'>A N 2.00 . e:..2.. Sl GEORGIA 2 -2 4 SPORT FISHING REGULATIONS Go Georgia! So many places... so many ways... DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES WILDLIFE RESOURCES DIVISION COASTAL RESOURCES DIVISION 'l~ Georgia Fishi1t1 suyyly centerI Featuring ABU GARCIA BERKLEY COLEMAN ZEBC0 STANLEY EAGLE CLAW JOHNSON MARLIN MINN KOTA MOSSBERG MITCHELL -~~ PLANO RAPALA - -~ REMINGTON SHAKESPEARE SHIMANO WINCHESTER AND MANY, MANY MORE... Georgia Ashing & Hunting Licenses Soldin Most Georgia Kmart Stores Order your firearms from Kmart's extensive gun catalog. Ask your Kmart Sporting Goods Manager. ALL AT LOW PRICES FOR YOURHUNTING,RSHING & CAMPING NEEDS!!! Call 1-800-866-0086 for the Kmart nearest you! --------------------------------------- Kmart Firearms and Ammunition Policy: Firearms and ammunition are sold in strict compliance with Federal, State and local laws. All purchases must be picked up in person. Purchaseroffirearms mustbe a resident of the state in which the firearms were sold. 0 All Regular Priced Hunting Merchandise Please present coupon to cashier prior to checking out .19o~-:-u..pon expires 12/31/03 TABLE OF CONTENTS FRESHWATER SECTION Agreements with Bordering States ................ 12-13 Angler Award Program ................ ............. ........... 22 Boating Regulations .... .. .. ...................................... 7 Buying Licenses .................. ...... ........................... 6 Commercial Fishing .. .. .. .. ............................ .. ..... . 11 Daily Limits ...... ........ ..... ..... .-.................................. 8 Definitions ............ ,... ... .. .. ................................... 27 Guidelines for Eating Fish .......... ................ .... 28-31 Finding a Place to Fish ................................... 4 & 7 Fish Identification ....................... ...... ............. 24-25 Fish.Kill Reporting ................................... ... .......... 4 Fisheries Section Offices & PFAs .,..'................... 4 Fishing Methods ... .. .... .. .. .. .. ................................ 10 Free Fishing Days .. .. ............................................ 3 Handling & Releasing Fish ............. ...................... 9 Length Limits ............... .. .................. .. .................. . 9 License Requirements ......................................... 6 Protected Species .. ..... ....................................... 15 Public Fishing Areas , .......... .... ...................... 20-21 Turn in Poachers .................. .............. ....... 28 & 35 Sale of Fish .. ................... ................... - 11 Seasons .. ............................................................. 8 State Freshwater Record Fish ............ ............... 22 Trout Fishing ................................................. 14-19 - SALTWATER SECTION Bait Minnows ...................................................... 37 Crabs ..................,.............................. ................. 37 Deflating Your Fish ... .. ....................................... 35 Finfish ................................................. ...... .... 33-34 Measuring Saltwater Finfish .......................... .. .. 34 Shellfish .. .................................................... .... ... 37 Sport Bait Shrimping .. ............... ......................... 36 State Saltwater Record Fish .............................. 38 2003-2004FRESHWATERANDSALTWATERSPORTFISHINGREGULATIONS Sonny Perdue, 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 J.D. Caswell - Chair Walter McNeely - Vice Chair Bob Rutland - Secretary Sally Bethea James E. Butler, Jr. Sara S. Clark Bill M. Gilbert Pierre Howard Walter A. Hudson Jamie Reynolds Ben G. Porter Glenn E. Taylor Reese Thompson Loyce Turner Jim Walters Thomas W. Wheeler, Jr. Cover Ph.otos (clockwise from top left): Bass at Dodge County PFA (B. D eener); Kid's Fishing! (S. Robinson); Delayed harvest trout (J. Shelton); and coastal red drum (G. Rogers). For a Summary of Recent Fishing Regulation Changes See Page 5 .,, *e~ -~6J a Kid 'f\S~~ Discover Fishing on Georgia's Free Fishing Days! 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! The Lifetime License is now on sale at Wildlife Infants under age 2: $200 Resources Division Offices Youth ages 2 - 15: $350 or call 770-414-3333 for Adult ages 16 - 65: $500 more information. Fora LifetimeLicense application, go to www.georgiawildlife.com May 31, June 7and September 27, 2003 No fishing or trout license required All waters of the state Must be a Georgia resident 1 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 2003-2004 Sport Fishing Regulations www .gofis hgeorgia.com Page 3 Contact Information and Offices Fisheries Secti~n 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 (So_cial Circl.e) 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 RegionaLOffice (Albany) 23 West Point 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 28 Hugh M. Gillis PFA (NEW) 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 706-845-4290 706-845-4290 478-825-6151 229-995-4486 770-918-6400 478-296-6192 If you have questions or comments regarding fishing laws or regulations, or any other fisheries matter, please contact the Fisheries office nearest you. FISHERIES MANAGEMENT OFFICES Telephone numbers listed above, FRESHWATER #'s refer to the above map. LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICES Boating Safety ............ 770-784-3068 Northwest Region (#3) Wildlife Resources Division 312 N. River St., N.W. Post Office Box 519 Calhoun, Georgia 30703-0519 Northeast Region (#5) Wildlife Resources Division 2150 Dawsonville Hwy. Gainesville, Georgia 30501 East Central Region (#9) Wildlife Resources Division 2123 U.S. Hwy. 278, S.E. Social Circle, Georgia 30025 West Central Region (#25) Wildlife Resources Division 1014 Martin Luther King Blvd. Fort Valley, Georgia 31030-6246 Southwest Region (#22) Wildlife Resources Division 2024 Newton Road Albany, Georgia 31701-3576 South Central Region (#17) Wildlife Resources Division 108 Darling Ave. Post Office Box 2089 Waycross, Georgia 31502-2089 Coastal Region (#14) Wildlife Resources Division 22814 Highway 144 Richmond Hill, Georgia 31324 SALTWATER FISHING INFO Coastal Resources Division (#16) One Conservation Way, Suite 300 Brunswick, Georgia 31520-8687 912-264-7218 Visit us on the internet at www.gofishgeorgia.com Albany .......................... 229-430-4252 Brunswick .................... 912-264-7237 Calhoun (Atlanta #) ..... 770-769-9680 Calhoun ........................ 706-624-1367 Gainesville ................... 770-535-5499 Macon .................. ........ 478-751-6415 Metter ........................... 912-685-2145 Social Circle (Atlanta#) .. 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 REPORT FISH KILLS Help protect our valuable fish resources. Report fish kills as quickly as possible. CALL TOLL FREE1-800-241-4113(24hrsaday, seven days a week). Page 4 1-888-748-6887 for licenses Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division Major Changes for 2003-2004 NewVear-round(VR)TroutStream West Point Largemouth Bass Designations: Several seasonal Length Limit Reduced to 14": Bass TAGGED FISH trout streams have be~n changed to length limit on this lake has changed. The Department of Natural Seepage 9. year-round status. Counties affected Resources (DNfi) periodically tags include: Bartow, Chattooga, Floyd, Slot Limit Set for Largemo~th Bass Gordon, Habersham, Haralson, at Bear Creek Water Supply Lumpkin, Paulding, Rabun,Stephens, Reservoir (Jackson County): A 16- fish for research purposes. Anglers who catch tagged fish are encouraged to return the tag to Towns, Walker, and Whitfield. See 22 inch protected slot limit will be in DNR. A rew_ard may be offered for effect for this water body. All bass page~ 17-19 for a listing of specific within this length range must be each tag returned. streams involved. YR streams are released immediately. Note: At the In past years, some individuals listed in dark blue type and new YR time of printing, this lake is not yet have placed their own personal streams are also underlined. open to the public for fishing. The tags on fish which were then Upper Oconee Basin Water released . This activity has Authority (Barrow, Clarke, Jackson, Chattooga River (Rabun County) and Oconee counties) will determine added to Delayed Harvest Program: the opening date for fishing. created confusion amon_g anglers over the purpose for the A 2.3 mile section of the river upstream of the GA Hwy 28 bridge to Saltwater Fishing Changes: No red drum over 23 inches may be taken; tagging and the organization respons ible fo r it. Tagging by an inexperienced person can the mouth of Reed Creek is now there is now no daily creel or result in the needless death of under Delayed Harvest regulations. possession limit for whiting (see page See page 14 for more information. 34) and sponge crabs may not be taken (see page 37) . the fish. For these reasons , the Department of Natural Resources urges anglers not to tag fish in Why Should You Buy public waters unless they ate cooperating in a recognized a Fishing License? scientific tagging program. Your purchase ofa fishing license helps support the following Fisheries Section programs. If you want to support fisheries management and conservation, buy a fishing license in 2003! LQst Your License? Management: Fish populations are monitored and managed in over 500,000 acres of reservoirs and small lakes, 12,000 miles of streams and 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. 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 many others are sent to thousands of anglers each year. Fish KIiis in public waters are investigated and polluters fined. 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 "Re~uest for Replacement/Refund" form from a license dealer and mail to the License Unit. There is a $3 replacement fee for each form submitted. To fish immediately, you must purchase a new license and request a refund for the second license by submitting a "Request for Replacement/Refund" form. 2003-2004 Sport Fishing Regulations www .gofishgeo{gia.co m Page 5 License Requirements - THREE CONVENIENT WAYS to Buy a Fishing License: Over 1,000 license dealers statewide including WAD offices, LIFETIME &ANNUAL SPORTSMAN'S LICENSES Lifetime licenses are available for anglers of all ages. See page 3 fishing license from the bordering state. See Agreements with Bordering States on pages 12-13. NONRESIDENTS: major retailers, sporting goods , bait & tackle , marinas , and hardware stores. for full details. The Lifetime license satisifies all state license requirements for the life of the purchaser. Nonresidents 16 or older, regardless of physical condition , must have a valid nonresident Georgia fishing . I Telephone 1-888-748-6887 Senior (age 65+) lifetime licenses license to fish in Georgia, except Internet www.gofishgeorgia.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 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. , 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 13. Northlake Parkway, Suite 108, Primitive Weapons Lie. , Big Game College students (US citizens) Bldg. 10, Tucker, Georgia 30084. Lie. , WMA Lie. , GA Waterfowl Lie., enrolled full-time who are residing Orders by mail must include name, address, date of birth , weight and height with the proper payment. Fishing Lie. , Trout Lie. and H.I.P. permit. dealers by furnishing proof of age within the state may purchase a resident fishing license. A current student I.D. must be shown when purchasing a residentfishing license. WHO NEEDS A FISHING (driver's license, birth certificate, etc.). Military persons on active status 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 Permanently and totally disabled: Residents 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 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 fish ing laws or regulations can cause revocation of license. private ponds (does not include ponds Retirement System or another PUBLIC FISHING AREAS owned by governments~city, county, state, or federal) nor by a landowner and their immediate family when fishing on their land. government agency. Persons that are blind: May apply for a Lifetime Honorary Fishing License and must provide a See page 20 for license requ irements to fish on a PFA. TROUT LICENSE All resident anglers ages 16 to 64 RESIDENTS: Physician's certification of blindness must have a trout license and a Proof of residence, such as a Georgia driver's license , is requ ired 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 with the application. RECIPROCAL AGREEMENTS Georgia DNA 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 Georgia fishing license to fish in designated trout waters and to fish for or to possess t~out. 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 2003-~004 RECREATIONAL without a trout license. All nonresident anglers, 16 or older, FISHING LICENSE FEES regardless of physical condition, must possess a nonresident fishing License Year': April 1, 2003-March 31, 2004 RESIDENT LICENSES: NONRESIDENT LICENSES: license and nonresident trout license to fish for or possess trout or to fish in designated trout waters. Sportsman's ...................... $60.00 Annual Fishing .. .. ........ ....... $24.00 Florida residents, 16 or older, must 0Finshei-nDga.y..F...1..s.h..m....g. ..... .................................... 9.00 3.50 Trout ...... .......................... ...... 5.00 CaonmdbFin.1ashti.mong Hunting .......-.... ........ .. .. . 17.00 One-Day F1.sh.mg ..... .......... ..... 3.50 7-Day Fishing ........ ................ 7.00 Trout .... .... .... ...... .. ................ 13.00 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 Wildlife Management Area .. 19.00 WildlifeManagementArea .... 73.00 of the park. Page 6 1-888-748-6887 for licenses Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division Boating . Boat Registration readily accessible to all occupants, Boating Safety All boats that carry any means of mechanical propulsion and all sailboats 12 feet and longer must be registered. - A Boat Registration Application 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 No vessel may be operated over idle speed within 100 feet of any moored or anchored vesse_l, vessel adrift, or any wharf, pier, piling, or persons in the water, or shoreline can be obtained from any office except Class A vessels (which next to a full-time or part-time of the Wildlife Resources Division , includes personal-watercraft,canoes residence, public park, public beach, or from most marine dealers and and kayaks) . public swimming area, marina, marinas or by wrlting to: Georgia Children under age 10 must wear a restaurant, or other public use area. Department of Natural Resources, License & Boat Registrati9n Unit, 2189 Northlake Parkway Building 1O,Sui~e108,Tucker,Georgia 30084 or from the j nternet, www.gofishgeorgia.com For more information, call the Boat RegistrationUnitat??0-414-3337. Georgia honors all other states' registrations, provided the boat is notusedinexcessof60consecutive days in Georgia. Personal Flotation Devices PFD when the vessel is under way, unless the child is within a fully enclosed cabin. PFDsmustbewornbyeachperson 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. No motor in excess of 25 hp may b~ operated on Lake Juliette or Lake Tugalo. Georgia State Park lakes often Booze and boats do not mix! It is unlawful to operate a boatwhile 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 WAD Law Enforcement Office. To learn about a boating safety course, contact the Boating Safety Coordinator at 770-784-3068 or any WAD Law Enforcement Office (see page 4 for contact information). A wearable personal flotation device have boat and motor restrictions. (PFD) is required for each person Check with the Park Office at each aboard a vessel. PFDs must be park for details. FINDING A PLACE TO FISH IN GEQRGIA 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 DNA that make it easy to find a place to fish. www.gofishgeorgia.com - the DNA web sit~ 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 WAD 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 DNA website or from any Fisheries Section office. Saltwater fishing - the DNA 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. 2003-2004 Sport Fishing Regulations www .gofis hgeorgia.com Page 7 Freshwater Game Species Daily Limits It is unlawful to take in one day or to SAUGER:...................................... 8 EXCEPTIONS: possess at any one time, except at SHAD ............................................ 8 BREAM: see South Carolina a residence or commercial storage American and/or Hickory Agreement on page 12. facility, more than the daily limit for each species. It is unlawful to STRIPED BASS, WHITE BASS possess more than a total of 50 and/or HYBRID WHITE-STRIPED STRIPED BASS, WHITE BASS and/ or HYBRID WHITE-STRIPED BASS: 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 BASS (see Note & Exceptlons)..15 Only two of which can be 22 inches or longer (there is no length restriction in waters covered in South Carolina agreement) Limit taken from the North Newport River, Medway River including Mount Hope Creek, Ljttle Ogeechee River, Ogeechee River, Oconee River down-stream of GA Hwy 22 in Milledgeville, Ocmulgee River continue to fish for that species. Note: The season for taking downstream of the GA Hwy 96 Exception: Daily limits differ on certain waters shared by Georgia and South Carolina. See Agreements Section (page 12). striped bass and hybrid whitestriped bass from the Savannah River and its tributaries downstream of New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam is closed. 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 BASS .......................................... 10 SUNFISH or BREAM limit, both must be 22 inches Largemouth, Redeye (Coosa), (see exception) ...................... 50 in length or longer. Shoal, Smallmouth, Spotted Bluegill, Flier, Redbreast, Redear, See South Carolina Agreement (Kentucky), and/or Suwanee bass Rock bass, Spotted,Warmouth and/ on page 12. CATFISH ..........;............... No Limit Channel and/or Flathead CRAPPIE ..........;........................-. 30 Black and/or White or Shadow bass TROUT (see exception) .............. 8 Brook, Rainbow, and/or Brown trout WALLEYE (see exception) ......... 8 TROUT: See Amicalola Creek, Chattahoochee River, Chattooga River, Smithgall Woods, Smith Creek, and Waters Creek on pages , 14-15 PICKEREL .................................. 15 STURGEON may not be taken in fresh WALLEYE: Limit on Blue Ridge , Chain, Grass and/or Redfin or saltwater in Georgia. Reservoir is 15. Seasons There is no closed season for fishing The Flint River and its tributaries in freshwater in Georgia except for from the Georgia Power Co. dams the following: at Albany to the US Hwy. 84 bridge; the Chattahoochee River and its Trout streams that are designated tributaries from the Columbia Lock asseasonaltroutstreamsareOPEN & Dam to the GA Hwy. 91 bridge; to fishing for any species from and Spring Creek and its tributaries MARCH 29- OCTOBER 31, 2003. downstream to GA Hwy. 253 are Seasonal trout streams are closed closed to striped bass fishing to fishing for all fish species at all and spear fishing from May 1- other times . October 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 \Vh~te-strlped 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, o r mussels! Moving live fish, aquatic plants, or mussels from one lake or streani 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 a'nd 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, live well, and nets before leaving the launch site. . Clean your boat and equipment thoroughly before launching into new waters. Page 8 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 (O in.) Lake Juliette-no minimum (0 in.) Lake Lanier-14 inches Lake Oconee-bass between r1 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-14 inches Bear Creek Reservoir- (see page 5) 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 1 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. Handling and Releasing A Fish When releasing a fish, you can give the fish is hoo.ked 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 nottake the measuring the fish. fish out of the water. Hold the fish in an upright position Handle the fish gently with bare, and move it gently back and forth so wet hands. Do not squeeze the fish, water runs over the gills. Release put your fingers in the -eyes or gills the fish when it is able to swim. or 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. Creel and Possession Note to Anglers: Creel and possession limits are per person. In order for Conservation Rangers to correctly determine compliance with these limits, each individual should keep trout or other fish on separate stringers or in separate creels. It is unlawful for one individual to possess more than the legal limit of any fish species. FISHING WITHOUT PERMISSION s It is unlawful to fish on someone else property withoutpermission. Conservation Rangers and other law enforcement officer~ are charged with enforcing this law. Ashing rights are ohen privately held on nonnavigable streams. Alwavs askpermission before enteringprivate land. Permission is not required to fish on the Chattahochee or Oconee National Forests, on Public Ashing Areas (PFAs) or Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) ofthe Wildl!fe Resources Division, or in Georgia State Parks. 2003-2004 Sport Fishing Regulations www.gofis hgeorgia.com Page9 Fishing Methods 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 Altam'aha River watershed downstream of the following: Juliette dam 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 www.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. HOOK AND LINE 2. submerged at least three (3) feet minnow seines must be released Game fish may be used as live bait below the surface of the water immediately unharmed into the (where live bait is legal) if they are 3. attended regularly and removed water. taken legally and you do not exceed after the completed fishing trip. A minnow seine niust be less than daily creel and possession limits. Unmarked or unattended trotlines 20 feet in length and have a 3/s inch 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. 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 (year-round) and American and Hickory shad during shad season may be taken with trotlines. Trotlines and jugs are not , permitted on Lake Tobesofkee 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 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 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 , BOW FISHING Only nongame fish may be taken by bow and arrow from freshwate r under the following conditions: Possession of a sport fish ing license buoys which propels the spear to which is required to bow fish in Georgia. a wire, rope, line, etc. is attached Arrows must be equipped with and secured to the weapon or the barbs or sim ilar devices for Jln.tg person using the weapon . Only nongame fish may be speared recovering fish and must be attached to the person or bow by ~ IB T (DJ(0) fl )pl&1111\ TI1H~0 in freshwater and are not to be sold or used for commercial purposes. a line sufficient fo r recovering the arrow and fish . COMMERCIAL FISHING SUPPLIES HOOP NETS TRAMMEL NETS GILL NETS SEINES CAST NETS It is illegal to spear game fish and all species of catfish . A sport fish ing license is required to spear fish in Georgia. The person spearing fish must be completely submerged. Poisonous or exploding arrowheads are illegal. Arrows cannot be discharged into the water closer than 150.feet to any person . Legal hours forfishing with bow and P.O. Box 18787 NOTE: SEE SECTION ON SEASONS arrow are from sunrise to sunset, Memphis, TN 38 18 1 1-800-423-6603 Fax: 901 -743 -6580 SEINES, CAST NETS, BOW NETS Only nongame fish less than 5 inches in length may be taken using except nongame fish may be taken at night while using a light in reservoirs over 500 acres in size. Email: miller@mi llernets.com Website: www.millemets.com a minnow seine and are not to be Any game fish with an open wound sold or used for commerc ial possessed by a person bow fishing purposes. will be considered evidence of taking Cal/ for Free Fishing Catalog. All other fish and eels taken in fish illegally. Page 10 l-888-748-6887 for licenses Wildli fe Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division Sale of Fish GAME FISH DOMESTIC FISH It is unlawful for any person to sell or Aquaculturists (fish farmers) must purch~se any game fish except under register with the Department of the following conditions: Natural Resources in order to Game fish may be sold by sell . do!11estic fish: Registration properly licensed commercial fish a~pllca~1ons are ~va1labl~ from any hatcheries wholesale and retail . Fisheries Section office or by fish dealer~, and pond owners (see calling 7?0-918-6418. following paragraph} who conform Domestic fish are lawfully obtained to the Game and Fish Code. farmed fish which are held in Game fish may be sold from a pond when: 1) the owner has obtained a valid permit from DNR Law Enforcement Section (2 weeks required to process) ~) the permit is displayed at the pond . 3) the fish are packaged and labeled for transport from the pond with the permit number and the number and pounds of each species contained in the package. Fish must remain so packaged until processed or released into another pond. confinement in private ponds, but only if they are fish species which are either indigenous to Georgia or have been recognized prior to 1992 as having an established population in public waters in Georgia. The White Perch is not recognized as a domestic fish. Persons in possession of domestic fish from registered aquaculturists must have an authentic bill of sale or lading which identifies the seller, the date of transactio,:, and at least two of the following for each fish species: number, weight, or average length. COMMERCIAL FISHING NOTE: A permit will be issued only American shad , hickory shad , once annually and limits the channel catfish , and flathead catfish time for taking fish from the pond taken while commerical fishing may to 15 days. be sold as described in the Game Game fish shipped into Georgia and Fish Code. For a complete copy may be lawfully transported , sold, of the freshwater cpmmercial fishing and resold provided each person regulations, contact the nearest in possession of said game fish . Fisherie~ Section office or see the has an authentic bill of sale or website www.gofishgeorgia.com. For lading which details the source of information concerning saltwater the fish and the species, number commercial fishing , contact the and pounds of the fish . Coastal Resources Division. For Information on Water Safety, Recreation, Lake Levels, or Camping, Contact: Hartwell Dam & Lake 5625 Anderson Highway (Hwy 29) P.O. Box278 Hartwell, GA 30643-0278 706-856-0300 * 1-888-893-0678 Richard B. Russell Dam & Lake 4144 Russell Dam Drive Elberton, GA 30635-9271 706-213-3400 * 1-800-944-7207 ( J . Strom Thurmond Dam & Lake Rt. 1, Box 12 Clarks HIii, SC 29821-9701 864-333-1 100 * 1-800-533-3478 http://www.sas.usace.army.mil For Camping Reservations, Contact the National Recreation Reservation Service (NRRS) toll free at: 8n-444-67n www.reserveusa.com , Fishing is a great way to spend time wi~h a child. The Fisheries Section sponsors several hundred Kids Fishing Events each year where kids can learn to fish. ~ .~();) 0 a Kid 'f\S~ Most Public Fishing Areas also have special "kids only" ponds for kids to fish in. Call the nearest Fisheries Office to learn about Kids Fishing Events and opportunities near_you. 2003-2004 Sport Fishing Regulations www .gofishgeorgia .c o m Page 11 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. NOTE: Regulations under these agreements may differ fror;n 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 follow~d . AGREEMENT WITH ALABAMA Waters Covered: The banks and waters of only that portion of the Chattahoochee River forming 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 Poin Reservoir lying upstream (north) of Georgia Hwy. 109 bridge on t~e 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 cove~ed by this agreement are the same as Georgia's statewide limits. Minimum Length Limits: Largemouth bass: Lake West Point - 14 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 licen'se. AGREEMENT WITH SOUTH CAROLINA This agreemenfdoes not apply to North latitude at Ellicott's Rock). No person may have a rifle in their commercial fishing or saltwater sport This agreement also applies to all possession or in a boat on South fishing. the waters and banks of Clarks Hill Carolina waters. 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 Reservoir (Strom Thurmond) , Richard . B. 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. All other laws and regulations of Georgia apply in the Georgia portion of 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: than the laws of that state or those of this agreement permit, even though the fish we re 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 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 Largemouth bass, Spotted bass, and/or Redeye (Coosa) bass ...... to Trout ............... ............................... 8 Bream (all species) ................... .. 30 Walleye ... ............ .... .. .. .. ................ 8 Sauger .................... ............. ......... 8 Crappie (Black and/or White) ..... 30 White bass ..... ................ ............. 30 Striped bass and/or mouth to the junction of the Tugaloo Georgia portion of the waters Hybrid white-striped bass ........... 10 and Chattooga Rivers; and the covered by this agreement that It is unlawful to possess a total of Chattooga River to the No rth. are shorter than 12 inches in length more than forty (40) of all species Carolina state line (35th parallel of must be released immediately. listed above. Page 12 l-888-748-6887 for licenses Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division AGREEMENT WITH FLORIDA Waters covered: Licenses: The waters and the banks of the St Any person who has a valid fishing Marys River,notincluding itstributaries. The waters and banks of Lake Seminole, bounded on the west by license and properly issued permits or licenses, orboth, required by Georgia or Florida in their possession may sport fish for freshwater fish in the Florida State Road No. 271 ; on the waters covered. south by the Jim Woodruff Dam; on A Florida saltwater fishing license is the east by the line immediately east required to fish for or to possess of the Chattahoochee Marina (also saltwater fish on the Florida side of known as the Booster Club} running the St. Marys River. northwest across the reservoir to The Georgia Honorary Disability the tip of land at the junction of the Flint.andChattahoochee Rivers, west License is not recognized by Florida underthis agreement. of Spring Creek; and on the north by Georgia Senior Citizens: the Herman Talmadge Bridge across Georgia Senior (65+} Lifetime the Chattahoochee River. License holders may fish in the freshwaters in Florida without charge. Creel and Possession Limits: A Florida saltwater fishing license is The limit for striped bass, white required to fish for or to possess bass, and hybrid white-striped bass saltwater fish on the Florida side of on the St. Mary's River is two fish the St. _Marys River. which must be 22 inches or longer. Florida Senior Citizens: For all other species in the waters Florida residents more than 65 years covered, Georgia's statewide creel of age (proof of age required} may fish and possession limits .(page 8) in fresh waters in Georgia apply. All other fishing regulations of the State of Georgia apply on the Georgia side of the St. Mary's River without charge, except a nonresidenttrout license is required to fish in designated trout waters and to fish for or possess mountain trout. A nonresident WMA license is also and the Georgia portion of Lake required in Waters Cree~. Seminole. Florida laws and A nonresident fishing license is regulations apply on the . Florida required to.fish, castnet, seine, crab, side of the St. Mary's River and the gig, sport bait trawl, or harvest shell Florida portion of Lake Seminole. fish in saltwater in Georgia. AGREEMENT WITH.NORTH CAROLINA Waters covered: anchored to the shore or to a pier or Lake Ch~tuge and all tributary boat dock connecting to the shore. branches lying in Georgia or North Senior citizen and youth license Carolina which are accessible by exemptions authorized by either boat from the main body of the reservoir. state are honored by both states on Lake Chatuge. Licenses: All other laws and regulations of Georgia apply to the Georgia Holders of a valid Georgia or North portion of Lake Chatuge. All other Carolina fishing license may fish laws and regulations of North with hook and line in Lake Chatuge Carolina apply to the North only from boats. Boats may not be Carolina portion of Lake Chatuge. More Outdoors For Your Money Fishing Camping Hunting Marine Boating Outdoor Clothing Footwear 130,000 sq. ft. of outdoor excitement! Georgia's largest selection of fishing gear Shop the largest hunting assortment in the area Find the boat ofi our dreams inside our TRACKER boat showroom Plus much more! It's all here at Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World - stop by today! ~ ATLANTA \-:Mi~ 1-85 to Exit 108 5900 Sugarloaf Parkway Lawrenceville, GA (678) 847-5500 Hours: Mon - Sat 9am - 10pm, Sun Ilam - 7pm For new locations and event information, log onto basspro.corn 2003-2004 Sport Fishing Regulations www.gofishgeorgia.com Page 13 Trout Fishing in Georgia The Wildlife Resources Division uses special regulations (see below) and stocking Jo 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 about trout stocking is available on the internet at the WAD website (www.gofishgeorgia.com). The Trout Streams of Georgia Map is available from WAD 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 veget~tion 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 private property. The landowner controls access to, and fishing rights in, suchstreams. Itisyourresponsibility lo know whenyou cross apropertyline. Obtain permission from the lafJdowner before fishing on private property. 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: TROUT SEASON IMPOUNDMENTS ON ARTIFICIAL LURES ONLY Trout season is from March 29 - October TROUT STREAMS In streams listed below only artificial I I I 31 , 2003. Many trout streams are open to fishing year-round : (see list on pages 17s19) TROUT FISHING HOURS Fishing hours on seasonal trout streams, except Waters Creek (page 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. lures may be used. It is unlawful to possess any other type bait on an "artificial lures only" stream (see definitions on page 27) . CHATTAHOOCHEE RIVER from GA Hwy 20 to the boat ramp at the National Park Service Medlock Bridge Park immediately upstream of GA Hwy 141. 15), are 30 minutes before sunrise to Fish at night, except on Dockery and COLEMAN RIVER and its tributaries 30 minutes after sunset. Night fishing is not allowed. Fishing 24 hours a day is allowed on year-round troot streams,exceptthose 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 GeorgiaTennessee state line and Smith Creek downstream of Unicoi dam are 30 minutes before sunrise until 30 minutes after sunset. Night fishing is not allowed. 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. DELAYED HARVEST STREAMS Anglers fishing delayed harvest streams must release all trout immediately and use and possess only artificial lures with single hooks from Nov. 1-May 14 annually. These restrictions do not apply fro_m 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 GeorgiaTennessee 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 us~d 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 tributaries upstream of Mountaintown Creek Watershed Structure No. 2 (Hills Lake) . NOONTOOTLA CREEK and its TROUT FISHING RULES Trout anglers are restricted to the use of one pole and line which must be from May 15-Oct. 31 of each year. The following streams are delayed harvest streams: tributaries on Blue Ridge WMA. NOTE: All trout less than 16 inches in length caught from this section of Noontootla Creek must be released hand held. No other type of gear may AMICALOLA CREEK from County immediately. 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 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). CHATTOOGA RIVER from GA Hwy 28 bridge upstream to the mouth of Reed Creek. SMITH CREEK on Unicoi State Park from Unicoi Dam downstream to the 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 wt\en the season is closed. Unicoi State _Park property boundary. holders of Honorary licenses. Page 14 1-888-748-6887 for licenses Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division Trout Stream Regulations (conti_nued) SMITHGALL WOODS-DUKES CREEK , CONSERVATION AREA. Dukes Creek and its tributaries withinthe Dukes Creek Conservation Area are open to fishing year round by reservation only. To make a reservation call 706-8783087. Only_ artificial lures 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 Alternat_e 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-w_ay. WATERS CREEK located on the Chestatee 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, nonresident trout Jicense and nonresident WMA license. Florida residents more than 65 years must possess 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. BE AN ETHICAL ANGLER 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 envir0nment by not littering, dispose of fishing line properly, and leaye 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. PROTECTED SPECIES MAY BE ENCOUNTERED WHILE FISHING Many rare and protected species such as the three pictured below live in or near water and may be encountered while fish ing. 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,. g.a.us/dnr/wild/natural.html EASTERN HELLBENDER Large, harmless salamander found in clear, rocky mountain streams such as trout strea ms . 2003-2004 Sport Fish111g Rcg ul.Hi on~ 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.go fi shgeorgia.com Page 15 NEXT GENERATION SPORTS:tYIAN A nonprofit.organization created by sportsmen to pass the family heritage of h1,1nting and fishing from one generation to the next. YOUTH DREAM HUNTS - NGS gave 300 plantatiof, deer, duck, and ..-. r1J pheasant parent/child hunts to young hunters last year GEORGIA YOUTH DEER CONTEST OTHER EVENTS, OUTINGS AND OPPORTUNITIES For more information : CALL 1-877'."641-2955 or www.nextgenerationsportsman.com HeartlandHome Mortgage Purchase Refinance Maximum Cash Out _ _1 ~Mort~ge Fi~~Rate~_ Amount ,$50,000 30yr *5.875% $295. n 15yr .*5.25% $401.94 $80,000 $473.23 , $643.10 $125,000 $739.42 $1004.85 *30 yr APR= 6.1% 15 yr APR= 5.4% RATES SUBJECT TO CHANGE Call Toll Free 1-866-643-8272 or apply online www.mortgagebyheartland.com Multi-state Mortgage Licensee 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 for enforcing tlie 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 certificati'on as a peace officer by_ the Georgia Peac~ 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 DNA at 770-918-6400 or 478-993-4540. Page 16 1-888-748-6887 for licenses WildJife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division GEORGIA'S TROUT STREAMS BY COUNTY I Seasonal Trout Streams (S) are open March 29 - October 31, 2003 Year-round Streams (YR) are open to fishing throughout the year and are designated in dark blue type. New YR streams are underlined. Watershed: the stream and all Its tributaries (streams flowing into that stream). NOTE: The following trout streams have special regulations, see pages 14-15 before fishing: Amicalola Creek, Chattahoochee River, Chattooga 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 YR-Allison Creek watershed; Lookout FORSYTH COUNTY $-Boston Creek watershed upstream Creek watershed upstream from Dade YR-Chattahoochee River. from GA Hwy 20. Co Rd 197. FULTON COUNTY YR-Connesena Creek watershed; DAWSON COUNTY YR-Chattahoochee River down- Dykes Creek watershed; Pine Log S-Amicalola Creek watershed upstream stream to the mouth of Peachtree Creek watershed; Pyle Creek from Dawson Co Rd 192 (Steele Bridge Creek. watershed; Salacoa Creek watershed; Rd) which is first bridge upstream from GILMER COUNTY Spring Creek watershed; Stamp Creek GA Hwy 53; Amicalola Creek tributaries S-Harris Creek watershed ; Johnson watershed upstream from Bartow Co from GA Hwy 53 upstream to Dawson Co Creek watershed; Tails Creek watershed; Rd 269; Toms Creek watershed Rd 192 (Steele Bridge Rd) ; Nimblewill and all other streams or parts of streams upstreamfromBartowCoRd82:Two Creekwatershed; ShoalCreekwatershed not listed as year-round except: Run Creek watershed; Ward Creek upstream from the mouth of Burt Creek; Coosawattee River downstream from watershed. Sweetwater Creek watershed. Old GA Hwy 5 (Gilmer Co Rd 239); Talking CARROLL COUNTY YR-Tallapoosa River watershed north of l-20, not Including Little Tallapoosa River watershed. CATOOSA COUNTY $-Hurricane Creek watershed upstream YR-Amicalola Creek from Dawson Co Rd 192 (Steele Bridge Rd) downstream to GA Hwy 53; Anderson Creek watershed; Long swamp creek watershed. FANNIN COUNTY 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 from Peters Branch. YR-DryCreekwatersh~d(partofEast Chickamauga Creek watershed) upstream of Catoosa Co Rd 257; Little Chickamauga Creek watershed upstream from Catoosa Co Rd 387; Tiger Creek watershed upstream from GA Hwy 2. $-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 watershed (except Jacks River watershed); Coosawatee River from confluence of Cartecay & Ellijay rivers downstream to old GA Hwy 5 bridge (Gilmer Co Rd 239}; Ell/jay River watershed; Fightlngtown Creek watershed; Mountaintown Creek water shed; Noontootla Creek CHATTOOGA COUNTY state line & upstream from the mouth of watershed; Sevenmlle Creek water- YR-Allgood Branch watershed: Stanley Creek exceptthose listed as year- shed; Town Creek watershed; Wildcat Chappel Creek watershed: Chelsea round ; Tumbl ing Creek watershed ; Creek watershed. Creekwatershed: EastForkLittleRiver Wilscot Creek watershed . GORDON COUNTY watershed including Gilreath Creek: YR-Conasauga River watershe d S-Johns Creek watershed ; Pin Hook Hinton Creek watershed: Kings Creek (except Jacks River water- Creek watershed upstream from Gordon watershed; Little Armuchee Creek shed); Ellijay River watershed; Co Rd 275. watershed upstream from Co Rd 326; Mt. Hope Creek (Coon Creek) watershed; Perennial Spring watershed: Raccoon Creek watershed upstream from GA HwY48: RuffCreek watershed: StoreyMill Creekwatershed; Taliaferro Creek watershed. CHEROKEE COUNTY S-Boston Creek watershed. Fightingtown Creek watershed; Mountaintown 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). YR-Pine Log Creek watershed upstream from GA Hwy 53; ~ Creek watershed upstream from Gordon co Rd 210: Salacoa Creek watershed upstream from US Hwy 411; Snake Creek watershed. GWINNETT COUNTY YR-Chattahoochee River. YR-Bluff Creek watershed upstream FLOYD COUNTY HABERSHAM COUNTY ofCherokee Co Rd 114; Pine Log Creek S-Johns Creek watershed upstream from S-Amy's Creek watershed upstream from watershed; Salacoa Creek watershed; Floyd Co Rd 212. GA Hwy 17; Chattahoochee River Soap .Creek watershed upstream of YR-Dykes Creek watershed; Kings tributaries downstream to GA Hwy 255 Cherokee Co Rd 116; Stamp Creek Creek watershed: Lavender Creek (except Amy's Creek downstream from watershed; Wiley Creek watershed. watershed upstream from Floyd Co Rd GA Hwy 17 & Sautee.Creek downstream COBB COUNTY JJJJJ;_ Little Cedar Creek watershed; Mt. from GA Hwy 255 Alternate bridge); Left YR-Chattahoochee River downstream to Hope Creek watershed: Sliver Creek Fork Soque River upstream of GA Hwy the mouth of Peachtree Creek. watershed upstream of GA Hwy 1E 356 & all tributaries to the entire Left DADE COUNTY (Floyd Co Rd 631); Spring Creek Fork Soque River; Nancytown Creek S-East Fork Little River watershed; Rock watershed (flows Into Etowah River); watershed upstream from Nancytown Creek watershed . Toms Creek watershed. (Continues on next page) 2003-2004 Sport Fishing Regulations www .gofi shgeorgia.com Page 17 S - SEASONAL STREAMS; YR - YEAR-ROUND STREAMS La~e; Right Fork Soque River upstream River tributaries upstream from the mouth Holly Creek watershed; Rock Creek of Wilson Falls &tributaries to the entire of Tesnatee Creek, except for the watershed (most northern of two Rock Right Fork Soque River; Soque River Frogtown Creek watershed ; Dockery Creeks within Holly Creek watershed) tributaries that enter the river from the confluence of the Left Fork & Right Fork Soque rivers downstream to the mouth of Deep Creek. YR-ChattahoQchee River downstream to GA Hwy255; Left Fork Soque River downstream of GA Hwy 356 Lake; Etowah River watershed upstream upstream from Murray Co Rd 301. from Hightower Church Road (County PAULDING COUNTY Road 72) Bridge; Etowah River tributaries from Castleberry Bridge upstream to Hightower Church Road (County Road - S-Pumpkinvine Creek upstream from P,aulding watershed Co Rd 231; 72) Bridge; Shoal Creek watershed ; Raccoon Creek watershed upstream from Yahoola Creek watershed upstream from SR 2299 (Paulding Co Rd 471 ). except tributaries; Liberty Creek the mouth of Bryant Creek. YR-Possum Creek watershed watershed; Middle Fork Broad R[ver YR-Chestatee River upstream from upstream from Paulding Co' Rd 64: watershed: North Fork Broad River the mouth of Tesnatee Creek: Etowah Powder Creek (Powder Springs watershed; Panther Creek watershed; River from CaStleberry Bridge CreekJ watershed: Pyle Creek water- Right Fork Soque Riverdownstream of WIison Falls except tributaries; Roberts _Branch watershed; Sautee Creekdownstream from GA Hwy 255 Alternate bridge; Soque River, except tributaries downstream from the confluence of Left Fork & Right Fork Soque rivers, to the mouth of Deep Creek; Toccoa Creek watershed- HARALSON COUNTY upstream to Hightower Church Road (County Road 72J: Frogtown Creek watershed: 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; North Prong Sumac Creek watershed ; Rock Creek _watershed upstream from shed; Tallapoosa River watershed; Thompson Creek watershed; Ward Creek watershed. PICKENS COUNTY S-Amicalola Creek watershed upstream from Dawson Co Rd 192; Cove Creek watershed upstream from Pickens Co Rd 294; Fisher Creek watershed; Pin Hook Creek watershed . YR....Flatwood Creek watershed: Murray Co Rd 4 (most southern of YR- Ball Creek watershed; Bluff Creek Lassetter Creek watershed: Mann two Rock Creeks which are in the Holly watershed; Cartecay River watershed; Creek watershed upstream from Creek watershed) ; Sugar Creek Darnell Creek watershed; Hobson Haralson Co Rd 162: Tallapoosa Creek watershed; Tallapoosa River watershed upstream from Co Rd 222. HART COUNTY YR-Savannah River from Hartwell Dam downstream to Richard B. Russell Reservoir_. LUMPKIN COUNTY S-Amicalola Creek watershed ; Bryant Creek watershed; Cane Creek watershed upstream from GA Hwy 9-52 bridge; Cavender Creek watershed ; Chestatee 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); DIii Creek watershed; Holly Creek watershed upstream from DIii Creek; MIii Creek watershed upstream from Murray Co Rd 27; Mill Creek (Hasslers MIii Creek) watershed that is in the Creek watershed; Little 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; Sevenmlle Creek watershed; Sharp Mountain Creek watershed; Soap Creek watershed; Talking Rock Creek watershed upstream from S1O11 (GA Hwy 136); Town Creek watershed; Wildcat Creek watershed. Timber Management Wildlife Management Soil & Water Conservation Recreation Aesthetics Are you interested in managing your forest for multiple uses? Ge(!rgia's Forest Stewardship Program can provide you with a written management plan to help you re~cb those objectives! ~ For details contact your nearest Georgia Forestry Commission or Georgia Department of Natural Resources Office or call: 1-800-GATREES POLK COUNTY S-Lassetter Creek watershed ; Pumpkinpile Creek watershed upstream from Polk Co Rd 437. YR-Cedar Creek watershed upstream from Polk Co Rd 121; Little Cedar Creek watershed; Sliver Creek watershed; Spring Creek watershed; Swinney Creek watershed; Thomasson Creek watershed; Thompson Creek watershed upstream of Polk Co Rd 441. RABUN COUNTY S-Bad Branch watershed (flows into Lake Seed); Bad Creek watershed (flows into Tugaloo) ; Bridge Creek watershed; Crow Creek watershed (flows into Seed) ; Dickenson Branch (flows into Burton); Dicks Creek watershed (flows into Burton) ; Falls Branch watershed (flows into Rabun) ; Flat Creek watershed ; Joe Creek watershed (flows into Rabun) ; LaCounts Creek watershed (flows into Seed} ; Moccasin Creek watershed , (Continues on next page) ~age 18 l-888-748-6887 for licenses Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Di vision S - SEASONAL STREAMS; YR - YEAR-ROUND STREAMS except Moccasin Creek from the Lake Conley Creek watershed ; Kiutuestia watershed: Little Chickamauga Creek Burton.hatchery water intake downstream Creek watershed; Low Creek watershed ; watershed; Ruff Creek watershed: to the sign marking the approximate and all otherstreams or parts of streams Snake Creek watershed: West normal pool level of Lake Burton; Popcorn not listed below as year-round except: Armuchee Creek watershed; ~ Creek watershe d; Seals Creek watershed (flows into Seed); Slick Shoal Creek (flows into Seed); Timpson Creek watershed; Wildcat Creek watershed ; Butternut Creek watershed; Nottely River downstream from Nottely Dam & tributaries to Nottely Reservoir not listed Chickamauga Creek watershed upstream from Walker Co Rd 107. WH ITE COUNTY Worse Creek wate rs hed (flows into as year-round (these may be fished year- S- Chattahoochee River wate rshed Tugaloo) ; and all other streams or parts round without a trout license). upstream from GA Hwy 75 Alternate of streams not listed as year-round except: YR-Brasstown Creek watershed bridge; Chattahoochee River tributaries Tallulah River downstream from Lake downstream from US Hwy 76 bridge; f rom GA Hwy 75 Alternate bridge Burton Dam & tributaries to Burton, Seed, Coosa Creek watershed; lvylog downstreamtoGAHwy255bridgeexcept Rabun , Tallulah Falls, Tugaloo & Yonah Creek watershed; Noontootla Creek Dukes Creek watershed downstream lakes not listed as year-round (may be watershed; Nottely River from US Hwy from the US Forest Service property fished year-round without a trout license). 129-19 bridge downstream to Nottely YR-Chattooga River upstream from Reservoir; Rock Creek watershed; the mouth of Warwoman Creek; Little Toccoa River (does not Include Tennessee River downstream from US Hwy 23-441 bridge; Moccasin Creek from the Lake Burton hatchery water tributaries unless listed); Youngcane Creek watershed. Intake downstream to the sign marking WALKER COUNTY the approximate normal pool level S-Furnace Creek watershed ; Johns of Lake Burton; Overflow Creek Creekwatershed; RockCreek watershed boundary, SauteeCreek and Smith Creek watershed downstream from Unicoi dam Town Creek watershed upstream fro~ the mouth of Jenny Creek. YR-Chattahoochee River downstream fromtheGAHwy75Alternatebrldgeto the GA Hwy 255 bridge; Dukes Creek watershed downstream from the US watershed; Stekoa Creek watershed; upstream from Sawmill Branch; Sawmill Forest Service property boundary; Tallulah River downstream to Lake Branch; Little Tesnatee Creek watershed Burton; Warwoman Creek; West Fork YR-Allen Creek watershed: Chappel upstream from the mouth of Turner Chattooga River. Creek watershed: Chattanooga Creek Creek; Sautee Creek; Smith Creek STEPHENS COUNTY watershed upstream from Walker Co downstream of Un/co/ dam; Turner YR- Little Toccoa Creek watershed; Rd 235; Concord Creek watershed; North Fork Broad River watershed Dougherty Creek watershed: DryCreek upstream, from NRCS flood control structure No. 1; Middle Fork Broad River watershed upstream from NRCS ffoodcontrol structure-No. 44; Panther Creek watershed; Toccoa Creek watershed(trlbutarytoEastArmuchee Creek): Duck Creek watershed; East Fork Little River watershed (flows Into Dade County): East Fork Little River watershed upstream from Toccoa watershed (flows Into Chattooga Falls. County): GIireath Creek: Gulf Creek TOWNS COUNTY S-Bearmeat Creek watershed ; Bell Creek watershed ; Bugshuffle Branch watershed; Harrisburg Creek watershed upstream from Dougherty Creek: Left Fork Coulter Branch Creek watershed (one nearest to Cleveland City limits). WHITFIELD COUNTY YR-Coahulla Creek watershed upstream from Whitfield Co Rd 183; Dry Creek watershed (part of East Chickamauga Creek watershed); Spring Creek (Deep Spring Creek) watershed; Swamp Creek watershed upstream from Whltf/eld Co Rd 9: Tiger Creek watershed. watershed (Allen Mill Creek) ; Burch Branch watershed; Fodder Creek watershed; Hog Creek wate rshed; Shake Rag Branch watershed; and all other streams or parts of streams not listed Owen (fr as year-round except: Hightower Creek downstream from Towns Co Rd 88; Hiwassee River downstream from Towns Co Rd 87; and tributaries to Chatuge Reservoi r not listed below as year-round Williams FISH FARM (may be fi shed year-round without a trout license). YR- Brasstown Creek watershed downstream from US Hwy 76 bridge; Chari/es Creek watershed; Hightower Creek downstream from US Hwy 76 bridge to Towns Co Rd 88; Hlwassee River downstream to Towns Co RdB7: Tallulah River. Also available: Hybrid Striped Bass - Golden Redbreast - Channel Catfish UNION COUNTY S-Arkaqua Creek watershed ; Bracket Creek watershed ; Butler Creek watershed ; Camp Creek watershed ; Largemouth Bass Threadfln Shad Bluegill -Redear . ROUTE 5 BOX 22390 HAWKINSVILLE GA, 31036 Phone: 478-892-3144 Fax: 478-783-3144 flshsales@owenandwilllams.com www.owenandwilliams.com 2003-2004 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 IT IS UNLAWFUL TO: Operate boats on ponds or lakes posted as closed to boats. , Operate gas outboard motors unless lake is posted as being open to the use of outboard motors. NOTE: Gas motors, if allowed, must be operated at idle speed only. Consume alcoholic beverages except at campsites on the area. No alcoholic beverages are allowed on Rocky Mountain PFA. Fish at night (sunset to sunrise) . 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 pole and lines. Us~ or possess live fish (minnows)for bait, unless otherwise posted. Operate personal watercraft 0et skis), sailboats, or sailboards. Drive on any closed road or block any gate. Camp any place other than designated camping areas. NOTE: Contact the PFA before visiting for regulations regarding camping. I Swim, except at Rocky Mountain Recreation & PFA beach. To allow children under 14 years of age to be on PFA without adult supervision. To ride horses in restricted areas or areas not designated as open to equestrian use. sALEs CpmP.,in_g RENTALs. SERVICE . ~0T1.meRV- PARTS www.camp1ngt1me.com . ,.., ;:. __.ii) . Fleetwood Cardinal Fleetwood Storm Terry WIidcat Discovery Thor Prowler Outback Revolution Hurricane Mallard Keystone Southwlnd Fourwlnds Sprlngdaltt Starcraft BT Cruiser Pace Arrow SNELLVILLE, GA 888-4362737 770-972-2737 WOODSTOCK 866591-3622 770-591-3622 GAINESVIUE, GA 800-232-9620 770-532-9620 PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING BEFORE FISHING AT A PFA! Licenses: Anglers 16 years of age and older must possess a valid Wildlife Management Area (WMA) license a and current fishing license to fish, except a WMA license is IlQ1 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 requjred to have a WMA license to fish. Hours o.f Operation: PFAs are open year round, seven days a week from sunrise to sunset. Unless a pond or lake has been posted as having fl different length limit or daily limit the following apply: Length limit for Largemouth bass: 14 inches minimum Dally Limits: Largemouth bass .......................... 5 Bream or sunfish (of any one species or a combination) .................. ...... 15 Channel catfish ...... .................. ..... 5 All other species ........... see page 8 Grass carp must be released immediately. Public Fishing Areas BIG LAZER CREEK ' (Talbot County) (706-845-4290) 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. Page 20 1-888-748-6887 for licenses Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division CHARLIE ELLIOTT WILDLIFE ,Water: 12 ponds varying in size from 1 (reservation only), group picnic area CENTER/MARBENPFA to 30 acres. (reservation only), some facilities (Jasper & Newton Counties) Facilities: concrete boat ramps , accessible to persons with disabilities (770-784-3059) restrooms, picnic tables, tent and RV Fee: Daily or annual Rocky Mtn. PFA Fish Species: Largemouth bass, camping in designated areas (fee is parking permit required (one per Bluegill, Redear sunfish, Crappie, $1 Oper site per night). vehicle) WMA stamp not required. Channel catfish. DIRECTIONS FROM THOMSON: Restrictions: Water: 22 ponds totalling 295 acres. South on Hwy 17 to US Hwy 278; left It is illegal to possess alcoholic Ponds range in size from 1 to 95 acres. (east) for 5.6 miles; right on Ellington beverages. Facilities: Kids only ponds, concrete Airline Road for 2.8 miles; right on Fish No one may rappel , rock climb or boat ramps (6 lakes), boat docks, Hatchery Road for 0.8 miles. hang glide. NOTE: Sign in at information board and c eek for lakes that are open for fishing when you visit. , PARADISE (Berrien County) (229-533-4792 or 912-285-6094) l=ish Species : Largemouth bass , DIRECTIONS FROM ROME: North on US Hwy 27 for 10.4 miles, left on Sike Storey Road 0.4 miles, left DIRECTIONS FROM MANSFIELD: South on GA Hwy 11 for 2.7 miles; left on Marben Farms Rd. (Co. Rd. 229), follow signs. DODGE COUNTY (478-374-6765 or 229-426-5272) Fish Species: Largemouth bass, Bluegill, Redear sunfish, Channel catfish. Water: 104 acre lake. Facilities: concrete boat ramps, fishing pier, restrooms, picnic tables, nature trail, some facilities accessible to persons with disabilities. DIRECTIONS FROM EASTMAN: South on US Hwy 23/341 for 3 miles; left on County Road 49 for 0.6 miles to lake. Bluegill, Redear sunfish, Channel catfish, Crappie, Brown bullhead. Water: 68 lakes encompassing 525 acres of water. Facilities: Restrooms, picnic area, concrete boat ramps , primitive camping, fishing pier, boat dock, some facilities accessible to persons with disabilities. 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. ROCKY MOUNTAIN RECREATION & PUBLIC FISHING AREA (Floyd County) (706-802-5087) l=ish Species: Largemouth bass, Bluegill, Redear sunfish, Channel on Big Texas Valley Road 5.4 miles to entrance. TREUTLEN COUNTY (912-685-6424) Fish Species: Largemouth bass, Bluegill, Redear sunfish, Warmouth, Flier, Brown bullhepd, Crappie Water: 189 acre lake. Facilities: concrete boat ramp. DIRECTIONS FROM SOPERTON: North on County Road 166 for 4.5 miles; at Wildlife Resources sign right onto dirt road. FISHING ON WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS Unless otherwise posted, fishing is EVANS COUNTY (912-739-1139 or 912-685-6424) l=ish Species: Largemouth bass, Bluegill, Redear sunfish, Channel catfish, Black crappie, Hybrid whitestriped bass Water: two lakes (202 & 357 acres). Facilities: concrete boat ramps, fishing allowed on WMAs according to state-wide regulations.Alcohol use is prohibited on WMAs except in catfish, Crappie, Brown bullhead. jetties, restrooms, picnic shelters, designated camping, areas. Refer Water: three ponds encompassing 122 scenic overlooks, hiking trails, tent & to the Hunting Regulations Guide for acres (8, 30, 84 acres). RV camping, group primitive camping a complete list of WMA regulations. 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. HUGH M. GILLIS NEW (Laurens County) (478-296-6192 or 912-685-6424) OPENING LATE SUMMER 2003 Water: Two ponds (one-acre KFE ponds), and one lake (109 acres). Call for information on: Fish Species, Facilities and Directions. McDUFFIE (McDuffie County) (706-595-1684) l=ish Species: Largemouth bass, Bluegill, Redear sunfish, Channel catfish. 2003-2004 Sport Fishing Regulations www .gofis hgeorgia.com Page 2 1 Georgia Angler Recognition Angll'r Award Program Catching a Stak Rl'cord have certified scales). Obtain witnesses names, addresses and Catching a big fish is always a Ifyou thinkyou, orsomeoneyouknow, thrill and usually requires exceptional has caught a fish on sporting tackle that may be a new state freshwater. fishing skill. Each year DNA recog- record, follow these steps: telephone numbers. Witnesses cannot be members of your immediate family. Estimated weights are not accepted. nizes the achievement of anglers Do not clean or freeze the fish. Take the fish to a DNA Fisheries that catch ''trophy" fish by presenting the angler with an Angler Award. The fish does not have to be a new ~eep 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. Office as soon as possible and have_ it positively identified by a DNA fisheries biologist or technician. Complete an application and state record to qualify. Angler Award of Agriculture in the presence of two submit with a clear side view photo applications and minimum weights witnesses who are overthe age of 18 of the whole fish within 90 days of (many fisheries _Section offices the catch. for species are available at any Fish- eries Section office. To qualify you must: Catch your fish by legal sport fishing methods in Georgia. Weigh the fish as soon as possible on scales certified accurate by the Georgia Dept. of Agri~ulture (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. Georgia's Freshwater Fish Records Species Weight Angler Location Date Bass, Hybrid ......... 25 lbs. 8 oz.. David Hobby ....... . Lake Chatuge ....... .......... 5/95 Bass, Largemoutt).. 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 ................. 9/67 Bass, Suwanee .... 3 lbs. 9 oz. ... Laverne Norton ...,. Ochlocknee River .... ....... 10/84 Bass, White ...... .... 5 lbs. 1 oz. ... J.M. Hobbins ........ Lake Lanier .. .. .... ... .......,. 6/7 1 Bowfin ....:....... .. .... 16 lbs. .. .. .... . Charles Conley .... Stephen Foster State Park. .5/76 Bullhead, Brown ... 5 lbs. 8 oz.... James Andrews ... O.F. Veal pond ...... .. ..... .. 5/ 78 Carp, Common .. ... 35 lbs. 12 oz. Donald Clark ....... Lake Jackson ....... ........ .. 1972 The fish must meet the minimum weight requirements for that species. Take the fish to a DNA Fisheries Catfish, Blue ......... 62 lbs. ..... .... Ralph Barbee Jr .. . Clarks Hill Reservoir .. .... . 9/79 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. 10 oz. : James Sanders.. .. Savannah River ... ........... 6/96 Office and have it positively identified by a fisheries biologist or technician. In some cases a clear side Crappie, Black (tie).. 4 lbs. 4 oz... . Shirley Laver:ider . Acree's Lake .. ....... .... .. .. .. 6/71 Crappie, Black (tie).. 4 lbs. 4 oz... . Steve Cheek. ....... Lake Spivey .... ................ 3/75 Crappie, White .... .. 5 lbs. ........... Theresa Kemp .... . Bibb Co. pond ................. 4/84 Gar, Longnose .... .. 28 lbs. 6 oz. . Richard Johnson . Flint River ........ ............... 1/95 view photo of the fish can be used Muskellunge ........ . 38 lbs.......... Rube Golden ... .... Blue Ridge Lake ...... ....... 6/57 for identification, but you must discuss this with a fisheries biologist or technician prior to submitting your Perch, Yellow ....... 2 lbs. 8 oz.... Charles Poole .. .... Lake Burton .................... 2/80 Pickerel, Chain .. ... 9 lbs. 6 oz. ... Baxley McQuaig Jr.. .Homerville .... .... .............. 2/61 Pickerel, Redfin .... 2 lbs. 10 oz.. Gene Brantley ...... Lewis' pond ........ .. ....... .:. 7/82 Pike, Northern :.. ... 18 lbs. 2 oz. . Keith Gragg ........ . Lake Rabun ........ ........... 6/82 application. Sauger ................. 4 lbs. 3 oz. .. . Stuart Bowers .... .. Clarks Hill Reservoir ..... .. 4/86 Complete an application and submit it with a clear side view photo of the Shad, American .... 8 lbs. 3 oz. ... Henry Baxley .. .. ... Savannah River- .... .......... 4/86 Shad, Hickory ..... .. 1 lb. 15 oz.... Mark Bowers .. ...... Ogeechee River ....... .. .... 4195 Sunfish, Bluegill .. .. 3 lbs. 5 oz.... P.F. Gumm .. ....... .. Shamrock Lake .. .. ...... .... . 7/77 whole fish to the address listed on Sunfish, Flier ......... 1 lb. 4 oz. .... . Curt Brooks .. .... .. .. Lowndes Co. pond .. ....... 2/96 the form. 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 Georgia's Saltwater Gamefish records are Sunfish, Warrnouth.,2 lbs......... ... Carlton 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 .... .... .1 1101 found on page 38 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 22 1-888-748-6887 for licenses Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division Thousands of Georgia Sportsmen read t e books. RYLEE'S 4 WHEEL DRIVE 1536 ROCKBRIDGE RoAD CONYERS, GEORGIA 30012 Differential Specialists Servin.( Conyers Since 1984 lfe/per Springs In Stoc\<. Rancho Shocks U-Bolts Steering Stabilizer Lift Kits Warn Winches For: vm ; 770-929-0986 Monday. Friday 8:30-5:30 1 Trucks ATV's Trailers (700,000 Georgia Fishing Regulations and 550,000 Georgia Hunting Regulations distributed last year). For more information on placing your ad, call OUTDOOR GROUP .1-800-564-6818 Make minor repairs or build a new boat. For the boating enthusiast or the professional boat builder, the qualified technicians at Fiberglass Coatings can supply you with all the materials you need. Epoxies, Polyesters, Reinforcements, Abrasives, Adhesives, Coatings, Foams, Fillers, Putties, Tapes, Tools, Solvents and containers - We Have It All! One of the oldest fiberglass suppliers, with new innovative products! * 40 Years in business. * Knowledgeable, helpful sales staff. * Quality products at affordable prices! b gi I Call for FREE Comprehensive Catalog... FI er ass including technical data and "How To" Section. CoIaItifnlgts.Inc .=. www.fgci.com online catalog - 24n ordering - 800-212-1890 Fax: 727-327-6691 1 1 3201 28th St. N., St. Petersburg, FL 33713 . We Ship World-Wide - Competitive Pricing Georgia is a beautifl!I state. And we want you to enjoy it. That's why we've worked to protect much of our land as recreation areas, including 60,000 acres of lakes, 1,350 miles of shoreline, 350 campsites. and dozens of parks. Hiking. Camping. Fishing . It's all just a short drive away. And it's all here for you. Learn more at 1-888-GPC-lAKE or georgiapower.com/gpclake. Then get out there. GEORGIA A POWER "JOUTHHN COMPANY 2003-2004 Sport Fishing Regulations w w w .gofis hgeorgia .com Page 23 I LARGEMOUTH BASS . spiny & soft dorsal fin upper jaw extends beyond eye separate or nearly so L 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 spine 2/3 or ~ n g t h 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 3 short spines on anal fin spiny & soft dorsal fin clearly connected tongue with two tooth patches STRIPED BASS body slender ind 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 1/2 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 24 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 , ;;;,,. :: ........ . ..... " } : .~~:~: ~': ', , j "' "( ,' .._ ,,.., ' ... .... .!t\.:,...:. :\: ,. -,.:. "...'.",-..:,./..:..:,''- ' .~ - 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 body not as deep as gizzard shad 2003-2004 Sport Fishing Regulations pointed snout yellow tail fin www .gofishgeorgia .c om Page 25 Call Ben Cowart at (770) 798-9366 ben@xhumvee.com WAYNE UNTY, 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. Page 26 Experienced Fishing Guide Services WAYNE COUNTY TOURISM BOARD Jesup, Georgia For More Information Call Toll Free 888 224-5983 Or 912 427-2028 l-888-748-6887 for licenses Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division Definitions Artificial lure - any lure which is made Immediate Family - all persons living completely of natural or colored in one household under one head of wood, cork, feathers, hair, rubber, household and bearing a blood or metal , plastic, tinsel , styrofoam, sponge, or string, or any combination of such matei:ials, in imitation of or dependent relationship to the head of household. as a substitute for natural bait. This Non-game fish - any fish not does not include any item sprayed designated as game fish under Daily with or containing scented or chemical Limits. (page 8) attractants. Daily limit - means the number of fish that may be taken, caught, or killed Public Fishing Area - designated areas owned and/or operated by the during any one day. Oept. of Natural Resources, Wildlife 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 Resources Division, Fisheries Section for the primary purpose of fishing and are open to the public. These are listed on pages 20-21 . any device or method and directly Resident - any citizen of the United assisting any person in catching or attempting to catch fish or seafood. States who has maintained a legal residence in Georgia for a period of at Game fish - fish that are listed under leastthree months prior to purchasing Daily Limits. (page a)' a fishing license. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources receives Federal Aid in Sport Fish and Wi ldlife Restoration funds. Under Title VI of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, and Title IX of the Edu cati on Amendments of 1972, the U.S. Department of the l,:iterior prohibits discrimination on the basis of race , color, nati onal origin , age , sex, or handicap . It you believe that you have been disriminated against in any program, activity, or facility as described above, or it you desire further information, please write to: The Office for Human Resources, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Department of the Interior, Washington , D.C. 20240. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources Division proudly honors the 2002 GEORGIA&\ POWER A SOUTHERN COMPANY Forestry for Wildlife Partners for their outstanding accomplishments in MeadWestvaco COATED BOARD incorporating fish and wildlife conservation practices as an integral INTERNATIONAL@ PAPER part of their overall land management goals. ATA Temple-Inland- ~FOREST Forestry For Wildlife Partnership A Weyerhaeuser The future is growing'" ~>~ NATI ON A L H UNTING AND FISHING ~AY SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2003 Make plans to attend a special event today! The U.S. Congress and President Nixon established National Hunting & Fishing (NHF) Day 31 years ago to recognize hunters and anglers for the time and money, more than a billion dollar each year, they donate to wildlife conservation programs. This year, NHF Day is on September 27, 2003 and plans are underway for both nation wide and statewide celebrations. NRF Day events provide opportunities for outdoor-oriented people and urbanites alike to , learn more about outdoor skills and activities. To find out about events in Georgia, visit the Georgia DNR, Wildlife Resources Division website at www.georgiawildlife.com 2003-2004 Sport Fishing Regulations www.go fi shgeorgia.com Page 27 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 DNA 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. 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 formatfor people who eatfish. Waters listed in the fish consumption guidelines are not necessarily assessed as impaired using USEPA guidlines for Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act." .TURN IN POACHERS TIP Hotline: 1-800-241-4113 or *DNR (Cellular for BellSouth Mobility Customers) (7 days a week / 24 hours a day) PCi A poacher is a thief who steals fish and wildlife that belongs ~ Turn In Poacher, Inc. (TIP) is a non-profit Georgia to all Georgians. Poachers ~- & conservation organization S rob you of recreational opportunities that you . pay ~ whose mission is to ~ protect . wildlife by for through license fees . increasing public support You can be paid for turning for wildlife law enforce- in a poacher! If your tip ment. Contributions to leads to an arrest, you will the TIP reward program receive reward money - even if are greatly needed and you wish to remain anonymous. If you appreciated. Donations (made payable see or learn of a violation , try to to Tl P) are tax deductable and write down: a description of the violator can be sent to : Turn In Poachers, Inc., and their vehicle; the location and 3423 Piedmont Road , N.E. , Suite 110, type of violation . Atlanta, Georgia 30305. More details on fish contaminant testing are available in the publication "Guidelines for Eating Fish from Georgia Waters". Also available on the Internet at www.dnr.state.ga.us/dnr/environ/ Call the following offices for a copy or more information: Environmental Protection Division 404-656-4713 Coastal Resources Division 912-264-7218 Wildlife Resources Division no-918-6418 Page 28 1-888-748-6887 for licen. es WildHfe 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: 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 & Horseshoe 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 (V~ldosta), Nancy Town Lake, Lake Oconee, and High Falls Lake. Albany ~-Pass Pond ~ '!'.,;, - t '! :,;_1'!1"r" ' 'k-_;.. ' LMB, Brown bullhead . . . ~, Acworth Bluegill, LMB<16" LMB>16" Allatoona Carp, Crappie, spotted basS<16", Spotted bass.>16", LMB> 16", LMB 12-16", CCF, White basS<12", G. redhorse HB>16" Andrews CCF LMB>12" Banks Bluegill LMB>12" Bartlett's Ferry Crappie HB<12", LMB>12", CCF<16" HB & CCF>16" Bennett CEWC PFA LMB>12" V Black Shoals CCF<12" CCF 12-16" LMB 12-16" Big Lazer PFA LMB 12-16", CCF LMB>16" Blackshear CCF<12" CCF>12", LMB>12" Blue Ridge CCF<16", LMB<12" White bass & LMB 12-16", CCF>16" -Burton LMB<16", CCF, Bluegill, White catfish LMB>16", spotted bass 12-16" Pond N. Bush Field, Bluegill, LMB<12" LMB 12-16" Augul!ta Chatuge LMB>12", CCF>12" Spotted bass 12-16" Clarks Hill CCF, Black crappie, Redear, White perch, LMB>16" Striped bass, Spotted sucker, HB, LMB<16" \ Evans County PFA CCF, LMB 12-16" LMB>16" Goat Rock Black crappie, LMB 12-16". Spotted sucker HB<12", CCF 12-16" HB, CCF & LMB>16" White basS<16" Hartwell Black crappie, Hybrid/Striped basS<12", LMB<16", Carp>16" HB/Striped bass 12-16" (Tugaloo Arm) CCF<16" CCF & LMB>16" DO NOT EAT Hybr,id and Striped bass>16 inches in length Hartwell-Main body DO NOT EAT Hybrid and Striped bass LMB, CCF of lake (SC Dept. Health and Environmental Control 1-888-849-7241.) Jackson Crappie, Redear sunfish, Catfish & LMB<16" Catfish & LMB>16" Lanier CCF & Striped basS<16", Bluegill, Black crappie Striped bass, Carp & CCF>16" LMB, White Catfish & Spotted bass>12" L. Ocmulgee St. Pk. Brown bullhead 12-16" LMB>16" McDuffie PFA West CCF LMB Nottely CCF, Black crappie LMB>12", Striped bass>16" I Oliver HB<12"; CCF<16", Redear, Bluegill LMB>12", CCF>16" Rabun LMB 12-16",-White catfish<16", Bluegill White catfish & LMB>16" Reed Bingham S.P. LMB::i-12", Catfish>16" Richard B. Russell Crappie, Bluegill, White perch, Catfish LMB>12" Seminole LMB 12-16", CCF, Spotted sucker Bulhead>12", LMB>16" Stone Mountain Catfish LMB>16" Tobesofkee CCF, LMB 12-16" LMB>16" Treutlen PFA ' Lake chubsucker<12" LMB>16" Lake Chubsucker>12" Tugalo White catfish 12-16", Bluegill LMB>12" Tribble Mill Park Black Crappie, Bluegill, LMB<12" LMB 12-16" Pond Gwinnett Co. West Point Black crappie, HB<12" CCF & HB>12", LMB & Carp>16" Worth CCF>12" LMB>12" Yonah Bluegill LMB 12-16", catfish 12-16" = = Abbreviations: < means less than, > means more than, LMB =. Largemouth bass, CCF channel catfish, HB Hybrid bass 2003-2004 Sport Fishing Regulations www .gofishgeorgia.com Pa_ge 29 Guidelines for Limiting the Fish You Eat from Rivers and Creeks RIVERS AND CREEKS: There are NO RESTRICTIONS on the following: Alcovy River, Boen Creek(Rabun Co.), Brasstown Creek (Towns Co.), Broad River, BuffaloCreek(Carroll Co.), ButternutCreek(Unlon Co.), CaneCreek(Lumpkln Co.), Chattahoochee River (Chattahoochee, Early, & Stewart Cos.), Chattanooga Creek, Chattooga River (NW Ga.), Dukes Creek, Flint River (Dougherty, Baker & Mitchell Cos.), Daniels Creek(Cloudland Canyon State Park), E~st/South Chickamauga Creek, Goldmine Branch, Jacks River, Jones Creek, Little Dry Creek (Floyd Co.), Little Tallapoosa River, MIii Creek (Whitfield Co.), Moccasin Creek (Lake Burton Trout Hatchery), Noonday Creek (Cobb Co.), Ocmulgee River (Butts, Monroe, Houston &Pulaski Cos.), Oconee River (below Barnett Shoals to Lake Oconee, Laurens Co. & MIiiedgeviiie to Dublin), Ogeechee River (Ft. McAllister), Ponder Branch (Walker Co.), Slab Camp Creek (Oconee Co.), South River(Butts Co., Hwy 36), Stamp Creek (Pine Log WMA), Stekoa Creek, Yahoola Creek, Yellow River, Little Tennessee River, North & Middle Oconee Rivers, Conasauga River in Cohutta Forest, ChlckasawhatcheeCreek, Coleman River, Mud Creek (Cobb Co.), NlckaJack Creek, Olley Creek, Proctor Creek (Cobb Co.), Sewell MIii Creek (Cobb Co), Tallulah River, Upatol Creek, and Spirit Creek. RIVERS/CREEKS Alapaha River Alapahoochee River Allatoona Creek, Cobb Co. NO tuUJTRICTIONS Redbreast sunfish 1 MEAL PER WEEK Spotted sucker Bullhead Spotted bass, Alabama Hog Sucker 1 AL PER MONTH LMB, Bullhead Altamaha River CCF (below US 25) Flathead catfis.h, LMB, CCF Apalachee River ' Beaver Creek (Taylor Co.) CCF LMB Yellow bullhead Brier Creek (Burke Co.) Canoochee River Casey Canal Chattooga River (NE Ga., Rabun County) LMB, Bluegill Spotted sucker Redbreast Striped mullet . Northern Hog Sucker, Sliver Redhorse LMB LMB, CCF Chattahoochee River (Helen to Lanier) CCF Redeye bass, Bullhead,Redhorse LMB Chattahoochee River (Buford Dam to Morgan Falls Dam) Brown trout, Carp, Rainbow trout LMB Chattahoochee River(Morgan Falls Dam to Peachtree Creek) Brown trout, Jumprock sucker LMB Carp Chattahoochee River (Peachtree Creek to Franklin, Ga) CCF, Spotted bass White sucker, Carp LMB Striped bass Chattahoochee River (Oliver Dam to Chattahoochee Co.) Chattahoochee River (West Point dam to 1-85) Chickamauga Creek (West) Conasauga River (below Statellne) 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) LMB CCF LMB, Bullheads Spotted bass Redbreast sunfish Spotted bass Spotted bass White bass, buffalo Spotted bass LMB, Slriped bass, Blue catfish Spotted bass DO NOT EAT SMALLMOUTH BUFFALO ' LMB Striped bass, CCF, buffalo Blacktail Redhorse Golden redhorse Spotted bass CCF, Striped bass, Bluegill Spotted bass, LMB Smallmouth buffalo Flint River (Spalding/Fayette cos.) Spotted sucker LMB Flint River (Meriwether/Upson/Pike cos.) CCF, Flathead catfish Shoal bass Flint River (Taylor co.) CCF, Shoal bass LMB Flint River (Macon/Dooly/Worth/Lee cos.) CCF LMB Gum Creek (Crisp Co.) Carp LMB lchawaynochaway Creek Spotted Sucker LMB Kinchafoonee Creek (above Albany) LMB, Spotted sucker Little River (above Clarks Hill Lake) Spotted sucker, Silver Redhorse LMB Little River, (above Ga. Hwy 133, Valdosta) Spotted sucker LMB Muckalee Creek (above Albany) Spotted sucker, LMB Ochlockonee River (near Thomasville) Redbreast sunfish Spotted sucker, White catfish LMB Ocmulgee River (below Macon, Bibb co.) CCF LMB Flathead catfish Ocmulgee River (Telfair/Wheeler cos.) CCF Flathead catfish, LMB Oconee River (above Barnett Shoals) Sliver redhorse,LMB Page 30 1-888-748-6887 for licenses Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division Guidelines for Limiting the Fish You Eat from Rivers and Creeks (continued) -~ ~ ,4~,,,, ,~.~,d:." ,~,.'$ I.ft. Ogeechee Rlver(all to Ft. McAllister $A'!! ~fa.,,;1JWL. - ~t,;, , V. l~;,,1MEAL PER'..ONTH Redbreast sunfish, CCF, Lf{IB Spotted sucker, Snail bullhead Ohoopee Rlver(EmanueVToombs cos.) Okefenokee Swamp(Bllly's Lake) Oostanaula River, Hwy. 156, Calhoun Bluegill Oostana~ River, Hwy. 140, to Coosa River Bluegill, Smallmouth buffalo Patslllga Cree(Taylor Co.) Plpemaker Canal Satllla Rlver(Waycross, Ware/Pierce cos.) Satllla Rlver(near Folkston, Camden Co.) Savannah Rlver(above & below New Savannah Bluff Lock & Dam) Savannah Rlver(Chatham/Screven cos.) CCF, Redear sunfish Savannah Rlver(Efflngham Co.) CCF, Redbreast sunfish Savannah Rlver(Tldal Gate) Red drum Short Creek(Warren Co.) South Rlver(Henry Co., Snapping Shoals) Sliver redhorse, CCF Spring Creek(Semlnole/Decatur/Mlller cos.) Spotted sucker St. Marys Rlver(Camden Co.) Redbreast sunfish, Striped mullet St. Marys Rlver(Charlton Co.) Redbreast sunfish Suwanee River Swamp Creek(Redwlne Cove Road) Talking Rock Creek Tallapoosa River Bluegill Trlb. to Hudson River, Alto, Banks Co. Brown bullhead Spotted sucker, Redbreast Flier Smallmouth buffalo LMB, CCF, Spotted bass Suckers, Chain Pickerel LMB Redbreast sunfish, CCF Spotted sucker, LMB LMB White catfish White catfish Sunfish LMB LMB Bullhead, Chain Pickerel Redeye bass Redeye bass Blacktall Redhorse Redeye bass LMB Bowfln Striped bass Bass LMB LMB, Redbreast LMB, Bowfin LMB LMB LMB Wlthlacoochee Rlver(Berrlen/Lowndes cos.) Redbreast sunfish LMB :CA ',t;;Cl),~o, ' 1%'?4> ,. ,,~ w'fi,IAl,;j:PJfft wng ,'?.JJ.MEAL PER IIQNTk DONOTEAT Turtle River System(Purvls, Gibson Cr.s) All seafood Turtle & Buffalo Rlvers(uprlver Hwy Shrimp Red drum, B. crab, Croaker, Spotted Black drum, 303 - Channel Marker 9) Flounder seatrout Bivalves* Turtle Rlver(Hwy. 303 - Channel Shrimp Flounder Red & Black drum,B. crab, Bivalves* Marker 9) Spotted seatrout, Croaker Turtle River ( C. Marker 9 & So. Shrimp, Flounder, Croaker, Blue crab Black drum, Spotted Bivalves Brunswick River to Dublgnons Red drum seatrout & Parsons creeks) Terry Creek(So. of Torras Causeway Spot, Striped mullet, Shrimp, Yellowtall(Sllver perch) ' to Lanier Basin) Croaker, Spotted seatrout Bivalves Southern Klngflsh, Blue crab Terry and Dupree Creeks Blue crab, Shrimp Spot, Striped mullet, Spot, No. of Torres Causeway to Croaker, Spotted seatrout, Bivalves Confluence w/Back Rver Southern Jdngflsh Back River One mile above Terry Creek Striped mullet, Shrimp, Spot Bivalves to Confluence with Torres Causeway Croaker, Spotted seatrout, Southern klngflsh, Blue crab Back River So. of Torres Causeway to Spot, Striped mullet, Shrimp, Bivalves* St. Simons Sound Croaker, Spotted seatrout, Southern klilgflsh, Blue crab Floyd Creek Blue crab, Southern klngflsh Academy Creek Blue crab --- ..... -- ~ Bivalves are all clams, mussels and oysters; Shellfish ban under National Shelllflsh Sanitation Program KlridMacknl.&Mclll - ~Fol'lt Ufttlh, .Wihu) t , .. and FfoJtda for .$QUUI Atlantlc Ocean I ~--~mplfOp ot '"9.~ Ca~ Qffahpre .Georgia Coast 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 Over 39 Inches Do Not Eat 2003-2004 Sport Fishing Regulations w w w .gofishgeorgia .com Page 31 Black Drum (young) 11 \ Sheepshead large flat incisor teeth \ "' I 2 Spines Loses vertical bars with age 3 spines keeps vertical bars throughout life Weakfish (Summer Trout) 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 ' white on -:p, rearedge averages 2-4 lbs. bright gold spots Spiny Dogf,ish white spots well develope folds .( ' \ ) i~ underside of head can reach lengths u to 48" TL. Bonnethead Shark shovel or bonnetshaped head 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 young often with . yellow-brown . spots underside of head (r \\ ~ sharp, pointed irregular teeth underside of head up to 10' TL. Page 32 1-888-748-6887 for licenses Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division Georgia Recreational Saltwater Fishing Fishing License Resident and nonresidentanglers (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, castnetting, seining, crabbing, .gigging, sport bait trawling, and harvesting shellfish. AGeorgia Fishing license is required for anglers returning to Georgia ports or transiting Georgia waters with recreational catches from federal waters beyond the state's 3-mile territorial sea. Reciprocal agreements with Alabama, South Carolina, and Florida currently do not apply to saltwaters. Charter captains may or may not choose to purchase an annual license that covers all of thei'~ 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 6 for information on license requirements. Saltwater Fishing lnfonnation Offshore Artificial Reefs Wanton Waste .Information and updates on licenses, regulations, and fishing in Georgia's inshore and offshore saltwaters may be obtained by contacting: Georgia DNA Coastal Law Enforcement One Conservation Way, Suite 201 Brunswick, GA 31520-8687 912-264-7237 or fax 912-262-3166 Coastal Resources Division, Marine Fisheries Section One Conservation Way, Suite 300 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 hookand-line and spear-fishing gear may 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 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! SALTWATER FINFISH Landing Requirements/Transfer Prohibition All saltwaterfinfish (including sharks) under state or federal regulation must be landed with head and fins intact. Anglers must make catches available for inspection by government officials. Brunswick, GA 31520-8687 established off Jekyll, Tybee, St. Saltwater finfish subject to size and 912-264-7218orfax Simons, and Sea islands.These zones bag limits cannot be transferred to 912-262:2318 www .ganet.org/dnr/crd . extend from the northernmost point to .. the southermost point of each of these Federal Saltwater islands and from the highwater mark to Fishing Regulations For information and updates on recreational fishing regulations in federal waters (3-200 miles offshore), contact: 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. another person or vessel on the water. 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 South Atlantic Fishery ensnare or entangle fish in the Management Council meshes). A modified castnet or castnet One Southpark Circle, Suite 306, with greaterthan 8 feet radius is allowed Charleston, SC 29407 843-571-4366 w w w .s a f m c .n e t For information and updates on federal regulations and required permitting for tunas, billfish, and sharks, contact: for taking fish for bait. 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 saltwater finfish apply regardless ofthe gear used. National Marine Fisheries Service HMS Management Division 1315 East-West Hwy Silver Spring, MD 2091 O Definitions Minimum Size: the specific size in length below which it is unlawful to take that finfish species. (301)713-2347 www.nmfs.noaa.gov/sfa/hmspg.html For information on the Gray's Reef National Marine Sanctuary contact: Gray's Reef Sanctuary Program 10 Ocean Science Circle Savannah, GA 31411 .. Rod Reel Bait Tackle Saltwater License Included Top Notch Crew Consistent Outstanding Catches! 912-897 -5759 Open Season: that specified period of time during which one may take certain finfish species from any waters of the state. Daily Creel Limit: the lc:i,wful amount of a species of finfish that a perso may take in one dcW. Possession Limit: the lawful amount 912-598-2345 Call for Free brochure & reservations of a species,of finfish that a person w w w .g r a y s r e e f . n o s . n o a a . g o v www .amick.sdeepseaflshing.com can legally have at any one time. 2003-2004 Sport Fishing Regulations www .gofishgeorgia .com Page 33 Saltwater Finfish Per Person Unless Specified Species . Open Season Daily Umit Possession Limit Minimum Size (in.) Blue marlin Catch and Release Only White marlin Catch and Release Only Sailfish .catch and Release Only Tarpon* .......... ............... 3/16-11/3Q ........ :......................... 1 .. .... .. ................. .. ... 1 .............................. ..... .. 68FL Amberjack ................. .. . 3/16-12/31 .................-......... .. ...... 1 ... ......... .... ......... ..... 1 .... .... ... ...... ... .... .. .... ... ... . 28 FL (No Sale April 1 - April 30) . Cobia .................. .......... 3/1611/30 .................................. 2 .................... :... ...... 2 ....................... .............. 33 FL Dolphin .... ........... .. .. .. ..... All year .... .. ......... .. ....... .. .. ...... .. 1O" ............................................... 1O" ............................................................... 20 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 23 in.) Black drum ......... .. .... :... All year ...... ..... .. ...... ..... ...... ....... 15 .. ... ....... ..... ........ .. . 15 .................................... 10TL Weakfish ........... ......... ~.. All year ...................................... 6 .............................. 6 ........................... .. :... ... 13 TL Flounder .. .. .............. .. ... . All year' ......... ....... ..... ........ ........ 15 ................. .. ......... 15 .............:.... .. ................ 12 TL Whiting .......................... All year ..... :.............. no possession limit .......... no possession limit .................. 10 TL Spot ............................ .. All year ..................................... 25 ............................ 25 ......... ..... ...... ..... .... ... ... . 8 TL Atlantic croaker ......... ... All year ...........:... ... ...... ..... ... ..... 25 ..................... .... ... 25 .................. ............ ,.. ... 8 TL Tripletail .. .. .......... ...... ... . All year ...................................... 5 .............................. 5 ....................... ............. 18 TL Redsnapper .... ............ . 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. a Not to exceed 60 per boat, except for headboats which are allowed 10 dolphin per paying customer. bSee Seasons Closure in Savannah River page 8. ________________ Measurin....g,._S__alt.w.-a-te-r -Fi-nf-is-h----------- Total Length Fork Length Minimum sizes for 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; (::,.;e page 9 for fish measuring tips). Fork Length (FL) is used to measure fi~h with deeply forked tails and is the distance from the tip of the snout to the fork of the tail. Pa ge 34 1-88 8-748-6887 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. Everted Stomach Swim Bladder 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 When some fish are brought quickly \o 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 Distended Intestines 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 fish in the water and release it when it can swim upright. Deflated Stomach Flor1da Sea Grant, 1995 Tow~BaatUS ~~s For Help on the Water in Georgia - You're Covered: On-the-Water towing, jump starts, fuel drops, prop disentanglement, soft ungroundings Toll free Nationwide 24-hour dispatch One Membership for all your boats....owned, borrowed, or chartered Choose from one of tour service levels - including UNLIMITED TOWING On the Coast TowBoat U.S. - Savannah..........(912) 898-9659 TowBoat U.S. - Tybee.. .............. (912) 786-5283 TowBoat U.S. - Brunswick........:(912) 638-7751 Inland TowBoat U.S. - Lake Lanier.. .. .. .. (770) 945-2884 TowBoat U.S. - Lake Hartwell.....(864) 419-3060 VHF Channel 16 24 Hour Dispatch.... ....................(800) 391-4869 Membership..... .. .. ......... ..............(800) 395-2628 2003-2004 Sport Fishing Regulations TURN IN POACHERS Tl P Hotline: 1-800-241 -4113 or *DNR (Cellular for BellSouth Mobility Customers) (7 days a week/ 24 hours a day) A poacher is a thi =--rr--~ rn In Poacher, who steals fish Inc. (TIP) is a non- and wildlife that ';:; ' ~ belongs to all profit Georgia co ns ervation Georgians . or gan ization Poachers rob -..u.=:.--- whose mission you of recreational ~ ~ ~_.,. is to protect wildlife opportunities that you by incre asing public pay for through license fees . support for wildlife law You can be paid for turning in enforcement. Contributions a poacher! If your tip leads to to the TIP reward program an arrest, you will receive are greatly nee ded and reward money - even if you app rec iat ed . Do nations wish to remain anonymous. (made payable to TIP) are If you see or learn of a tax deductable and can be violation, try to write down: a sent to : Turn In Poachers, description of the violator and Inc., 3423 Piedmont Road, theirvehicle; thelocationand N.E. , Suite 110, Atlanta, type of violation. Georgia 30305. w w w .gofis hgeorgia .co m Page 35 Shrimp Baiting Shrimp same as that established for other Castnet Construction It is unlawful to place, deposit, distrib- food shrimping season. The Commis- Castnets used recreationally to take ute, or scatter any bait of any kind in, sioner of DNR can open the food food shrimp are -restricted to a maxi- on, or over any waters so as to lure, shrimpingseasonfromMay15through mum net size of eight feet in radius attract, or entice shrimp toward the the end of February. During the open with a minimum inch bar-mesh bait or to cause shrimp to congregate season, seines may be used at any webbing and shall be constructed of in t he area where bait is placed. It is illegal to knowingly fish for shrimp in baited waters . Disposition and Sale of Shrimp time of day in authorized areas. Seine Sizes & Areas Seinesequaltoorsmallerthan 12feet long, with a maximum depth of four uniforr:n 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 It is unlawful for any person to sell or feet, and a maximum stretch mesh of of weight per radius-foot attached. otherwise dispose of, for human consumption, any shrimp taken as bait. Shrimp recreationally harvested for personalconsumptionmaynotbesold. 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 DNR offices in Brunswick and Demeries Creek. Areas, Seasons, and Hours A 10 foot sport bait trawl may be used totakeshrimponlyin rivers and creeks or portions thereof which have been opened to bait shrimping by DNR. 1 inch may be- used throughout the yearandthroughoutGeorgia'ssaltwaters. 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 over300 feet long are also prohibited. It is unlawful to use any seine in saltwate~s such that it blocks more than of the entrance of any tidal river, creek, slough, or inlet to the ocean. _ 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, there may be no more then 48 quarts of heads-on shrimp cir 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 Charts of established "Bait Zones" are Seine Catch Limits take shrimp for bait. There is no closed available at DNR offices in Brunswick No one person taking shrimp solely by season for castnetting for bait. Cast- and Demeries Creek (Richmond Hill). means of a seine, whether such per- netting for bait may be conducted at Unless otherwise designated, bait son is acting alone or in a group of any time of day in all of Georgia's zones are open year-round for sport persons, may possess more than 24 saltwaters. bait shrimping. Sport bait shrimping is quarts of shrimp with heads on or 15 Castnet Construction legal only between the hours of hour quarts of tails taken by such seir:te in Bait shrimp castnets must be conbefore official sunrise to hour after any 24-hour period. If any person or structed of a minimum of 3/a inch mesh official sunset. group of persons occupying the same webbing with a radius not greaterthan Catch Limits - Sport Bait Trawls boat are in possession of a casthet eight feet. Modifications are prohibited Asportbaitshrimpermaynotpossess and a seine, such person or persons in castnets intended for taking bait at any time more than two (2) quarts shall be subject to the limits imposed shrimp. Bait shrimp castnets cannot 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 be no more than four (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. for shrimp taken by castnet. CASTNETTING FOR FOOD SHRIMP A Georgia Fishing license is required to use castnets non-commercially to takeshrimpforpersonalconsumption. The season for castnetting for food shrimpisthesameasthatestablished for other commercial shrimping seasons. The Commissioner of DNR can 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 ther~ 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 per- SEINES open the season from May 15 through son may take a maximum of four A Georgia Fishing license is required the end of February. During the open quarts of bait shrimp per day. When to use a seine for non-commercial season, castnetting for personal con- two or more persons occupy the same purposes in the state's saltwaters. The sumption may be conducted at any boat, there may be no more than four shrimping season for seines is the time of day in all the state's saltwaters. quarts of bait on board the boat at any Page 36 l-888-748-6887 for licenses Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division time, and the persons occupying the official sunrise and hour after offi- the funnel shall not exceed " in boat may take no more than eight cial sunset. Shellfish may only be diameter. Each trap must have quarts of bait shrimp per day. Bait taken with handheld implements. Rec- attached a tag or float bearing the shrimp taken with a castnet may be reationally harvested shellfish may not name and address of the person live or dead. be sold. using the trap. 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 . 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 Subject to specific gear design criteria, sizes, time of day, and area restrictions outlined in these regulations, bait minnows may also be taken recreationally y~ar-round in seines and castnets. Possession Limits No individual recreationally harvesting bait minnows may possess more than two quarts of bait minnows at any given Up to six standard size crab traps writing by a private property owner time. A United States Coast Guard (2X2 feet or smaller) may be used with legal harvest rights to an area. licensed captain may possess not more recreationally. Two unobstructed Private property owners wishing to than 1Oquarts at any given time. 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 the channel of any stream with a harvest recreational quantities of shellfish or to issue permission to others must notify and provide DNA with specific information. It is unlawful to give permission to take shellfish from a closed area. Harvesters taking shellfish from private ptoperty must have on their person proof of ownership or permission. REPORTING VIOLATIONS To report violations, contact DNA Law Enforcement offices in Brunswick 912-264-7237 or call the Toll-Free 24-hour Hot Line 800-241-4113. To report violatio~ in Federal waters contact United States Coast Guard stations in Brunswick 912-267-7999 and Tybee Island 912-786-5440, lawfully established system of Shellfish Limits NOAA's toll-free, 24-hour Fisheries En- waterway markers. Disposal of crab Oysters must measure no less than forcement hotline 800-853-1964, traps in public waters is a violation of three inches from hinge to mouth,. or' DNA LE 800-241-4113. State and Federal laws. unless the oyster cannot be removed Subject to specific gear design from a legal-sized oyster without criteria, sizes, time-of-day, and area destroying it. For clams, the maximum Sea Turtles restrictions outlined in these regulations, legal craos may be taken recreationally year-round in seines and castnets. Crab Catch Limits . It is unlawful to take or possess any crab less than 5 inches from spike to spike across the back (other than a depth from one shell half to the other must be at least one inch thick. Recreational quantity limhs are up to two bushels of oysters and one bushel of clams per person per day, with a maximum limit of six bushels of oysters and one bushel of clams per boat per day. It is unlawful to harm, harass, or disturb any sea turtle adult, hatchliAg, eggs, nest, carcass, or 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. If any accidental capture occurs, release immediately either "peeler" or a "mature adult female" BAIT MINNOWS by direct release or by cutting any crab). Peelers must measure at least A Georgia Fishing license is required hook and line as close to the 3 inches from spike to spike across to harvest bait minnows for non-com- turtle as possible. Report any the back. No sponge crabs allowed. .mericial purposes. Bait minnows may dead or injured sea turtle to the Other than licensed commercial crabbers, no person may take or possess more than one bushel of crabs during any 24-hour period. No be harvested year-round. Recreationally harvested bait minnows may not be sold. Bait minnows may not be trapped in freshwater. Georgia DNA, Nongame Wildlife/ Natural Heritage Section, Endangered Wildlife Program 1-800-2-SAVE-ME. more than two bushels may be taken recreationally or possessed during a 24-hour period on a boat with more than one person aboard. SHELLFISH . A Georgia Fishing license is required to take shellfish (oysters, clams) for non-commercial purposes. Saltwaters may be opened for taking oysters or clams between January 1 and December 31. Shellfish must be harvested between the hours of hour before Gear No more than two traps may be used recreationally, except that a United States Coast Guard licensed captain may use a maximum of four traps. Maximum dimensions for rectangular traps may not exceed 24"x18"x9". Cylindrical traps may not exceed 24 in length and 30" in circumference. Recreational bait minnow traps shall have a mesh size of no srnaller than " bar mesh. The throat opening of Marine Mammals It is unlawful for any person to display, fe~d, 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. 2003-2004 Sport Fishing Regulations www .gofishgeorgia.com Page 37 Georgia's Saltwater Gametish Records Specles Weight Angler Locatjon .Qate.. Amberjack ............... 92Ibs, 1oz .............. .Ben Key, Jr. ..................... Artificial Reef J ............................ 6/75 Barracuda ................ 54Ibs, 8oz .............. Wayne Hall ...................... East of R2 Tower ........................, 6/99 Black Sea Bass ....... 5Ibs, 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 ................... 5Ibs, 12oz .............. David Flynt ....................... Lanier Bridge ....:.......................... 3/77 Dolphinfish .............. 67Ibs, 6oz .............. Michael Sheppard ............ East of Nayy Tower R8 ............... 5/97 Drum, Black .., .......... 86Ibs, 8oz .............. Timothy Belcher ............... Cumberland Sound ..................... 4/98 Drum, Red ..............: 47Ibs, 7oz .............. Richard Price ................... Artificial Reef KC ....................... 11/66 Flounder .................. 15Ibs, 10oz ............ Janice Youmans .............. Jekyll Pier .................................. 11 /90 Grouper, Gag .......... 38Ibs ...................... David Sapp.: .................... E of Navy TowerR2 ......,..........,... 7/02 Jack, Crevalle ......... 38Ibs, 8oz .............. Lex Bazemore ................. Off Little Tybee Is ........................ 8/01 Ladyfish ................... 5Ibs ................:....... Marjorie Nighbert ............. Cumberland Island ...................... 8/78 Mackerel, King ........ 63Ibs, 8oz .............. Hal Waters, Jr..................8runswick Snapper Banks .......... 8/90 Mackerel, Spanish .. Bibs, 4oz ................ James Geiger .................. 5mi 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 .... 5Ibs, 4oz ................ Bill Knight ......................... 2 mi E of Sapelo Sound ............... 8/02 Porgies .................... 38Ibs, 14 oz ........... Louis Jiran ....................... Savannah Snapper Banks ......... 10/84 Porgy, Red .............. 5Ibs, 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 ................. TolT)my Hall ...................... Christmas Creek .......................... 7/76 Shark, Black Tip ...... 131 lbs .................... Albert Boyd ...................... Wassaw Channel ......................... 5/78 Shark, Bull ............... 455Ibs .................... Mark Noble .............."........STS Buoy ......._............................. 7/78 Shark, Dusky ........... 27~Ibs, 8oz ............ Bill Hunter ........................ STS Buoy .................................. 10/78 Shark, Hammerhead .. 770Ibs .................... Charlie Marshall ............... Little Cumberland ........................ 8/73 Shark, Lemon .......... 375Ibs .................... Thomas Winslow ............. St. Andrew Sound ....................... 7/74 Shark, Mako ............ 228Ibs, 8oz ............ Harry Woolley .................. Off Savannah ............................... 5/75 Shark, Nurse ........... 244Ibs .................... Bill Watson ....................... Sapelo Channel ........................... 8/81 Shark, Sandbar ....... 158Ibs, 8oz ............ Chet Lee Kirby ................. Jekyll Pier .................................... 4/79 Shark, Sand Tiger ... 290Ibs .................... Billy Castle ....................:.. Ossabaw Island ........................... 5/77 Shark, Thresher ...... 116Ibs .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. Mark Noble ................,..... Artificial Reef C ............................ 3/76 Shark, Tiger ............ 794Ibs .................... Chuck Hall ..........:............ STS Buoy .................................... 9/75 Sheepshead ............ 14Ibs, 14oz .. .. .. .. .... Ralph V. White ................. Delegal Creek .....................'......... 3/02 Snapper, Red .......... 37Ibs, 8oz .............. Bill Shearin, Jr................. Savannah Snapper B~nks ........... 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, Bl~ckfin ......... 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 ................. 7/73 Wahoo ..................... 123Ibs, 3oz ............ Michael Stefanick ............ Triple Ledges ...........,................... 6/00 Weakfish ................. 6Ibs, 8oz ................ Frank Taylor .. .................. Troupe Creek ............................... 3/76 Whiting .............;...... 2Ibs, 12oz ._.. ........... Harold Guinn ................... Mackay River ............................... 2/75 For more information on Saltwater Gamefish Records contact the Coastal Res<;>urces Division. Page 38 1-888-748-6887 for licenses Recent Law Changes Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division GEORGIA OUTDOOR GUIDES AND SERVICES DIRECTORY BAIT/TACKLE DOCKS/DOCK SUPPLIES GUIDES/OUTFITTERS Broadway Tackle, Rod & Reel Repair Great Prices On "River ,Hawk Boats Tobatsu Outboard Motors 173 0 Broad St., Augusta, GA 30904 (706) 738-8848 www.broadwaytackle.com broadwaytackJe@ao l.com SPECTRUM ENGINEERING " Don 't be fooled by the Rest; Fabricated Hot Dip Galvanized .b. -c-r-.. Docks are the Best!" rk---sa fiLf sl IS, 'Eolftlfcial & Private Floating Marine Structures(1 to 50 slips) Piers, Walkways and Gazebos Pylon & Floatation Replacements Marine Accessories: (Rubrail, bumper posts, floatation, cleats, hinges, ladders, boat lifts, control winches, etc...) 706-359-6050 P.O. Box 1329 Lincolnton, GA. 30817 secustomdock@nu-z.net Joseph A. Sapp FAMILY FISHING Bill Vanderford 's Guide Service Georgia's Oldest & Most Experienced Service Indu ctee of the Natio 11al Freshwater Fishi11g Hall of Fame as a Legendary Guide (770) 289-1543 Lake Lanier www.fishinglan ier.com Chattahoochee River JFISH51@aol.com Classic Mountain Fly Fishing Instruction/guiding/trips mountainfly.net 706.746.7284 < i\C'l' ~-~~" - CHART.E~ ...:~-" ~SJt. i,- c,~ Lake Lanier, GA Marty Allagood GUIDE 8-234-4371 www.finaddict. ne t T BEACH SEINES BEACH SEINES Shrimp seines 50-75-100' Save$$$ on seafood Fish seines up to 300' Sports nets ~ Fun for entire family Locally owned & operated Brunswick, GA (912) 264-2893 ~ .:_ - BOATS EVINRUDE JOHNSON STRATOS PLAYBOUY SANGER MERCURY JAVELIN PONTOONS SKI BOATS MERCRUISER SEWELL MARINE, INC. 172 Temple Ave . 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D AT RAINBOW RANCH TROUT FARM Fishine Fun & Eatine Pleasure Free Bait & Tackle rgia hing .com LAKE LANIER OUTFITTERS . _ Fishing Guide Service 770-503-4143 www.lakelanieroutfitters.com Tom Branch, Jr. (owner & operator) o EXIT 14 0 :a:!:!,: EXI RAINBOW RANCH 1-285 www7.7ra0in-b8ow8r7an-c4h7tro9u7t.com Lanier Charters Guide Service Russ Toole - Professional Guide Specializing in Lake Lanier Striper Chattahoochee River Rainbow/Brown Trout 770 - 888 - 3075 Laniercharters.com SHANE WATSON STRIPER GUIDE SERVICE Stripers Only - Lake Lanier Only Professional, Full time, and The Best Half Day/Full Day Guided Trips ~ 770-889-5549 www.lakelanierstripers.com TAXIDERMY Broderick Head's Taxidermy Exceptional Award Winning Mounts "Only GOD Can Do Them Better" (770) 537-3529 www.headstaxidermy.com 103 Deer Run Lane Bremen , GA 30110 RIVERSIDE TAXIDERMY 912-772-5199 Specializing in Whitetail Deer, ~ Turkey, Wi ld Boar, Waterfowl & Fish Curtis Starling 246 Magnolia Place Guyton, GA 31312 Member NTA GTA www .gofis hgeo rgia. co m Page 39