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The Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Coastal Resources Division (CRD) is seeking public comment on proposed changes to the state’s saltwater fishing regulations that would implement a new Reef/Migratory Fish Endorsement for recreational anglers.
The endorsement was established by Senate Bill 420, which was signed into law by Gov. Brian Kemp on May 11, 2026. The proposed amendments to Rules 391-2-4-.16 and 391-2-4-.17 would establish requirements for the endorsement and provide a framework for recreational angler reporting.
The endorsement is intended to improve information about recreational fishing for offshore reef and migratory species. Existing federal-state surveys provide useful estimates for many inshore fisheries, but CRD says they are less precise for species primarily targeted in federal waters. By identifying anglers participating in these fisheries and supporting direct trip-level reporting, the endorsement is intended to provide more accurate and timely information for fisheries management.
Beginning Jan. 1, 2027, the annual endorsement will cost $10 annually for Georgia residents and $20 for nonresidents. Lifetime sportsman license holders, honorary and discounted license holders, and paralyzed or disabled license holders will not pay the endorsement fee, but will still be required to obtain the endorsement and a Saltwater Information Program permit annually.
The endorsement would be required for licensed recreational anglers landing any of the following species in Georgia, regardless of the jurisdiction where they were caught:
- Amberjack
- Black sea bass
- Cobia
- Dolphin (mahi-mahi)
- Gag grouper
- King mackerel
- Red porgy
- Red snapper
- Spanish mackerel
The proposed rules also establish electronic reporting requirements for endorsement holders. CRD plans to implement mandatory reporting in 2028. Once implemented, anglers would submit reports through a digital application provided by DNR within 24 hours of completing a trip, similar to reporting when harvesting deer or turkey.
The amendments would also update existing reporting requirements for licensed saltwater fishing guides and fishing pier operators. Guides would submit activity records weekly by the following Tuesday, while pier operators would submit records monthly by the 10th day of the following month.
Public comment
Written comments on the proposed amendments will be accepted through Friday, Oct. 30, 2026. Mailed comments must be postmarked by Oct. 30, and emailed comments must be received by 4:30 p.m. that day. Comments should be legible, concise and limited to the proposed rule changes.
Comments may be submitted to:
Julie Califf
Coastal Resources Division
One Conservation Way
Brunswick, GA 31520
Email: julie.califf@dnr.ga.gov
Following the public comment period, the Board of Natural Resources is scheduled to consider the proposed amendments and public comments at its Dec. 1, 2026, meeting at Lake Blackshear Resort in Cordele.
