Get a Georgia Fishing License

Georgia stands out as a premier fishing haven in the southern region, boasting an abundance of lakes, streams, reservoirs, and captivating coastlines. However, before embarking on your adventure to one of the state's finest fishing locations, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the essential prerequisites for obtaining fishing licenses.

GEORGIA FISHING LAWS AND REGULATIONS

Please note that the following information provides an overview of Georgia's fishing laws and regulations. It is essential to check the current regulations before each fishing trip to ensure compliance with the most recent guidelines.

Fishing License Information

To protect and preserve fish populations, it is mandatory for anyone aged 16 years and older to possess a fishing license in Georgia. Residents under 16 years old are exempt from this requirement, but they can obtain optional licenses that include mountain trout privileges for $10. The youth fishing license remains valid until the youth's 17th birthday.

Where to Purchase

Online: Visit GoOutdoorsGeorgia.com to buy your license online.
Phone: Call 1-800-366-2661 from Monday to Friday, between 8 am and 6 pm, or on weekends from 9 am to 5 pm to purchase your license over the phone.
Local Agents: Licenses can also be purchased through local agents.
Commercial Fishing Licenses: Commercial fishing licenses can be purchased by mail or at a Department of Natural Resources office. Freshwater and saltwater commercial fishing licenses are also available for purchase online.

For commercial fishing licenses or further assistance, you can contact the Department of Natural Resources at the following addresses:

One Conservation Way
Brunswick, GA 31520
Phone: (912) 264-7237

2065 Hwy. 278 SE.
Social Circle, GA 30025
Phone: (800) 366-2661

Residents

Residents of Georgia can obtain an annual fishing license for $15, which grants basic fishing privileges for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. This license also provides access to specific state properties; however, it does not include mountain trout fishing. For saltwater fishing, anglers must additionally obtain the free Saltwater Information Program (SIP) permit. Both the fishing license and SIP permit are valid for 365 days from the date of purchase.

Senior fishing permits are available for residents aged 65 and older, costing $4 annually. Seniors born on or before June 30, 1952, are eligible for a free lifetime fishing license.

Residents interested in trout fishing can acquire an annual trout license for $10.

For those who wish to fish for a single day, one-day fishing and trout permits are available for $5 each. Additional days can be added for $1 per day. Commercial fishing licenses cost $20, and disability fishing licenses are priced at $3 annually or $9 for a three-year license.

Georgia fish and game licenses are also available for residents.

Nonresidents

Nonresidents visiting Georgia can obtain an annual fishing license for $50, which provides basic fishing privileges for freshwater and saltwater fishing. However, this license does not cover mountain trout fishing. Nonresident anglers must also obtain the free Saltwater Information Program (SIP) permit for saltwater fishing. Both the fishing license and SIP permit are valid for 365 days from the date of purchase.

Senior fishing permits and disability licenses are not available for nonresidents.

Nonresidents interested in trout fishing can acquire an annual trout license for $25.

For individuals who want to fish for a single day, one-day fishing permits are available for $10. Additional days can be added for $3.50 each. One-day trout fishing licenses cost $10, with additional days costing $2 per day.

Nonresidents interested in commercial fishing can obtain a commercial fishing license for $200. Georgia fish and game licenses are also available for nonresidents.