Recreational Saltwater Fishing

Recreational saltwater fishing on Georgia’s coast is an exciting and rewarding activity for anglers of all skill levels. With over 100 miles of pristine coastline, barrier islands, and estuaries, Georgia offers diverse fishing opportunities. Cast a line for prized species like redfish, trout, flounder, or tarpon while enjoying stunning coastal scenery. Whether you’re fishing from a pier, a kayak, or a charter boat, each trip promises adventure and the thrill of the catch. Beyond the fishing, it’s a chance to connect with nature, relax, and create lasting memories with family and friends. Georgia’s coast truly has something for everyone!

Find a Boat Ramp

Find a Fishing Pier

Find an Artificial Reef

ADA Accessible Fishing

Saltwater Fishing Resources

Saltwater Species Profiles

Georgia's waters are home to a variety of species of fish. Learn about some of the most common fish you'll see in Georgia and other information.

• View species profiles
• Marine Fishes of Georgia website

Marine Fishery Management 101

Georgia's fisheries benefit from the collaboration of Coastal Resources Division, the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, and the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council. Together, these three agencies balance conservation and fishing opportunities through habitat restoration, regulations, and science-based policies, ensuring sustainable fish populations and thriving ecosystems.

• Learn how these agencies work together

Angler Citizen Science Opportunities

The Cooperative Angler Tagging Project collects data about fish species across Georgia's Coast. Since 1988, anglers have tagged more than 14,000 fish. Some of the fish that have been tagged are black drum, sheepshead, spotted seatrout, red drum, tripletail, and tarpon. The information from tagged fish yields life history data including growth, movement, and habitat preference. Additionally, anglers are encouraged to donate their fileted fish carcasses as one of 17 freezer chests across the coast so CRD biologists can gather similar data.

• Report a tagged fish or learn about the Cooperative Angler Tagging Program
• Find a carcass donation freezer or learn about the Carcass Recovery Project

Data Collection and Surveys

Coastal Resources Division conducts a variety of fisheries dependent and independent surveys to gather data about the health of Georgia's saltwater species. Some are done with the assistance of the public, and others are done by marine biologists in the field.

• Learn about CRD's surveys

Coastal Georgia Fishing Maps, Regulation Decals, and Measuring Decals

The Coastal Resources Division and the University of Georgia Marine Extension and Sea Grant produce digital and hard copy fishing maps for Georgia’s six coastal counties, offering guides to recreational saltwater fishing and inshore fishing spots. CRD also provide screen-printed, vinyl fish-measuring and regulation decals, ideal for outdoor use on boats and coolers. Available at bait shops, sporting goods stores, and DNR offices, the decals can also be ordered by mail.

• View the digital fishing maps online
• Order hard copy maps or decals

More about Saltwater Fishing

The links below provide additional valuable information about federal and interstate fishery management, necessary federal permits for fishing for certain species 3-200 nautical miles offshore, and inshore fishing state fishing regulations, which apply up to three nautical miles offshore. The "Fish Rules" website and mobile app can also be used to find applicable regulations for your area and target species.

Other Saltwater Fishing Topics

There are many more aspects to saltwater fishing. Use the links below to learn more about different subjects or find additional information.

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