What Georgia Fishing Licenses Cost

A Georgia resident fishing license costs $24 for a one-year license. A three-year resident license is $60. A one-day license is $7. Non-residents pay $40 for a one-year license, $110 for a three-year license, and $15 for a one-day license.

These prices cover freshwater fishing in Georgia's lakes, rivers, and streams. If you want to fish in saltwater (coastal areas), you need a separate saltwater license. A resident saltwater license is $17 for one year or $42 for three years. Non-residents pay $27 for one year or $70 for three years.

You can also buy a combination license that covers both freshwater and saltwater fishing. A resident combination license is $39 for one year or $99 for three years. Non-residents pay $60 for one year or $160 for three years. Prices are set by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and can change, so check the official website before you buy.

Key Takeaways

  • A Georgia resident freshwater fishing license costs $24 for one year, $60 for three years, or $7 for one day.
  • Non-residents pay $40 for one year, $110 for three years, or $15 for one day of freshwater fishing.
  • Saltwater licenses are separate and cost less than freshwater licenses for both residents and non-residents.
  • A combination license that covers both freshwater and saltwater fishing is available at a higher price than either license alone.
  • You can buy licenses online through the Georgia Department of Natural Resources website, at sporting goods stores, or at license agents throughout the state.

Who Needs a License in Georgia

Anyone age 16 and older who fishes in Georgia must have a valid license. This applies whether you fish from shore, a boat, or a dock. The only exceptions are on designated free fishing days, which Georgia offers a few times each year—usually in June and September. On those days, anyone can fish without a license.

Children under 16 do not need a license to fish. However, if a child is fishing with an adult, the adult must have a valid license. Some fishing tournaments and youth programs have their own rules, so check before you go.

Where to Buy a Georgia Fishing License

You can buy a Georgia fishing license online through the Georgia Department of Natural Resources website. Online purchases are when ready—you receive your license by email and can print it or show it on your phone. This is the fastest option if you need to fish soon.

You can also buy licenses in person at sporting goods stores like Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's, at Walmart, and at hundreds of local bait and tackle shops across Georgia. Many county tax commissioner offices and wildlife resource offices sell licenses too. Call ahead to confirm hours and availability.

License agents are scattered throughout the state and can sell you a license on the spot. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources website has a searchable map of agents near you. Buying in person takes a few minutes and you walk out with your license printed.

What Your License Covers

A freshwater license lets you fish in Georgia's lakes, rivers, creeks, and ponds. This includes reservoirs like Lake Lanier, Lake Oconee, and Clarks Hill Lake. You can fish for bass, catfish, crappie, bream, and other freshwater species. The license does not limit how many fish you can catch, but Georgia has daily catch limits for certain species—check the current fishing regulations before you go.

A saltwater license covers fishing in Georgia's coastal waters and estuaries. This includes the Atlantic Ocean and sounds near Savannah, St. Simons Island, and other coastal areas. Saltwater regulations are different from freshwater, including different catch limits and closed seasons for certain fish.

Your license is valid only in Georgia. If you plan to fish in another state, you will need that state's license. Some states offer reciprocal agreements, but Georgia does not, so each state requires its own license.

How Long Your License Lasts

A one-year license runs from the date you buy it for 12 months. A three-year license runs for three years from the purchase date. A one-day license is valid for one calendar day only—if you buy it on a Friday, it expires at midnight that day.

Your license expiration date is printed on the license itself. You can also check your license status online through the Georgia Department of Natural Resources website if you bought it there. Fishing with an expired license is illegal and can result in a fine.

Discounts and Special Licenses

Georgia offers a disabled resident license for $5 per year. You must have a disability certification from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources to purchase this license. Contact your local wildlife resource office to learn what documentation you need.

Military members on active duty can buy a resident license at the resident price, even if they are stationed in Georgia but not residents. You will need to show military ID. Veterans may also be may be able to access for discounts—check with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources for current veteran programs.

Seniors age 65 and older pay the same price as other residents, but Georgia occasionally offers free fishing days specifically for seniors. Watch the Georgia Department of Natural Resources website for announcements of these events.

What Happens If You Fish Without a License

Fishing without a valid license in Georgia is a violation of state law. A first offense can result in a fine of $25 to $100, plus court costs. A second offense within five years carries a fine of $100 to $250. A third or subsequent offense can result in a fine of $250 to $500 and possible jail time.

A game warden can stop you while you are fishing and ask to see your license. Always carry your license with you—either printed or on your phone. If you cannot show a valid license, you may be cited on the spot. The fine is not worth the risk, and a license is inexpensive compared to the penalty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish on free fishing days without a license?

Yes. Georgia designates a few free fishing days each year when anyone can fish without a license. These days are usually in June and September, but dates change annually. Check the Georgia Department of Natural Resources website for the current year's free fishing days.

Do I need a separate license for each type of fish?

No. One freshwater license covers all freshwater fish species in Georgia. One saltwater license covers all saltwater species. A combination license covers both. You do not need separate licenses for bass, catfish, or other individual species.

Can I buy a license for someone else as a gift?

Yes. You can buy a license online or in person and give it to someone else. If you buy online, you can have the license sent to their email address. In person, you can buy a license and hand it to them. The person fishing must carry the license with them.

What if I lose my license?

If you bought your license online, you can print another copy from your email or read it again from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources website. If you bought it in person and lost the paper copy, contact the license agent or the Georgia Department of Natural Resources to request a replacement. There may be a small fee for a duplicate.

Do I need a license to fish on private property?

Yes. You need a Georgia fishing license to fish anywhere in the state, including private ponds and lakes on private property. The only exception is on designated free fishing days. Permission from the property owner is separate from the license requirement.