watershed); Sugar Creek watershed upstream from Murray Co Rd 4; Sumac Creek watershed
upstream from Coffey Lake. YR-Conasauga River watershed upstream from the GA-Tennessee state line (except Jacks River watershed); Dill Creek watershed; Holly Creek watershed upstream fromDil/Creek;Mil/Creekwatershed upstreamfromMurrayCoRd27;Mill Creek (Hass/ers Mill Creek)
watershed that is in the Holly Creek

YR- Ball Creek watershed; Bluff Creek watershed; Cartecay River watershed; Darnell Creek watershed; Hobson Creek watershed; Litt/'! Scarecorn Creek watershed; Long Swamp Creek watershed upstream from Cove Creek; Mud Creek watershed; Rock Creek watershed; Salacoa Creek watershed; Scarecorn Creek watershed upstream from GA Hwy 53; Sevenmile Creek watershed; Sharp Mountain Creek watershed; Soap Creek watershed; Talking Rock Creek watershed upstream from S1011 (GA Hwy 136); Town Creek watershed; Wildcat Creek watershed.

watershed; Sautee Creek downstream from GA Hwy 255 Alternate
bridge; Soque River, except tributaries downstream f~om the confluence of Left Fork & Right Fork

Soque rivers, to the mouth of Deep Creek; Toccoa Creek watershed.

HARALSON COUNTY

.

S-Flatwood Creek wat~rshed,

Lassetter Creek watershed, Mann

Creek watershed upstream from

Haralson Co Rd 162. YR-Tallapoosa Creek watershed;

Tallapoosa River watershed upstream from Co Rd 222.

HART COUNTY YR-Savannah River frolf! Hartwell

Dam downstrea_m to Richard B.

Russell Reservo,r.

LUMPKIN COUNTY S-Amicalola Creek watershed; Bryant

Creek watershed; Cane Creek watershed upstream from GA Hwy 9-52

watershed; Rock Creek watershed

POLK COUNTY

(most northern of two Rock Creeks S-Lassetter Creek watershed;

within Holly Creek watershed) Pumpkinpile Creek watershed upstream

upstream from Murray Co Rd 301. from Polk Co Rd 437.

PAULDING COUNTY

YR-Cedar Creek watershedup-

S-Possum Creek watershed upstream stream from Polk Co Rd 121; Little from Paulding co Rd 64; Powder Creek Cedar Creek watershed; Silver Creek

(Powder Springs Creek) watershed; watershed; Spring Creek watershed;

Pumpkinvine Creek watershed Swinney Creek watershed;

upstream from Paulding Co Rd 231; Thomasson Creek watershed;

Raccoon Creek watershed upstream Thompson Creek watershed

from SR 2299 (Paulding Co Rd 471). upstream of Polk Co Rd 441.

YR-Pyle Creek watershed;

Tallapoosa River watershed; RABUN COUNTY

Thompson Creek watershed; Ward S-Bad Branch watershed (flows into

Creek watershed. PICKENS COUNTY

Lake Seed); Bad Creek watershed (flows into Tugaloo); Bridge Creek

S-Amicalola Creek watershed watershed; Crow Creek watershed

upstream from Dawson Co Rd 192; (flows into Seed); Dickenson Branch

Cove Creek watershed upstream from (flows into Burton); Dicks Creek

Pickens Co Rd 294; Fisher Creek watershed (flows into Burton); Falls

watershed; Pin Hook Creek watershed. Branch watershed (flows into Rabun);
(Continues on next page)

bridge; Cavender Creek watershed; Chestatee River watershed upstream from Tate Bridge (first bridge below Turner's Corner); Chestatee River tributaries from the mouth of Tesnatee Creek upstream to Tate Bridge; Dockery

O(wbern

Lake; Etowah River watershed upstream from Jay Bridge; Etowah Rivertributaries from Castleberry Bridge upstream to Jay Bridge; Shoal Creek watershed;

Williams FISH FARM

Yahoola Creek watershed upstream from

the mouth of Bryant Creek.

YR-Chestatee River from Tate Bridge

{first bridge below Turner's Corner)

downstream to the mouth of Tesnatee Creek; Etowah River from Jay Bridge downstream to Castleberry Bridge; Yahoo/a Creek watershed from the mouth of Bryant Creek downstream to GA Hwy 52.
MURRAY COUNTY S-Jacks River watershed upstream from Georgia-Tennessee state line;

Arso available:
Hybrid Striped Bass - Golden Redbreast - Channel catfish - Largemouth Bass Threadfln Shad
Bluegill - Redear

ROUTE 5 BOX 22390 HAWKINSVILLE GA, 31036
Phone: 478-892-3144
Fax: 478-783-3144 fishsales@owenandwilllams.com
www.owenandwllllams.com

2002-2003 Sport Fishing Regulations

www .gofishgeorgia .com

Page 15

S - SEASONAL STREAMS; YR - YEAR-ROUND STREAMS

Flat Creek watershed; Joe Creek streams or parts of streams not listed watershed; Little Chickamauga

watershed (flows into Rabun); LaCounts below as year-round except: Butternut Creek watershed; West Armuchee

Creek watershed (flows into Seed); Creek watershed; Nottely River Creek watershed.

Moccasin Creek watershed; Popcorn Creek watershed; Seals Creek watershed (flows into Seed); Slick Shoal Creek (flows into Seed); Timpson Creek watershed; Wildcat Creek watershed; Worse Creek watershed (flows into Tugaloo); and all other streams or parts of streams not listed as year-round

downstream from Nottely Dam & tributaries to Nottely Reservoir not listed as year-round (these may be fished yearround without a trout license). YR-Brasstown Creek watershed downstream from US Hwy 76 bridge; Coosa Creek watershed; lvylog Creek watershed; Noontootla Creek

WHITE COUNTY S-Chattahoochee River watershed upstream from GA Hwy 75 Alternate bridge; Chatta-hoochee Rivertributaries from GA Hwy 75 Alternate bridge downstream to GA Hwy 255 bridge except Dukes Creek watershed

except: Tallulah River downstream from watershed; Nottely River from US downstream from the US Forest Service

Lake Burton Dam & tributaries to Burton, Seed, Rabun, Tallulah Falls, Tugaloo & Yonah lakes not listed as year-round
(may be fished year-round without a trout license). YR-Chattooga River upstream from the mouth of Warwoman Creek; Little Tennessee River downstream from US Hwy 23-441 bridge; Overflow

Hwy 129-19 ~bridge downstream to Nottely Reservoir; Rock Creek watershed; Toccoa River (does not include tributaries unless listed); Youngcane Creek watershed.
WALKER COUNTY S-Allen Creek watershed; Chappel Creek watershed; Dougherty Creek

property boundary, Sautee Creek and

Smith Creek watershed downstream

from Unicoi dam; Town Creek watershed

upstream from the mouth of Jenny Creek.

YR-Chattahoochee

River

downstream from the GA Hwy 75

Alternate bridge to the GA Hwy 255

bridge; Dukes Creek watershed

Creek watershed; Stekoa Creek watershed; Dry Creek watershed downstream from the US Forest

watershed; Tallulah River down- (tributary to East Armuchee Creek); East Service property boundary; Little

stream to Lake Burton; West Fork Fork Little River watershed (flows into Tesnatee Creek watershed upstream

Chattooga River.

Dade County); East Fork Little River from the mouth of Turner Creek;

STEPHENS COUNTY S-Middle Fork Broad River watershed upstream from NRCS flood control structure No. 44. YR- Little Toccoa Creek watershed; North Fork Broad River watershed upstream from NRCS flood control structure No. 1; Panther Creek watershed; Toccoa Creek watershed

watershed (flows into Chattooga County); Furnace Creek watershed; Gilreath Creek; Harrisburg Creek watershed upstream from Dougherty Creek; Johns Creek watershed; Left Fork Coulter Branch watershed; Rock Creek watershed upstream from Sawmill Branch; Ruff Creek watershed; Sawmill Branch; Snake Creek watershed; West

Sautee Creek; Smith Creek downstream of Unicoi dam; Turner Creek watershed (one nearest to Cleveland City limits).
WHITFIELD COUNTY S-Snake Creek watershed; Swamp Creek watershed upstream from Whitfield Co Rd 9.

upstream from Toccoa Falls.

Chickamauga Creek watershed 'IR-Coahul/a Creek watershed

TOWNS COUNTY S-Bearmeat Creek watershed; Bell
Creek watershed; Bugshuffle Branch watershed (Allen Mill Creek); Burch Branch watershed; Fodder Creek

upstream from Walker Co Rd 107. YR-Chattanooga Creek watershed upstream from Walker Co Rd 235; Concord Creek watershed; Duck Creek watershed; Gulf Creek

upstream from Whitfield Co Rd 183; Dry Creek watershed (part of East Chickamauga Creek watershed); Spring Creek (Deep Spring Creek) watershed; Tiger Creek watershed.

watershed; Hog Creek watershed;

Shake Rag Branch watershed; and all

other streams or parts of streams not

listed as year-round except: Hightower

Creek downstream from Towns Co Rd 88; Hiwassee River downstream from Towns Co Rd 87; and tributaries to

Timber Management Wildlife Management Soil & Water Conservation Recreation Aesthetics

Chatuge Reservoir not listed below
as year-round (may be fished year- Are you interested in managing your forest for multiple uses?

round without a trout license). YR- Brasstown Creek watershed

Georgia's Forest Stewardship Program

downstream from US Hwy 76 bridge; Charlies Creek watershed; Hightower Creek downstream from

can provide you with a written management plan to help you reach those objectives!

US Hwy 76 bridge to Towns Co Rd 88; Hiwassee River downstream

~

from Brown Bridge (second bridge

For details contact your nearest

above US Hwy 76 on GA Hwy 75) to Towns Co Rd 87; Tallulah River.
UNION COUNTY S-Arkaqua Creek watershed;

Georgia Forestry Commission or Georgia Department of Natural Resources Office or call:

Bracket Creek watershed; Butler

Creek watershed; Camp Creek

watershed; Conley Creek watershed; Kiutuestia Creek watershed;

1-800-GATREES

Low Creek watershed; and all other

Page 16 1-888-748-6887 for licenses

Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division

Special Trout Stream Regulations

While fishing specially regulated waters with a minimum size limit, it is unlawful to possess a trout which is less than the specified minimum size regardless of where the fish was caught. The following trout streams and portions of trout streams have special management programs and regulations to provide a variety of trout fishing opportunities:

DELAYED HARVEST STREAMS Anglers fishing delayed harvest streams must release all trout immediately and use and possess only artificial lures with singlehooksfromNov.1-May14annually. These restrictions do not apply from May
15-Oct. 31 of each year. The following streams are delayed harvest streams: AMICALOLA CREEK from County Road 192 (Steele Bridge Road) downstream to GA Hwy 53. CHATTAHOOCHEE RIVER from Sope Creek (off Columns Drive) downstream to US Hwy 41 (Cobb Parkway).
SMITH CREEK on Unicoi State Park from Unicoi Dam downstream to the Unicoi State Park property boundary.
ARTIFICIAL LURES ONLY In streams listed here only artificial lures
may be used. It is unlawful to possess any other type bait on an "artificial lures only" stream (see definitions on page 33). CHATTAHOOCHEE RIVER from GA Hwy
20 to the boat ramp at the National Park Service Medlock Bridge Park immediately upstream of GA Hwy 141. COLEMAN RIVER and its tributaries from its junction with the Tallulah River upstream to Forest Service Bridge No. 54. CONASAUGA RIVER and its tributaries (except Jacks River watershed) upstream of the Georgia-Tennessee state line are restricted to using only artificial lures from Nov. 1 through the last Saturday in March of each year. Natural baits may be used during trout season. HOODS CREEK and its tributaries on the Warwoman WMA. JONES CREEK and its tributaries on the Blue Ridge WMA. MOUNTAINTOWN CREEK and its tributariesupstreamofMountaintownCreek Watershed Structure No. 2 (Hills Lake).
NOONTOOTLA CREEK and its tributaries on Blue Ridge WMA. NOTE: All trout less than 16 inches in length caught from this section of Noontootla Creek must be released immediately. STANLEY CREEK and its tributaries on the Rich Mountain WMA. WALNUT FORK CREEK and its tributaries on the Warwoman WMA.
OTHER REGULATIONS MOCCASIN CREEK That portion of Moccasin Creek between Lake Burton Hatchery water intake and a sign marking the approximate normal pool level of Lake Burton is restricted to anglers under 12 years of age and holders of Honorary licenses and is open only during trout season.

SMITHGALL WOODS-DUKES CREEK CONSERVATION AREA. Dukes Creek and its tributaries within the Dukes Creek Conservation Area are open to fishing year round by reservation only. To make a reservation call 706-878-3087.
Only artificiallures with barbless hooks may be used or possessed on the portion of Dukes Creek and its tributaries in White County on the Conservation Area, including the GA Hwy 75 Alternate right-of-way. Possession of any bait, lure, or gear not legal for use on the stream is unlawful.
All fish caught from Dukes Creek and its tributaries in White County on the Conservation Area, including the GA
Hwy 75 Alternate right-of-way, must be immediately released where caught.
No trout may be possessed while fishing on any stream on the Conservation Area or the GA Hwy 75 Alternate right-of-way.
WATERSCREEKlocatedontheChestatee WMA is managed for trophy trout. Waters Creek and its tributaries are open during the trout season on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays only between 6:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (7:30 p.m. Eastern Daylight Saving Time) with the following restrictions: Artificial lures with a single barbless
hook no larger than a #6 must be used. Only one lure can be used at a time. You cannot possess lures that do not meet these criteria while on the area. Landing nets may not exceed two (2) feet in length. Possession of any bait, lure, landing nets or gear not legal for use on the stream is unlawful. No night fishing. License Requirements for Waters
Creek: Residents: Georgia resident fishing license, trout license, and WMA license. Senior (65+) Lifetime, Honorary and Sportsman's license holders do not need a WMA license. Nonresidents: Nonresident Georgia fishing license, nonresidenttrout license and nonresident WMA license. Florida residentsmorethan65yearsmustpossess nonresident trout and WMA licenses. Size limits: 22 inches for brown and rainbow trout and 18 inches for brook trout. It is a violation to possess a trout smaller than these limits while fishing on Waters creek. Possession limit: One (1) trout may be possessed daily. No person may take more than three (3) trout per season.

OWutodroldo.r
More Ouldoon hr Your Money'"
Now Located in Lawrenceville, GA

2002-2003 Sport Fishing Regulations

www.gofishgeorgia.com

Page 17

Georgia Angler Recognition

Angler Award Program

Catching a State Record

Catching a big fish is always a thrill If you think you, or someone you
and usually requires exceptional fish- know, has caught a fish on sporting ing skill. Each year DNA recognizes tackle that may be a new state freshthe achievement of anglers who catch water record, follow these steps:

have certified scales). Obtain witnesses names, address'es and telephone numbers. Witnesses cannot be members of your immediate family. Estimated weights are not accepted.

"trophy" fish by presenting the angler Do not clean or freeze the fish.

Take the fish to a DNA Fisheries

with an Angler Award. The fish does not have to be a new state record to qualify. Angler Award applications and minimum weights for species are available at any Fisheries Section office. To qualify you must:
Catch your fish by legal sport fishing

Keep the fish cool, preferably on ice.
Weigh the fish as soon as possible on scales certified accurate to the nearest ounce by the Georgia Dept. of Agriculture in the presence of two witnesses who are over the age of 18 (many Fisheries Section offices

Office as soon as possible and have it positively identified by a DNA fisheries biologist or technician.
Complete an application and submit with a clear side view photo of the whole fish within 90 days of the catch.

methods in Georgia.
Weigh the fish as soon as possible on scales certified accurate by the Georgia Dept. of Agriculture (at Fisheries Section offices & businesses that sell products by weight) in the presence of two witnesses over the age of 18. Witnesses cannot be members of the immediate family.
The fish must meet the minimum weight requirements for that species.

Georgia's Freshwater Fish Records

Species

Weight Angler

Location

Date

Bass, Hybrid .......... 25 lbs. 8 oz. . David Hobby .. ... .. .. Lake Chatuge .................. 5/95

Bass, Largemouth.. 22 lbs. 4 oz. . George Perry ........ Montgomery Lake ............ 6/32

Bass, Redeye ........ 3 lbs. 5 oz.... James Vaughn ..... Lake Hartwell ................... 2/99

Bass, Shoal ........... 8 lbs. 3 oz. ... David Hubbard ..... Flint River ........................ 10/77

Bass, Smallmouth.. 7 lbs. 2 oz.... Jack Hall .............. Lake Chatuge .................. 3/73

Bass, Spotted ........ 8 lbs. 0.5 oz.. Patrick Bankston ... Lake Lanier ..................... 5/85

Bass, Striped ......... 63 lbs. ......... Kelly Ward ............ Oconee River .................. 5/67

Bass, Suwanee ..... 3 lbs. 9 oz.... Laverne Norton .. ... Ochlocknee River ............ 10/84

Bass, White ........... 5 lbs. 1 oz.... J.M. Hobbins ..... ... Lake Lanier ..................... 6/71

Take the fish to a DNA Fisheries Bowlin ...... ............. 16 lbs. ......... Char1es Conley ..... Stephen Foster State Par1<.. 5/76

Office and have it positively identi- Bullhead, Brown .... 5 lbs. 8 oz.... James Andrews.... O.F. Veal pond ............... 5/78

fied by a fisheries biologist or tech- Carp, Common ...... 35 lbs. 12 oz. Donald Clark......... Lake Jackson .................. 1972

nician. In some cases a clear side Catfish, Blue .......... 62 lbs. ......... Ralph Barbee Jr ... . Clarks Hill Reservoir ......... 9179

view photo of the fish can be used for identification, but you must discuss this with a fisheries biologist or technician prior to submitting your application.
Complete an application and submit it with a clear side view photo of the whole fish to the address listed on the form.

Catfish, Channel.... 44 lbs. 12 oz. Bobby Smithwick .. Altamaha River ................ 5/72 Catfish, Flathead... 67 lbs. 8 oz. . Gene Middleton .. .. Altamaha River ................ 5/00
Catfish, White ........ 8 lbs. 1ooz.. James Sanders .... Savannah River ............... 6/96
Crappie, Black (tie).. 4 lbs. 4 oz.... Shir1ey Lavender... Acree's Lake .................... 6/71 Crappie, Black (tie).. 4 lbs. 4 oz.... Steve Cheek......... Lake Spivey ..................... 3175 Crappie, White ....... 5 lbs............ Theresa Kemp ...... Bibb Co. pond .................. 4/84 Gar, Longnose ....... 28 lbs. 6 oz. . Richard Johnson ... Flint River ........................ 1/95 Muskellunge .......... 38 lbs.......... Rube Golden ........ Blue Ridge Lake .............. 6/57 Perch, Yellow ........ 2 lbs. 8 oz.... Char1es Poole....... Lake Burton ..................... 2/80 Pickerel, Chain ...... 9 lbs. 6 oz.... Baxley McQuaig Jr... Homerville ....................... 2/61

Pickerel, Redlin ...... 2 lbs. 10 oz. . Gene Brantley ...... Lewis' pond ..................... 7/82

Pike, Northern ........ 18 lbs. 2 oz.. Keith Gragg .......... Lake Rabun ..................... 6/82

Sauger .................. 4 lbs. 3 oz. .. . Stuart Bowers .. .. .. . Clarks Hill Reservoir ......... 4/86

Shad, American ..... 8 lbs. 3 oz.... Henry Baxley ........ Savannah River ............... 4/86

Shad, Hickory ........ 1 lb. 15 oz.... Mark Bowers ........ Ogeechee River .....: ......... 4/95

Sunfish, Bluegill ..... 3 lbs. 5 oz.... P.F. Gumm........... Shamrock Lake ............... 7/77

Sunfish, Flier.......... 1 lb. 4 oz...... Curt Brooks ...... .... Lowndes Co. pond ........... 2/96

Sunfish, Green .... ... 1 lb. 1 oz...... Kevin Bryant ......... Gordon Co. pond ............. 5/98

Sunfish, Redbreast.. 1 lb. 11 oz.... Emory Walden ...... Coweta Co. pond ............. 4/98

Sunfish, Redear ..... 4 lbs. 2 oz.... Pat Lawrence .... ... Richmond Co. pond ......... 6/95

Sunfish, Warmouth.. 2 lbs............ Car1ton Robbins .... private pond ..................... 5/74

Trout, Brook ........... 5 lbs. 10 oz.. Russell Braden ..... Waters Creek .................. 3/86

Trout, Brown .......... 18 lbs. 6 oz.. Charles Ford ....... Chattahoochee R ........... 11/01

Trout, Rainbow ...... 15 lbs.......... E.B. Watkins ......... White Co. pond ................ 4/85

Walleye .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . 11 lbs. 6 oz. . Neal Watson ........... Richard B. Russell Lake ... 9/95

Page 18 1-888-748-6887 for licenses

Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division

FINDING A PLACE TO FISH IN GEORGIA IS EASY, HERE IS WHY!

Georgia offers some of the best fishing in the country. You can fish from the mountains to the coast for everything from rainbow trout to spotted seatrout. Listed below are publications and information available from DNR that make it easy to find a place to fish. www.gofishgeorgia.com - the DNR web site will get you to a wealth of fishing information.
Reservoir and South Georgia River Fishing Prospects - updated annually by fisheries biologists, these publications give you information about each lake or river, who to call, species you can fish for, fishing tips, and more. Small Georgia Lakes Open to Public Fishing - lists small lakes you can fish around the state. Includes location, telephone, fish species, facilities, when you can fish, and other pertinent information.
Public Fishing Areas - Located statewide, you can fish for bass, sunfish, catfish, and crappie at many of nine PFAs. These areas are managed by WRD for anglers and truly are "Perfect Family Areas" for fishing and recreation. Information cards provide the information you need to visit. See page 20 for more information about PFAs. Trout Streams of Georgia - this map shows all the trout streams in Georgia, public land where access is not a problem, roads, camping areas, and has fishing tips and a list of stocked and wild streams to get you started. Map is available on the DNR website or from any Fisheries Section office. Saltwater fishing - the DNR web site (www.gofishgeorgia.com) has all the information you need to fish from the shore or from a boat at one of the artificial reefs. Also available from Coastal Resources Division are county guides to coastal fishing in Camden, Glynn, McIntosh, Liberty, Bryan, and Chatham counties.

Fisheries Section. Offices, Hatcheries & Public Fishing Areas

1 Rocky Mountain Rec. & PFA 2 Summerville Office & Hatchery 3 Northwest Regional Office (Calhoun) 4 Burton Office & Trout Hatchery 5 Northeast Regional Office (Gainesville) 6 Buford Trout Hatchery 7 Thomson District Office 8 McDuffie PFA & Hatchery 9 East Central Regional Office (Social Circle) 10 Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center/Marben PFA 11 Treutlen County PFA 12 Metter District Office 13 Evans County PFA 14 Demeries Creek Coastal Regional Office 15 Richmond Hill Hatchery 16 Coastal Resources Division HQ 17 South Central Regional Office (Waycross) 18 Dodge County PFA 19 Cordele Hatchery 20 Bowens Mill Office & Hatchery 21 Paradise PFA 22 Southwest Regional Office (Albany) 23 Manchester District Office 24 Big Lazer Creek PFA 25 West Central Regional Office (Fort Valley) 26 Dawson Office & Steve Cocke Hatchery 27 Wildlife Resources Division Headquarters

706-802-5087 706-857-3394 706-624-1161 706-947-3112 770-535-5498 770-781 -6888 706-595-1619 706-595-1684 770-918-6418 770-784-3059 912-685-6424 912-685-6424 912-739-1139 912-727-2112 912-756-3691 912-264-7218 912-285-6094 478-374-6765 229-276-2362 229-426-5272 229-533-4792 229-430-4256 706-846-8448 706-846-8448 478-825-6151 229-995-4486 770-918-6400

FORADDITIONAL INFORMATION If you have questions or comments regarding fishing laws or regulations, or any
other fisheries matter, please contact the Fisheries office nearest you. Telephone numbers are listed above.

FRESHWATER
Northwest Region Wildlife Resources Division 312 N. River St., N.W. Post Office Box 519 Calhoun, Georgia 30703-0519
Northeast Region Wildlife Resources Division 2150 Dawsonville Hwy. Gainesville, Georgia 30501

East Central Region Wildlife Resources Division 2123 U.S. Hwy. 278, S.E. Social Circle, Georgia 30025
West Central Region Wildlife Resources Division 1014 Martin Luther King Blvd. Fort Valley, Georgia 31030-6246
Southwest Region Wildlife Resources Division 2024 Newton Road Albany, Georgia 31701-3576

South Central Region Wildlife Resources Division Post Office Box 2089 Waycross, Georgia 31502-2089
Coastal Region Wildlife Resources Division 22814 Highway 144 Richmond Hill, Georgia 31324
SALTWATER Coastal Resources Division One Conservation Way, Suite 300 Brunswick, Georgia 31520-8687

2002-2003 Sport Fishing Regulations

www .gofishgeorgia.com

Page 19

Public Fishing Areas
Public Fishing Areas (PFAs) are great places for family outings. You can fish from the bank or a boat, picnic, hike, watch wildlife, and enjoy the outdoors. Good bank fishing opportunities are available at all PFAs and many of them have special kids fishing areas for young anglers. Call each PfA for details.
On Public Fishing Areas, YOU CAN:
Operate fishing boats propelled by paddles, oars, or electric motors on ponds or lakes, unless they are posted as closed to the use of boats.
Operate outboard motors at idle speed only in ,lakes posted as open to the use of outboard motors.
IT IS UNLAWFUL TO:
Consume alcoholic beverages except at campsites on the area. No alcoholic beverages are allowed on Rocky Mountain PFA.
Fish except during the time between sunrise and sunset. Fish in a pond or lake that has been posted "closed". Fish with any gear other than pole and line. Fish with more than two poles and lines. Use or possess live fish for bait, unless the lake or pond has been
otherwise posted. Operate personal watercraft Get skis), sailboats, or sailboards. Park a vehicle at any place within a PFA where signs prohibit
parking. Drive or otherwise operate a vehicle on any road posted "closed" to
vehicular access, to drive around a closed gate or cable blocking a road, or to drive on any road that is not maintained for vehicular access. Camp any place other than designated camping areas. NOTE: Contact the PFA before visiting for regulations regarding camping. Swim, except at Rocky Mountain Recreation & PFA beach. For children under 14 years of age to enter or remain on any PFA unless under the supervision of an adult. For horses to be on areas other than those designated as open to equestrian use.
BE AN ETIDCAL ANGLER
Ethical anglers fish responsibly and consider the rights of others. They portray a positive image and help protect and conserve our natural resources. Be an ethical angler; the future of fishing depends on it. Ethical anglers: know and obey the fishing regulations. report violations and pollution. keep only the fish they can use and release all others properly so they will survive. don't transfer fish or plants between bodies of water. Non-native species can
adversely affect existing populations. pass on the tradition by taking a child fishing. appreciate the environment by not littering, dispose of fishing line properly, and
leave a place cleaner than they found it. show courtesy to others, lend a helping hand whenever possible and always ask
permission before fishing on private property.

PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING BEFORE ASHING AT A PFA!
Licenses:
Anglers 16 years of age and older must
possess a valid Wildlife Management Area (Y'JMA) license and a current fishing license to fish, except a WMA
license is not required to fish at Rocky Mountain Recreation and PFA.
If you have a Sportsman's license, One Day Fishing license, Senior Lifetime license or Honorary license, you are not required to have a WMA license to fish.
Hours of Operation: PFAs are open year round, seven days a week from sunrise to sunset. Unless a pond or lake has been posted as having a different length limit or daily limit the following apply:
Length llmlt for Largemouth bass: 14 Inches minimum
Daily Limits: Largemouth bass .......................... 5 Bream or sunfish (of any one or a combination) ........................ 15 Channel catfish ............................. 5 All other species ............. see page 6
Grass carp must be released immediately.
Public Fishing Areas
BIG LAZER CREEK
(Talbot County) (706-846-8448) Fish Species: Largemouth bass, Bluegill & Redear sunfish, Channel catfish, Crappie
Water: 195 acre lake.
Facilities: concrete two-lane boat ramp, fishing pier, restrooms, picnic tables, primitive camping, some facilities accessible to persons with disabilities.
DIRECTIONS FROM TALBOTTON: East on US Hwy 80 for 4 miles; left on Po Biddy Road for 6.4 miles; left on Bunkham Road; left into area..
CHARLIE ELLIOTT WILDLIFE CENTER/MARBEN PFA
(Jasper & Newton Counties) (770-784-3059) Fish Species: Largemouth bass, Bluegill, Redear sunfish, Crappie, Channel catfish. Water: 22 ponds totalling 295 acres. Ponds range in size from 1 to 95 acres. Facilities: Kids only ponds, concrete boat ramps (6 lakes), boat docks, restrooms, fishing piers, picnic areas, primitive camping, some fishing areas accessible to persons with disabilities.

Page 20 l-888-748-6887 for licenses

Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division

NOTE: Sign in at information board Water: 68 lakes encompassing 525 TREUTLEN COUNTY

and check for lakes that are open for acres of water.

(912-685-6424)

fishing when you visit.

Facilities: Restrooms, picnic area, Fish Species: Largemouth bass,

DIRECTIONS FROM MANSFIELD: concrete boat ramps, primitive Bluegill, Redear sunfish, Warmouth,

South on GA Hwy 11 for 2.7 miles; left camping, fishing pier, boat dock, some Flier, Brown bullhead, Crappie

on Marben Farms Rd. (Co. Rd. 229), facilities accessible to persons with Water: 189 acre lake.

follow signs.

disabilities.

Facilities: concrete boat ramp.

DODGE COUNTY (478-374-6765 or 229-426-5272)
Fish Species: Largemouth bass, Bluegill, Redear sunfish, Channel

DIRECTIONS FROM TIFTON: East on US Hwy 82 for 8 miles to BrookfieldNashville Road near Brookfield; follow signs from US Hwy 82 to the area.

DIRECTIONS FROM SOPERTON: North on County Road 166 for 4.5 miles; at Wildlife Resources sign right
o.n-to-di-rt -ro-ad-. - - - - - - - - - .

catfish.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN RECREATION

FISHING ON WILDLIFE

Water: 104 acre lake.

& PUBLIC FISHING AREA

MANAGEMENT AREAS

Facilities: concrete boat ramps , (Floyd County) (706-8025087)

Unless otherwise posted, fishing is

fishing pier, restrooms, picnic tables, Fish Species: Largemouth bass, allowed on WMAs according to

nature trail, some facilities accessible Bluegill, Redearsunfish, Channel catfish, state-wide regulations. Alcohol use

to persons with disabilities.

Black crappie, Hybrid white-striped bass is prohibited on WMAs except in

DIRECTIONS FROM EASTMAN: South Water: two lakes (202 & 357 acres). designated camping areas. Refer

on US Hwy 23/341 for 3 miles; left on Facilities: concrete boat ramps, fishing to the Hunting Regulations Guide for

County Road 49 for 0.6 miles to lake. jetties, restrooms, picnic shelters, a complete list of WMA regulations.

EVANS COUNTY (912-739-1139 or 912-685-6424)
Fish Species: Largemouth bass, Bluegill, Redear sunfish, Channel catfish, Crappie, Brown bullhead. Water: three ponds encompassing 122 acres (8, 30, 84 acres). Facilities: concrete boat ramps, fishing piers, restrooms, picnic tables, primitive camping, some facilities accessible to persons with disabilities DIRECTIONS FROM CLAXTON: East on US Hwy 280 for 8.5 miles; right on Old Reidsville-Savannah Road for 1 mile; left on Old Sunbury Road (dirt), PFA 0.3 miles on right marked by Wildlife Resources sign.
McDUFFIE (McDuffie County)

scenic overlooks, hiking trails, tent & RV camping (seasonal), group primitive camping (reservation only), group picnic area (reservation only), some facilities accessible to persons with disabilities Fee: Daily or annual Rocky Mtn. PFA parking permit required (one per vehicle) WMA stamp not required. Restrictions: It is illegal to possess alcoholic beverages. No one may rappel , rock climb or hang glide. DIRECTIONS. FROM ROME: North on US Hwy 27 for 10.4 miles, left on Sike Storey Road 0.4 miles, left on Big Texas Valley Road 5.4 miles to entrance.

Tl P Hotline:
1-800-241-4113

(706-595-1684)

Fish Species: Largemouth bass, Bluegill, Redear sunfish, Channel catfish.

Water: 12 ponds varying in size from 1 to 30 acres. Facilities: concrete boat ramps, restrooms, picnic tables, tent and RV camping in designated areas (fee is $10 per site per night). DIRECTIONS FROM THOMSON: South on Hwy 17 to US Hwy 278; left (east) for 5.6 miles; right on Ellington Airline Road for 2.8 miles; right on Fish Hatchery Road for 0.8 miles.
PARADISE (Berrien County) (229-533-4792 or 912-285-6094)

Fish Species: Largemouth bass, Bluegill, Redear sunfish, Channel catfish, Crappie, Brown bullhead.

1-800-524-0383 ~

-f'/SH amsportfish@mindspring.com

2002-2003 Sport Fishing Regulations

ATCHERY
www .gofishgeorgi a. com

Page 21

LARGEMOUTH BASS
upper jaw extends beyond eye

spiny & soft dorsal fin
separate or nearly so
/...

WHITE BASS (seldom exceeds 3 pounds)
tongue with one tooth patch

tongue normally smooth, tooth patch rare

SMALLMOUTH BASS

usually has vertical stripes along body

2nd anal s ine 2/3 or ~ n th of 3rd anal s ine

HYBRID WHITE STRIPED BASS

back arched body deep

stripes distinct & usually broken

SPOTTED BASS
upper jaw not past rear of eye

I
3 short spines on anal fin
spiny & soft dorsal fin clearly connected
/_

tongue with two tooth patches
STRIPED BASS body slender

fnd anal spine 2/3 or more
the length of 3rd anal spine
stripes distinct occassionally broken

tooth patch on tongue
SHOAL BASS - found in Chattahoochee, Flint, and Ocmulgee Rivers

tongue with two tooth patches
FLATHEAD CATFISH head wide & flat

2nd anal spine l/2 or less the length of 3rd anal spine
body dark in color

no tooth patch on tongue
CHAIN PICKEREL (JACKFISH)
elongated body with chain-like markings

light golden color

large mouth; lower jaw extends past upper jaw

tail not forked

WALLEYE
eyes with milky corneas

no spots on dorsal fin

dark area at base of dorsal fin

sharp needle like teeth
Page 22 1-888-748-6887 for licenses

sharp teeth

white spot at bottom of tail

Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division

BLACK CRAPPIE
body color pattern irregular arranged spots BLUEGILL

RAINBOW TROUT small black dots throughout the body that extend into the tail
red stripe along side on silvery body BROWN TROUT black & red-orange spots inside light
circles on brown body

vertical bars on body REDEAR SUNFISH (SHELLCRACKER)

caudal fin (tail) square
BROOK TROUT light, wormlike markings on dark upper body

REDBREAST SUNFISH
long, dark ear flap

spotted body

~-----~ white leading edge on lower fins (pectoral, pelvic & anal)

GIZZARD SHAD

elongated dorsal fin ray
/

ear flap (operculum) not wider than eye

BLUEBACK HERRING
pointed snout

small dorsal fin

blunt snout
THREADFIN SHAD
mouth at end of snout

deep body

lower jaw sloped upward
2002-2003 Sport Fishing Regulations

body not as deep as gizzard shad

pointed snout

yellow tail fin

www .gofishgeorgia.com

Page 23

DNR IS LOOKING FOR CONSERVATION RANGERS
The Department of Natural Resources is looking for men and women interested in a career in conservation law enforcement. Conservation rangers are responsible fqr enforcing the state's wildlife and boating safety laws, promoting hunter safety and .education, and serving as local resources for conservation information in their communities.
REQUIREMENTS: Must be 21 years of age and a citizen of the United States. Must have a minimum of an associate's degree or completion of at least 90 quarter hours or 60 semester hours
from an accredited college or university. Must meet all the requirements for certification as a peace officer by the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and
Training council, including passing a background investigation and a polygraph examination dealing with substance abuse and/or criminal activity.
For an application, call DNR at 770-918-6400 or 478-993-4540.

WAYNE COUNTY, GEORGIA
"The Sportsman's Playground"
Home of the Monster Flathead Catfish & Big Bucks
You can have the chance to hunt the 47,000 acres of Wildlife Management Areas or fish the banks of The MIGHTY ALTAMAHA RIVER for the next state record Catfish!

FOUR PUBLIC BOAT RAMPS
Upper County Landing
Jaycee Landing
Oglethorpe Bluff Landing
Williamsburg Landing

THREE WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS
Little Satilla WMA
Rayonier WMA
Sansavilla WMA
Sportsmen can hunt deer, wild hogs, turkey, and other small game.

67 Lbs. 80Z

Page 24

WAYNE COUNTY TOURISM BOARD Jesup, Georgia
For More Information Call Toll Free (888) 224-5983 Or (912) 427-2028

1-888-748-6887 for licenses

Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division

Definitions

Artlflclal lure - any lure which is made completely of natural or colored wood, cork, feathers, hair, rubber, metal, plastic, tinsel, styrofoam, sponge, or string, or any combination of such materials, in imitation of or as a substitute for natural bait. This does not include any item sprayed with or containing scented or chemical attractants.
Dally llmlt - means the number of fish that may be taken, caught, or killed during any one day.
Fishing - catching, capturing, taking, or killing fish, mussels and all seafood and includes all lesser acts such as attempting to catch, capture, or kill by any device or method and directly assisting any person in catching or attempting to catch fish or seafood.
Game fish - fish that are listed under Daily Limits. (page 6)

Immediate Famlly - all persons living in one household under one head of household and bearing a blood or dependent relationship to the head of household.
Non-game fish - any fish not designated as game fish under Daily Limits. (page 6)
Publlc Fishing Area - designated areas owned and/or operated by the Dept. of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division, Fisheries Section for the primary purpose of fishing and are open to the public. These are listed on pages 20-21.
Resident - any citizen of the United States who has maintained a legal residence in Georgia for a period of at least three months prior to purchasing a fishing license.

INTRODUCING!
NEXT GENERATION
SPORTSMAN
A nonprofit organization created by sportsmen to pass the family heritage of
hunting and fishing from one generation to the next.
For more information on:
YOUTH DREAM HUNTS -NOS gave
75 plantation deer, duck, and( pheasant parent/child hunt~ to young hunters last year.
GEORGIA YOUTH DEER CONTEST
OTHER EVENTS, OUTINGS AND OPPORTUNITIES
CALL 1-877-641-2955 or
www.nextgeneratlonsportsman.com

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources

A.

Wildlife Resources Division

GEORGIA ,r"',

proudly honors the

POWER

2001 Forestry for Wildlife Partners

A sou,HERN coMPANY

for their outstanding accomplishments

in inc~rporatin~ fish and_ wildlalife

f T e a d Coated Board Division

conservation practices as an 1ntegr part

of their overall land management goals.

INTERNATIONAL@ PAPER

Forestry For Wildlife Partnership
2002-2003 Sport Fishing Regulations

*- Temple-Inland FOREST ~ A Weyerhaeuser The future is growing"'

w w w .gofishgeorgia.com

Page 25

Guidelines for Eating Fish from Georgia Waters

The Health Benefits of Eating Fish
Sport fish caught in Georgia are generally good quality and safe to eat. Fish provide a high protein, low fat diet which is low in saturated fats. Fish may have substantial health benefits when they replace a high fat source of protein in the diet.
What are the Guidelines?
Georgia ON R samples fish from water bodies each year to test for contaminants such as PCBs, chlordane, and mercury. Many of the fish tested have few or no contaminants and are safe to eat. Waters where fish have been tested and found clean are listed at the top of the tables. Fish from waters listed in the tables had some level of contaminants so you should restrict the amount of fish you eat from these waters. Recommendations are made to limit how often you eat a meal of fish to either once per week or month. A meal of fish is about 4 to 8 ounces. These guidelines are based on eating fish from a listed area for at least 30 years. That is because it would take

months or years of regularly eating contaminated food to accumulate levels in your body that would affect your health.
One meal per week means eating a 4 to 8 ounce serving no more than once per week should cause no significant health risks.
Special Notice for Pregnant Women, Nursing
Mothers, and Children
If you are pregnant or a nursing mother, or plan to become pregnant soon, you and children under 6 years of age are sensitive to the effects of some contaminants. Women and children in these categories may wish to eat fish less often than recommended in the tables.
How to Reduce Your Health Risk
Eat smaller fish and vary the kind of fish you eat. Contaminants build up in top predators (bass), bottomfeeders (catfish), and older (larger) fish to a greater extent than panfish, such as bream and crappie.

Clean and Cook Fish Properly Some chemicals have a tendency to concentrate in the fatty tissues of fish. By removing the fish's skin and trimming the fat, you can substantially reduce contaminants.
~~i~:\!~t
~ belly fat
Trim away these fatty areas
Cook fish so fat drips away. Broil, bake, or grill fish and do not use the drippings. Deep-fat frying removes some contaminants, but discard the oil once you have cooked the fish. Pan frying removes few contaminants.
Guidelines for Georgia The following tables list the current guidelines for eating fish for lakes and rivers in Georgia. Lakes and rivers listed at the top of each table have been tested and the fish found to contain little or no contamination. If the lake or stream where you fish is listed in the table, it is safe to eat the amount listed for a given species from that body of water.

"These guidelines are non-binding recommendations EPD determines based on the body of water a fish comes from, the species of fish and the amount of fish a person consumes. The purpose of these guidelines is to provide detailed information in an understandable format for people who eat fish. Waters listed in the fish consumption guidelines are not necessarily assessed as impaired usino USEPA ouidelines for Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act."

Page 26

Georgia's

State

Pa r ks

h ave

dozens

{ o

\a\l..eS and streams for fish mg and boating.

state parks also offer camping, cottagesand
activities r.or the Whole fatn\\'l

Call

today

for

a

free

72_page

.. Guide

to

Georgia

State

.. Parks



More details on fish contaminant testing are available
in the publication "Guidelines for Eating Fish
from Georgia Waters".
Call the following offices for a copy or more information:
Environmental Protection Division
404-656-4713
706-369-6376
Coastal Resources Division 912-264-7218
Wildlife Resources Division 770-918-6418
Also available on the Internet at www.dnr.state.ga.us/dnr/environ/

1-888-748-6887 for licenses

Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division

Guidelines for Limiting the Fish You Eat from Lakes

LAKES: Fish have been tested from the following water bodies and NO RESTRICTIONS are recommended: Blackshear, City of Adairsville pond, Dodge Co. PFA, Fort Vargo State Park, Hard Labor Cr. State Park (Rutledge), Juliette, Ken Garden, Mayer, McDuffie PFA (East), Olmstead, Paradise PFA (Patrick & Horshoe 4), Sinclair, Shepherd (CEWC), Varner, Seed, Walter F. George, Brasstown Valley Kid Fish Pond, Clayton Co. Water Auth. lakes, Carters, Allen Creek WMA Ponds A and B, Bowles C. Ford Lake (Savannah), Payton Park Pond (Valdosta), and Nancy Town Lake.

LAKES Albany By-Pass Pond Acworth Allatoona
Andrews Banks Bartlett's Ferry Bennett CEWC PFA Black Shoals Big Lazer PFA Blue Ridge Burton Pond N. Bush Field, Augusta

NO RESTRICTIONS

1 MEAL PER WEEK

LMB, Brown Bullhead

Bluegill, LMB, 16"

LMB>16"

Carp< 16", Crappie, spotted bass< 12",

Spotted bass 12-16", LMB> 16",

LMB 12-16". CCF. White bass<12", G. redhorse White bass 12-16", Carp>16", HB >16"

CCF

LMB>12"

Bluegill

Crappie

HB<12", LMB>12", CCF<16"

LMB>12"

CCF<12"

CCF 12-16"

LMB 12-16", CCF

LMB>16"

CCF<16", LMB<12"

White bass & LMB 12-16", CCF>16"

LMB<16", CCF, Bluegill, White catfish

LMB>16", spotted bass 12-16"

Bluegill, LMB<12"

LMB 12-16"

1 MEAL PER MONTH
LMB>12" HB & CCF>16"
LMB 12-16"

Chatuge Clarks Hill
Evans County PFA Goat Rock

LMB>12", CCF>12" CCF, Balck crappie, Redear, White perch, Striped bass, Spotted sucker, HB, LMB<16"
CCF, LMB 12-16" Black crappie, LMB 12-16". Spotted sucker

Spotted bass 12-16" LMB>16"
LMB>16" HB<12", CCF 12-16"

Hartwell

Black crappie, Hybrid/Striped bass<12",

LMB<16", Carp>16"

(Tugaloo Arm)

CCF<16"

DO NOT EAT Hybrid and Striped bass>16 inches in length

Hartwell-Main body of lake

DO NOT EAT Hybrid and Striped bass (SC Dept. Health and Environmental Control 1-888-849-7241)

High Falls

HB, CCF & LMB<16", Crappie, Redear sunfish

CCF & LMB>16"

Jackson

Crappie, Redear sunfish, Catfish & LMB<16"

Catfish & LMB>16"

Lanier

Catfish & Striped bass<16", Bluegill, Crappie

LMB, Spotted bass, Striped bass &

CCF>16", Carp>16"

L. Ocmulgee St. Pk.

Brown bullhead 12-16"

McDuffie PFA, West

CCF

LMB

Nottely

CCF, Black crappie

LMB>12", Striped bass>16"

Oconee

LMB<16", Catfish, Crappie, HB

LMB>16"

Oliver

Striped bass<12", CCF<16", Redear, Bluegill

LMB>12", CCf>16"

Rabun

LMB 12-16", Bluegill, White catfish<16"

White catfish & LMB>16"

Reed Bingham S.P.

Richard B. Russell

Crappie, bluegill, White perch, Catfish

LMB>12"

Seminole

Bullhead<12", LMB 12-16", CCF

Bulhead>12", LMB>16"

Stone Mountain

Catfish

LMB>16"

Tobesofkee

CCF, LMB 12-16"

LMB>16"

Treutlen PFA

Lake chubsucker<12"

Tugalo

White catfish 12-16", Bluegill

Tribble Mill Park Pond, Gwinnett County

Black Crappie, Bluegill, LMB<12"

LMB 12-16"

HB & CCF & LMB>16" White bass<16"
HS/Striped bass 12-16" CCF & LMB>16"
LMB>16"
LMB>12", Catfish>16"
LMB>16" LMB>12"

West Point

Black crappie, HB<12"

CCF & HB>12", LMB>16"

Worth

LMB<16", Flathead catfish, CCF<16"

CCF & LMB>16"

Yonah

LMB 12-16", catfish 12-16"

= = = Abbreviations: < means less than, > means more than, LMB Largemouth bass, HB Hybrid bass, CCF channel catfish

2002-2003 Sport Fishing Regulations

www .gofishgeorgia,com

Page 27

Guidelines for Limiting the Fish You Eat from Rivers and Creeks

RIVERS AND CREEKS: There are NO Rl!STRICTIONS on the following : Alcovy River, Boen Creek (Rabun Co.),
Brasstown Creek (Towns Co.), Broad River, Buffalo Creek (Carroll Co.), Butternut Creek (Union Co.), Cane Creek Lumpkin Co.), Chattahoochee River (Chattahoochee, Early, & Stewart Cos.), Chattanooga Creek, Chattooga River NW Ga.), Dukes Creek, Flint River (Dou9herty, Baker & Mitchell Cos.), Daniels Creek (Croudland Canyon State Park), ~ast/South Chickamauga Creek, Goldmine Branch, Jacks River, Jones Creek, Little Dry Creek (Floyd Co.)kLittle Tallapoosa River, Mill Creek (Whitfield Co.), Moccasin Creek (Lake Burton Trout Hatchery), Noonday Cree (Cobb Co.), Ocmulgee River (Butts, Monroe, Houston & Pulaski Cos.), Oconee River (Laurens Co. & Milledgeville to Dublin), Ogeechee River (Ft. McAllister), Ponder Branch (Walker Co.), Slab Camp Creek (Oconee Co.), Stamp Creek (Pine Lc,g WMA), Stekoa Creek, Yahoola Creek, Yellow River, Little Tennessee River, North & Middle Oconee Rivers Conasauga River above Dalton, Chickasawhatchee Creek, Coleman River, Mud Creek (Cobb Co.), Nickatack Creek, Oiley Creek, Proctor Creek (Cobb Co.), Sewell Mill Creek (Cobb Co), Tallulah River, Upatoi Creek, and Spirit Creek.

RIVERS/CREEKS Alapaha River Alapahoochee River Allatoona Creek, Cobb Co. Altamaha River Apalachee River Beaver Creek (Taylor Co.) Brier Creek (Burke Co.) Canoochee River Casey Canal Chatooga River (NE Ga., Rabun County)
Chattahoochee River (Helen to Lanier) (CBh~ohryd,ocamheteo ~voergran Falls Dam) Chattaho~hrbRiver (Morgan alls am to Peachtree Creek) 1( l:eaa~chtoreoec8ereeeRk itvoeFr ranklin, Ga) Chattahoochee River (Oliver Dam to Chattahoochee Co.) Chattahoochee River (West Point dam to 1-85) Chickamauga Creek (West) Conasauga River (below Dalton) Coosa River (Rome to Hwy 100, Floyd Co.)
Coosa River (Hwy 100 to State line, Floyd Co.) Etowah River (Dawson County) Etowah River (above Lake Allatoona) Etowah River (below Lake Allatoona) Flint River (Spalding/Fayette cos.) Flint River (Meriwether/Upson/Pike cos.) Flint River (Taylor co.) Flint River (Macon/Dooly/Worth cos.) Gum Creek (Crisp Co.) lchawaynochaway Creek Kinchafoonee Creek (above Albany) Little River (above Clarks HIii Lake) Little River, (above Ga. Hwy 133, Valdosta) Muckalee Creek (above Albany) Ochlockonee River (near Thomasville) Ocmulgee River (below Macon, Bibb co.) Ocmulgee River (Telfair/Wheeler cos.) Oconee River (above Barnett Shoals)

NO RESTRICTIONS Redbreast sunfish
CCF (below us 25)
CCF

1 MEAL PER WEEK Spotted sucker Bullhead
Spotted bass, Alabama Hog Sucker Flathead catfish, LMB, CCF LMB

LMB, Bluegill
CCF B'Ra~mn btroowu~aunt>, Brown trout, ~WBprock sucker

Spotted sucker Redbreast
Striped mullet Northern~Sucker, Sliver
orse Redeye bass, Bullhead,Redhorse
LMB

1 MEAL PER MON'n-1
LMB, Bullhead
Yellow bullhead LMB
LMB,CCF
LMB Carp

~ ~ ,eSsu~eeedr,~ sarsp LMB

LMB CCF

Striped bass

LMB, Bullheads Redbreast sunfish

Spotted bass Spotted bass

Spotted bass

DO NOT EAT SMALLMOUTH BUFFALO

Spotted bass
Golden redhorse CCF, Striped bass, Bluegill
Spotted sucker CCF. Flathead catfish
CCF, Shoal bass CCF Carp
Spotted Sucker
Spotted sucker, Sliver Redhorse Spotted sucker Spotted sucker
CCF

Black crappie, LMB Blacktall Redhorse
Spotted bass Spotted bass, LMB
LMB Shoal bass
LMB LMB LMB LMB LMB, Spotted sucker LMB LMB LMB Spotted sucker, White catfish LMB Flathead catfish, LMB Sliver redhorse,LMB

White bass, buffalo LMB, Strl~ bass, Blue
c sh Striped bass, CCF, buffalo
Smallmouth buffalo
LMB Flathead catfish

Page 28 1-888-748-6887 for licenses

Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division

Guidelines for Limiting the Fish You Eat from Rivers and Creeks (continued)

RIVERS/CREEKS

Ii NO RESTRICTIONS

,., ,
1 MEAL PER WEEK

'""' it 1 MEAL PER MONTH

pgeechee River(all to Ft. McAllister

Redbreast sunfish, CCF,

LMB

Spotted sucker, Snail bullhead

Ohoopee River(Emanuel/Toombs cos.)

Spotted sucker, Redbreast

LMB

Okefenokee Swamp(Billy's Lake) Oostanaula River, Hwy. 156, Calhoun

Bluegill

Flier Smallmouth buffalo

Bowfin

'

Oostanaula River, Hwy. 140, to Coosa River aIuegill, Smallmouth buffalo

LMB, CCF, Spotted bass

Striped bass

Patsiliga Cree(Taylor Co.)

Suckers, Chain Pickerel

Bass

Pipemaker Canal

LMB

Satilla River(Waycross, Ware/Pierce i::os.)

Redbreast sunfish, CCF

LMB

Satilla River(near Folkston, Camden Co.)

LMB, Redbreast

Savannah River(above & below New

Spotted sucker, LMB

Savannah Bluff Lock & Dam)

Savannah River(Chatham/Screven cos.)

CCF, Redear sunfish

LMB

Savannah River(Effingham Co.)

CCF, Redbreast sunfish

White catfish

LMB, Bowfin

Savannah River(Tidal Gate)

Red drum

White catfish

Short Creek(Warren Co.)

Sunfish

South River(Henry Co., Snapping Shoals)

Silver redhorse, CCF

LMB

South River(Butts Co., Hwy 36)

LMB, CCF, Crappie,

White catfish, Silver redhorse

Redear sunfish

Spring Creek(Seminole/Decatur/Miller cos.)

Spotted sucker

LMB

St. Marys River(Camden Co.)

Redbreast sunfish

LMB

St. Marys River(Charlton Co.)

Redbreast sunfish

LMB

Suwanee River

Bullhead, Chain Pickerel

LMB

Swamp Creek(Red_wine Cove Road)

Redeye bass

Talking Rock Creek

Redeye bass

Tallapoosa River

Bluegill

Blacktail Redhorse

Trib. to Hudson River, Alto, Banks Co.

Brown bullhead

Redeye bass

Withlacoochee River(Berrien/Lowndes cos.)

Redbreast sunfish

L MB

COASTAL RIVERS &CREEKS Turtle River System(Purvis, Gibson Cr.s Turtle & Buffalo Rivers (upriver Hwy 303) Turtle River(Hwy. 303 -.Channel Marker #9) Turtle River( C. Marker 9 & So. Brunswick River to Dubignons & Parsons creeks) Terry Creek(So. Torras Causeway to Lanier Basin)

NO RESTRICTIONS
Shrimp
Shrimp
Shrimp, Flounder, Red drum
Spot, Mullet, Shrimp, Croaker, Spotted seatrout Red & Black drum, Blue crab

1 MEAL PER WEEK
Red drum, B. crab, Flounder Flounder
Croaker, Blue crab

1 MEAL PER MONTH

DOI\IOTEA'.J'.' All seafood

Croaker, Spotted

Black drum,

seatrout

Bivalves

Red & Black drum,B. crab Bivalves

Spotted seatrout, Croaker

Black drum, Spotted

Bivalves

seatrout

Yellowtail(Silver perch)

Bivalves

SPECIAL LISTING: RIVERS/CREEKS Terry and Dupree creeks (all of Dupree Creek and Terry Creek north of Torras Causewayto 1/2 mile west ofd confluence with the Back River)

-

'

Recommendation

No Fishing or Swimming due to the disturbance

of toxaphene contaminated sediments in the cleanup process.

King Mackerel Specl&! Joint~ Guidance laved by Georgia, North Carolina, South Cal'!)II~, andFlorida for SOUlh Atlantic ac.an

Size Range(Fork Length, Inches)

Recommendations for Meal Consumption of King Mackerel Caught Offimore Georgia Coa$1

24 To Less Than 33 Inches

No Restrictions

33 To 39 Inches

1 meal per month for pregnant women, nursing mothers and children age 12 and younger

1 meal per week for other adults

Over39Inches

Do Not Eat

2002-2003 Sport Fishing Regul ations

www .gofishgeorgia.com

Page ?9

Black Drum (young)
I
2 Spines Loses vertical bars with age
Weakfish (Summer Trout)

Sheepshead
3 spines keeps vertical bars.
throughout life
Spotted Seatrout

indistinct dark freckles on upper body
King Mackerel

distinct dark spots on upper body
Spanish Mackerel

up to 60 lbs.
dull gold spots in small fish
Atlantic Sharpnose
scattered white spots on body
'

averages 2-4 lbs.

bright gold spots
Spiny Dogfish

white

rear edge

,

V1 A ) well developed .

folds

{

underside of head

can reach lengths u to 48" TL.

Bonnethead Shark

shovel or bonnetshaped head

white spots

can reach lengths up to 48" TL.

offshore in winter

Sand Tiger Shark

can reach lengths up to 48" TL.

W evenly rounded edge with no indentations . . underside of head

young often with yellow-brown spots

1r,\~

--sharp, pointed

irregular teeth

/ underside of head

up to 10' TL.

P age 30 , 1-888-748-6887 for licenses

Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division

(;eorgia Recreational Saltwater Fishing

Fishing License
Resident and nonresident anglers (age 16 & older) who fish in fresh or saltwaters of Georgia must possess a Georgia Fishing license. This license is required for hook & line fishing,

National Marine Fisheries Service HMS Management Division 1315 East-West Hwy Silver Spring, MD 20910 301-713-2347 www.nmfs.noaa.gov/sfa/hmspg.html

SALTWATER FINFISH Landing RequirernentsfTra,isfer
Prohibition
All saltwaterfinfish (including sharks) under state or federal regulation must

castnetting, seining, crabbing, gigging, For information on the Gray's Reef be landed with head and fins intact.

sport bait trawling, and harvesting National Marine Sanctuary contact: Anglers must make catches available

shellfish. A Georgia Fishing license is Gray's Reef Sanctuary Program for inspection by government officials.

required for anglers retumingto Georgia 10 Ocean Science Circle

Saltwater finfish subject to size and

ports or transiting Georgia waters with Savannah, GA 31411

bag limits cannot be transferred to

recreational catches from federal 912-598-2345

another person or vessel on the water.

waters beyond the state's 3-mile territorial sea. Reciprocal agreements with Alabama, SouthCarolina,and Florida currently do not apply to saltwaters. Charter captains may or may not choose to purchase an annual license that covers all of their clients. For this reason, anglers booking a charter should inquire whether they will need a Georgia Fishing license or if they will be covered under the charter fishing license. See page 4 for information on license requirements.
Saltwater Fishing Information
Information and up9ates on licenses, regulations, and fishing in Georgia's inshore and offshore saltwaters may be obtained by contacting:
Georgia DNR Coastal Law Enforcement One Conservation Way, Suite 201 Brunswick, GA 31520-8687 912-264-7237 or fax 912-262-3166

www.graysreef.nos.noaa.gov
Offshore Artificial Reefs
Georgia has 22 artificial reefs located from 3-80 miles offshore. Most are designated as Special Management Zones (SMZ) by the federal government. Within these zones, only handheld hook-and-lineandspear-fishinggearmay be used. For further information, coordinates, and updates on Georgia's offshore artificial reefs, contact the Coastal Resources Division.
Boating Safety Zones
Boating safety zones have been established off Jekyll, Tybee, St. Simons, and Sea islands. These zones extend from the northernmost point to the southermost point of each of these islands and from the highwater mark to a distance 1,000 feet seaward. From May 1 through September 30, power boats, jet skis, and other motorized craft are prohibited in these zones.

Commercial licenses are required to sell recreationally caught finfish.
Gear
A seine may not be used as a gill net (a net constructed of single webbing attached to a float line and lead line and fished in a stationary manner to ensnare or entangle fish in the meshes). Only flounder may be taken with a gig (any handheld shaft with single or multiple points, barbed or barbless). All seasons. hours. creel limits, minimum size limits, and other regulations applicable to sattwaterfinfish apply regardless of the gear used.
Definitions
Minimum Size: the specific size in length below which it is unlawful to take that finfish species. Open Season: that specified pericx:I of time during which one may take certain finfish species from any waters of the

Coastal Resources Division, Marine Fisheries Section One Conservation Way, Suite 300 Brunswick, GA 31520-8687 912-264-7218 or fax 912-262-2318 www.ganet.org/dnr/crd

Wanton Waste
Sort or cull your catch on the water. Return undersized or unwanted wildlife to the water alive. When you throw away wildlife, you are not only wasting valuable resources, but you
are also breaking the law!

state. Daily Creel Limit: the lawful amount of a species of finfish that a person may take in one day. Possession Limit: the lawful amount of a species of finfish that a person can legally have at any one time.

Federal Saltwater Fishing Regulations For information and updates on recreational fishing regulations in federal waters (3-200 miles offshore), contact:
South Atlantic Fishery Management Council One Southpark Circle, Suite 306, Charleston, SC 29407 843-571-4366 www.safmc.net For information and updates on federal regulations and required permitting for tunas, billfish, and sharks, contact:

Fishing is a great way to spend time with a child.

The Fisheries Section sponsors

several hundred Kids Fishing Events

.

each year where kids .can learn to fish. Most Public Fishing Areas also

have special "kids only" ponds for

~

-~~ ~

kids to fish in. Call the nearest

Fisheries Office to learn about Kids

ea Kid f-\S~

Fishing Events and opportunities near you.

2002-2003 Sport Fishing Regulations

w w w .gofishgeorgia.com

Page 31

Saltwater Finfish Per Person Unless Specifi~d

Species

Open Season

Daily Limit

Possession Limit Minimum Size (in.)

Blue marlin

Catch and Release Only

White marlin

Catch and Release Only

Sailfish

Catch and Release Only

Tarpon* ... ...... ..... ... ....... 3/16-11/30 ......... ...... ....... ........... 1 ................... .... ....... 1 ... ..... ..... ..... ........ .......... 68 FL Amberjack ..... ............:.. 3/16-12/31 ................................. 1 ......................... ..... 1 ...... .. ... .......... ........ ....... 28 FL

(No Sale April 1 - April 30)

Cobia ............... ........ ..... Dolphin ...................... ...

3/16-1 1/30 .... ...... ......... .. ...... All year ....... ..... .. ..................

...... 2 .... ................... ...... .... 10" ............................ . ...........

.12o......................................................................................

33 20

FL FL

King mackerel ... ...... ..... All year ... .... ... ... .. ...... ..... ............ 3 ................... ...... .. .. . 3 .......... ..... ... ........ .. ........ 24 FL

Spanish mackerel ........ 3/16-11 /30 .. ............... .. ............ . 15 .......... ... .. ............. 15 ............... ..... ..... .. ...... .. 12 FL

Sheepshead .. ............... All year .. :.. ......... ..... .. ................ 15 ..... ........ ............... 15 ............... .. ............... ... 10 FL

Atlantic sturgeon .......... no harvest allowed ................................... no harvest allowed ..............................

Bluefish ......... ...... ........ . 3/16-11/30 ................................ 15 ......................... ... 15 ...... ...... ......... ....... ....... 12 FL

Black sea bass .......... ... All year .. ..... ....... ............ ........... 20 ............... ............. 20 ................................... 10 TL Gag grouper ........... ...... All year ... .... ................. ....... :...... 2 .. ... ......... ............... . 2 .... ...................... ... ....... 24 TL

(No Sale March 1 - April 30)

Red drum ............ .... ..... All year .. ....... ....... ..... ...... .. ......... 5 .................... .......... 5 .... .. ........ ............ .......... 14 TL

(spottail bass, redfish, or channel bass)

(None longer than 27 in.)

Black drum ...... ... ..... ..... All year ..... ... .. .. ................ ......... 15 ....................... ..... 15 ....... ............ ... ...... ..,.... 10 TL Weakfish .... ........ ........ .. All year ....... ... ............................ 6 .. ... .... ....... ... ..... ..... . 6 ............ ......... ..... .... .. .... 13 TL Flounder ...... .. .......... ,.... All year ... ...:..... ......... ..... ........... 15 ....................... ... .. 15 ......... .......................... 12 TL Whiting ......................... All year ...... .......... ....... ... ........... 35 ..... ....... ........... .... . 35 ....... ... ............... ..... ..... 10 TL Spot ... ..... ... .............. ..... All year ... ........... ....................... 25 ....... ............... ...... 25 ................................... 8 TL Atlantic croaker .... ........ All year ....... ..... ......................... 25 ............................ 25 .. ............ ... ............ ...... 8 TL Tripletail ..... .......... ..... .. . All year .. .. ...................... .. .......... 5 ...... ............ ........... . 5 ................................ .... 18 TL Red snapper ... ..... ....... . All year .. .. ........................ .......... 2 .... ............ .............. 2 .................................... 20 TL Spotted seatrout ........ .. All year ... ... ...... ......... .. .......... .... 15 ..... ............... .... .... 15 .............. ...... .......... ..... 13 TL Striped bassb............................All year ................ ............... ....... 2 ............................ .. 2 ... .... .. .. ..... .................. .. 22 TL Sand tiger shark ... ........ no harvest allowed ................................... no harvest allowed .............................. Small shark composite** All year .... ....... ........................... 2 .. ..................... .. ..... 2 .......................... ... ....... 30 TL Sharks*** .......... ..... ..... .. All year .................:....... .......... .. 2**** ....................... 2**** ... ... ................. ........ 48 TL
(limit may include only one longer than 84 in.) Red Porgy .......... ... ....... All year ............. .. ................. ....... 1 ............... ..... .......... 1 .................................... 14 TL
(No sale Jan. 1 - April 30)

* Gamefish or no sale status ** Consists of Atlantic sharpnose, bonnethead, & spiny dogfish

*** Consists of all sharks other than sand tiger shark & small shark composite

**** Two per person or boat, whichever is less

FL = fork length TL =total length.

Not to exceed 60 per boat, except tor headboats which are allowed 10 dolphin per paying customer.

b See Seasons Closure in Savannah River page 6.

____________M_ea_s_ur_in...g.,._S_a_ltw-a-t-er-F-in-fi-sh------------

Total Length

Fork Length

Minimum sizes tor saltwater finfish are measured in two ways: Total Length (TL) is the overall length of the fish and is measured in the same manner as a largemouth bass (see page 7 tor fish measuring tips). Fork Length (FL) is used to measure fish with deeply forked tails and is the distance from the tip of the snout to the fork of the tail.

Page 32 1-888-748-6887 for licenses

Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division

Deflating Your Fish

Many marine reef fish have gas-filled organs called swim bladders. These organs control buoyancy and allow the fish to maintain a certain depth in the water column.
Swim Bladde

Everted Sto.mJ:aJc~h724~~ -

pectoral fin. Insert the needle only as far as needed to allow the gas to escape. Squeeze gently to help push the gas out.
Underneath a Scale

Distended Intestines

When some fish are brought quickly to the surface, the gas in the swim bladder can over-expand and rupture the bladder. Escaping gas fills the gut cavity. If released in this buoyant condition, the fish cannot descend and may float away and die. Swim bladder over-expansion can cause everted stomachs or intestines, as shown here.
If a fish is unable to submerge, be prepared to vent the fish's gut cavity

and get the fish back into the water as quickly as possible if you wish to release it. Venting helps the gas escape, allows the fish to descend, and improves survival.
Use wet gloves to handle the fish and have a deflating tool on hand. A simple deflating tool can be made by mounting a sharpened football needle in a 1"x3" dowel rod . A center hole is drilled lengthwise through the rod to allow gas to pass from the needle through the rod. Hold the fish gently on its side. Insert the needle through the thin lower body wall below the rear end of the

Do not try to push the stomach back into the throat. Revive the fi sh in the water and release it when it can swi m upright.
Deflated Stomach Florida Sea Grant, 1995

TURN IN POACHERS
TIP Hotline:
1-800-241-4113
or *DNA (Cellular for BellSouth Mobility Customers)
(7 days a week/ 24 hours a day)

A poacher is a thief who . steals fish and wildlife that belongs to all Georgians. Poachers rob you of recreational opportunities that you pay for through license fees. You can .be paid for turning in a poacher! If your tip leads to an arrest, you will receive reward money even if you wish to remain anonymous. If you see or learn of a violation, try to write down: a description of the violator and their vehicle; the location and type of violation.

Turn In Poacher, Inc. (TIP) is a non-profit Georgia conservation organization whose mission is to protect wildlife by increasing public support for wildlife la~ enforcement. Contributions to the TIP reward program are greatly needed and appreciated. Donations (made payable to TIP) are tax deductable and can be sent to:
Turn In Poachers, Inc., 3423 Piedmont Road, N.E., Suite 110, Atlanta, Georgia 30305

2002-2003 Sport Fishing Regulations

www.gofi shgeorgia.co m

Page 33

Shrimp

Baiting Shrimp
It is unlawful to place, deposit, distribute, or scatter any bait of any kind in, on , or over any waters so as to lure, attract, or entice shrimp toward the bait or to cause shrimp to congregate in the area where bait is placed. It is illegal to knowingly fish for shrimp in baited waters.
Disposition and Sale of Shrimp
It is unlawful for any person to sell or otherwise dispose of, for human consumption, any shrimp taken as bait. Shrimp recreationally harvested for personal consumption may not be sold.
SPORT BAIT SHRIMPING with POWER-DRAWN NETS
A Georgia Fishing license is required for taking shrimp for live bait with power-drawn nets 10 feet or smaller. Information on the specific net dimensions is available from DNA offices in Brunswick and Demeries Creek.
Areas, Seasons, and Hours
A 10 foot sport bait trawl may be used to take shrimp only in rivers and creeks or portions thereof which have been opened to bait shrimping by DNA. Charts of established "Bait Zones" are available at DNA offices in Brunswick and Demeries Creek (Richmond Hill). Unless otherwise designated, bait zones are open year-round for sport bait shrimping. Sport bait shrimping is legal only between the hours of hour before official sunrise to hour after official sunset.
Catch Limits - Sport Bait Trawls
A sport bait shrimper may not possess at any time more than two (2) quarts of shrimp, no more than pint of which may be dead, and may not take more than four (4) quarts of shrimp within a 24-hour period. When two or more persons occupy the same boat, there may benomorethanfour(4) quarts of shrimp on board the boat at any time, no more than one pint of which may be dead, and no more than eight quarts of shrimp may be taken within a 24-hour period.
SEINES
A Georgia Fishing license is requi ed to use a seine for non-commercial purposes in the state's saltwaters.

The shrimping season for seines is the same as that established for other food shrimping season. The Commissioner of DNA can open the food shrimping season from May 15through the end of February. During the open season, seines may be used at any time of day in authorized areas.
Seine Sizes & Areas
Seines equal to or smaller than 12 feet long, with a maximum depth of four feet, and a maximum stretch mesh of 1 inch may be used throughout the year and throughout Georgia's saltwaters. Seines up to 100 feet long and with a minimum stretch mesh of 1 inches may be used on sand beaches of any barrier island in Georgia. Seines from 100-300 feet long and with a minimum mesh size of 2 inches may be used only on the ocean-front sides of beaches. The use of seines over 12 feet long in any inlets or tidal sloughs is prohibited. Seines over 300 feet long are also prohibited. It is unlawful to use any seine in saltwaters such that it blocks more than of the entrance of any tidal river, creek, slough, or inlet to the ocean.
Seine Catch Limits
No one person taking shrimp solely by means of a seine, whether such person is acting alone or in a group of persons, may possess more than 24 quarts of shrimp with heads on or 15 quarts of tails taken by such seine in any 24-hour period. If any person or group of persons occupying the same boat are in possession of a castnet and a seine, such person or persons shall be subject to the limits imposed for shrimp taken by castnet.
CASTNETTING FOR FOOD SHRIMP
A Georgia Fishing license is required to use castnets non-commercially to take shrimp for personal consumption. The season for castnetting forfood shrimp is the same as that estc;iblished for othercommercial shrimping seasons. The Commissioner of DNA can open the season from May 15 through the end of February. During the open season, castnetting for personal consumption may be conducted at any time of day in all the state's saltwaters.

Castnet Construction
Castnets used recreationally to take food shrimp are restricted to a maximum net size of eight feet in radius with a minimum inch bar-mesh webbing and shall be constructed of uniform material from horn (thimble) to the lead line. All modifications, including ducttape, lawnchairwebbing,and bubble wrap are prohibited. The lead line must have a minimum of pound of weight per radius-foot attached.
Food Shrimp Catch Limits
No person taking shrimp for personal consumption with a castnet may possess more than 48 quarts of heads-on shrimp or 30 quarts of shrimp tails in any day. When one or more persons occupy the same boat, ttlere may be no more then 48 quarts of heads-on shrimp or 30 quarts of shrimp tails on board at any time. No vessel owner shall allow the vessel to be used to take more than the allowable catch limits in any day.
CASTNETTING FOR BAIT SHRIMP
A Georgia Fishing license is required to use castnets non-commercially to take shrimp for bait. There is no closed season for castnetting for bait. Castnetting for bait may be conducted at any time of day in all of Georgia's saltwaters.
Castnet Construction
Bait shrimp castnets must be con-
structed of a minimum of 3/ainch mesh
webbing with a radius not greater than eight feet. Modifications are prohibited in castnets intended for taking bait shrimp. Bait shrimp castnets cannot be used to take shrimp for personal consumption. Castnets constructed to take shrimp for personal consumption may be used to take bait. However, at no time shall there be both a bait shrimp castnet and a food shrimp castnet aboard the same vessel.
Bait Shrimp Castnet Limits
Recreational castnetters collecting bait shrimp are limited to two quarts per person at any time, provided that person may take a maximum of four quarts of bait shrimp per day. When two ormore persons occupy the same boat, theremay be no more than four quarts of bait on board the boat at any

Page 34 1-888-748-6887 for licenses

Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division

time, and the persons occupying the after official sunset. Shellfish may only diameter. Each trap must have

boat may take no more than eight be taken with handheld implements. attached a tag or float bearing the

quarts of bait shrimp per day. Bait Recreationally harvested shellfish name and address of the person

shrimp taken with a castnet may be may not be sold.

using the trap.

live or dead.
CRABS
A Georgia Fishing license is required to harvest crabs for non-commercial purposes. Unless otherwise designated, saltwaters are open year-round for recreational crabbing. Recreationally caught crabs may not be sold.
Gear Up to six standard size crab traps (2X2 feet or smaller) may be used recreationally. Two unobstructed escapement rings (23/s inch inside diameter) must be installed on an outside vertical wall. Each trap must be marked with a float bearing the owner's name and address. Traps should be sufficiently weighted to prevent loss in strong tidal currents. It is unlawful to place or set crab traps in

Areas Updated charts of approved public picking areas for shellfish should be obtained from Coastal Resources Division's Ecological Services Section. It is illegal to recreationally harvest shellfish except in designated public picking areas, unless authorized in writing by a private property owner with legal harvest rights to an area. Private property owners wishing to harvest recreational quantities of shellfish or to issue permission to others must notify and provide DNR with specific information. It is unlawful to give permission to take shellfish from a closed area. Harvesters taking shellfish from private property must have on their person proof of ownership or permission.

Subject to specific gear design criteria, sizes, time of day, and area restrictions outlined in these regulations, bait minnows may also be taken recreationally year-round in seines and castnets.
Possession Limits No individual recreationally harvesting bait minnows may possess more th~n two quarts of bait minnows at any given time. A United States Coast Guard licensed captain may possess not more than 10 quarts at any given time.
REPORTING VIOLATIONS
To report violations, contact DN R Law Enforcement offices in Brunswick 912-264-7237 or call the Toll-Free 24-hour Hot Line 800-241-4113. To report violations in federal waters contact United States Coast Guard stations in Brunswick 912-267-7999

the channel of any stream with a Shellfish Limits

and Tybee Island 912-78~-5440,

lawfully established system of Oysters must measure no less than NOAA's toll-free, 24-hour Fisheries

waterway markers. Disposal of crab three inches from hinge to mouth, Enforcement hotline 800-853-1964,

traps in public waters is a violation of unless the oyster cannot be removed or DNR LE 800-241-4113.

State and Federal laws.

from a legal-sized oyster without

Subject to specific gear design crite- destroying it. For clams, the maxiria, sizes, time-of-day, and area re- mum depth from one shell half to the

Sea Turtles

strictions outlined in these regulations, other must be at least one inch thick. It is unlawful to harm, harass, or

legal crabs may be taken recreationally Recreational quantity limits are up disturb any sea turtle adult,

year-round in seines and castnets. to two bushels of oysters and one hatchling, eggs, nest, carcass, or

Crab Catch Limits

bushel of clams per person per day,

It is unlawful to take or possess any with a maximum limit of six bushels of

crab less than 5 inches from spike to oysters and one bushel of clams per

spike across the back (other than a boat per day.

skeletal remains under both State and Federal law. It is also unlawful to offer for sale, sell, or possess any sea turtle, or sea turtle parts.

"peeler" or a "mature adult female"

BAIT MINNOWS

crab). Peelers must measure at least A Georgia Fishing license is required

3 inches from spike to spike across to harvest bait minnows for non-com-

the back.

mericial purposes. Bait minnows may

Other than licensed commercial crab- be harvested year-round. Recreation-

bers, no person may take or possess ally harvested bait minnows may not

more than one bushel of crabs during be sold. Bait minnows may not be

any 24-hour period. No more than two trapped in freshwater.

bushels may be taken recreationally or possessed during a 24-hour period on a boat with more than one person aboard.

Gear No more than two traps may be used recreationally, except that a United States Coast Guard licensed captain

SHELLFISH

may use a maximum of four traps.

'A Georgia Fishing license is required Maximum dimensions for rectangular

to take shellfish (oysters, clams) for traps may not exceed 24"x18"x9".

non-commercial purposes. Saltwaters Cylindrical traps may not exceed 24"

may be opened for taking oysters or in length and 30" in circumference.

clams between January 1 and De- Recreational bait minnow traps shall

cember 31 . Shellfish must be har- have a mesh size of no smaller than

vested between the hours of hour " bar mesh. The throat opening of

before official sunrise and hour the funnel shall not exceed " in

If any accidental capture occurs, release immediately either by direct release or by cutting any hook and line as close to the turtle as possible. Report any dead or injured sea turtle to the Georgia DNR, Nongame Wildlife/Natural Heritage Section, Endangered Wildlife Program 1-800-2-SAVE-ME.
Marine Mammals
It is unlawful for any person to display, feed, net, trap, harpoon, molest or otherwise interfere with the well-being or normal activity of marine mammals including bottlenose & spotted dolphin, manatee, and any species of whale. Report sightings of dead or injured marine mammals to 1-800-2-SAVE-ME.

2002-2003 Sport Fishing Regulations

www .gofishgeorgia.com

Page 35

Georgia's Saltwater Gamefish Records

Species

Weight

Angler

Location

12am.

Amberjack ............... 92Ibs, 1oz .............. Ben Key, Jr...................... Artificial Reef J ............................ 6(15

Barracuda ................ 54Ibs, 8oz .............. Wayne Hall ...................... East of R2 Tower ......................... 6/99

Black Sea Bass ....... Slbs, 11 oz .............. J. C. Hadden, Jr. .............. Navy Tower R2 ........................... 4/94

Bluefish ................... 17Ibs, 12oz ............ Gary Altman ............. ........ Artificial Reef G ............... ............ 4/80

Cobia ....................... 88Ibs, 12oz ............ Jeff Clark .......................... A Buoy ......................................... 5/85

Croaker ................... Slbs, 12oz .............. David Flynt ....................... Lanier Bridge ............................... 3fl7

Dolphinfish .............. 67Ibs, 6oz .............. Michael Sheppard ............ East of Navy Tower RS ............... 5/97

Drum, Black .......... ... 86Ibs, 802 .............. Timothy Belcher ............... Cumberland Sound ..................... 4/98

Drum, Red ............... 47Ibs, 7oz .............. Richard Price .................. Artificial Reef KC ....................... 11/86

Flounder .................. 1Slbs, 10oz ............ Janice Youmans .............. Jekyll Pier .................................. 11 /90

Grouper, Gag .......... 34Ibs, 8oz .............. Mike Parmalee ................. 67mi E of St. Simons Is ............... 4/86

Jack, Crevalle ......... 38Ibs, 8oz ....... ....... Lex Bazemore ................. Off Little Tybee Is ........................ 8/01

Ladyfish ................... Slbs ............... ......... Marjorie Nighbert ...... ... .... Cumberland Island ..... .. .. ............. 8fl8

Mackerel, King ........ 63Ibs, 8oz .............. Hal Waters, Jr.................. Brunswick Snapper Banks .......... 8/90

Mackerel, Spanish .. Bibs, 4oz ................ James Geiger .................. Smi E of Buoy VS ........................ 5/91

Marlin, Blue ............. 491 lbs, 8oz ,........... John Howard, Jr. ............. Gulfstream, off Brunswick ........... 6/85

Marlin, White ........... 49Ibs, 12oz ............ Thomas Hester ................ Gulfstream east of St. Catherines .. 6/86

Mullet, Striped ......... 9Ibs, 3oz ................ Steve Middleton ............... Darien River ............................... 12/94

Pompano, Florida .... 4Ibs, 15oz .............. Gary Altman ..................... Christmas Creek ........................ 11 /98

Porgies .................... 38Ibs, 14 oz ........... Louis Jiran ....................... Savannah Snapper Banks ......... 10/84

Porgy, Red .............. Slbs, 6oz ................ Jimmy Ginn ...................... Triple Ledges ............................... 5/80

Runner, Rainbow .... 17Ibs, 12oz ............ Tyler Bond ....................... Savannah Snapper Banks ......... 10/84

Sailfish .. .... ..... ... ..... .. 65Ibs ...................... Vann Downs .................... NOAA Buoy ................................. 6/81

Scamp .... ...... ........... 26Ibs ...................... Wayne Hall ...................... East of R2 Tower ....................... 11/95

Spotted Seatrout ..... 9Ibs, 7oz ................ Tommy Hall ......................Christmas Creek .......................... 7fl6

Shark, Black Tip ...... 131 lbs .................... Albert Boyd ...................... Wassaw Channel ......................... 5fl8

Shark, Bull ............... 455Ibs .................... Mark Noble ...................... STS Buoy .......................:............ 7fl8
or,a Shark, Dusky ........... 272Ibs, 8oz ............ Bill Hunter ........................ STS Buoy .................................. 1

Shark, Hammerhead .. 770Ibs .................... Charlie Marshall ..........:.... Little Cumberland ........................ 8fl3

Shark, Lemon .... .. .... 375Ibs .. ... .. ............. Thomas Winslow ......... .. .. St. Andrew Sound ....................... 7fl4

Shark, Mako ............ 228Ibs, 8oz ............ Harry Woolley .................. Off Savannah ............................... 5fl5

Shark, Nurse ........... 244Ibs .................... Bill Watson ....................... Sapelo Channel .................... ....... 8/81

Shark, Sandbar ....... 158Ibs, 8oz ............ Chet Lee Kirby ................. Jekyll Pier .................................... 4fl9

Shark, Sand Tiger ... 290Ibs .................... Billy Castle ....................... Ossabaw Island ........................... 5fl7

Shark, Thresher ...... 116Ibs .................... Mark Noble ...................... Artificial Reef C ............................ 3fl6

Shark, Tiger ............ 794Ibs .................... Chuck Hall ....................... STS Buoy .................................... 9fl5

Sheepshead ............ 14Ibs, 4oz .............. Harry Scott, Sr................. Wilmington River ......................... 1/00

Snapper, Red .......... 37Ibs, 8oz .............. Bill Shearin, Jr................. Savannah Snapper Banks ........... 9/88

Snook ...................... 10lbs, 2oz .............. Lester Rooks ................... Kings Creek ................................. 3/90

Spadefish ................ 12Ibs, 4oz .............. James Burch .................... Artificial Reef DRH ...................... 5/81

Swordfish ................ 86Ibs ...................... W.H. Lippitt ...................... Gulfstream, E. of Savannah ........ 5/80

Tarpon ......... ............ 161 lbs ............ ........ Christopher Edwards ....... Buttermilk Sound ......................... 7/95

Triggerfish ............... 11 lbs, 5oz .............. Elizabeth Zeagler ............. Savannah Snapper Banks ......... 11 /87

Tripletail ..... ..... ........ . 28Ibs, 7oz ..... ......... Jeff Anderson .................. S. Brunswick River ...................... 7/93

Tuna, Blackfin ......... 30Ibs, 8oz .............. Penny Morgan-Turner ..... Navy Tower RS ............................ 6/99

Tuna, Yellowfin ....... 249Ibs, 2oz ............ Ken Cooper ...................... Gulfstream ................................... 5/80

Tunny, Little ............ 20Ibs ................... .. . Sister Mary Clarice .......... East of St. Catherines ................. 7fl3

Wahoo ..................... 123Ibs, 3oz ............ Michael Stefanick ............ Triple Ledges ............................... 6/00

Weakfish ................. 6Ibs, 802 ................ Frank Taylor .................... Troupe Creek ............................... 3fl6

Whiting ...... .............. 2Ibs, 12oz .............. Harold Guinn ................... Mackay River ............................... 2fl5

For more information on Saltwater Gamefish Records contact the Coastal Resources Division.

Page 36 1-888-748-6887 for licenses

Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division

The Georgia Department of Natural
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2002-2003 Sport Fishing Regul ations

w w w .gofishgeorgia .com

Page 37

Lookingfor a place to fish in Georgia? Well, it's easy with these publications~
These can be obtained from any Fisheries Section office at no cost. Many are available on-line at www.gojishgeorgia.co1.

s ffyou like to .fish for trout and like beautiful mountain scenery, try some ofGeorgia 4,000 plus miles oftrout

streams. Trout fishing opportunities vary and include heavily-stocked streams, wilderness streams, streams wit/,

sp ecial regulations, small impoundments, and an urban trout stream like no other in the country - the

Chattahooc,hee River. Trout fishing is great for the family. Trout Streams ofGeorgia shows trout streams color-

coded by seasonal, year-round, and special regulations, public lands, roads, camping, a list ofsome streams

worth trying, and more.

An lntnxludiun lo
Georgi~ Tm ul Fi,l.iug

Ever want to try fishing for trout, but don~ know how or where to try? New to Georgia and looking for (

\

places to wet your line? An Introduction to Georgia Trout Fishing is just the ticket for beginners and the

, ' \\\.

experienced, whether y oung or not so young. After you have read this, you will be unafraid to venture

forth with kids, loved ones, and friends on a trip to the mountains for a fun day oftrout fishing.

Dodge County
/J~f~A.u

The Georgia Department ofNatural Resources owns and operates eight Public Fishing Areas for y our fishing enjoyment. A new PFA is scheduled to open in 2003 and several others are in the planning stages. These areas are intensively managed byfisheries professionals for quality largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, and channel catfish fishing. These areas are great places to bring your family andfriends to fish , picnic, hike, watch wildlife, relax, and enjoy the great outdoors. Good bankfishing is available at all PFAs and many have special kids only areas. Boat ramps, picnic areas,

trails, andfacilities accessible to persons with disabilities are availablefor your use.

Each year, WRD fisheries biologists update the fishing prospects for 30 large reservoirs in Georgia.

2002 Georgia Re11crvoirs Fi. bing Propect.

2002 Georgia Reservoirs Fishing Prospects tell you about each reservoir, who to contactfor lake conditions, where to launch a boat, and the skinny on whatfish will be biting, prime time to go for them, how big they will average, and tips on how to catch them. Make these prospects part ofyour

.fishing trip planning.
S m a ll Gco q~ia L1llcii; Open l o Puhlic F i11 '1 in g

A ~._,J,1..

~ tl,- - J N-.J1ot-.-

,r.&.1M,.11-- 1- . . - 1.~

1,,,-

Georgia has hundreds ofsmall lakes open to public.fishing. But how do you.find them? Small Lakes Open to Public Fishing tells you about more than 170 places to fish. The guide is indexed by county so y ou can find them easily. The lake name, location, ownership, size, fish species, fees, facilities, and when .it is op en is included. You can search for small lakes open for fishing on the WRD web site as well.

There are over 12,000 miles ofwarmwater streams greater than 10 feet wide througout Georgia and they support excellent and sometimes uniquefishing opportunities. Updated each year, Georgia Rivers Fishing
s Prospects give you the information you need to plan a fishing trip to 13 ofGeorgia large rivers. Learn
about what fis h are available, about how big they should be, where they can be located, and proven tips to increase your chance for success.

2002 Gfllriti Riven Pi11hing P-pecu

~-.-.-.,,IIN_l'G
0t.m11{pt1e :Rner

Guides to south Georgia rivers were developed to help anglers locate boat launching sites to fish these often underutilized resources. The guides include roads, ieformation on the majorfish species found in the river, and places to camp. These maps are invaluable for fishing these scenic and natural rivers.

Page 38 1-888-748-6887 for licenses

Recent Law Changes

Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division

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