VISIT THE GO FISH EDUCATION CENTER 2011 GEORGIA REGULATIONS SPORT FISHING www.gofishgeorgia.com A Publication of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Coastal Resources Division & Wildlife Resources Division table of contents 2011 GEORGIA REGULATIONS SPORT FISHING 2011 FRESHWATER AND SALTWATER SPORT FISHING REGULATIONS Nathan Deal, Governor Mark Williams, Commissioner, Department of Natural Resources Dan Forster, Director, Wildlife Resources Division Spud Woodward, Director, Coastal Resources Division BOARD OF NATURAL RESOURCES Earl D. Barrs, Chair Warren C. Budd, Jr., Vice Chair Mabel C. Jenkins, Secretary William C. Archer J. Dennis Billew Eugene M. Bishop Jenny Lynn Bradley William A. Carruth Dwight J. Davis Joseph M. Hatfield Walter A. Hudson Phyllis T. Johnson Ray P. Lambert, Jr. Loyce W. Turner James A. Walters Phillip C. Watt Thomas W. Wheeler, Jr. Steven R. Woodruff Note: The Wildlife Resources & Coastal Resources Divisions designed this guide to help you quickly find and understand regulations for fishing in Georgia. The Game & Fish Code and rules of the Department of Natural Resources are the final authority on questions on law. This publication was paid for by the sale of advertising. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources does not necessarily endorse products or services listed. Editor: Keith Weaver (GADNR) Advertising: J.F. Griffin Publishing (413) 884-1001 On The Cover Cover photography: Upper left is George Perry, Helena, GA circa 1934, holding an award winning bass that he caught (photo submitted by Bill Baab Photography). Lower right is Tom Mann Jr., Gainesville, GA, professional angler, holds up his catch at the FLW Forest Wood Cup Tournament at Lake Lanier, August 2010. DISCOVER FISHING on GEORGIA'S FREE FISHING DAYS! June 4, June 11 & Sept. 24, 2011 No fishing or trout license required All waters of the state Must be a Georgia resident Does not include fees at private lakes No WMA license required to fish on a Public Fishing Area or Waters Creek trophy trout stream All other Fishing Regulations apply Go FIsh Georgia! Angler Awards Program.............................................................14 Boating Regulations...................................................................27 Bragging Board..........................................................................32 Buying Licenses.........................................................................12 Definitions................................................................................... 8 Fish Kill Reporting..................................................................4, 6 Fisheries Section Offices & Public Fishing Areas..........................4 Free Fishing Days.........................................................................2 Guidelines for Eating Fish..........................................................35 How To Use This Guide...............................................................6 License Requirements................................................................12 Measuring Fish Length..............................................................15 Recent Changes Summary...........................................................6 Turn in Poachers Contact Information...................................4, 34 FRESHWATER SECTION (alphabetical listing)....................14 Agreements with Bordering States .............................................20 Commercial Fishing...................................................................26 Daily Limits...............................................................................14 Fishing Methods........................................................................16 Freshwater Fish Identification....................................................28 Handling & Releasing Fish........................................................23 Length Limits............................................................................15 Protected Aquatic Species...........................................................34 Public Fishing Areas...................................................................18 Sale of Fish.................................................................................26 Seasons. ..................................................................................... 14 State Freshwater Record Fish......................................................30 Trout Fishing.............................................................................22 Saltwater Section (alphabetical listing)...................... 40 Bait Minnows............................................................................46 Crabs......................................................................................... 46 Deflating Your Fish....................................................................45 Finfish Limits and Information..................................................41 Saltwater Fish Identification.......................................................42 Shellfish..................................................................................... 46 Sport Bait Shrimping.................................................................44 State Saltwater Record Fish........................................................44 Sport Fish Restoration Program Successful Angler-funded Partnership to Improve Fishing The Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration (SFR) Program provides one of the most vital sources of funds for managing the nation's recreational fisheries. SFR is a partnership between federal and state government, industry and anglers/boaters. Funding SFR authorizes a 10% federal excise tax on fishing rods, reels, and lures. In 1984 the act was amended to include motor boat fuels. This money is disbursed to states based on land/water area and number of licenses sold-- over $380 million was disbursed to states in 2010. SFR at Work in Georgia Georgia's share is approximately $6.9 million annually. SFR and your license fees have funded: management of public waters, production of sport fish for stocking in public waters, development and management of Public Fishing Areas, aquatic education programs, development and maintenance of boating access facilities...and more. SFR and license fees pay for freshwater and saltwater programs and activities to benefit these resources. Learn more about the Sport Fish Restoration Program at: www.fws.gov and www.gofishgeorgia.com general fishing Contact Information & Offices Refer to the color map to locate offices and facilities by their corresponding numbers. The color codes below correspond to the regional locations of offices and facilities on the map. Statewide or General Offices 1 Wildlife Resources Division State Headquarters 2070 US Highway 278 SE, Social Circle, GA 30025 Main Number.................................................770-918-6400 Fisheries Management.....................................770-918-6406 Law Enforcement............................................770-918-6408 Game Management.........................................770-918-6404 Nongame Conservation..................................770-761-3035 Wildlife Resources Conservation Center 2065 US Highway 278 SE, Social Circle, GA 30025 Boating Registration.......................................800-366-2661 License Unit....................................................800-366-2661 Boating Education..........................................770-761-3010 2 Coastal Resources Division Headquarters One Conservation Way, Brunswick, GA 31520 Main Number.................................................912-264-7218 Coastal Law Enforcement...............................912-264-7237 Report a Fish Kill..........................................800-241-4113 Turn in Poachers (T.I.P) Statewide................800-241-4113 5 3 4 15 8 6 7 9 1 13 Headquarter/Regional Office District Office/Hatchery Public Fishing Area (PFA) 11 10 14 12 22 17 16 23 19 20 27 18 25 26 24 29 28 21 2 WRD Fisheries Regional Offices and Facilities 3 Northwest Regional Office 312 North River St. NW, PO Box 519, Calhoun, GA 30703 Calhoun..........................................................706-624-1161 Atlanta............................................................770-387-4821 Law Enforcement (Calhoun)...........................706-624-1367 Law Enforcement (Atlanta).............................770-769-9680 4 Rocky Mountain Recreation & Public Fishing Area......................................706-802-5087 5 Summerville Hatchery................................706-857-3394 6 Northeast Regional Office 2150 Dawsonville Hwy, Gainesville, GA 30501 Gainesville......................................................770-535-5498 Law Enforcement (Gainesville).......................770-535-5499 7 Buford Trout Hatchery...............................770-781-6888 8 Burton Office & Trout Hatchery...............770-535-5498 9 East Central Regional Office & Walton Fish Hatchery 2123 US Highway 278, SE Social Circle, GA 30025 Social Circle....................................................706-557-3039 Atlanta............................................................770-918-6418 10 McDuffie PFA & Hatchery...........................706-595-1619 11 Thomson District Office District Office.................................................706-595-1619 Law Enforcement Office.................................706-595-4211 Augusta Number.............................................706-737-1480 12 West Central Regional Office 1014 MLK Blvd., Fort Valley, GA 31030 Fort Valley......................................................478-825-6151 Macon Law Enforcement................................478-751-6415 13 CMhaarrbleien Elliot Wildlife Center/ PFA. ..................... 478-825-6151 or 770-784-3063 The Go Fish Georgia Education Center....478-988-6701 14BPuigblLicazFeirshCirnegekArea......................................478-825-6151 15 West Point District Office..........................706-845-4180 16 Ocmulgee PFA...............................................478-783-2557 17 Flat Creek PFA..............................................478-825-6151 18 Southwest Regional Office 2024 Newton Road, Albany, GA 31701 Albany............................................................229-430-4256 Albany Law Enforcement................................229-430-4252 19 Cordele Hatchery.........................................229-276-2362 20DStaewvesoCnocOkfeficHea&tchery.................................229-995-4486 21 South Central Regional Office 108 Darling Ave., PO Box 2089, Waycross, GA 31502 Waycross.........................................................912-285-6094 Metter Law Enforcement................................912-685-2145 22 Hugh M. Gillis PFA.......................................478-296-6192 23 Dodge County PFA.......................................478-374-6765 24 Evans County PFA........................................912-739-1139 25 Paradise PFA.................................................229-533-4792 26 Metter District Office.................................912-685-6424 27 Bowens Mill Office & Hatchery.................229-426-5272 28 Coastal Regional Office 22814 Highway 114, Richmond Hill, GA 31324 Demeries Creek..............................................912-727-2112 Coastal Law Enforcement...............................912-264-7237 29 Richmond Hill Hatchery.............................912-756-3691 Page 4 Turn In Poachers! 1-800-241-4113 -- Phone License/Boating Registration: 1-800-366-2661 Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division 2011 changes & how to use this guide 2011 LICENSING Georgia anglers are now offered a variety of fishing licenses and combinations. Please see page 13 for the full list of options. Georgia anglers and hunters who have lost their GA recreational hunting/fishing license can reprint them at no cost at www. gofishgeorgia.com. Georgia anglers and boaters are able to take advantage of license and boat registration services online at this address, by phone, and at participating license dealers. Freshwater Regulation changes Effective October 1, 2010 Georgia anglers may possess and fish with blueback herring in five additional reservoirs in Georgia. The additions include Bartlett's Ferry, Blue Ridge, Goat Rock, Oliver, and West Point. Blueback herring possession remains illegal in Alabama waters (see reciprocal agreement on page 20). SALTWATER REGULATION CHANGES At the time of printing, legislative and/or regulations changes were pending that may affect some species and licensing issues. How to Use This Guide Enjoy your Georgia fishing trip, but be sure that you know the freshwater and saltwater regulations before you go. Regulations may vary on different bodies of water so be sure to consult the necessary pages. To use this guide follow these steps: 1. Be familiar with fishing license requirements and know who needs a license. See page 12 for freshwater and saltwater license requirements. 2. Know the daily limits and seasons on page 14 (freshwater) and page 40 (saltwater) and note any exceptions. See freshwater fish length limits on page 15 and legal freshwater fishing methods on pages 16. 3. Are you trout fishing or fishing on Public Fishing Areas? See pages 2225 (trout) and pages 1819 (PFAs). 4. Are you from out of state or fishing border waters? See Agreements with Bordering States on pages 2021. Be aware that each states rules and laws may differ so know license requirements and possession limits. It is your responsibility to know what regulations apply where you are fishing. REPORT FISH KILLS Help protect our valuable fish resources. Report fish kills as quickly as possible. CALL TOLL FREE: 1-800-241-4113 (24 hours a day, seven days a week) VISIT THE GO FISH EDUCATION CENTER SPORT FISHING 2011 GEORGIA REGULATIONS www.gofishgeorgia.com CAoPaustballicRaetisoonurocfesthDeiGviesioorngi&a DWepiladrltimfeeRnetsoofuNrcaetsuDrailvRisieosonurces, About this Guide This high-quality regulation guide is offered to you by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources through its unique partnership with J.F. Griffin Publishing, LLC. J.F. Griffin is an award winning publishing house that specializes in producing state fish & wildlife regulation books. J.F. Griffin supports the Georgia Department of Natural Resource's staff in the design, layout and editing of the guides. They also manage the marketing and sales of advertising to appropriate businesses within the book. The revenue generated through ad sales significantly lowers production costs and generates savings. These savings translate into additional funds for other important fisheries and habitat programs! If you have any feedback or are interested in advertising, please contact us at 413.884.1001 or online at www.JFGriffin.com Senior Designer: Erin Murphy Associate Designer: Evelyn Haddad 430 Main St. Suite 5 | Williamstown, MA 01267 available online in a new Digital Edition! Fully searchable Live hyperlinks to expanded content Email pages One-click printing eRegulations.com/GA/fishing Page 6 Turn In Poachers! 1-800-241-4113 -- Phone License/Boating Registration: 1-800-366-2661 Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division 2011 definitions Definitions Artificial Lure Any lure which is made completely of natural or colored wood, cork, feathers, hair, rubber, metal, plastic, tinsel, styrofoam, sponge, or string, or any combination of such materials, in imitation of or as a substitute for natural bait. This does not include any item sprayed with or containing scented or chemical attractants. Daily Limit The number of fish that may be taken, caught, or killed during any one day. Fishing Catching, capturing, taking, or killing fish, mussels and all seafood and includes all lesser acts such as attempting to catch, capture, or kill by any device or method and directly assisting any person in catching or attempting to catch fish or seafood. Game Fish Fish that are listed under Daily Limits (see page 14). Immediate Family All persons living in one household under one head of household and bearing a blood or dependent relationship to the head of household. Non-game fish Any fish not designated as game fish under Daily Limits (see page 14). Public Fishing Area Designated areas owned and/or operated by the Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division, Fisheries Section for the primary purpose of fishing and are open to the public. These are listed on pages 1819. Resident Any citizen of the United States who has maintained a legal residence in Georgia for a period of at least three months prior to purchasing a fishing license. COVER: Georgia Department of Natural Resources Centennial Celebration 2011 marks the 100th Anniversary of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division. The cover of our Sportfishing Regs shows how far we have come in 100 years, from the World Record largemouth bass caught by George Perry in 1932 to hosting a worldclass fishing tournament last year on Lake Lanier. Upper Left George Perry, Helena, GA circa 1934, holding an award winning bass that he caught. Lower Right - Tom Mann, Jr., Gainesville, GA , professional angler, holds up his catch at the FLW Forest Wood Cup Tournament at Lake Lanier, August, 2010. There have been many success stories over the past 100 years including conserving thousands of acres of prime wildlife habitat, and the successful restoration of several wildlife species including whitetail deer, wild turkeys, alligators and bald eagles. Please join us as we celebrate 100 years of conservation. Watch in coming months for more information about our Centennial. Go to www.gofishgeorgia.com for more information. Page 8 Georgia's License and Boat Registration System: Faster, Friendlier, Easier System Available NOW! Hunting and Fishing Licenses: *Online: gofishgeorgia.com *Phone: 1-800-366-2661 *Participating License Vendors Boat Registrations: *Online: goboatgeorgia.com *Phone: 1-800-366-2661 *Mail-in: Print application from website (goboatgeorgia.com) OUTDOORS INSURANCE OUTDOORSINSURANCE.COM, INC. Call a Sportsman About Insurance General Liability Director's & Officer's Liability Excess/Umbrella Liability Property (Building & Contents) (3-D Targets - Equipment) Hunting Clubs (Owned and Leased) Sportsman's Clubs Rod & Gun Clubs Sporting Clays & Wing Shooting Archery & Bowhunting Clubs Guides & Outfitters Hunting Preserves Pro Shops 3-D Ranges National & State Organizations P.O. Box 6336 Wheeling,WV 26003 866-695-9040 or 800-552-9925 (Evening) Fax: 304-905-0187 www.outdoorsinsurance.com Turn In Poachers! 1-800-241-4113 -- Phone License/Boating Registration: 1-800-366-2661 Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division Trophy Bass Retreat Book now to fish R ay Scott's legendary private bass waters... 55-acre Presidents Lake named "Best Bass Lake" in America by Outdoor Life Magazine 800.518.7222 www.R ayScottBassRetreat.com 238 Whitetail Tr ail Hope Hull, AL 36043 Approximately 20 miles south of Montgomery Come see the new 2011 in our indoor showroom! 2011 Sport Fishing Regulations 874 Harnmony Road 706-485-4750 Eatonton, GA 31024 We Service ALL Engine Brands! Honda of Savannah 11512 Abercorn Street Savannah, GA 31419 (912) 927-7070 www.hondayamahaofsavannah.com WWW.OCONEEMARINE.COM Purchase fishing licenses at www.gofishgeorgia.com or www.active.com/outdoors/ Page 9 Need Fish For Your Lake? American Sport Fish has what you need! We Stock... F-1 Tiger Bass Coppernose Bluegill Threadfin Shad Grass Carp www.AmericanSportFish.com Call us at 334-281-7703 or 800-524-0383 Post Office Box 20050, Montgomery, Alabama 36120 Specializing in Personal Service & Custom Stocking since 1985 Great for shallow waters! Extend your winter fishing season! Your one stop source for environmentally friendly and maintenance free docking and lift solutions. Page 10 SERVING THE SOUTHEAST FROM VIRGINIA TO ALABAMA AND BEYOND The latest in drive on lift technology PO Box 2666 Bluffton, SC 29910 888-77-FLOAT www.boat-float.com Turn In Poachers! 1-800-241-4113 -- Phone License/Boating Registration: 1-800-366-2661 Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division the new go fish georgia education center 2011 Sport Fishing Regulations Purchase fishing licenses at www.gofishgeorgia.com or www.active.com/outdoors/ Page 11 freshwater and saltwater license requirements BUYING LICENSES There are several ways for you to purchase a Georgia fishing license. Buy in person at license dealers statewide including most WRD/ CRD regional offices; state parks; marinas; major retailers; and sporting goods, bait and tackle, and hardware stores. Internet sales are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at www.gofishgeorgia.com or www.active.com/outdoors/. By telephone at 800-366-2661, 8am 8pm M-F, 9am 5pm S-S. Note: Social Security Number is required for the purchase of all licenses to meet the State's requirements for Georgia Code 19-11-9.1(a.). WHO NEEDS A FISHING LICENSE Anglers age 16 and older must have a current Georgia fishing license in their possession while fishing in fresh or salt water in Georgia. A temporary authorization number obtained by telephone or internet sale may be used a period of seven days until the paper copy is received or printed. Conservation Rangers may require photo identification when checking fishing licenses. Exception: A fishing license is not required to fish in private ponds (does not include ponds owned by governments--city, county, state, or federal) nor by a landowner and their immediate family when fishing on their land. (See definition of immediate family on page 8.) Lost Your License? Go to www.gofishgeorgia.com or active.com/outdoors and follow the links to print out a replacement for any recreational license. Those wishing to purchase a Lifetime License must first complete the needed application before purchasing. Lifetime Licenses can not be purchased on-line. The free senior lifetime license may be obtained online. Fishing for Savings: How to Save Money on Your License Purchase! Multi-Year License: Offers anglers an opportunity to fish longer and save money. 2-year Fishing License - $16 (An annual fishing license is $9) Combo Licenses: Convenient, new 2-year and 3-day Hunting & Fishing Combo Licenses save money. 2-year Hunting & Fishing Combo License--$31 (An annual combo license is $17.) Resident 3-day Hunting & Fishing Combo License--$3.50 (3-day combo includes fishing privileges on WMAs and PFAs.) Stacking Licenses: Anglers can purchase multiple annual or multi-year licenses and "stack" them into one transaction which will save money and eliminate multiple service charges. Note: Not all licenses can be stacked, if you have questions, visit www.gofishgeorgia.com or call 1-800-366-2661. Early Renewal Discount: An easy way to save! The majority of hunting and fishing licenses offer sportsmen an early renewal option with a savings of $2.75 when a same privilege license is purchased before expiration of the old license. Residents Proof of residence, such as a Georgia driver's license, is required to purchase a resident fishing license. For purposes of buying a fishing license, residents are U.S. citizens living in Georgia for a least three months and includes outof-state college students living in Georgia. Students may use a current Georgia student I.D. as documentation. Residents also include full-time, active duty military personnel who are stationed in Georgia or who list Georgia as their home of record, and their dependents. A free hunting and fishing license may be issued once for Georgia resident military veterans discharged from active duty on or after July 1, 2005 who were on ordered Federal duty for a period of 90 days or longer. Valid for 12 months from date of issue. More details may be found under Freshwater and Trout License Requirements at www.gofishgeorgia.com. Residents 65 years of age or older may fish with the Senior (65+) Lifetime License. This license can be obtained free online at gofishgeorgia.com or from license dealers by furnishing proof of age (driver's lic., birth certificate, etc.). Permanently and totally disabled: Residents may obtain a Disability Honorary Combination Hunting and Fishing License by applying to the License Unit (800-366-2661). Proof of disability must accompany the application. Proof of disability may come from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Social Security Admin., Railroad Retirement System or other government agency. Any resident who is totally blind may apply for a Lifetime Honorary Fishing License and must provide a Physician's Certification of Blindness with the application. Nonresidents Nonresidents 16 or older, regardless of physical condition, must have a valid nonresident Georgia fishing license to fish in Georgia freshwater and saltwater, except in private ponds. See also Agreements for Bordering States on pages 2021). Nonresidents under 16 do not require a fishing license or trout license. RECIPROCAL AGREEMENTS for BORDERING STATES Georgia DNR has Agreements with Alabama, Florida, North Carolina, and South Carolina allowing holders of Georgia fishing licenses to fish in the waters covered without obtaining a fishing license from the bordering state. See Agreements with Bordering States on pages 2021. mountain TROUT LICENSES All resident anglers ages 16 to 64 must have a trout license and Georgia fishing license to fish in designated trout waters and to fish for or to possess trout. A WMA license is not required to fish for trout except for Waters Creek (see page 22). Resident Senior (65+) lifetime and honorary license holders are not required to have a trout license. Landowners and their immediate families may fish on their premises without a trout license. All nonresident anglers, 16 or older, regardless of physical condition, must possess a nonresident fishing license and nonresident trout license to fish for or possess trout or to fish in designated trout waters. State park visitors are not required to have a trout license to fish in the impounded waters of the Park. However, those visitors wishing to harvest trout will need to have a trout license in their possession. See Public Fishing Areas on pages 1819. Page 12 Turn In Poachers! 1-800-241-4113 -- Phone License/Boating Registration: 1-800-366-2661 Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division 2011 recreational fishing license fees Annual licenses are valid for one full year from date of purchase. Resident Licenses Annual Fishing.................................................................$9.00 Two-Year Fishing............................................................$16.00 3-Day Fishing/Hunting Combination*............................$3.50 Annual Trout ...................................................................$5.00 Two-Year Trout...............................................................$10.00 3-Day Trout......................................................................$3.50 Annual Wildlife Management Area.................................$19.00 Annual Hunting & Fishing Combination.........................$17.00 Two-Year Hunting & Fishing Combination....................$31.00 Sportsman**...................................................................$55.00 Two-Year Sportsman**..................................................$105.00 Nonresident Licenses Annual Fishing...............................................................$45.00 3-Day Fishing/Hunting Combination*..........................$20.00 Annual Trout..................................................................$20.00 3-Day Trout....................................................................$10.00 Annual Wildlife Management Area.................................$73.00 Annual Hunting & Fishing Combination.....................$100.00 convenience fees Internet Transactions........................................................$2.50 Telephone Transactions....................................................$5.00 Walk-In Transactions........................................................$3.00 *Residents and non-residents may purchase the 3-day Combination License or Apprentice 3-day License for fishing. **Under the new license structure, sportsmen save $5 annually ($55/year compared to $60/year) when purchasing this license which covers all hunting and fishing privileges including Hunting, Big Game, WMA, Georgia Waterfowl Conservation, Fishing and Trout Licenses and the H.I.P. Permit (excludes the Deer Dog License, Alligator License and Federal Duck Stamp). A Lifetime of Fishing and Hunting! Lifetime licenses are available for anglers of all ages. The Lifetime license satisfies all state license requirements for the life of the purchaser.Purchasing a lifetime license online is not available. An application must be completed in order to purchase this license. Under 2 years old..................................$200 Ages 215...............................................$350 Ages 16 and older..................................$500 Ages 6065.............................................$95 Over 65...................................................$0* Under 16 years old non-resident grandchild of resident lifetime license holder.............$1000 * $10 for a plastic, permanent card For a one-time price, you can enjoy a lifetime of great Georgia fishing and hunting opportunities! Visit www.gofishgeorgia.com or call 800-366-2661 for information on purchasing a Lifetime License. 2011 Sport Fishing Regulations Purchase fishing licenses at www.gofishgeorgia.com or www.active.com/outdoors/ Page 13 freshwater fishing Freshwater Game Species Daily Limits (See page 18 for special limits on Public Fishing Areas.) Bass Catfish Crappie Pickerel Sauger Shad Species Largemouth, Redeye (Coosa), Shoal, Smallmouth, Spotted (Kentucky), and/or Suwannee bass Channel and/or Flathead Black and/or White Chain, Grass and/or Redfin -- American and/or Hickory Daily Limit 10 No limit 30 15 8 8 Exceptions -- -- -- -- -- -- Striped Bass, White Bass and/or Hybrid White-Striped Bass Limit taken from the North Newport River, Medway River includ- ing Mount Hope Creek, Little Ogeechee River, Ogeechee River, Oconee River downstream of GA Hwy 22 in Milledgeville, Ocmul- gee River downstream of the GA Hwy 96 bridge between Houston and Twiggs counties, Altamaha River, St. Mary's River, Satilla River, 15, only two of which can and the tributaries to these river sections; and from saltwater is a two fish limit, both of which must be 22 inches in length or longer. -- be 22 inches Limit taken from the Savannah River and its tributaries down- or longer. stream of J. Strom Thurmond Dam is a two fish limit, both of which must be 27 inches in length or longer. Limit taken from Lake Richard B. Russell from the Russell Dam to Lake Hartwell Dam and Lake Secession Dam, all tributaries to Lake Richard B. Russell is two (2) striped bass per day, only one (1) of which can exceed 34 inches in length. See South Carolina Agreement on page 20. Sturgeon Sunfish or Bream Trout Walleye May not be taken in fresh or saltwater in Georgia Bluegill, Flier, Redbreast, Redear, Rock bass, Spotted, Warmouth and/or Shadow bass 50 Bream: See South Carolina Agreement on page 20. Brook, Rainbow, and/or Brown trout See Amicalola Creek, Chattahoochee River, Chattooga River, 8 Smithgall Woods, Smith Creek, Toccoa River, and Waters Creek on pages 2225. -- 8 Limit on Blue Ridge Reservoir is 15. Freshwater Game Species Daily Limits It is unlawful to take in one day or to possess at any one time, except at a residence or commercial storage facility, more than the daily limit for each species. It is unlawful to possess more than a total of 50 individuals of all the game fish listed in this section, except channel and flathead catfish. Once the daily limit for a particular species is taken, it is unlawful to continue to fish for that species. Exception: Daily limits differ on certain waters shared by Georgia and South Carolina. See Agreements with Bordering States (pages 2021). Seasons There is no closed season for fishing in freshwater in Georgia except for the following: Trout Season: Trout streams that are designated as seasonal trout streams are OPEN to fishing for any species from March 26October 31, 2011 and from March 31October 31, 2012. Seasonal trout streams are CLOSED to fishing for all fish species at all other times. See pages 2225 for trout stream designations. Flint, Chattahoochee and Spring Creeks: The Flint River and its tributaries from the Georgia Power Co. dams at Albany to the US Hwy 84 bridge; the Chattahoochee River and its tributaries from the Columbia Lock and Dam to the GA Hwy 91 bridge; and Spring Creek and its tributaries downstream to GA Hwy 253 are CLOSED to striped bass fishing and spear fishing from May 1October 31 each year. Lakes Seminole and Blackshear: 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 1October 31 each year. Coosa River: The season for taking lake sturgeon from the Coosa River and its tributaries is CLOSED. See www.gofishgeorgia.com for more information on this closure and how to identify this fish. Noodling or Grabbling: The season is open March 1July 15 statewide in freshwater. Angler AWARDS PROGRAM Catching a big fish is always a thrill and usually requires exceptional fishing skill. Each year DNR recognizes the achievement of anglers who catch "trophy" fish by presenting them with an Angler Award. Fish do not have to be a new state record to qualify. Applications, minimum weights/lengths for species, and full program details are available at any Fisheries office and at www.gofishgeorgia.com. To qualify you must: Catch your fish on legal sport fishing tackle in Georgia (see page 16). Meet the minimum weight or length requirements for that species. Take the fish to a DNR Fisheries Office and have it positively identified. A clear side view photo of the fish can now be used for identification in the case of "catch-and-release." Please call before coming to an office to make sure that someone will be available to identify your fish (list on page 4). Complete application and submit it with a clear side view photo of the whole fish to the address listed on the form. If you think you, or someone you know, caught a new state freshwater record, follow these steps: Do not clean or freeze the fish. Keep the fish cool, preferably on ice. Weigh the fish to the nearest ounce as soon as possible on scales certified accurate by the Georgia Department of Agriculture (at Fisheries Section offices and 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. Estimated weights are not accepted. Take the fish to a DNR Fisheries Office as soon as possible and have it positively identified by a DNR fisheries biologist or technician. Please call the office before you come (list on page 4). Complete an application and submit with Page 14 Turn In Poachers! 1-800-241-4113 -- Phone License/Boating Registration: 1-800-366-2661 Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division freshwater fishing a clear side view photo of the whole fish within 90 days of the catch. Freshwater Records see page 30 Saltwater Records see page 44 Shoal bass Lake Lanier: 14 inches Flint River and its tributaries: 12 inches Spotted bass FOR THE TOUGHEST length limits Note: There are no minimum length limits on freshwater game fish unless they are listed below. All lengths are Total Length (see "How to Measure Fish" below). You must release all fish shorter than the minimum length indicated for that species. Largemouth Bass 12 inches statewide except: Lake Lanier: 14 inches Striped bass, White bass, & Hybrid white-striped bass You may only keep two fish of the total limit that are 22 inches or longer, except: The minimum length for all fish is 22 inches on the North Newport River, Medway River including Mount Hope Creek, Little Ogeechee River, Ogeechee JOBS ON PLANET EARTH Bear Creek Reservoir (Jackson County): bass between 16 and 22 inches must be released immediately. All others may be kept. Lake Blackshear: 14 inches River; Oconee River downstream of GA Hwy 22 in Milledgeville; Ocmulgee River downstream of GA Hwy 96 bridge between Houston and Twiggs counties; Lake Blue Ridge: no minimum (0 inches) Altamaha River, Saint Mary's River, Sa- Lake Burton: no minimum (0 inches) Lake Juliette: no minimum (0 inches) tilla River, and the tributaries to these river sections; and from saltwater. Lake Lanier: 14 inches The minimum length is 27 inches on the Sa- Lake Oconee: bass between 11 and 14 vannah River and its tributaries downstream inches must be released immediately. All of J. Strom Thurmond Dam (2 fish limit). others may be kept. See agreement with South Carolina (page 20) Ocmulgee River from the Spring Street bridge crossing in Macon downstream to the confluence of the Ocmulgee River and the Oconee River: 14 inches Trout No minimum length limit for trout except: Waters Creek: 1-800-966-3458 Made in U.S.A. Lake Walter F. George: 14 inches Brown and rainbow trout: 22 inches 2010 Gorilla Glue Company West Point Reservoir: 14 inches Brook trout: 18 inches Public Fishing Area lakes operated by the Department of Natural Resources: 14 inches. This limit will not apply to lakes which have been posted as having a differ- Noontootla Creek and its tributaries on Blue Ridge WMA All trout: 16 inches Fishing Gear Must Be GORILLA_GG_225x475.indd 1 11/2/10 3:00 PM Regularly Checked ent length limit for largemouth bass. Attend to gear such as limb lines. (All trotlines How to Measure a Fish must be checked at least every 24 hours and removed after the Freshwater fish are measured as Total Length (TL) Minimum sizes for saltwater fishing trip.) finfish are measured in two ways: Total Length (TL) and Fork Length (FL). Methods for measuring fish are described below: Make every reasonable effort to retrieve lost gear (including hooks, line and lead sinkers). Recycle used fishing line. For more information, contact: Fisheries Section (770) 918-6406 Total Length Fork Length Freshwater and saltwater finfish TOTAL LENGTH: Place the fish on its side with the jaw closed Squeeze the tail fin lobes together Measure in a straight line from the tip of the snout to the extreme tip of the tail Saltwater fish FORK LENGTH: Fork Length (FL) is used to measure fish with deeply forked tails. Measure the straight line distance from the tip of the snout to the fork of the tail. For either method, you must release all fish shorter than the minimum length indicated for that species. 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. 2011 Sport Fishing Regulations Purchase fishing licenses at www.gofishgeorgia.com or www.active.com/outdoors/ Page 15 freshwater fishing methods The following are legal methods for freshwater fishing. hook and line There is no restriction on the number of poles and lines used to fish for game fish except: Fishing for trout: 1 pole Fishing on Public Fishing Areas: 2 poles Sport shad fishing: 2 poles Anglers using more than two poles and lines to fish for shad must abide by commercial shad regulations. Landing nets may be used to land fish legally caught. Game fish may be used as live bait (where live bait is legal) if they are taken legally and you do not exceed daily creel and possession limits. Sport Trotlines & jugs A "sport trotline" is one line or a combination of lines using less than 51 hooks. Sport trotlines must be: 1. Marked with the owner's name and address and with visible buoys 2. Submerged at least three (3) feet below the surface of the water 3. Attended regularly and removed after the completed fishing trip. Unmarked or unattended trotlines will be confiscated by DNR. It is unlawful to use any sport trotline within one-half mile below any lock or dam. Only catfish and nongame fish (yearround) and American and Hickory shad during shad season may be taken with trotlines. Trotlines and jugs are not permitted on Lake Tobesofkee or any State Park lake. Use of 51 or more hooks is considered Commercial Fishing (see page 26). spear fishing "Spearing" is the use of a handheld spear or similar device and the use of a weapon, other than a firearm, which propels the spear to which a wire, rope, line, etc. is attached and secured to the weapon or the person using the weapon. Only nongame fish, and catfish as described below, may be speared in freshwater and are not to be sold or used for commercial purposes. The taking of flathead and channel catfish by spear may be done any time day or at night by light in the Savannah River and its tributaries and impoundments in the Savannah River Basin only. All spears must have barbs or other devices to recover fish and must be attached to a line secured to the person using the weapon. A sport fishing license is required to spear fish in Georgia. The person spearing fish must be completely submerged. Note: See Seasons on page 14. seines, cast nets, bow nets Only nongame fish less than 5 inches in length may be taken using a minnow seine and are not to be sold or used for commercial purposes. All other fish and eels taken in minnow seines must be released immediately unharmed into the water. A minnow seine must be less than 20 feet in length and have a / inch or less mesh (square or diameter). In Georgia It Is Unlawful To: Possess or use live blueback herring for bait in all fresh waters except the following: Lakes Bartlett's Ferry, Blue Ridge, Chatuge, Goat Rock, Juliette, Lanier, Nottely, Oliver, and West Point; and the Altamaha 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 (this drainage includes Burton, Tugaloo, and Raburn). For maps of restricted waters go to www.gofishgeorgia.com and see "Freshwater Regulations" section. It is still illegal to possess and fish with live blueback herring in Alabama waters. Fish for game fish, except American shad, hickory shad, channel catfish, blue 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. Discard fish caught in public waters Minnow seines may not be used in designated trout waters. Minnow traps are illegal in freshwater. Dip nets and cast nets may be used to take threadfin shad, gizzard shad, and blueback herring of any size for bait except cast nets may not be used in State Park Lakes. Bow nets are considered sport shad fishing gear and shall have a minimum legal size of 3 inches stretched mesh. bow fishing Nongame fish (does not include channel or flathead catfish, see note below) may be taken by bow and arrow from freshwater under the following conditions: Possession of a sport fishing license is required to bow fish in Georgia. Arrows must be equipped with barbs or similar devices for recovering fish and must be attached to the person or bow by a line sufficient for recovering the arrow and fish. Poisonous or exploding arrowheads are illegal. Arrows cannot be discharged into the water closer than 150 feet to anyone engaged in any other means of recreation. Legal hours for fishing with bow and arrow are from sunrise to sunset, except that fish (nongame) may be taken at night while using a light in reservoirs over 500 acres in size. Any game fish with an open wound possessed by a person bow fishing will be considered evidence of taking fish illegally. Note: Channel and flathead catfish are game fish, and may not be taken by bow and arrow, except in the Savannah River and its tributaries and impoundments in the Savannah River basin by bow and arrow any time during the day or at night by the use of a light. noodling or grabbling Flathead, channel and blue catfish may be taken by hand, without the aid of any device, hook, snare, net or other artificial element and without the use of any scuba equipment, air hose or other artificial breathing apparatus. Noodling is legal in the fresh waters of the state from March 1July 15 each year. A sport fishing license is required to noodle (grabble) in Georgia. It is illegal to take game fish (other than the catfish species listed above) and all other species of fish by hand. It is not legal to alter any natural or manmade features in order to attract or capture fish by hand. It is not legal to raise any part of a natural or artificial device out of the water to aid in the hand capture of enclosed fish. Page 16 Turn In Poachers! 1-800-241-4113 -- Phone License/Boating Registration: 1-800-366-2661 Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division Georgia and Florida Land For SALE and HUNTING LEASES www.stregispaper.com Paper Company, LLC Sales 478-987-9700 Hunting Leases 478-987-0390 2011 Sport Fishing Regulations Purchase fishing licenses at www.gofishgeorgia.com or www.active.com/outdoors/ Page 17 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. Remember, not all PFAs have the ability to sell licenses on site. Please call each PFA for details. Please Read Before Fishing a PFA Licenses: Anglers 16 years of age and older must possess a valid Wildlife Management Area (WMA) license and a current fishing license to fish, except a WMA license is not required to fish at Rocky Mountain Recreation and Public Fishing Area. If you have a Sportsman's license, 3-Day Hunting/Fishing License, Senior Lifetime license or Honorary license you are not required to have a WMA license to fish on a PFA. Length and Daily Limits: Unless a pond or lake has been posted as having a different length limit or daily limit, the following apply: Length limit: Largemouth bass: 14 inches minimum Daily limits: Largemouth bass.................................... 5 Bream or sunfish (of any one species or a combination)...................................15 Channel catfish...................................... 5 All other species...................... see page 14 Grass carp must be released immediately. Hours of Operation: PFAs are open yearround, seven days a week from sunrise to sunset. To find a PFA location refer to the map on page 4. Find each of the following PFAs by the numbers indicated in parentheses (#). BIG LAZER CREEK (#14) Talbot County, 478-825-6151 Fish Species: Largemouth bass, Bluegill and Redear sunfish, Channel catfish, Crappie. Live fish (minnows) are allowed for bait. Water: 195 acre lake. Facilities: Concrete two-lane boat ramp, fishing pier, fish cleaning station, restrooms, picnic tables, primitive camping, some facilities accessible to persons with disabilities. Directions from Talbotton: East on US Hwy 80 for 4 mi.; left on Po Biddy Road for 6.4 mi.; left on Bunkham Road; left into area. CHARLIE ELLIOTT WILDLIFE CENTER/ MARBEN PFA (#13) Jasper/Newton Counties, 478-825-6151 or 770-784-3063 Fish Species: Largemouth bass, Bluegill, 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 anywhere on Rocky Mountain PFA. Fish in a pond or lake that has been posted "closed." Fish with any gear other than pole and line. Fish with more than two poles and lines. Use or possess live fish (minnows) for bait, unless otherwise posted. Operate personal watercraft (jet 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. Swim, except at Rocky Mountain Recreation and PFA beach. Allow children under 14 years of age to be on PFA without adult supervision. Ride horses in restricted areas or areas not designated as open to equestrian use. Fish at night, unless otherwise posted. Redear sunfish, Crappie, Channel catfish. Live fish (minnows) are allowed for bait. Water: 20 ponds, totaling 293 acres, ranging in size from 1 to 95 acres. Facilities: Kids only ponds, concrete boat ramps (6 lakes), boat docks, restrooms, fishing piers, fish cleaning station, picnic areas, primitive camping, some fishing areas accessible to persons with disabilities. Note: Check information board for lakes that are open for fishing when you visit. Directions From Mansfield: South on GA Hwy 11 for 2.7 mi.; left on Marben Farm Rd. Follow signs. DODGE COUNTY (#23) 478-374-6765 or 229-426-5272 Fish Species: Largemouth bass, Bluegill, Redear sunfish, Channel catfish, Crappie. Water: 104 acre lake. Facilities: Concrete boat ramps, fishing pier, fish cleaning station, restrooms, picnic tables, nature trail, some facilities accessible to persons with disabilities. Directions From Eastman: South on US Hwy 23/341 for 3 mi.; left on County Rd. 49 for 0.6 mi. to lake. EVANS COUNTY (#24) 912-739-1139 or 912-285-6094 Fish Species: Largemouth bass, Bluegill, Redear sunfish, Channel catfish, Crappie, Brown bullhead. Water: Three ponds encompassing 122 acres (8, 30, 84 acres). Facilities: Concrete boat ramps, fishing piers, fish cleaning station, restrooms, picnic tables, primitive camping, some facili- ties 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. Flat Creek (#17) (Houston County State Park) Houston County, 478-825-6151 Fish species: Largemouth Bass, Bluegill, Redear sunfish, Channel catfish. Water: 102 acre lake and one special event pond. Facilities: Concrete two-lane boat ramp, fish cleaning station, restroom, picnic tables, bank fishing, some facilities accessible to persons with disabilities. Directions from I-75: Take I-75 to exit 134 (South Perry Parkway), Turn west onto South Perry Parkway, Travel approx. 0.25 miles and turn left (South) on Georgia Highway 41, Drive about 3.5 miles and turn left into Flat Creek Public Fishing Area HUGH M. GILLIS (#22) Laurens County, 478-296-6192 or 912-285-6094 Fish Species: Largemouth bass, Bluegill, Redear sunfish, Channel catfish, Crappie. Water: 109 acre lake and two 1 acre KFE ponds. Facilities: Concrete boat ramps, fishing pier, fish cleaning station, restrooms, picnic tables, some facilities accessible to persons with disabilities. Directions From East Dublin: East on US Hwy 80 for 10 mi.; left on Keens Crossing Rd. for 1.4 mi., PFA entrance on right. Page 18 Turn In Poachers! 1-800-241-4113 -- Phone License/Boating Registration: 1-800-366-2661 Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division McDUFFIE (#10) McDuffie County, 706-595-1619 Fish Species: Largemouth bass, Bluegill, Redear sunfish, Channel catfish. Water: 7 ponds varying in size from 5 to 37 acres. Rodbender Lake is open the 1st7th of each month. Facilities: Concrete boat ramps, courtesy docks, restrooms, picnic tables, tent and RV camping in designated areas (fee is $1525 per site per night), some facilities accessible to persons with disabilities. Directions From Thomson: South on Hwy 17 to US Hwy 278; left (east) for 5.6 mi.; right on Ellington Airline Road for 2.8 mi.; right on Fish Hatchery Road for 0.8 mi. OCMULGEE (#16) Bleckley/Pulaski Counties, 478-783-2557 Fish Species: Largemouth bass, Bluegill, Redear sunfish, Crappie, Channel catfish. Live fish (minnows) are allowed for bait. Note: Fishing for largemouth bass is catch-and-release only. Water: 106 acre lake and one special event pond. Facilities: Concrete two-lane boat ramp, fishing piers, fish cleaning station, restrooms, picnic areas, some facilities accessible to persons with disabilities. Directions From Hawkinsville: Travel north on Upper River Rd. for approximately 7 mi.; Left on Magnolia Rd. (PFA sign located at turn); travel approx. 2 mi. PFA entrance on right. PARADISE (#25) Berrien County, 229-533-4792 or 912-285-6094 Fish Species: Largemouth bass, Bluegill, Redear sunfish, Channel catfish, Crappie, Brown bullhead. Water: 68 lakes encompassing 525 acres of water. Facilities: Restrooms, fish cleaning station, picnic area, concrete boat ramps, tent camping ($10 per site per night; pay a drop box; no reservation needed; first come first serve), group camp ($20 per night; 20 person minimum; call for reservations), fishing pier, boat dock, some facilities accessible to persons with disabilities. Directions From Tifton: East on US Hwy 82 for 8 mi. to Whitley Road near Brookfield; follow signs from US Hwy 82 to the area. ROCKY MOUNTAIN RECREATION & PUBLIC FISHING AREA (#4) Floyd County, 706-802-5087 Fish Species: Largemouth bass, Bluegill, Redear sunfish, Channel catfish, Black crappie, Hybrid white-striped bass. Water: Two lakes (202 and 357 acres). Heath Lake is open the 1st10th of each month only. Facilities: Concrete boat ramps, fishing jetties, restrooms, picnic shelters, scenic overlooks, hiking trails, tent and RV camping, group primitive camping, group picnic area, some facilities accessible to persons with disabilities Fee: Daily or annual Rocky Mtn. PFA parking permit required (one per vehicle) WMA license not required. Restrictions: It is illegal to possess alcoholic beverages. No one may rappel, rock climb or hang glide. Directions From Rome: North on US Hwy 27 for 10.4 mi.; left on Sike Storey Road 0.4 mi.; left on Big Texas Valley Road 5.4 mi. to entrance. public fishing areas Hunting on Public Fishing Areas There are hunting opportunities available at several PFAs located around the state. Refer to the Hunting Regulations Guide for a complete list of PFA hunting opportunities and regulations or visit www.gohuntgeorgia.com. Fishing on Department Fish Hatcheries Unless otherwise posted, fishing is not allowed on state owned fish hatcheries. While most fish hatcheries have designated ponds for fishing, Department owned hatcheries can set creel limits, hours, dates, age limits, and other conditions. Please call the hatchery for more information regarding fishing opportunities and rules. Fishing on Wildlife Management Areas Unless otherwise posted, fishing is allowed on WMAs according to statewide regulations. Alcohol use is prohibited on WMAs except in designated camping areas. Refer to the Hunting Regulations Guide for a complete list of WMA regulations. Fishing Without Permission It is unlawful to fish on someone else's property without permission. Conservation Rangers and other law enforcement officers are charged with enforcing this law. Always ask permission before entering private land. Permission is not required to fish in the Chattahoochee or Oconee National Forests, on Wildlife Resources Division Public Fishing Areas (PFAs) or Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs), or in Georgia State Parks as long as all applicable state regulations are followed 2011 Sport Fishing Regulations Purchase fishing licenses at www.gofishgeorgia.com or www.active.com/outdoors/ Page 19 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 from Georgia's general laws and regulations. If this is the case, the laws and regulations of the agreement explained in this section are to be followed. 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 Point Reservoir lying upstream (north) of Georgia Hwy 109 bridge on the Chattahoochee River arm of the reservoir. The waters covered by this agreement do not include other streams or tributaries which flow into the Chattahoochee River or its impoundments or the portion of Lake Seminole covered by the agreement with Florida or Lake Weiss. Licenses All persons meeting the sport fishing requirements of Georgia or Alabama may fish from the banks and in the waters covered without having to obtain any other license. 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. Creel and Possession Limits All creel and possession limits on waters covered by this agree- ment are the same as Georgia's statewide limits. Note: Anglers fishing in waters covered by reciprocal agreement may fish for and possess shoal bass for tournament weigh-in purposes in Alabama, however the harvest of shoal bass is prohibited in Alabama. Note: It is illegal to possess and fish with live blueback herring in Alabama waters covered by this agreement. Wildlife Violator Compact Georgia, along with 35 other states, is a member of the Wildlife Violator Compact (WVC). This allows Wildlife Officers to treat non-residents hunting in WVC member states (shown below in green) as if they were a resident of that state in regards to wiMldEMliBfEeR SvTAiToESlations. All wildlife law violators will beIn held Process (3) moNrOe(9r) espPoassnedsLeigbisllateiond(3)ue tYeos (3t5)he fact that their illegal activities in one state can affect their hunting privileges in allWWILDVLCIFEmCeOmMPbAeCrT sMtEaMteBEsR. STATES MEMBER STATES In Process (3) NO (9) Passed Legislation (3) Yes (35) For more information visit gofishgeorgia.com. SOUTH CAROLINA General Notes Any person using baskets, jugs, minnow seines, or trot lines in the waters covered must comply with the laws, rules and regulations of the state in which the baskets, jugs, minnow seines, or trot lines are fished, regardless of their residence. No person may carry to either state or possess in such state more fish than the laws of that state or those of this agreement permit, even though the fish were caught in the waters of the other state. No person may have a rifle in their possession or in a boat on South Carolina waters. Waters Covered On the banks and in the waters of all channels of the Savannah River from its mouth to the junction of the Tugaloo (Toogaloo) and Seneca Rivers; the Tugaloo River from its mouth to the junction of the Tugaloo and Chattooga Rivers; and the Chattooga River to the North Carolina state line (35th parallel of North latitude at Ellicott's Rock). This agreement also applies to all the waters and banks of Clarks Hill Reservoir (Strom Thurmond), Richard B. Russell Reservoir, Hartwell Reservoir, Yonah Lake, Tugaloo (Toogaloo) Lake, the New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam, and Stevens Creek Lake (except that portion on the Stevens Creek arm upstream of South Carolina Hwy 53). The agreement does not apply to any flowing portions of tributary streams to these impoundments nor to tributary streams of the Savannah, Tugaloo and Chattooga Rivers. Licenses All persons meeting the freshwater license requirements of Georgia or South Carolina may fish from the banks and in the waters covered without having to obtain any other license. This agreement does not apply to commercial fishing or saltwater sport fishing. A South Carolina saltwater fishing license is required when fishing from a boat on the SC side of the Savannah River downstream of where the CSX Railroad trestle crosses the Back River. Length Limits Largemouth bass caught in the Georgia portion of the waters covered by this agreement that are shorter than 12 inches in length must be released immediately. All other laws and regulations of Georgia apply in the Georgia portion of waters covered by this agreement. Creel and Possession Limits Limits for taking fish from the waters covered by this agreement are: Largemouth bass, Spotted bass, and/or Redeye (Coosa) bass...................................................10 Trout...................................................................................... 8 Bream (all species)................................................................ 30 Walleye................................................................................... 8 Sauger..................................................................................... 8 Crappie (Black and/or White).............................................. 30 White bass...........................................................................30* Striped bass and/or Hybrid white-striped bass..................... 10* * Except (1): Limit taken from the Savannah River and its tributaries downstream of J. Strom Thurmond Dam is a (2) fish limit, both of which must be 27 inches in length or longer. This applies to striped bass, white bass, and hybrid white-striped bass. (2) Limit taken from Lake Richard B. Russell from the Russell Dam to Lake Hartwell Dam and Lake Secession Dam, all tributaries to Lake Richard B. Russell is two (2) striped bass per day, only one (1) of which can exceed 34 inches in length. Page 20 Turn In Poachers! 1-800-241-4113 -- Phone License/Boating Registration: 1-800-366-2661 Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division It is unlawful to possess a total of more than forty (40) of all species listed on page 20. FLORIDA Waters covered The waters and the banks of the St. Mary's River, not including its tributaries. The waters and banks of Lake Seminole, bounded on the west by Florida State Road No. 271; on the south by the Jim Woodruff Dam; on the east by the line immediately east of the Chattahoochee Marina (also known as the Booster Club) running northwest across the reservoir to the tip of land at the junction of the Flint and Chattahoochee Rivers, west of Spring Creek; and on the north by the Herman Talmadge Bridge across the Chattahoochee River. Licenses Any person who has a valid fishing license and properly issued permits or licenses, or both, required by Georgia or Florida in their possession may sport fish for freshwater fish in the waters covered. Georgia Honorary Disability License is not recognized by Florida under this agreement. Effective July 1, 2008, the reciprocal licensing agreement between Georgia and Florida regarding sportsmen 65 years and older was terminated. Georgia Honorary Lifetime License holders must possess a Florida non-resident fishing license to fish in Florida. Florida Senior citizens must possess a Georgia non-resident fishing license to fish in Georgia. A nonresident fishing license is required to fish, castnet, seine, crab, gig, sport bait trawl, or harvest shell fish in saltwater in Georgia. A Florida saltwater fishing license is required to fish for or to possess saltwater fish on the Florida side of the St. Mary's River. Creel and Possession Limits The limit for striped bass, white bass, and hybrid white-striped bass on the St. Mary's River is two fish which must be 22 inches or longer. For all other species in the waters covered, Georgia's statewide creel and possession limits (page 14) apply. All other fishing regulations of the State of Georgia apply on the Georgia side of the St. Mary's River and the Georgia portion of Lake Seminole. Florida laws and regulations apply on the Florida side of the St. Mary's River and the Florida portion of Lake Seminole. NORTH CAROLINA Waters covered Lake Chatuge and all tributary branches lying in Georgia or North Carolina which are accessible by boat from the main body of the reservoir. Licenses Holders of a valid Georgia or North Carolina fishing license may fish with hook and line in Lake Chatuge only from boats. Boats may not be anchored to the shore or to a pier or boat dock connecting to the shore. Senior citizen and youth license exemptions authorized by either state are honored by both states on Lake Chatuge. All other laws and regulations of Georgia apply to the Georgia portion of Lake Chatuge. All other laws and regulations of North Carolina apply to the North Carolina portion of Lake Chatuge. 2011 Sport Fishing Regulations Purchase fishing licenses at www.gofishgeorgia.com or www.active.com/outdoors/ Page 21 trout fishing WRD uses special regulations (see below) and stocking to provide quality trout fishing in Georgia. More than one million rainbow trout and brown trout are stocked each year from March through mid-September. The number of trout stocked and the stocking frequency depend on a stream's fishing pressure, public access, and water conditions. Streams with greater public access are stocked more often with more trout. General information about trout stocking and the Trout Streams of Georgia Map are available from WRD offices and at www.gofishgeorgia.com. The map includes Georgia's trout streams, roads, and a list of recommended streams. Trout need clean, cold water to survive. Georgians can be good trout managers by using proper land use practices. Trees and other vegetation left along stream banks provide shade to keep water cold and help prevent soil from washing into the stream. Many trout streams are bounded by private property. It is your responsibility to know when you cross a property line. Obtain permission from the landowner before fishing on private property. Note: While fishing any 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. TROUT SEASON Trout season on seasonal streams is from March 26October 31, 2011 and from March 31October 31, 2012. Many trout streams are open to fishing year-round (see pages 2425 for stream listings). TROUT FISHING HOURS Fishing hours on seasonal trout streams, except Waters Creek (page 22), are 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. Night fishing is not allowed. Fishing 24 hours a day is allowed on yearround trout streams, except those in next paragraph, and on all impoundments on trout streams, except Dockery and Rock Creek lakes. Fishing hours on the Chattahoochee River from Buford Dam to Peachtree Creek, the Conasauga River watershed upstream of the Georgia-Tennessee state line and Smith Creek downstream of Unicoi dam are 30 minutes before sunrise until 30 minutes after sunset. Night fishing is not allowed. TROUT FISHING RULES Trout anglers are restricted to the use of one pole and line which must be hand held. No other type of gear may be used in trout streams. It is unlawful to use live fish for bait in any trout stream. Seining bait-fish is not allowed in any trout stream. It is unlawful to fish for any fish species in a seasonal trout stream when the season is closed. IMPOUNDMENTS ON TROUT STREAMS Anglers can: Fish for fish species other than trout without a trout license, except on Dockery and Rock Creek lakes. Fish year-round, except on Dockery Lake. Fish at night, except on Dockery and Rock Creek lakes. Impoundment notes: 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 and 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 one single hook per lure from Nov. 1May 14 annually. The use of additional "dropper" lures on one line is permitted as long as each lure contains one single hook. These restrictions do not apply from May 15Oct. 31 of each year. The following streams are delayed harvest streams: Amicalola Creek from County Road 192 (Steele Bridge Road) downstream to GA Hwy 53. Chattahoochee River from Sope Creek (off Columns Drive) downstream to US Hwy 41 (Cobb Parkway). 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 Unicoi State Park property boundary. Toccoa River on U.S. Forest Service land from 0.4 miles above the Shallowford Bridge upstream to a point 450 feet upstream of the Sandy Bottom Canoe Access. Visit www.gofishgeorgia.com to see maps of Delayed Harvest Streams and learn more about this program. ARTIFICIAL LURES ONLY In streams listed here only artificial lures may be used. It is unlawful to possess any other type bait on an "artificial lures only" stream (see definitions on page 8). Chattahoochee River from GA Hwy 20 to the boat ramp at the National Park Service Medlock Bridge Park immediately upstream of GA Hwy 141. Coleman River and its tributaries from its junction with the Tallulah River upstream to Forest Service Bridge No. 54. Conasauga River and its tributaries (except Jacks River watershed) upstream of the Georgia-Tennessee state line are restricted to using only artificial lures from Nov. 1 through the last Saturday in March of each year. Natural baits may be used during trout season. Hoods Creek and its tributaries on the Warwoman WMA. Jones Creek and its tributaries on US Forest Service property. Mountaintown Creek and its tributaries upstream of Mountaintown Creek Watershed Structure No. 2 (Hills Lake). Noontootla Creek and its tributaries on Blue Ridge WMA. Note: All trout less than 16 inches in length caught from this section of Noontootla Creek must be released immediately. Stanley Creek and its tributaries on the Rich Mountain WMA. Walnut Fork Creek and its tributaries on the Warwoman WMA. OTHER trout stream REGULATIONS Moccasin Creek That portion of Moccasin Creek between Lake Burton Hatchery water intake and a sign marking the approximate normal pool level of Lake Burton is restricted to anglers under 12 years of age and holders of Honorary Licenses. Smithgall Woods-Dukes Creek Conservation Area Dukes Creek and its tributaries within the Dukes Creek Conservation Area are open to fishing year round by reservation only. For reservations call 706-878-3087. 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 Alternate right-of-way. Possession of any bait, lure, or gear not legal for use on the stream is unlawful. All fish caught from Dukes Creek and its tributaries in White County on the Conservation Area, including the GA Hwy 75 Alternate right-of-way, must be immediately released where caught. No trout may be possessed while fishing on any stream on the Conservation Area or the GA Hwy 75 Alternate right-of-way. WATERS CREEK Waters Creek, located on the Chestatee WMA, is managed for trophy trout. Waters Creek and its tributaries are open dur- Page 22 Turn In Poachers! 1-800-241-4113 -- Phone License/Boating Registration: 1-800-366-2661 Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division trout fishing ing 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: Must have a 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 license and nonresident WMA license. Size and possession limits: 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. Handling & Releasing Fish When releasing a fish, you can give the fish a better chance of survival by following these guidelines: Play and release the fish as rapidly as possible. Try not to take the fish out of water. Handle the fish gently with bare, wet hands. Do not squeeze the fish, put your fingers in the gills or cause scale loss. Remove the hook quickly using needle-nose pliers. If the fish is hooked in the stomach or throat, cut the line and leave the hook. The hook will dissolve without harming the fish. Wet your measuring board before measuring the fish. Hold the fish in an upright position and move it gently back and forth so water runs over the gills. Release the fish when it is able to swim. Operate live well aerators continuously when holding fish that you plan to release. You Give, They Live. Buy A Tag! Georgia residents who purchase a wildlife license plate for their vehicle help support the conservation of many plant and animal species in the state. These tags are available at any county tag office (or by checking the wildlife license plate box on your mail-in registration form). The Trout Unlimited tag benefits the Fisheries Management trout conservation and management program. The bald eagle and hummingbird plates support the Nongame Conservation Section. This section works to conserve Georgia's nongame and endangered wildlife. The Bobwhite Quail and deer plate supports the Bobwhite Quail Initiative. Learn more at www.georgiawildlife.com Help Stop The Spread of Aquatic Nuisance Species Don't release live bait fish, or move live fish, aquatic plants, or mussels! It is unlawful to stock or release fish into 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 and clean your boat and equipment thoroughly before launching into new waters. Learn more about Aquatic Nuisance Species at www.gofishgeorgia.com 2011 Sport Fishing Regulations Purchase fishing licenses at www.gofishgeorgia.com or www.active.com/outdoors/ Page 23 georgia's trout streams by county Seasonal Trout Streams (S) are open March 26October 31, 2011 and March 31October 31, 2012 Year-round Streams (YR) are open to fishing throughout the year and are designated in italic type. Watershed: the stream and all its tributaries (streams flowing into that stream). Abbreviations used throughout this section: Cr. = Creek and R. = River NOTE: The following trout streams have special regulations (see pages 2223 before fishing): Amicalola Cr., Chattahoochee R., Chattooga R., Coleman R., Conasauga R., Hoods Cr., Jones Cr., Moccasin Cr., Mountaintown Cr., Noontootla Cr., Smithgall Woods-Dukes Cr., Smith Cr., Stanley Cr., Toccoa R., Walnut Fork Cr., and Waters Cr. BARTOW COUNTY 53 upstream to Dawson Co Rd. 192 (Steele cay and Ellijay rivs. downstream to old GA Hwy (S) Boston Cr. watershed upstream from GA Bridge Rd); Nimblewill Cr. watershed; Shoal 5 bridge (Gilmer Co Rd. 239); Ellijay R. wa- Hwy 20. Cr. watershed upstream from the mouth of tershed; Fightingtown Cr. watershed; Mountain- (YR) Connesena Cr. watershed; Dykes Cr. water- Burt Cr.; Sweetwater Cr. watershed. town Cr. water shed; Noontootla Cr. watershed; shed; PineLog Cr. watershed; Pyle Cr. watershed; (YR) Amicalola Cr. from Dawson Co Rd. 192 Sevenmile Cr. watershed; Town Cr. watershed; Salacoa Cr. watershed; Spring Cr. watershed; (Steele Bridge Rd) downstream to GA Hwy 53; Wildcat Cr. watershed. Stamp Cr. watershed upstream from Bartow Co. Rd. 269; Toms Cr. watershed upstream from Bartow Co. Rd. 82; Two Run Cr. watershed; Ward Cr. watershed. Anderson Cr. watershed, Long Swamp Cr. watershed. FANNIN COUNTY GORDON COUNTY (S) Johns Cr. watershed; Pin Hook Cr. watershed upstream from Gordon Co Rd. 275. (S) Charlie Cr. watershed; Etowah R. water- (YR) Pine Log Cr. watershed upstream from GA CARROLL COUNTY shed; Jacks R. watershed; Owenby Cr. water- Hwy 53; Rocky Cr. watershed upstream from (YR) Tallapoosa R. watershed north of I-20, not shed; Persimmon Cr. watershed; South Fork Gordon Co Rd. 210; Salacoa Cr. watershed up- including Little Tallapoosa R. watershed. Rapier Mill Cr. watershed; Star Cr. watershed; stream from US Hwy 411; Snake Cr. watershed. Toccoa R. tributary watersheds entering the CATOOSA COUNTY river downstream from Blue Ridge Reservoir GWINNETT COUNTY (S) Hurricane Cr. watershed upstream from to the GA-Tennessee state line and upstream (YR) Chattahoochee R. Peters Branch. from the mouth of Stanley Cr. except those (YR) Dry Cr. watershed (part of East Chickamauga Cr. watershed) upstream of Catoosa Co. Rd. 257; Little Chickamauga Cr. watershed listed as year-round; Tumbling Cr. watershed; Wilscot Cr. watershed. (YR) Conasauga R. watershed (except Jacks R. HABERSHAM COUNTY (S) Amy's Cr. watershed upstream from GA Hwy 17; Chattahoochee R. tributaries down- upstream from Catoosa Co. Rd. 387; Tiger Cr. watershed upstream from GA Hwy 2. CHATTOOGA COUNTY (YR) Allgood Branch watershed; Chappel Cr. watershed); Ellijay R. watershed; Fightingtown Cr. watershed; Mountaintown Cr. watershed; Noontootla Cr. watershed; Rock Cr. watershed; Rock Cr. Lake; Toccoa R. downstream from Lake Blue Ridge to the GA-Tennessee state line and stream to GA Hwy 255 (except Amy's Cr. downstream from GA Hwy 17 and Sautee Cr. downstream from GA Hwy 255 Alternate bridge); Left Fork Soque R. upstream of GA Hwy 356 and all tributaries to the entire Left watershed; Chelsea Cr. watershed; East Fork upstream from the mouth of Stanley Cr. (does not Little R. watershed including Gilreath Cr.; Hin- include tributaries unless listed). ton Cr. watershed; Kings Cr. watershed; Little Fork Soque R.; Nancytown Cr. watershed upstream from Nancytown Lake; Right Fork Soque R. upstream of Wilson Falls and tribu- Armuchee Cr. watershed upstream from Co Rd. FLOYD COUNTY taries to the entire Right Fork Soque R.; Soque 326; Mt. Hope Cr. (Coon Cr.) watershed; Peren- (S) Johns Cr. watershed upstream from Floyd R. tributaries that enter the river from the con- nial Spring watershed; Raccoon Cr. watershed Co Rd. 212. fluence of the Left Fork and Right Fork Soque upstream from GA Hwy 48; Ruff Creek water- (YR) Dykes Cr. watershed; Kings Cr. watershed; rivs. downstream to the mouth of Deep Cr. shed; Storey Mill Cr. watershed; Taliaferro Cr. Lavender Cr. watershed upstream from Floyd Co (YR) Chattahoochee R. downstream to GA Hwy watershed. Rd. 893; Little Cedar Cr. watershed; Mt. Hope 255; Left Fork Soque R. downstream of GA CHEROKEE COUNTY Cr. watershed; Silver Cr. watershed upstream Hwy 356 except tributaries; Liberty Cr. waterof GA Hwy 1E (Floyd Co Rd. 631); Spring Cr. shed; Middle Fork Broad R. watershed; North (S) Boston Cr. watershed. watershed (flows into Etowah R.) Toms Cr. wa- Fork Broad R. watershed; Panther Cr. watershed; (YR) Bluff Cr. watershed upstream of Cherokee tershed. Right Fork Soque R. downstream of Wilson Falls Co Rd. 114; Pine Log Cr. watershed; Salacoa except tributaries; Roberts Branch watershed; Cr. watershed; Soap Cr. watershed upstream of FORSYTH COUNTY Sautee Cr. downstream from GA Hwy 255 Cherokee Co Rd. 116; Stamp Cr. watershed; (YR) Chattahoochee R. Wiley Cr. watershed. FULTON COUNTY Alternate bridge; Soque R., except tributaries downstream from the confluence of Left Fork and Right Fork Soque rivs., to the mouth of Deep Cr.; COBB COUNTY (YR) Chattahoochee R. downstream to the Toccoa Cr. watershed. (YR) Chattahoochee R. downstream to the mouth of Peachtree Cr. mouth of Peachtree Cr. HARALSON COUNTY GILMER COUNTY (YR) Flatwood Cr. watershed; Lassetter Cr. wa- DADE COUNTY (S) Harris Cr. watershed; Johnson Cr. water- tershed; Mann Cr. watershed upstream from (S) East Fork Little R. watershed; Rock Cr. shed; Tails Cr. watershed; and all other streams Haralson Co Rd. 162; Tallapoosa Cr. watershed; watershed. or parts of streams not listed as year-round ex- Tallapoosa R. watershed upstream from Co Rd. (YR) Allison Cr. watershed; Lookout Cr. water- cept: Coosawattee R. downstream from Old 222. shed upstream from Dade Co Rd. 197. DAWSON COUNTY (S) Amicalola Cr. watershed upstream from GA Hwy 5 (Gilmer Co Rd. 239); Talking Rock Cr.; and tributaries to Carters Reservoir not listed as year-round (these may be fished year-round without a trout license). HART COUNTY (YR) Savannah R. from Hartwell Dam downstream to Richard B. Russell Reservoir. Dawson Co Rd. 192 (Steele Bridge Rd) (YR) Ball Cr. watershed; Cartecay R. watershed; which is first bridge upstream from GA Hwy Conasauga R. watershed (except Jacks R. water- 53; Amicalola Cr. tributaries from GA Hwy shed); Coosawatee R. from confluence of Carte- Page 24 Turn In Poachers! 1-800-241-4113 -- Phone License/Boating Registration: 1-800-366-2661 Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division georgia's trout streams by county LUMPKIN COUNTY POLK COUNTY UNION COUNTY (S) Amicalola Cr. watershed; Bryant Cr. water- (S) Lassetter Cr. watershed; Pumpkinpile Cr. (S) Arkaqua Cr. watershed; Bracket Cr. wa- shed; Cane Cr. watershed upstream from GA watershed upstream from Polk Co Rd. 437. tershed; Butler Cr. watershed; Camp Cr. wa- Hwy 9-52 bridge; Cavender Cr. watershed; (YR) Cedar Cr. watershed upstream from Polk tershed; Conley Cr. watershed; Kiutuestia Cr. Chestatee R. tributaries upstream from the Co Rd. 121; Little Cedar Cr. watershed; Silver watershed; Low Cr. watershed; and all other mouth of Tesnatee Cr., except for the Frog- Cr. watershed; Spring Cr. watershed; Swinney Cr. streams or parts of streams not listed below as town Cr. watershed; Dockery Lake; Etowah R. watershed; Thomasson Cr. watershed; Thompson year-round except: Butternut Cr. watershed; watershed upstream from Hightower Church Cr. watershed upstream of Polk Co Rd. 441. Nottely R. downstream from Nottely Dam Road (County Road 72) Bridge; Etowah R. and tributaries to Nottely Reservoir not listed tributaries from Castleberry Bridge upstream RABUN COUNTY as year-round (these may be fished year-round to Hightower Church Road (County Road (S) Bad Branch watershed (flows into Lake without a trout license). 72) Bridge; Shoal Creek watershed; Yahoola Seed); Bad Cr. watershed (flows into Tugaloo); (YR) Brasstown Cr. watershed downstream from Creek watershed upstream from the mouth of Bridge Cr. watershed; Crow Cr. watershed US Hwy 76 bridge; Coosa Cr. watershed; Ivylog Bryant Cr. (flows into Seed); Dickenson Branch (flows Cr. watershed; Noontootla Cr. watershed; Notte- (YR) Chestatee R. upstream from the mouth of into Burton); Dicks Cr. watershed (flows into ly R. from US Hwy 129-19 bridge downstream Tesnatee Cr.; Etowah R. from Castleberry Bridge Burton); Falls Branch watershed (flows into to Nottely Reservoir; Rock Cr. watershed; Toccoa upstream to Hightower Church Road (County Rabun); Flat Cr. watershed; Joe Cr. watershed R. (does not include tributaries unless listed); Road 72); Frogtown Cr. watershed; Yahoola Cr. (flows into Rabun); LaCounts Cr. watershed Youngcane Cr. watershed. watershed from the mouth of Bryant Cr. down- (flows into Seed); Moccasin Cr. watershed, stream to GA Hwy 52. except Moccasin Cr. from the Lake Burton WALKER COUNTY hatchery water intake downstream to the sign (S) Furnace Cr. watershed; Johns Cr. water- MURRAY COUNTY marking the approximate normal pool level shed; Rock Cr. watershed upstream from Saw- (S) Jacks R. watershed upstream from Geor- of Lake Burton; Popcorn Cr. watershed; Seals mill Branch; Sawmill Branch; gia-Tennessee state line; North Prong Sumac Cr. watershed; Rock Cr. watershed upstream Cr. watershed (flows into Seed); Slick Shoal Cr. (flows into Seed); Timpson Cr. watershed; (YR) Allen Cr. watershed; Chappel Cr. watershed; Chattanooga Cr. watershed upstream from from Murray Co Rd. 4 (most southern of two Rock Crks. which are in the Holly Cr. wa- tershed); Sugar Cr. watershed upstream from Murray Co Rd. 4; Sumac Cr. watershed up- stream from Coffey Lake. (YR) Conasauga R. watershed upstream from the GA-Tennessee state line (except Jacks R. watershed); Dill Cr. watershed; Holly Cr. watershed upstream from Dill Cr.; Mill Cr. watershed upstream from Murray Co Rd. 27; Mill Cr. (Hasslers Mill Cr.) watershed that is in the Holly Cr. watershed; Rock Cr. watershed (most northern of two Rock Crks. within Holly Cr. watershed) upstream from Murray Co Rd. 301. Wildcat Cr. watershed; Worse Cr. watershed (flows into Tugaloo); and all other streams or parts of streams not listed as year-round except: Tallulah R. downstream from Lake Burton Dam and tributaries to Burton, Seed, Rabun, Tallulah Falls, Tugaloo and Yonah lakes not listed as year-round (may be fished year-round without a trout license). (YR) Chattooga R. upstream from the mouth of Warwoman Cr.; Little Tennessee R. downstream from US Hwy 23-441 bridge; Moccasin Cr. from the Lake Burton hatchery water intake downstream to the sign marking the approximate normal pool level of Lake Burton; Overflow Cr. watershed; Stekoa Cr. watershed; Tallulah R. Walker Co Rd. 235; Concord Cr. watershed; Dougherty Cr. watershed; Dry Cr. watershed (tributary to East Armuchee Cr.); Duck Cr. watershed; East Fork Little R. watershed (flows into Dade County); East Fork Little R. watershed (flows into Chattooga County); Gilreath Cr.; Gulf Cr. watershed; Harrisburg Cr. watershed upstream from Dougherty Cr.; Left Fork Coulter Branch watershed; Little Chickamauga Cr. watershed; Ruff Cr. watershed; Snake Cr. watershed; West Armuchee Cr. watershed; West Chickamauga Cr. watershed upstream from Walker Co Rd. 107. WHITE COUNTY PAULDING COUNTY (S) Pumpkinvine Cr. watershed upstream downstream to Lake Burton; Warwoman Cr.; West Fork Chattooga R. from Paulding Co Rd. 231; Raccoon Cr. wa- STEPHENS COUNTY tershed upstream from SR 2299 (Paulding Co Rd. 471). (YR) Little Toccoa Cr. watershed; North Fork Broad R. watershed upstream from NRCS flood (S) Chattahoochee R. watershed upstream from GA Hwy 75 Alternate bridge; Chattahoochee R. tributaries from GA Hwy 75 Alternate bridge downstream to GA Hwy 255 bridge except Dukes Cr. watershed downstream from the US Forest Service property (YR) Possum Cr. watershed upstream from Pauld- control structure No. 1; Middle Fork Broad R. boundary, Sautee Cr., and Smith Cr. water- ing Co Rd. 64; Powder Cr. watershed; Thompson watershed upstream from NRCS flood control shed upstream to Unicoi dam; Town Cr. wa- Cr. watershed; Ward Cr. watershed. structure No. 44.; Panther Cr. watershed; Toccoa tershed upstream from the mouth of Jenny Cr. Cr. watershed upstream from Toccoa Falls. (YR) Chattahoochee R. downstream from the PICKENS COUNTY (S) Amicalola Cr. watershed upstream from Dawson Co Rd. 192; Cove Cr. watershed upstream from Pickens Co Rd. 294; Fisher Cr. watershed; Pin Hook Cr. watershed. (YR) Ball Cr. watershed; Bluff Cr. watershed; Cartecay R. watershed; Darnell Cr. watershed; TOWNS COUNTY (S) Bearmeat Cr. watershed; Bell Cr. watershed; Bugshuffle Branch watershed (Allen Mill Cr.); Burch Branch watershed; Fodder Cr. watershed; Hog Cr. watershed; Shake Rag Branch watershed; and all other streams or parts of streams not listed as year-round ex- GA Hwy 75 Alternate bridge to the GA Hwy 255 bridge; Dukes Cr. watershed downstream from the US Forest Service property boundary; Little Tesnatee Cr. watershed upstream from the mouth of Turner Cr.; Sautee Cr.; Smith Cr. downstream of Unicoi dam; Turner Cr. watershed (one nearest to Cleveland City limits). Hobson Cr. watershed; Little Scarecorn Cr. watershed; Long Swamp Cr. watershed upstream from Cove Cr.; Mud Cr. watershed; Rock Cr. watershed; Salacoa Cr. watershed; Scarecorn Cr. watershed upstream from GA Hwy 53; Sevenmile Cr. watershed; Sharp Mountain Cr. watershed; Soap Cr. watershed; Talking Rock Cr. watershed upstream from S1011 (GA Hwy 136); cept: Hightower Cr. downstream from Towns Co Rd. 88; Hiwassee R. downstream from Towns Co Rd. 87; and tributaries to Chatuge Reservoir not listed below as year-round (may be fished year-round without a trout license). (YR) Brasstown Cr. watershed downstream from US Hwy 76 bridge; Charlies Cr. watershed; Hightower Cr. downstream from US Hwy 76 WHITFIELD COUNTY (YR) Coahulla Cr. watershed upstream from Whitfield Co Rd. 183; Dry Cr. watershed (part of East Chickamauga Cr. watershed); Spring Cr. (Deep Spring Cr.) watershed; Swamp Cr. watershed upstream from Whitfield Co Rd. 9; Tiger Cr. watershed. Town Cr. watershed; Wildcat Cr. watershed. bridge to Towns Co Rd. 88; Hiwassee R. down- stream to Towns Co Rd. 87; Tallulah R. 2011 Sport Fishing Regulations Purchase fishing licenses at www.gofishgeorgia.com or www.active.com/outdoors/ Page 25 commercial fishing & sale of fish Commercial Fishing It is unlawful to fish commercially except in waters opened for commercial fishing by regulation of the DNR Board. It shall be unlawful to engage in commercial freshwater fishing without having a valid commercial fishing license. It is unlawful for any person to sell or purchase any game fish, however American shad, hickory shad, channel catfish, and flathead catfish taken while commercial fishing may be sold as described in the Game and Fish Code. For information on fish baskets, including usage, construction, and licensing contact the nearest Fisheries Section office or visit our website at www.gofishgeorgia.com For a complete copy of the freshwater commercial fishing regulations contact the nearest Fisheries Section office or visit www.gofishgeorgia.com For saltwater commercial fishing information contact the Coastal Resources Division or visit www.coastalGADNR.org Sale of Fish & Aquaculture Game Fish It is unlawful for any person to sell or purchase any game fish except under the following conditions: See Commercial Fishing above. Game fish may also be sold by properly licensed commercial fish hatcheries, wholesale and retail fish dealers, and pond owners (see following paragraph) who conform to the Game and Fish Code. Game fish may be sold from a pond when the owner has obtained a valid permit from DNR Law Enforcement Section (2 weeks required to process). Note: The permit must be displayed at the pond and the fish must be 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. Note: A permit will be issued only once annually and limits the time for taking fish from the pond to 15 days. Game fish shipped into Georgia may be lawfully transported, sold, and resold provided each person in possession of said game fish has an authentic bill of sale or lading which details the source of the fish and the species, number and pounds of the fish. Domestic Fish Aquaculturists (fish farmers) must register with the Department of Natural Resources in order to sell domestic fish. Registration applications are available from any Fisheries Section office, at www.gofishgeorgia.com, or by calling 770-761-3044. Find Aquaculture information under the Fishing Regulation section of the WRD website. Domestic fish are lawfully obtained farmed fish which are held in 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. 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 transaction and at least two of the following for each fish species: number, weight, or average length. Page 26 Inshore up to 4 passengers Offshore 6 & 10 passenger boats Weekly fishing reports. Hands-on fishing clinics. How to videos/books. www.MissJudyCharters.com Email: fishjudy2@aol.com Savannah, GA Office 912.897.4921 Fax 912.897.3460 Turn In Poachers! 1-800-241-4113 -- Phone License/Boating Registration: 1-800-366-2661 Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division boating Boating Boat Registration All boats that carry any means of mechanical propulsion (electric trolling motor and/or gas motor) and all sailboats 12 feet and longer must be registered. A Boat Registration Application can be downloaded from www.goboatgeorgia.com You may also renew your boat registration online at www.goboatgeorgia.com Renew registration by phone at 800-366-2661. Georgia honors all other states' registrations, provided the boat is not used in excess of 60 consecutive days in Georgia. Personal Flotation Devices A wearable personal flotation device (PFD) is required for each person aboard a vessel. PFDs must be readily accessible to all occupants, in good and serviceable condition, legibly marked with the US Coast Guard approved number, and of appropriate size for the occupants. One Type IV throwable device must also be on board all vessels except Class A vessels (boats less than 15' 11" which also includes personal-watercraft, canoes and kayaks). Children under age 10 must wear a PFD when the vessel is under way, unless the child is within a fully enclosed cabin. PFDs must be worn by each person aboard a vessel in an area marked as "hazardous area." vessel, vessel adrift, or any wharf, pier, piling, or persons in the water, or shoreline next to a full-time or part-time residence, public park, public beach, public swimming area, marina, restaurant, or other public use area. Recreation boaters in coastal waters please note: Tybee, Sea Island, St. Simons, and Jekyll Islands have temporal (May 1 Sept. 30) 1,000 ft. safety zones. Booze and boats do not mix! It is unlawful to operate a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. To learn requirements for operating your boat, obtain the Handbook of Georgia Boating Laws from any WRD Law Enforcement Office. To learn about a boating safety course contact the Boating Education Coordinator at 770-761-3010 or any WRD Law Enforcement Office (see page 8 for contact information). See www.goboatgeorgia.com for complete boating regulations. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources receives Federal Aid in Sport Fish & Wildlife Restoration funds. Under Title VI of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, and Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the U.S. Department of the Interior prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, sex, or disability. If you believe that you have been discriminated against in any program, activity, or facility as described above, or if you desire further information please write: Office for Human Resources, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Drive, Room 300 Arlington, VA 22203 Knives of Alaska FINEST QUALITY OUTDOORSMEN'S KNIVES 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 be operated on Lake Juliette or Lake Tugalo. Georgia State Park lakes often have boat and motor restrictions. Check with the Park Office at each park for details. The Finest Quality Fillet Knives In The World! Boating Safety No vessel may be operated over idle speed within 100 feet of any moored or anchored 2011 Sport Fishing Regulations Purchase fishing licenses at www.gofishgeorgia.com or www.active.com/outdoors/ Page 27 freshwater fish Largemouth Bass Upper jaw extends beyond eye Spiny and soft dorsal fin separate or nearly so Tongue normally smooth, tooth patch rare White Bass Seldom exceeds 3 pounds Tongue with one tooth patch Stripes often faint 2nd anal spine or more the length of 3rd anal spine Smallmouth Bass Upper jaw extends to about middle of eye Usually has vertical stripes along body 3 short spines on anal fin Hybrid White-Striped Bass Back arched, body deep Stripes distinct and usually broken Tongue with two tooth patches 2nd anal spine or more the length of 3rd anal spine Spotted Bass Upper jaw not past rear of eye Spiny and soft dorsal fin clearly connected Tooth patch on tongue Striped Bass Body slender Stripes distinct, occasionally broken Tongue with two tooth patches 2nd anal spine or less the length of 3rd anal spine Shoal Bass Found in Chattahoochee, Flint, and Ocmulgee Rivers Vertical bars on fish of all sizes No tooth patch on tongue Light golden color Flathead Catfish Head wide and flat Body dark in color Tail not forked Large mouth; lower jaw extends past upper jaw Chain Pickerel (Jackfish) Elongated body with chain-like markings Sharp needle-like teeth Walleye Sharp teeth No spots on dorsal fin Dark area at base of dorsal fin Eyes with milky cornea White spot at bottom of tail Page 28 Turn In Poachers! 1-800-241-4113 -- Phone License/Boating Registration: 1-800-366-2661 Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division freshwater fish Black Crappie 7 8 dorsal spines Body color pattern irregular arranged spots Rainbow Trout Small black dots throughout the body that extend into the tail Red stripe along side on silvery body Redear Sunfish (Shellcracker) Red edge on operculum ear flap Spotted body Redbreast Sunfish Long, dark ear flap Blue lines on head Ear flap (operculum) not wider than eye Blueback Herring Pointed snout Small dorsal fin Lower jaw sloped upward Body not as deep as gizzard shad Brown Trout Black and red-orange spots inside light circles on brown body Caudal fin (tail) square Brook Trout Light, wormlike markings on dark upper body White leading edge on lower fins (pectoral, pelvic and anal) Bluegill Black spot on soft dorsal fin Vertical bars on body Gizzard Shad Mouth below end of snout Elongated dorsal fin ray Deep body Blunt snout Fish identification pictures: Duane Raver and Joseph Tomelleri Threadfin Shad Mouth at end of snout Elongated dorsal fin ray Pointed snout Yellow tail fin Page 29 georgia's freshwater fish records SPECIES WEIGHT ANGLER LOCATION DATE Bass, Hybrid Bass, Largemouth Bass, Redeye Bass, Shoal Bass, Smallmouth 25 lb. 8 oz. 22 lb. 4 oz 3 lb. 7 oz. 8 lb. 3 oz. 7 lb. 2 oz. David Hobby George Perry Steve Williams David Hubbard Jack Hall Lake Chatuge Montgomery Lake Lake Hartwell Flint River Lake Chatuge May 1995 June 1932 April 2004 Oct 1977 March 1973 Bass, Spotted Bass, Striped (tie) 8 lb. 2 oz. 63 lb. Wayne Holland Kelly Ward Terry McConnell Lake Burton Oconee River Lake Richard B. Russell Feb 2005 May 1967 April 2009 Bass, Suwanee 3 lb. 9 oz. Laverne Norton Ochlocknee River Oct 1984 Bass, White Bowfin Bullhead, Brown Bullhead, Yellow 5 lb. 1 oz. 16 lb. 5 lb. 8 oz. 4 lb. 15 oz. J.M. Hobbins Charles Conley James Andrews Glenn Settles Lake Lanier Stephen Foster State Pk. O.F. Veal Pond Ogeechee River June 1971 May 1976 May 1978 Oct 2003 Carp, Common Catfish, Blue Catfish, Channel Catfish, Flathead Catfish, White Crappie, Black (tie) Crappie, White Gar, Longnose Muskellunge Perch, Yellow (tie) Pickerel, Chain Pickerel, Redfin Pike, Northern Sauger Shad, American Shad, Hickory Sunfish, Bluegill Sunfish, Flier Sunfish, Green Sunfish, Redbreast Sunfish, Redear Sunfish, Warmouth Sunfish, Spotted Trout, Brook Trout, Brown Trout, Rainbow Walleye 35 lb. 12 oz. 80 lb. 4 oz. 44 lb. 12 oz. 83 lb. 8 lb. 10 oz. 4 lb. 4 oz. 5 lb. 30 lb. 4 oz. 38 lb. 2 lb. 8 oz. 9 lb. 6 oz. 2 lb. 10 oz. 18 lb. 2 oz. 4 lb. 3 oz. 8 lb. 3 oz. 1 lb. 15 oz. 3 lb. 5 oz. 1 lb. 4 oz. 1 lb. 7 oz. 1 lb. 11 oz. 4 lb. 2 oz. 2 lb. 10 oz. 5 lb. 10 oz. 18 lb. 6 oz. 17 lb. 8 oz. 11 lb. 6 oz. Rev. Donald Clark Lake Jackson Earnest Thompson Bobby Smithwick Carl Sawyer Lake Walter F. George Altamaha River Altamaha River Jim Dieveney Altamaha River James Sanders Savannah River Shirley Lavender Acree's Lake Steve Cheek Lake Spivey Theresa Kemp Bibb Co. Pond Chad Leonard Alapaha River Rube Golden Blue Ridge Lake Charles Poole Lake Burton Larry D. Poole, Jr. Savannah River Baxley McQuaig Jr. Homerville Gene Brantley Lewis' Pond Keith Gragg Lake Rabun Stuart Bowers Henry Baxley Clarks Hill Reservoir Savannah River Mark Bowers P.F. Gumm Ogeechee River Shamrock Lake Curt Brooks Lowndes Co. Pond Jeff Sumner Private Pond Emory Walden Coweta Co. Pond Pat Lawrence Richmond Co. Pond Carlton Robbins Private Pond Mike Markovcic Brier Creek Russell Braden Charles Ford Mark Cochran Neal Watson Waters Creek Chattahoochee River Soque River Richard B. Russell Lake 1972 Feb 2010 May 1972 June 2006 July 2010 June 1996 June 1971 March 1975 April 1984 Sept 2008 June 1957 Feb 1980 Feb 2008 Feb 1961 July 1982 June 1982 April 1986 April 1986 April 1995 July 1977 Feb 1996 Feb 2006 April 1998 June 1995 May 1974 Sept 2003 March 1986 Nov 2001 May 2004 Sept 1995 Blue type denotes a World Record Fish (either IGFA or NFFHF) Page 30 Turn In Poachers! 1-800-241-4113 -- Phone License/Boating Registration: 1-800-366-2661 New State Record 80 lb. 4 oz. Blue Catfish Lake Walter F. George, 2010 2011 Forestry for Wildlife Partners The Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division, proudly honors the 2010 Forestry for Wildlife Partners for their outstanding accomplishments in incorporating fish and wildlife conservation practices as an integral part of their overall land management goals. Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division UTIONS FOR EVERY SITUATION OUR MISSION: SMART SOLUTIONS FOR EVERY OUR MISSION: SMART SOL Storage Bags VACMaster smart solutions for every situation. Chamber solutions: Our new VP112 chamber machine brings chamber technology into a compact size perfect for home use and making sous vide cooking available to the home chef. suCtion solutions: VacMaster suction machines keep food fresh five times longer than traditional methods. bag solutions: available in 3 types for all your vacuum packaging needs. Highquality, Vacstrip storage bags, economical full mesh storage bags and rolls, and our new zipper bags, which can be opened and zipped close for continued freshness. Container solutions: some food items lose their shape and structure in vacuum bags. VacMaster storage containers provide air-tight seals for packaging these types of food. We've got solutions. New VP112 Chamber Machines Chamber Machines Suction Machines OUR MISSION: SITUATION Storage Containers ARY, INC PO Box 412888 Kansas City MO 64141 800-821-7849 vacmastersolutions.com Bragging Coastal Georgia, 2010 New Women's State Black Drum 80 Record, lbs. Coastal Georgia, 2010 Georgia Farm Pond, 2010 North Georgia, 2010 Private Pond Chattahoochee River, 2010 NLeiwttlMe eTnu'snnSy,ta19telbR. e4coozrd, Page 32 Turn In Poachers! 1-800-241-4113 -- Phone License/Boating Registration: 1-800-366-2661 Coastal Georgia, 2010 Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division Boar d Private Pond James H. "Sloppy" Floyd State Park Rocky Mountain PFA, 2010 2011 Sport Fishing Regulations Purchase fishing licenses at www.gofishgeorgia.com or www.active.com/outdoors/ Page 33 TURN IN POACHERS (TIP) 24 hours a day, 7 days a week TIP Hotline: 1-800-241-4113 or *DNR (cellular for AT&T customers) Via E-mail: Turninpoachers@dnr.state.ga.us You can be paid for turning in a poacher! If your tip leads to an arrest, you will receive reward money--even if you wish to remain anonymous. Turn In Poachers, Inc. (TIP) is a non-profit Georgia conservation organization whose mission is to protect wildlife by increasing public support for wildlife law enforcement. Contributions to the TIP reward program are greatly needed and appreciated. Donations (made payable to TIP) are tax deductible and can be sent to: Turn In Poachers, Inc., 3423 Piedmont Road, N.E., Suite 110, Atlanta, GA 30305 CELEBRATE NATIONAL HUNTING & FISHING DAY Saturday, September 24, 2011 The U.S. Congress and President Nixon established National Hunting & Fishing (NHF) Day 35 years ago to recognize hunters and anglers for the time and money, more than a billion dollars each year, they donate to wildlife conservation programs. NHF Day events provide opportunities for outdoor-oriented people and urbanites alike to learn more about outdoor skills and activities. To find out about Georgia events visit www.gofishgeorgia.com PROTECTED SPECIES MAY BE ENCOUNTERED WHILE FISHING Many rare and protected species live in or near water and may be encountered while fishing. There are 57 fish, 8 salamanders, 1 frog, 28 snails and/or mussels, 20 crayfish and 13 turtles on Georgia's protected species list. It is unlawful to capture, kill, or harm any protected species. However, any crayfish can be used for fishing bait as long as they are not collected from crayfish burrows or exported from the state of Georgia. If you accidentally capture a protected species while fishing release it unharmed immediately. For more information contact the Nongame Conservation Section at 770-918-6411 or visit www.georgiawildlife.com. MAP TURTLE Aquatic turtle with prominent spiny keel on midline of shell. Found in large streams, rivers in Northwest and Southwest portions of state. Page 34 Turn In Poachers! 1-800-241-4113 -- Phone License/Boating Registration: 1-800-366-2661 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! Up to 29" in length, 1120" typical EASTERN HELLBENDER Large, harmless salamander found in clear, rocky mountain streams such as trout streams. Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division 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 DNR 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 to be clean are listed to the right. 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 from these sources 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 that 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 also 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), bottom feeders (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. Cook fish so fat drips away. Broil, bake, or grill fish and do not use the drippings. Deepfat 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. Please note: Lakes and rivers listed at the right of this page 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 following tables (on pages 3639), it is safe to eat the amount listed for a given species from that body of water. Water bodies are listed alphabetically. "These guidelines are non-binding recommendations EPD determines based on the body of water a fish comes from, the species of fish and the amount of fish a person consumes. The purpose of these guidelines is to provide detailed information in an understandable format for people who eat fish. Waters listed in the fish consumption guidelines are not necessarily assessed as impaired using USEPA guidelines for Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act." Fish have been tested from the following water bodies and NO RESTRICTIONS ON CONSUMPTION ARE RECOMMENDED: Lakes City of Adairsville pond; Allen Creek WMA Ponds A and B; Brasstown Valley Kid Fish Pond; Bowles C. Ford Lake (Savannah); Carters; Clayton Co. Water Auth. lakes; Dodge Co. PFA; Fort Yargo State Park; Hard Labor Cr. State Park (Rutledge); High Falls Lake; Juliette; Mayer; McDuffie PFA (East); Nancy Town Lake; Lake Oconee; Olmstead; Paradise PFA (Patrick and Horseshoe 4); Payton Park Pond; (Valdosta); Rocky Mountain PFA Lakes Antioch (East and West) and Heath; Seed; Shepherd and Margery (CEWC); Sinclair; and Walter F. George. Rivers and Creeks Alcovy River; Boen Creek (Rabun Co.); Brasstown Creek (Towns Co.); Broad River; Buffalo Creek (Carroll Co.); Butternut Creek (Union Co.); Cane Creek (Lumpkin Co.); Chattahoochee River (Chattahoochee, Early and Stewart Cos.); Chattanooga Creek; Chattooga River (NW Ga.); Chickasawhatchee Creek; Coleman River; Conasauga River in Cohutta Forest; Dukes Creek; Daniels Creek (Cloudland Canyon State Park); East/South Chickamauga Creek; Goldmine Branch; Jacks River; Jones Creek; Little Dry Creek (Floyd Co.); Little Tallapoosa River; Little Tennessee River; Mill Creek (Whitfield Co.); Moccasin Creek (Lake Burton Trout Hatchery); Mud Creek (Cobb Co.); Nickajack Creek; Noonday Creek (Cobb Co.); Ocmulgee River (Butts, Monroe, Houston and Pulaski Cos.); Oconee River (below Barnett Shoals to Lake Oconee, Laurens Co. and Milledgeville to Dublin); North and Middle Oconee Rivers; Ogeechee River (Ft. McAllister); Olley Creek; Ponder Branch (Walker Co.); Proctor Creek (Cobb Co.); Slab Camp Creek (Oconee Co.); South River (Hwy 36, Butts Co.); Spirit Creek; Stamp Creek (Pine Log WMA); Stekoa Creek; Yahoola Creek; Yellow River; Sewell Mill Creek (Cobb Co); Tallulah River; Upatoi Creek; Tributary to Cedar Creek (Hart County WMA); Headwaters of Chestatee River (Turner's Corner); and Hayner's Creek (Savannah). More details on fish contaminant testing are available in the publication "Guidelines for Eating Fish from Georgia Waters" available at: www.gaepd.org Call for a copy or more information: Environmental Protection Division: 404-656-4713 Coastal Resources Division: 912-264-7218 Wildlife Resources Division: 770-918-6406 2011 Sport Fishing Regulations Purchase fishing licenses at www.gofishgeorgia.com or www.active.com/outdoors/ Page 35 guidelines for limiting the fish you eat from rivers & creeks NO RESTRICTIONS ONE MEAL PER WEEK ONE MEAL PER MONTH DO NOT EAT NO DATA Alapaha River Alapahoochee River Allatoona Creek (Cobb Co.) Altamaha River Altamaha River (below US Route 25) Apalachee River Beaver Creek (Taylor Co.) Brier Creek (Burke Co.) Canoochee River Casey Canal Chattooga River (NE Ga., Rabun Co.) Chattooga River (Helen to Lk. Lanier) Chatahoochee River (Buford Dam to Morgan Falls Dam) Chatahoochee River (Morgan Falls Dam to Peachtree Crk.) Chatahoochee River (Peachtree Crk. to Pea Crk.) Chatahoochee River (Pea Crk. to West Point Lk., below Franklin) Chatahoochee River (Morgan Falls Dam to West Pt. Lk.) * Chatahoochee River (Oliver Dam to Upatoi Crk.) Chatahoochee River (West Point dam to I-85) Chestatee River (below Tesnatee Riv.) Chickamauga Creek (West) Cohulla Creek (Whitfield Co.) Conasauga River (below Stateline) Coosa River (Rome to Hwy 100, Floyd Co.) Coosa River (Hwy 100 to Stateline, Floyd Co.) RIVERS and CREEKS Coosa River (Zero River Mile to Stateline) Coosa River (Coosa, Etowah below <20" Thompson-Weinman dam, Oostanaula) 20" Coosawattee River (below Carters) Etowah River (Dawson Co.) Etowah River (above Lake Allatoona) Etowah River (below Lake Allatoona dam) Flint River (Spalding/Fayette Cos.) Flint River (Meriwether/Upson/Pike Cos.) Flint River (Taylor Co.) Flint River (Macow/Dooly/Worth/Lee Cos.) Flint River (Doughterty/Baker Mitchell Cos.) Gum Creek (Crisp Co.) Holly Creek (Murray Co.) Page 36 Turn In Poachers! 1-800-241-4113 -- Phone License/Boating Registration: 1-800-366-2661 Bass, Largemouth Bass, Other Bass, Shoal Bass, Spotted Bass, Striped Bass, White Bluegill Bowfin Buffalo Bullhead Carp Catfish, Blue Catfish, Channel Catfish, Flathead Catfish, White Mullet, Striped Pickerel, Chain Redbreast Redhorse Redear Sucker Sunfish, Other <18" 1832" >32" <16" 1630" >30" Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division Bass, Largemouth Bass, Other Bass, Shoal Bass, Spotted Bass, Striped Bass, White Bluegill Bowfin Buffalo Bullhead Carp Catfish, Blue Catfish, Channel Catfish, Flathead Catfish, White Mullet, Striped Pickerel, Chain Redbreast Redhorse Redear Sucker Sunfish, Other NO RESTRICTIONS ONE MEAL PER WEEK ONE MEAL PER MONTH DO NOT EAT NO DATA RIVERS and CREEKS (continued) Ichawaynochaway Creek Kinchafoonee Creek (above Albany) Little River (above Clarks Hill Lake) Little River (above Ga. Hwy 133, Valdosta) Mill Creek (Murray Co.) Muckalee Creek (above Albany) Ochlockonee River (near Thomasville) Ocmulgee River (below Macon, Bibb Co.) Ocmulgee River (Telfair/Wheeler Cos.) Oconee River (above Barnett Shoals) Oconee River (at I-16) Ogeechee River (all to Ft. McAllister) Ohoopee River (Emanuel/Toombs Cos.) Okefenokee Swamp (Billy's Lake) Oostanaula River (Hwy 156, Calhoun) Oostanaula River (Hwy 140 to Coosa Riv.) Patsiliga Creek (Taylor Co.) Pipemaker Canal Satilla River (Waycross, Ware/Pierce Cos.) Satilla River (near Folkston, Camden Co.) Savannah River (above & below New Sav. Bluff Lock & Dam) <30" >30" Savannah River (Chatham/Screven Cos.) Savannah River (Effingham Co.) Savannah River (Tidal Gate) Savannah River (New Savannah Bluff Lock & Dam to Savannah Estuary) 27" Short Creek (Warren Co.) South River (Panola Shoals, Rockdale Co.) South River (Henry Co., Snapping Shoals) Spring Creek (Seminole/Decatur/Miller Cos.) St. Mary's River (Camden Co.) St. Mary's River (Charlton Co.) Sugar Creek (Murray Co.) Sumac Creek (Murray Co.) Suwannee River Swamp Creek (Redwine Cove Road) Talking Rock Creek Tallapoosa River Trib. To Hudson River (Alto, Banks Co.) Withlacoochee River (Berrien/Lowndes Cos.) * This striped bass population migrates annually between West Point Lake and Morgan Falls Dam. Women who are pregnant or nursing and young children may wish to further restrict their consumption due to the variable mercury levels in these fish. 2011 Sport Fishing Regulations Purchase fishing licenses at www.gofishgeorgia.com or www.active.com/outdoors/ Page 37 Bass, Hybrid Bass, Large Mouth Bass, Spotted Bass, Striped Bass, Other Bluegill Carp Crappie Catfish, Blue Catfish, Channel Catfish, Flathead Catfish, Other Suckers Sunfish, Redear Walleye guidelines for limiting the fish you eat from lakes NO RESTRICTIONS ONE MEAL PER WEEK ONE MEAL PER MONTH DO NOT EAT NO DATA Albany By-Pass Pond Acworth Allatoona Andrews Banks Bartlett's Ferry Bear Cr. Reservoir Bennett CEWC PFA Black Shoals (Randy Poynter) Blackshear Big Lazer PFA Blue Ridge Burton Pond N. Bush Field (Augusta) Chatuge Clarks Hill Evans County PFA Goat Rock Hamburg Hartwell (Tugaloo Arm) Hartwell (main body of lake) Hugh M. Gillis PFA Jackson Ken Gardens Kolomoki Mounds S.P. Kolomoki L. Kolomoki Mounds S.P. Yohola L. Lanier Little Ocmulgee S. P. McDuffie PFA, West Nottely Oliver Rabun Reed Bingham S.P. Richard B. Russell Seminole So. Slappy Blvd. Off-ramp (Albany) Stone Mountain Tobesofkee Tugalo Tribble Mill Pk. Pond (Gwinnett Co.) Varner West Point Worth (Chehaw Reservoir) Worth (Flint Reservoir) Yonah >16" >16" >16" >16" >12" >12" >16" >16" >12" >16" <16" >12" 12-16" >12" >16" 12-16" 12-16" >16" 12-16" 12-16" 12-16" >16" >16" <12" >16" >12" 12-16" 12-16" >16" >16" >16" 12-16" >16" 12-16" >12" >12" >12" >16" >16" >12" >16" >12" >16" >12" >12" >12" 12-16" >16" >16" >12" >12" 12-16" >12" >16" 12-16" >12" 12-16" >12" >16" >16" LAKES Page 38 Turn In Poachers! 1-800-241-4113 -- Phone License/Boating Registration: 1-800-366-2661 >12" >12" >12" >16" >16" 12-16" >16" >16" >16" >16" 12-16" >16" >16" >16" >16" >16" >16" 12-16" Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division COASTAL RIVERS and CREEKS Atlantic Croaker Bass, Striped Bivalves* Blue Crab Drum, Black Drum, Red Flounder Sheepshead Southern Kingfish (Whiting) Spot Spotted Seatrout Striped Mullet Shrimp Shrimp, White Yellowtail (Silver Perch) guidelines for limiting the fish you eat from coastal rivers & creeks NO RESTRICTIONS ONE MEAL PER WEEK ONE MEAL PER MONTH DO NOT EAT NO DATA Turtle River System (Purvis, Gibson Crks.), Turtle & Buffalo Rivers (upriver Hwy 303) Turtle River (Hwy 303 to Channel Marker 9) Turtle River (C. Marker 9 & So. Brunswick River to Dubignons & Parsons Creeks) Terry Creek (South of Torras Causeway to Lanier Basin) Terry & Dupree Creeks (North of Torras Causeway to Confluence w/ Back River) Back River (1 mi. above Terry Creek to Confluence with Torras Causeway) Back River (South of Torras Cswy. to St. Simons Sound) Floyd Creek Academy Creek Altamaha Estuary Hayner's Creek (Savannah) North Newport (Upper), incl. Cay/Peacock Savannah Estuary 27" * Bivalves are all clams, mussels and oysters; Shellfish ban under National Shellfish Sanitation Program. KING MACKEREL SPECIAL JOINT STATE CONSUMPTION GUIDANCE ISSUED BY GEORGIA, NORTH CAROLINA, SOUTH CAROLINA AND FLORIDA FOR SOUTH ATLANTIC OCEAN SIZE RANGE (Fork Length, Inches) RECOMMENDATIONS FOR MEAL CONSUMPTION OF KING MACKEREL CAUGHT OFFSHORE GEORGIA COAST 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 Saltwater Advisory Harmful toxins called PCBs are stored in the hepatopancreas ("the green gland" also known as the mustard, tomalley, or liver) found in the body section of blue crabs. Recent studies have shown that crabs in the Middle Turtle River and Purvis and Gibson Creeks contain high levels of PCBs. While the crab meat may still be eaten in recommended amounts, the hepatopancreas should not be eaten because of the high PCB levels. If crabs are cooked whole, the juice should not be consumed. Because PCBs are transferred to cooking liquid, crab cooking liquid should also be discarded. Cleaning crabs before you cook them ("backing" the crabs and rinsing out the guts and the gills) reduces the risk of consuming PCBs. Reporting Violations TO REPORT VIOLATIONS DNR Law Enforcement in Brunswick 912-264-7237 Toll-Free 24-hour Hot Line 800-241-4113 TO REPORT VIOLATIONS IN FEDERAL WATERS U.S. Coast Guard stations in Brunswick 912-267-7999 and Tybee Island 912-786-5440 NOAA's toll-free, 24-hour Fisheries Enforcement hotline 800-853-1964 DNR LE 800-241-4113 Natural Shorelines are Good for Fishing By keeping shorelines natural, you can help protect water quality and improve fish habitat. A shoreline without trees and shrubs can get washed away, making the water muddy and unsuitable for fish. If you live near a lake or a river, plant a buffer strip along the water's edge using trees, shrubs, wildflowers or other native plants. Trees and other vegetation filter pollution and provide shade, shelter, habitat, and food critical for bass, trout, and other fish to thrive and reproduce. Keep your favorite fishing spots well vegetated! For more tips and information, visit http://water. epa.gov/type/lakes/index.cfm 2011 Sport Fishing Regulations Purchase fishing licenses at www.gofishgeorgia.com or www.active.com/outdoors/ Page 39 georgia recreational saltwater fishing Fishing Licenses: See page 12 for information on license requirements. Licenses are required for hook and line fishing, castnetting, seining, crabbing, gigging, sport bait trawling, and harvesting shellfish. A Georgia 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. Georgia saltwater fishing guides have the option of purchasing a blanket fishing license to cover their customers. Anglers booking a trip with a Georgia saltwater fishing guide should inquire if they will need a Georgia fishing license or whether they will be covered by the guide's license. Persons interested in purchasing a Saltwater Guides License should call the DNR Coastal Regional License Office at 912-264-7237. Saltwater Fishing Information Artificial Reefs Open Season: that specified period of time Georgia Saltwater Fishing Regulations Georgia maintains 15 inshore and 22 off- during which one may take certain finfish shore artificial reefs located from inside species from any waters of the state. the estuary to 80 miles offshore. Most are Daily Creel Limit: the lawful amount of For information and updates on licenses, designated as Special Management Zones a species of finfish that a person may take regulations, and fishing in Georgia's in- (SMZ) by the Federal Government. Within in one day. shore and offshore saltwaters contact: Georgia DNR Coastal Law Enforcement One Conservation Way, Suite 201 SMZs, only handheld hook-and-line and spear fishing gear may be used. For more information, coordinates and updates go to www.CoastalGADNR.org. Possession Limit: the lawful amount of a species of finfish that a person can legally have at any one time. Bushel: 32 quarts. Brunswick, GA 31520-8687 912-264-7237 or fax 912-262-3166 Boating Safety Zones Boating safety zones have been established saltwater demarcation line Coastal Resources Division off Jekyll, Tybee, St. Simons, and Sea islands. This line is established in this state as the Marine Fisheries Section These zones extend from the northernmost separation point between saltwaters and One Conservation Way, point to the southernmost point of each of freshwaters for commercial fishing and Brunswick, GA 31520-8687 these islands and from the highwater mark to sport fishing. The saltwater demarcation 912-264-7218 or fax 912-262-2318 a distance 1,000 feet seaward. From May 1 line is defined below: www.CoastalGADNR.org through September 30, power boats, jet skis, The point at which U.S. Highway 17 Federal Saltwater Fishing Regulations and other motorized craft are prohibited in these zones. crosses the following bodies of water and their tributaries shall be the line of demarcation for them: St. Mary's River, Satilla For information and updates on recre- SALTWATER FINFISH River, South Altamaha River, Champney ational fishing regulations in federal waters (3200 miles offshore), contact: South Atlantic Fishery Management Council 4055 Faber Place Dr., Suite 201 North Charleston, SC 29405 843-571-4366 or 866-SAFMC-10 www.safmc.net For information and updates on federal regulations and required permitting for tunas, billfish, and sharks, contact: National Marine Fisheries Service HMS Management Division 1315 East-West Hwy Silver Spring, MD 20910 301-713-2347 www.nmfspermits.com For information on the Gray's Reef National Marine Sanctuary contact: Landing Requirements/ Transfer Prohibition All saltwater finfish (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. Saltwater finfish subject to size and bag limits cannot be transferred to 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 ensnare or entangle fish in the meshes). Only flounder may be taken with a gig (any handheld shaft with single or multiple points, barbed or barbless). All River, Butler River, Darien River, Little Ogeechee System (except Salt Creek), North Newport River, Medway River, Big Ogeechee River, and the point at which Georgia Highway 25/South Carolina 170 crosses the Savannah River and its tributaries. All water seaward of these points shall be considered saltwater. The following streams and their tributaries are designated as salt water for their entire length: Crooked River, Little Satilla River, South Brunswick River, Turtle River, Sapelo River, South Newport River, Salt Creek (Little Ogeechee System), and all other rivers, streams, and tributaries in the six coastal counties which are not enumerated in this subsection. For purposes of crabbing, that portion of the St. Mary's River and the Satilla River System (including the Satilla River and Gray's Reef Sanctuary Program seasons, hours, creel limits, minimum White Oak Creek) which is seaward of the 10 Ocean Science Circle Savannah, GA 31411 912-598-2345 www.graysreef.nos.noaa.gov Wanton Waste size limits, and other regulations applicable to saltwater finfish apply regardless of the gear used. Sharks: Recreational harvest of sharks is limited to hook and line gear only. points at which the Seaboard Coastline Railroad crosses such streams and that portion of the Altamaha River System which is seaward of the points at which I-95 crosses the streams of that system shall be considered salt water. It shall be 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! Related Definitions Minimum Size: the specific size in length below which it is unlawful to take that finfish species. unlawful to place any crab trap in the waters of this state other than that described as salt water in Code Section 27-4-1 or by this subsection. Page 40 Turn In Poachers! 1-800-241-4113 -- Phone License/Boating Registration: 1-800-366-2661 Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division saltwater finfish: seasons, limits, sizes All limits per person unless specified. FL = fork length, TL = total length (see page 15) SPECIES Amberjack (no sale 4/14/30)2 Atlantic croaker Atlantic sturgeon Billfish (Blue marlin, White marlin, Sailfish)2 Black drum Black sea bass2 Bluefish Cobia2 Dolphin2 Flounder Gag grouper (no sale 3/14/30)2 King mackerel2 Red drum (Channel bass, Spottail bass, Redfish) Red porgy (no sale 1/14/30)2 Red snapper1, 2 Sharks (all sharks other than the SSC and Prohibited Sharks) 2 Small shark composite (SSC)2 (Atlantic sharpnose, Bonnethead, Spiny dogfish) Prohibited Sharks (NO HARVEST) Sheepshead2 Spanish mackerel2 Spot Spotted seatrout Striped bass (see Savannah River information on page 14) Tarpon (no sale) Tripletail Weakfish Whiting OPEN SEASON 3/16 12/31 All year All year All year 3/16 11/30 3/16 11/30 All year All year All year All year All year All year All year All Year All Year DAILY LIMIT and POSSESSION LIMIT 1 25 No Harvest Catch and Release Only 15 15 15 2 10 (Not to exceed 60 per boat, except for headboats which are allowed 10 per paying customer. 15 2 3 5 3 2 1 per angler or boat, whichever is less MINIMUM SIZE (inches) 28 FL 8 TL 10 TL 12 TL 12 FL 33 FL 20 FL 12 TL 24 TL 24 FL 14 TL (23 TL maximum) 14 TL 20 TL 54 FL 1 30 FL Sand tiger, Sandbar, Silky, Bigeye sand tiger, Whale, Basking, White, Dusky, Bignose, Galapagos, Night, Reef, Narrowtooth, Caribbean sharpnose, Smalltail, Atlantic angel, Longfin mako, Bigeye thresher, Sharpnose sevengill, Bluntnose sixgill, and Bigeye sixgill All year 3/16 11/30 All year All year All year 3/16 11/30 All year All year All year 15 15 25 15 2 1 2 1 No Creel or Possession Limit 10 FL 12 FL 8 TL 13 TL 22 TL 68 FL 18 TL 13 TL 10 TL 1 Potential Red Snapper changes in 2011 2 These species are also federally managed from 3 to 200 miles offshore. Go to www.safmc.net for federal regulations. Tagged Fish Coastal Resources Division (CRD) biologists are conducting long-term studies on the growth, migration and fishing exploitation rates of red drum, tarpon, and tripletail. If you catch a tagged fish, please record and report the following information: 1) your name, address, and phone number, 2) fish species, 3) date caught, 4) tag number, 5) total length and location, and 6) whether the fish was kept or released. To report a tagged fish call (912) 264-7218. If released, please do not remove the tag. If kept, please return the tag to GADNR/CRD, One Conservation Way, Brunswick, GA 31520. If the tag number is not legible lightly scrape the tag with your fingernail or similar flat object. Tripletail with tag ID beginning with the prefix "TT" contain surgically implanted acoustic transmitters. Anglers who catch these tagged fish are encouraged to release them with the tag intact, then call and report the catch. If you are an angler who practices catch and release and would like to become a cooperative angler please contact Donna McDowell with the Cooperative Angler Tagging Program at 912-264-7218. 2011 Sport Fishing Regulations Purchase fishing licenses at www.gofishgeorgia.com or www.active.com/outdoors/ Page 41 saltwater fish Atlantic Croaker Dorsal fin spotted Tiny barbels Notch Brownish spot on the shoulder Spot Black Sea bass Black Drum (Young) Loses vertical bars with age Short white tabs on tail Southern Kingfish Whiting Barbels Sheepshead Keeps vertical bars throughout life Distinctly forked tail fin 78 diagonal dusky bands Barbels Flounders Summer 2 Spines Five eye-like spots No barbells Large flat incisor teeth 3 Spines Dark spot or spots Southern Red Drum Weakfish (Summer Trout) No spots on fins Indistinct dark freckles on upper body Spotted Seatrout Spots on fins Distinct dark spots on upper body Page 42 Turn In Poachers! 1-800-241-4113 -- Phone License/Boating Registration: 1-800-366-2661 Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division Lacks black patch Dull gold spots in young fish King Mackerel Up to 60 lbs. Lateral line drops sharply saltwater fish Bright gold spots Spanish Mackerel Averages 24 lbs. Gradually sloping lateral line small shark composite Scattered white spots on the body Spine Spine Spiny Dogfish White spots Offshore in winter No anal fin Evenly rounded edge with no indentations Atlantic Sharpnose White on rear edge Second dorsal fin begins above middle of anal fin Bonnethead Shovel or bonnet-shaped head BLACKTIP Color dark to bluish-grey with a Z-shaped pattern Pointed snout White anal fin Sharp, pointed irregular teeth Sand Tiger Harvest prohibited shark anatomy (view from above) Pectoral fins First dorsal fin Second dorsal fin Interdorsal ridge: raised line on the dorsal (top) midline between the two dorsal fins of some sharks. Fish identification pictures by: Duane Raver Snout shorter than width of mouth SANDBAR Harvest prohibited Color brownish-grey above white below Similar in size Interdorsal ridge SHARKS FOUND IN GEORGIA WATERS THAT CAN BE HARVESTED (not including small shark composite above) Blacknose Blacktip Bull Finetooth Lemon Nurse Scalloped Hammerhead Smooth Hammerhead Thresher Tiger (has interdorsal ridge) Most sharks with an interdorsal ridge caught in Georgia waters will be included in the "prohibited" or "no harvest" categories. If you are not sure of the species and whether you may keep it, release it. See the complete Seasons, Limits, Sizes list on page 41. Page 43 georgia's saltwater gamefish records SPECIES MEN'S RECORD WEIGHT MALE ANGLER (year) WOMEN'S RECORD WEIGHT FEMALE ANGLER (year) Amberjack, Greater 92 lb. 1 oz. Ben W. Key. Jr. (1975) 72 lb. 8 oz. Tricia L. Nicosia (1986) Barracuda, Great 54 lb. 8 oz. Wayne Hall (1999) 47 lb. 8 oz. Marie Franklin (1999) Bass,Black Sea (tie) 5 lb. 11 oz. J.C. Hadden, Jr. (1994) 5 lb. 12 oz. Willie J. Oakman (1998) 4 lb. 8 oz. Evelyn B. Carter (1983) Bluefish 17 lb. 12 oz. Gary Q. Altman (1980) 14 lb. 4 oz. Kathy Sikes (1986) Cobia 88 lb. 12 oz. Jeffrey Clark (1985) 68 lb. 5 oz. Wanda Carroll (1999) Croaker, Atlantic 5 lb. 12 oz. David Flynt (1977) 1 lb. 1 oz. Gretchen Keister (1992) Dolphin 67 lb. 6 oz. Michael Sheppard (1997) 54 lb. 8 oz. Romona Arsenault (1977) Drum, Black 92 lb. 0 oz. John H. Thomas Jr. (2010) 80 lb. 0 oz. Jennifer Mugrauer (2009) Drum, Red (Channel Bass)** Flounder (Composite) Grouper, Gag 47 lb. 7 oz. Richard Price (1986) 15 lb. 8 oz. Walter C.Hewitt (1982) 38 lb. 0 oz. David Sapp (2002) 38 lb. 13 oz. Sandra Price (1986) 15 lb. 10 oz. Janice Youmans (1990) 20 lb. 0 oz. Joyce L. Richards (1984) New Men's State Record, Black Drum 92 lb. Grouper, Goliath** 124 lb. 0 oz. James Chumley (1976) Harvest prohibited, therefore record no longer allowed. 26 lb. Grouper, Scamp (tie) 26 lb. Grouper, Warsaw 252 lb. Jack, Crevalle 38 lb. Kingfish (Whiting) 2 lb. Ladyfish 3 lb. 0 oz. 4 oz. 0 oz. 8 oz. 12 oz. 12 oz. Wayne Hall (1995) James Hubbard (2009) Gene Whitehurst (1981) Lex Bazemore (2001) Harold Guinn (1975) Dwight Thornton (1977) 23 lb. 6 oz. Kathy Wash (1987) 30 lb. 2 lb. 5 lb. Minimum weight: 25 lbs. 6 oz. Ann Allen (1981) 4 oz. Lois E. Guinn (1975) 0 oz. Marjorie Nighbert (1978) A Georgia Fishing license is required to recreationally fish for any seafood, whether for personal consumption or bait. The sale of recreationally harvested seafood or bait is prohibited. Mackerel, King Mackerel, Spanish Marlin, Blue** Marlin, White** Mullet, Striped Pompano, Florida Porgy (Composite) Porgy, Red Runner, Rainbow Sailfish** 75 lb. 12 oz. Joe H. Bell (2004) 42 lb. 0 oz. Joyce Richards (1982) 8 lb. 4 oz. James I. Geiger (1991) 7 lb. 14 oz. Ida Knight (1988) 491 lb. 8 oz. John C. Howard, Jr. (1985) 178 lb. 0 oz. Susan D. Meek (1985) 49 lb. 12 oz. Thomas Hester (1986) Harvest prohibited, therefore record no longer allowed. 9 lb. 3 oz. Steve Middleton (1994) Minimum weight: 4 lbs. 5 lb. 4 oz. Bill Knightbuford (2002) 1 lb. 7 oz. Laura A. Cheek (1982) 15 lb. 14 oz. Louis F. Jiran (1988) Minimum weight: 3 lbs. 5 lb. 6 oz. Jimmy Ginn (1980) Minimum weight: 4 lbs. 17 lb. 12 oz. Tyler Bond (1984) Minimum weight: 5 lbs. 65 lb. 0 oz. Vann Downs (1981) 38 lb. 5 oz. Laura Hammond (1992) SHRIMP "Baiting" Shrimp It is unlawful to place, deposit, distribute, or scatter any bait of any kind in, on, or over any waters so as to lure, attract, or entice shrimp toward the bait or to cause shrimp to congregate in the area where bait is placed. It is illegal to knowingly fish for shrimp in baited waters. Seatrout,Spotted 9 lb. Shark, Blacktip 131 lb. Shark, Bonnethead 22 lb. Shark, Bull 455 lb. Shark, Dusky 272 lb. Shark, Hammerhead 770 lb. Shark, Lemon 375 lb. Shark, Mako 228 lb. Shark, Nurse 244 lb. Shark, Sandbar (Brown) 158 lb. Shark, Sand Tiger** 290 lb. 7 oz. 0 oz. 8 oz. 0 oz. 8 oz. 0 oz. 0 oz. 8 oz. 0 oz. Tommy Hall (1976) Albert Lee Boyd (1978) Zachery Gross (2009) Mark D. Noble (1978) Bill Hunter (1978) Charlie Marshall (1973) Thomas Winslow (1974) Harry Wooley (1975) Bill Watson (1981) 7 lb. 148 lb. 6 lb. 10 lb. 8 oz. Amanda Wooten (1990) 0 oz. Allison Gerber (2008) Minimum weight: 20 lbs. Minimum weight: 50 lbs. 2 oz. Wendy Mead (1982) 0 oz. Katherine Bullis (1985) Minimum weight: 50 lbs. No minimum weight Minimum weight: 50 lbs. 8 oz. Chet Lee Kirby (1979) 124 lb. 0 oz. Dorothea Bays (1985) 0 oz. Billy Castle (1977) 212 lb. 6 oz. Clara Adams (1984) Food Shrimping Season The season for the recreational harvest of food shrimp is the same as that established for commercial shrimping. The Commissioner of DNR may open the season from May 15 through the end of February; however, it is generally opened mid-June through mid-January. The opening and closing of the food shrimping season is announced via coastal media outlets, posted at marinas, and at www.CoastalGADNR.org. Shark, Spinner 145 lb. 6 oz. Edward J. Hawie (2009) Minimum weight: 50 lbs. Shark, Thresher 116 lb. 0 oz. Mark D. Noble (1976) Minimum weight: 50 lbs. Shark, Tiger 794 lb. 0 oz. Chuck Hall (1975) Minimum weight: 50 lbs. Sheepshead 14 lb. 14 oz. Ralph V. White (2002) 12 lb. 9 oz. Linda Carroll (2003) Snapper, Red 37 lb. 8 oz. Bill Shearin, Jr. (1988) 29 lb. 8 oz. Phyllis Thompson (1989) Snapper, Gray 10 lb. 8 oz. Jason Carter (2009) Minimum weight: 5 lbs. Snook 10 lb. 2 oz. Lester Rooks (1990) 10 lb. 6 oz. Marlene Patton (2008) Spadefish, Atlantic 13 lb. 2 oz. Shahram Zare (2004) 11 lb. 5 oz. Deidra H.Jeffcoat (2003) Swordfish 86 lb. 0 oz. W.H. Lippitt (1980) No minimum weight Tarpon 161 lb. 0 oz. C. Edwards (1995) 139 lb. 0 oz. Wendy A. Mead (1986) Triggerfish, Gray 11 lb. 3 oz. Dean Williams (1989) 11 lb. 5 oz. Elizabeth Zeagler (1987) Tripletail 38 lb. 14 oz. Kyle Thigpen (2005) 22 lb. 7 oz. Joan Thigpen (1994) Tuna, Blackfin 38 lb. 10 oz. Teddy Elrod (2005) 30 lb. 8 oz. Penny Morgan-Turner (1999) Tuna, Yellowfin 249 lb. 2 oz. Ken Cooper (1980) 165 lb. 4 oz. Anne Smith (1973) Tunny, Little 19 lb. 4 oz. John Smits (2010) 20 lb. 0 oz. Str. Mary Clarice (1973) Wahoo 123 lb. 3 oz. Michael Stefanick (2000) 77 lb. 0 oz. Linda Li-Chao Yang (1988) Weakfish (Summer Trout) 6 lb. 8 oz. Frank Taylor (1976) Minimum weight: 3 lb. For more information on Saltwater records, go to Coastal Resources Division at 912-264-7218 RED indicates new record! ** C urrent regulations require the immediate release of these fish and therefore are not eligible for state records. Due to the maximum 23 inch size limit on Red Drum, a state record cannot be submitted SPORT BAIT SHRIMPING WITh POWER-DRAWN NETS Gear: Power-drawn nets 10 feet or smaller may be used in saltwaters to harvest shrimp for bait. Information on the specific net dimensions is available from DNR offices in Brunswick and Demeries Creek (Richmond Hill). Bait Zones: A 10-foot sport bait trawl may be used to take shrimp only in rivers and creeks or portions thereof that have been opened to bait shrimping by DNR. Charts of established "Bait Zones" are also available at DNR offices in Brunswick and Demeries Creek. Seasons and Hours: Unless otherwise designated, bait zones are open year-round for sport bait shrimping. Sport bait shrimping is legal only between the hours of hour before official sunrise to hour after official sunset. Harvest Limit: A sport bait shrimper may Page 44 Turn In Poachers! 1-800-241-4113 -- Phone License/Boating Registration: 1-800-366-2661 Wildlife Resources Division & Coastal Resources Division shrimp not possess at any time more than two (2) year and throughout Georgia's saltwaters. Harvest Limits: No one person taking quarts of shrimp, no more than pint of Seines less than 100 feet long and with a shrimp solely by means of a seine, whether which may be dead, and may not take more minimum stretch mesh of 1 inch may be such person is acting alone or in a group of than four (4) quarts of shrimp within a 24- used on sand beaches of any barrier island persons, may possess more than 24 quarts of hour period. When two or more persons oc- in Georgia. Seines from 100 to 300 feet shrimp with heads on or 15 quarts of tails cupy the same boat, there may be no more long and with a minimum mesh size of 2 taken by such seine in any 24-hour period. than four (4) quarts of shrimp on board the inches may be used only on the oceanfront If any person or group of persons occupy- boat at any time; no more than one pint of sides of beaches. The use of seines over 12 ing the same boat is in possession of a cast which may be dead, and no more than eight feet long in any inlet or tidal slough is pro- net and a seine, such person or persons shall (8) quarts of shrimp may be taken within a hibited. Seines over 300 feet long are also be subject to the limits imposed for shrimp 24-hour period. prohibited. It is unlawful to use any seine in taken by cast net. saltwaters such that it blocks more than of SEINING FOR SHRIMP the entrance of any tidal river, creek, slough, CAST NETTING FOR SHRIMP Gear and Areas: Seines equal to or smaller or inlet to the ocean. It is unlawful for any person to sell or oth- than 12 feet long, with a maximum depth Hours: During the open season, seines may erwise dispose of, for human consumption, of four feet, and a maximum stretch mesh be used at any time of day. any shrimp taken as bait. of one (1) inch may be used throughout the Gear: Georgia law defines a cast net as a 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. When some fish are brought quickly to the surface, the gas in the swim bladder can over-expand and rupture the bladder. Escaping gas fills the gut cavity. If released in this buoyant condition, the fish cannot descend and may float away and die. Swim bladder over-expansion can cause everted stomachs or intestines, as shown here. If a fish is unable to submerge, be prepared to vent the fish's gut cavity and get the fish back into the water as quickly as possible if you wish to release it. Venting helps the gas escape, allows the fish to descend, and improves survival. Use wet gloves to handle the fish and have a deflating tool on hand. A simple deflating tool can be made by mounting a sharpened football needle in a 1"x 3" 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 pectoral fin. Insert the needle only as far as needed to allow the gas to escape. Squeeze gently to help push the gas out. 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. Swim Bladder Everted Stomach Underneath a Scale 2011 Sport Fishing Regulations Distended Intestines Deflated Stomach Credit: Florida Sea Grant, 1995 Purchase fishing licenses at www.gofishgeorgia.com or www.active.com/outdoors/ Page 45 crab, shellfish and bait minnows cone shaped net with a weighted circumfer- Gear shellfish except in designated public pick- ence thrown and retrieved by hand without Traps: Up to six standard size crab traps ing areas, unless authorized in writing by a mechanical assistance. Two types of cast (2 x 2 feet or smaller) may be used recreation- private property owner with legal harvest nets are further defined: a "Bait shrimp cast ally. Two unobstructed escapement rings net" having a minimum bar mesh of / inch (2 / inch inside diameter) must be installed and a mum b"Faor omdesshhroimf p/ cast net" having a mini inch. Bait shrimp cast on an outside vertical wall. Each trap must be marked with a fluorescent green or lime nets cannot be used to take shrimp for per- green float bearing the owner's name and sonal consumption; however, food shrimp address in one-inch letters. Traps should be cast nets may be used to take bait. There sufficiently weighted to prevent loss in strong are no restrictions on the length of a bait tidal currents. It is unlawful to place or set or food shrimp cast net. Bait and food crab traps in the channel of any stream with shrimp cast nets can be modified with the a lawfully established system of waterway rights to an area. Private property owners wishing to harvest recreational quantities of shellfish or to issue permission to others must notify and provide DNR with specific information. It is unlawful to give permission to take shellfish from a closed area. Harvesters taking shellfish from private property must have on their person proof of ownership or permission. addition of duct tape or other materials markers. Disposal of crab traps in public wa- Size and Harvest Limits to enhance performance. ters is a violation of State and Federal laws. Oysters must measure no less than three FOOD SHRIMP Hours and Areas: During the open season, cast netting for personal consumption may be conducted at any time of day in all the state's saltwaters. Harvest Limits: No person taking shrimp for personal consumption with a cast net may possess more than 48 quarts of heads-on Other Gear: Subject to other restrictions outlined in these regulations, legal crabs may be taken with other legal fishing gear such as seines, cast nets, hand-lines, and lift rings. Size and Harvest Limits It is unlawful to take or possess any crab less than 5 inches from spike to spike across the back (other than a "peeler" or a "mature inches from hinge to mouth, unless the oyster cannot be removed from a legal-sized oyster without destroying it. For clams, the maximum depth from one shell half to the other must be at least inch thick. Recreational quantity limits 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 shrimp or 30 quarts of shrimp tails in any day. adult female" crab). Peelers must measure at per boat per day. When one or more persons occupy the same least 3 inches from spike to spike across the boat, there may be no more than 48 quarts of back. No sponge (egg-bearing) crabs are Whelk (conch) heads-on shrimp or 30 quarts of shrimp tails allowed. Recreational crabbers may take no Recreational harvest of whelk is limited to on board at any time. No vessel owner shall more than one bushel of crabs during any 1 bushel/person. There is no minimum size, allow the vessel to be used to take more than 24-hour period. No more than two bushels closed season or closed area. A recreational the allowable catch limits in any day. may be taken recreationally or possessed fishing license is required, including hand BAIT SHRIMP during a 24-hour period on a boat with harvest from the beach. more than one person aboard. Season, Hours and Areas: There is no closed season for cast netting for bait. Cast netting for bait may be conducted at any time of day in all of Georgia's saltwaters. Terrapins in Crab Traps: Recent studies BAIT MINNOWS have investigated the effectiveness of excluder devices for preventing the capture of di- Season, Hours and Areas amond-back terrapins in commercial-style Bait minnows may be harvested year-round. Harvest Limits: Recreational cast netters crab traps. Terrapins that enter crab traps Bait minnows may not be trapped in collecting bait shrimp are limited to two cannot escape and often drown. To learn freshwater. quarts per person at any time, provided that person may take a maximum of four quarts of bait shrimp per day. When two or more how to build your own terrapin excluder visit www.terrapinconservation.org. Gear No more than two traps may be used recre- persons occupy the same boat, there may be SHELLFISH no more than four quarts of bait on board ationally, except that a licensed saltwater fishing guide may use a maximum of four traps. the boat at any time, and the persons occu- Season and Hours Maximum dimensions for rectangular traps pying the boat may take no more than eight Saltwaters may be opened for taking shell- may not exceed 24" x 8" x 9". Cylindrical quarts of bait shrimp per day. Bait shrimp fish between January 1 and December 31. traps may not exceed 24" in length and 30" taken with a cast net may be live or dead. STONE CRABS Georgia does not regulate the harvest of stone crab; however, the harvest of the whole crab is discouraged. It is reccommended that only one claw measuring at least 2 3/4" from the elbow to the tip of the lower, immovable finger be removed. A properly removed claw should not have meat from the body attached. Prior to harvesting any shellfish, check with the DNR-Coastal Resources Division (www.CoastalGADNR.org) for any seasonal closures that may be in effect during the calendar year. Shellfish must be harvest- in circumference. Recreational bait minnow traps shall have a mesh size of no smaller than inch bar mesh. The throat opening of the funnel shall not exceed inch in diameter. Each trap must have attached a tag or float bearing the name and address of the person ed between the hours of hour before offi- using the trap. Subject to specific gear design cial sunrise and hour after official sunset. criteria, sizes, time of day, and area restric- Gear Shellfish may only be taken with handheld implements. tions outlined in these regulations, bait minnows may also be taken recreationally yearround in seines and cast nets. BLUE CRABS Areas, Seasons, Hours Areas Possession Limits No individual recreationally harvesting Updated charts of approved public picking bait minnows may possess more than two Unless otherwise designated, the saltwaters areas for shellfish should be obtained from quarts of bait minnows at any given time. A of Georgia are open year-round for recre- Coastal Resources Division's Ecological Ser- licensed saltwater fishing guide may possess ational crabbing at any time of the day. vices Section or at www.CoastalGADNR. not more than 10 quarts at any given time. org. 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