If you plan to cast your line in Georgia’s waters in 2024, it’s essential to understand the state’s fishing license requirements. Georgia law mandates that anglers aged 16 and older must possess a valid Georgia fishing license while fishing in fresh or saltwater. This regulation applies to both residents and non-residents, ensuring the conservation and management of Georgia’s aquatic resources.
Resident Fishing Licenses
For Georgia residents, an annual fishing license costs $15 and covers basic fishing privileges in both freshwater and saltwater. This license provides access to certain state properties, but it does not include mountain trout fishing privileges.
Senior Citizen Fishing Licenses
Georgia residents born on or before June 30, 1952 are eligible for a free Lifetime Sportsman’s License, which includes fishing privileges. Residents aged 65 and older born after June 30, 1952 can purchase reduced-cost licenses.
Disability Fishing Licenses
Georgia residents who are permanently and totally disabled may obtain a discounted Disability License. To qualify, the disability must be certified by the Department of Veterans Affairs, Social Security Administration, Medicaid, Medicare, or Railroad Retirement System.
Non-Resident Fishing Licenses
Non-residents aged 16 and older must purchase a non-resident Georgia fishing license to fish in the state’s freshwater and saltwater, excluding private ponds. The annual non-resident license costs $50 and covers basic fishing privileges.
Non-Resident Trout Fishing Licenses
In addition to the non-resident fishing license, anglers aged 16 and older must possess a non-resident trout license to fish for or possess trout in designated trout waters.
Trout Fishing Licenses
Anglers aged 16 and older, both residents and non-residents, must have a trout license and a Georgia fishing license to fish in designated trout waters or to fish for and possess trout. Resident anglers can purchase an annual trout license for $10, while non-residents pay $25.
Saltwater Fishing Permits
Anglers fishing in saltwater, regardless of their residency status, must have a free Saltwater Information Permit (SIP) in addition to their basic fishing license. The SIP is valid for 365 days from the date of purchase.
Where to Purchase Fishing Licenses
Georgia fishing licenses can be purchased through various channels:
Online at GoOutdoorsGeorgia.com or GoFishGeorgia.com
Using the Go Outdoors GA App
In person at license dealers statewide, including WRD/CRD regional offices, state parks, marinas, major retailers, sporting goods stores, bait and tackle shops, and hardware stores
By telephone at 800-366-2661, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on weekends from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Exceptions and Exemptions
There are a few exceptions to the fishing license requirements in Georgia:
Anglers under the age of 16 are not required to have a fishing license.
Landowners and their immediate families may fish on their own premises without a license.
State park visitors are not required to have a trout license to fish in the impounded waters of the park, but they will need a trout license to harvest trout.
Reciprocal Agreements with Bordering States
Georgia has reciprocal agreements with Alabama, Florida, North Carolina, and South Carolina, allowing holders of Georgia fishing licenses to fish in the covered waters of these states without obtaining an additional license.
Importance of Fishing Regulations
Fishing regulations are crucial for protecting and preserving fish populations in Georgia. By following the state’s fishing laws, anglers contribute to the conservation of aquatic resources and ensure that fishing remains a sustainable and enjoyable activity for generations to come.