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Freshwater Fishing in Georgia
Georgia Fishing at a Glance
If you’re looking for an unforgettable fishing experience, the great state of Georgia is sure to please. With over 70,000 miles of rivers and streams and 425,000 acres of lakes, this southern paradise offers a seemingly endless variety of breathtaking spots to cast your line.
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has strict regulations in place for anglers 16 years old or older – a fishing license is required, as well as knowledge of respective catch limits. But all caution pays off when it comes time to reel in any one of the sought-after species that frequent Georgia’s waters — bass, trout, catfish and crappie are just some examples.
No matter where you go in the state, you’ll be met with an abundance of incredible opportunities; however, notable spots include Lake Lanier, the Chattahoochee River, West Point Lake and Hartwell Lake. So what are you waiting for? Grab your gear and get ready for a good day out on the water!
Georgia ranks #29 in the U.S. for fishing licenses per capita and has a good number of local fishing enhtusiasts with over 10.43% of the population having fishing licenses.
Key Insights
- Georgia offers over 70,000 miles of rivers and streams and 425,000 acres of lakes for fishing enthusiasts
- A fishing license is required for anyone over 16 years old, and there are catch limits that must be followed
- Popular fish in Georgia include bass, trout, catfish, and crappie
- Notable spots for fishing include Lake Lanier, the Chattahoochee River, West Point Lake, and Hartwell Lake
- Georgia ranks #29 in the U.S. for fishing licenses per capita, with over 10.43% of the population holding licenses
Table of Contents
Estimated Fishing Enthusiasts
| Population: | 10,711,908 |
|---|---|
| Fishing Enthusiasts | 1,116,830 |
| Fishing License % | 10.43% |
| Hunters Rank | 29 |
The state of Georgia is mostly private land with just 4.68% of acres considered public land -ranking #40 amongst all states.
Land Types (Acres)
| Acres | % | Rank | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total | 37,068,200 | ||
| Public | 1,734,590 | 4.68% | 40 |
| Private | 35,333,610 | 95.32% | 10 |
| Tribal | 0 | 0.00% | no tribal land |
Georgia Fishing Licenses & Requirements
For the most accurate and updated information on fishing licenses and requirements, it’s always a good idea to check the Georgia DNR. We’ve provided their contact information and other helpful information for your convenience here.
Georgia DNR
2070 U.S. Hwy. 278, S.E.
Social Circle, GA 30025
- (770) 918-6400
What are the most popular freshwater fish to catch in Georgia?
From large bass to tasty catfish, Georgia’s rivers and streams are home to a wide variety of fish. Anglers looking to land a trophy catch can look no further than the bass; known for their size and powerful swim, this species is the perfect target for more experienced fishermen.
Catfish, despite being on the smaller side, are frequently found in Georgia’s streams and sought after for their delicious meat. Crappie too are popular amongst anglers for their delicate flavor. Trout, although trickier to nab, is also highly sought after due to its unique taste. Lastly, walleye inhabit both river and lakes and prove to be quite a challenge when casting a line – an opportunity not many want to pass up!
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Fishing private land in Georgia
Fishing on private land in Georgia has some real advantages over public lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds *if you can get access. For instance, there’s nothing like having a quiet lake all to yourself and oftentimes there are simply more fish available to catch, because they haven’t been fished out. There are generally more processes for access private land for hunting than fishing, though some similar methods exist. For instance, you can sometimes join a fishing club in Georgia or if you have the money, it may be possible to rent some private land for fishing. Another option is to knock on doors or work your contacts in an area to see if a landowner would let you fish for the day or possibly be open to a longer term arrangement.
Fortunately Wing It is simplifying land access for fishing, hunting, camping, and more. We’re adding new land every day and if we have some in your area, you’ll see some great options below.
1. Chattahoochee River
2. Toccoa River
3. Lake Lanier
4. West Point Lake
5. Hartwell Lake
Fishing private land in Georgia
Fishing on private land in Georgia has some real advantages over public lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds *if you can get access. For instance, there’s nothing like having a quiet lake all to yourself and oftentimes there are simply more fish available to catch, because they haven’t been fished out. There are generally more processes for access private land for hunting than fishing, though some similar methods exist. For instance, you can sometimes join a fishing club in Georgia or if you have the money, it may be possible to rent some private land for fishing. Another option is to knock on doors or work your contacts in an area to see if a landowner would let you fish for the day or possibly be open to a longer term arrangement.
Fortunately Wing It is simplifying land access for fishing, hunting, camping, and more. We’re adding new land every day and if we have some in your area, you’ll see some great options below.