Georgia is a premier fishing destination, with abundant freshwater lakes, reservoirs, rivers, and a picturesque coastline along the Atlantic Ocean. Over 1 million anglers fish in Georgia each year, contributing nearly $1.5 billion annually to the state’s economy.
To legally fish in Georgia waters, most people over the age of 16 need to purchase an annual or temporary Georgia fishing license as well as a free Saltwater Information Program (SIP) permit for saltwater fishing. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to get a Georgia fishing license.
Types of Georgia Fishing Licenses
Georgia offers several types of fishing licenses to meet different needs:
- Basic Fishing License: $15 for residents, $50 for non-residents. Required for freshwater and saltwater fishing for anglers 16 and over.
- 1-Day, 3-Day, and 10-Day Fishing Licenses: Temporary licenses for short fishing trips. A 1-day license is $5 for residents and $10 for non-residents.
- Trout License: $10 additional license required for trout fishing, besides the basic license.
- Saltwater Information Program (SIP) Permit: A free additional permit is required for saltwater fishing.
Specialty licenses also offered for commercial fishing, fishing guides, disabled residents, seniors, and youth.
How to Get a Georgia Fishing License
You can easily obtain a Georgia fishing license through several convenient methods:
- Online: Purchase a license 24/7 through the.
- By Phone: Call 1-800-366-2661. Live agents available Mon-Fri 8am-6pm, Sat-Sun 9am-5pm .
- In-person:Â Visit one of over 1,500 license vendors across Georgia, including bait & tackle shops, sporting goods stores, WRD regional offices, and more.
Be sure to carry digital or paper license proof while fishing.
Georgia Fishing License Costs
Georgia fishing license fees depend on residency, age, and duration:
- Georgia Residents
- Annual License – $15
- 1-Day License – $5
- Additional Days – $1 per day (up to 10 days)
- Trout License: $10
- Non-Residents
- Annual License – $50
- 1-Day License – $10
- Additional Days – $3.50 per day (up to 10 days)
- Trout License: $25
Discounts are available for seniors, military, youth, and disabled residents. SIP permits are free for all anglers.
Why Buy a Georgia Fishing License?
There are several important reasons to purchase a fishing license in Georgia:
- It’s required by law and mandatory for most anglers over the age of 16.
- Conservation Funding: License sales provide critical funds used for fisheries management programs, habitat restoration, public water access, and more.
- Access to Public Lands: A fishing license allows access to WMAs, parks, and other public recreation areas.
Avoiding Fishing License Scams
Be cautious of potential fishing license scams from illegitimate websites. Only purchase licenses through official channels, like.
Saltwater Fishing Regulations
Besides a basic fishing license, saltwater anglers must acquire a free annual Saltwater Information Program (SIP) permit. The SIP helps the DNR collect data to sustainably manage popular game fish like red drum, spotted seatrout, and tarpon.
Trout Fishing Regulations
To fish for trout in Georgia’s designated waters, anglers need both an annual basic fishing license and a trout license. A separate trout license is $10 for residents and $25 for non-residents. One-day trout permits are also available.
Conclusion
With abundant freshwater fisheries and saltwater access, Georgia is a top fishing destination that attracts over 1 million anglers annually. To legally fish in Georgia, residents and visitors over the age of 16 must purchase an annual or temporary fishing license, with additional permits required for saltwater and trout fishing. Licenses are easily obtained online, by phone, or from local vendors across the state.
