'TRIPER FISHING ON LAKE LANIER - PAST, PRESENT, FUTURE
A WRD Fisheries Management Update on the Popular Sport Fish
(August 2, 2007) - Annual striped bass stockings over the past few decades have helped sustain Lake Lanier as a significant striper fishery. In fact, striped bass fishing ranks second to black bass fishing (specifically, spotted and largemouth bass) in popularity by Lake Lanier anglers. Since the 1970s, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division (WRD) has monitored the striper population in this popular Georgia reservoir and has pinpointed both the key factors affecting striper survival and the important management techniques necessary for maintaining Lanier's flourishing striper fishery.
The initial periodic WRD striper stockings in the 1970s established Lake Lanier as a striper angler's destination. However, by the 1990s, anglers experienced a decline in striper catches and attributed the cause to over harvesting and high summer mortality rates. In response to angler concern, WRD conducted various tagging studies (1997 and 2005) and a summer creel survey (2000) to measure the impact of anglers on the Lake Lanier fishery. Specific tagging objectives were to determine annual survival, harvest rates and catch-and-release mortality (CRM) rates.
During the same time, WRD fisheries personnel also documented the declining numbers of striped bass in the reservoir. As a result, sampling showed the decline was likely caused by poor survival of fingerlings stocked in four of six years between 1992 and 1997. (Anglers should note: A number of factors, including time of stocking, shad/herring spawning success, fingerling size, fish predation and reservoir conditions can affect survival of stocked fish.)
WRD's tagging study results determined that the striper population was not being over-fished. The study indicated that 30-40 percent of stripers die of natural causes (diseases/water quality stressors) each year, and that 50 percent of the population generally survives and is replenished each year by stocked fish that grow into the adult population.
Based on these studies, more restrictive harvest regulations than the current daily creel (15 fish, only two of which can be greater than 22 inches) would have little effect on saving more fish and increasing future angler catches of larger stripers. These studies also reveal that stocking success is the major factor influencing Lanier striper fishing success - improved survival of fingerlings to age 1 (approximately 12-inches) would be responsible for 70-90 percent of any improvements in angler catches. Therefore, the suggestion of more restrictive fishing regulations would also fail to address the main factor influencing striper survival - stocking success.
WRD has focused on three management objectives since 2000 as the primary means of increasing the survival of stocked fingerlings. As the first objective, fisheries personnel strive to produce a quality size fingerling - 1-inch - that can take advantage of the shad and herring spawns. Second, fisheries personnel will likely recommend increased stocking densities in times of declining striper abundance. Third, WRD is currently in the fourth year of an experiment to scatter fingerlings across the lake by stocking at nine or ten boat ramps instead of the traditional two to four. So far, the results are positive - WRD has seen more striped bass produced from these experimental stockings. The increase in survival rates of stocked fingerlings should result in a more stable striper population and in turn, more successful fishing trips for anglers.
Despite the implementation of these three management techniques, the Lanier striper fishery will still continue to depend on three main factors: 1) the presence of cool water habitat, 2) survival of stocked fingerlings, and 3) the desire of Lanier anglers, both the trophy-seekers and the meal providers. Currently the lake provides opportunities for both groups of striper anglers while still being nationally known as a top black bass lake. So, grab a kid and test out Lake Lanier's striper fishery - what better way to introduce a child or older newbie to the world of fishing than experiencing the thrill of fighting and landing a 10-lb. striper? For more information on striped bass fishing or other fishing opportunities near you, visit www.gofishgeorgia.com or contact the nearest WRD Fisheries Management Office.
2007 FISHING PROSPECTS:
31 GEORGIA RESERVOIRS AND 18 GEORGIA RIVERS DETAILED
You can wear your lucky hat and bring your lucky rod, but if you want to make the most of your next fishing trip what you really need is great advice. Your best bet? The 2007 Georgia Fishing Prospects.
Recently released by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Wildlife Resources Division (WRD), these two guidebooks, detailing the State's 31 reservoirs and 18 rivers, offer fishing tips, trends and specific species location information. The free guides, entitled 2007 Georgia Reservoir Fishing Prospects and 2007 Georgia River Fishing Prospects, are available online at www.gofishgeorgia or in print at any WRD Fisheries Management office.
Georgia waters offer anglers some of the most diverse fishing opportunities in the Southeast with more than 500,000 acres of reservoirs and 12,000 miles of warm water streams.
Outlook information for each Georgia reservoir and river is compiled annually by WRD Fisheries Biologists and is based on sampling efforts, knowledge of past fishing trends, fishing experiences and angler and marina owner information.
Lakes detailed in the 2007 Georgia Reservoir Fishing Prospects guide include: Allatoona, Andrews, Bartlett's Ferry, Blackshear, Blue Ridge, Burton, Carters, Chatuge, Chehaw, Clarks Hill, Goat Rock, Hamburg, Hartwell, High Falls, Jackson, Juliette, Lanier, Nottely, Oconee, Oliver, Rabun, Randy Poynter, Richard B. Russell, Seminole, Sinclair, Tobesofkee, Tugalo, Varner, Walter F. George, Weiss and West Point.
Rivers detailed in the 2007 Georgia River Fishing Prospects guide include the Altamaha, Chattahoochee, Chattooga, Conasauga, Coosa, Coosawattee, Etowah, Flint, Ochlockonee, Ocmulgee, Oconee, Ogeechee, Oostanaula, Satilla, Savannah, St. Marys, Suwannee and Toccoa rivers.
The information collected during the guide creation process doubles as both a helpful resource for Georgia anglers and as useful management information for WRD Fisheries staff when determining recruitment, growth, condition, sizes, abundance and mortality of important game fishes.
For more information on fishing opportunities or to print a copy of the 2007 prospects, visit www.gofishgeorgia.
Take Me Fishing! * A recent national survey indicated that 87 percent of Americans believe fishing and boating have a positive effect on family relationships. So take your family fishing and you will always have something in common.
ANGLERS CAN BE RECOGNIZED FOR RECORD CATCHES!
Anglers in Georgia not only have a fabulous state to fish in, they also have an opportunity to be recognized for the catches they make, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division (WRD). Anglers who catch new state records (fish whose weight exceeds the previous record by one ounce) or those who catch a fish that meets or beats a specific weight limit for that species (angler award) are eligible for recognition.
Information about angler awards and state record fish can be found on the WRD website at www.gofishgeorgia.com or in the Georgia Sport Fishing Regulations Guidebook available at all WRD offices and all license agents.
Fish must be caught in Georgia during the legal angling season for the species taken in accordance with all fishing laws and regulations. Fish must be caught on sporting tackle and be hooked and landed by the entrant (bush hooks, trot lines, jugs, baskets, nets, etc. are not considered sporting tackle). In order for a catch to be recognized, anglers should follow these steps:
-- Do not clean or freeze the fish
-- Keep the fish cool, preferably on ice.
-- Weigh the fish as soon as possible on scales certified accurate to the nearest ounce by the Georgia Department of Agriculture in the presence of two witnesses who are over the age of 18 (witnesses must provide names/addresses and telephone numbers and may not be members of the anglers immediate family). Scales that meet these requirements typically are found at grocery stores, WRD offices, some marinas, etc.
-- Take the fish to a WRD Fisheries Management Office as soon as possible and have it positively identified by a WRD Fisheries Biologist or Technician.
-- Complete an application and submit with a clear side view photo of the whole fish. State record applications must be received within 90 days of the catch. Angler award applications must be received by Jan. 15 for fish caught in the previous year.
For more information about fishing opportunities in Georgia, visit the WRD website at www.gofishgeorgia.com or call a WRD Fisheries Management Office.
GREAT FALL WEATHER MEANS GREAT GEORGIA TROUT FISHING
Georgia is home to more than 4,000 miles of trout streams and three species of trout. Trout streams are designated as seasonal, year-round or delayed harvest and different streams offer varying populations of rainbow, brown and brook trout.
Seasonal streams are open from the last Saturday in March through Oct. 31, year-round streams are open all year and delayed harvest streams have special regulations from Nov. 1 - May 14. All these streams can provide excellent fishing opportunities as fall settles over the state, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division (WRD).
"Many anglers can think of no better way to spend a crisp fall day than by fishing a trout stream amidst the beautiful foliage and cool waters," says WRD Assistant Chief of Fisheries John Biagi. "We are fortunate that Georgia has so many varying opportunities available to trout anglers - no matter if you are an amateur or experienced - you can find a trout stream to suit you."
Listed below are some Georgia trout stream highlights:
Blue Ridge Tailwater: This tailwater is actually a stretch of the Toccoa River located downstream of Blue Ridge Lake in Fannin County and is considered by many in trout fishing circles to be both blue-ribbon trout fishing and Georgia's best kept secret. Anglers will find good numbers of both rainbow and brown trout, with an occasional trophy-sized fish caught. Most anglers prefer to float from shoal to shoal and then get out and wade to fish. Ultralight spinning gear and small spinners, such as rooster tails and panther martins, are best bets. Anglers should keep safety in mind - high water and strong currents can occur when the dam's turbines are on. Keep a close eye on the water level and seek higher ground immediately if it starts to rise.
Noontootla Creek Watershed: This watershed offers some high quality year-round fishing for wild brown and rainbow trout, with many of its tributaries offering a chance at a wild brook trout (a real plus since most other brook trout waters are closed to fishing after Oct. 31). Both Noontootla and its tributaries are managed under an artificial lure only regulation and have a 16" minimum size limit in order to "recycle" the 8"-12" trout that make up most of the population.
Dukes Creek: This stream, located on the Smithgall Woods-Dukes Creek Conservation Area offers year-round trout fishing by reservation (706-878-3087). All fish caught here must be released immediately and anglers must use artificial lures only with barbless hooks. The stream offers a great chance at a trout over 20 inches, so bring your camera for a quick shot before release. Best time to fish is after a rain discolors the water.
Some additional notable year-round trout streams include the Conasauga River, Tallulah River, West Fork Chattooga River and the Chattahoochee River downstream from Lake Lanier.
The best fall trout fishing can be found in Georgia's delayed harvest streams! A lot of trout, including some big fish can be caught thanks to the monthly trout stockings coupled with catch-and-release regulations. These streams offer a great chance for beginner anglers to catch a trout because of the strictly enforced no harvest regulations. WRD Law Enforcement conservation rangers have been tremendously diligent in ensuring plenty of fish remain in these streams for all anglers to enjoy.
The five trout streams managed under delayed harvest regulations are: Amicalola Creek on the Dawson Forest Wildlife Management Area (from Steele Bridge Road downstream to Georgia Highway 53), Smith Creek at Unicoi State Park, the Chattahoochee River in Atlanta (between Sope Creek - off Columns Drive - and U.S. Highway 41), a portion of the Toccoa River (off Aska Road in Fannin County from Shallowford Bridge upstream to the US Forest Service's Sandy Bottoms canoe access) and a portion of the Chattooga River (from Ga. Hwy. 28 upstream to the mouth of Reed Creek) on U. S. Forest Service land bordering South Carolina. Anglers may use only artificial lures with single hooks.
Download your free Georgia trout stream map and other trout fishing tips from the WRD website, www.gofishgeorgia.com or call 770-535-5498 for trout fishing information.
KITE TUBES WITHDRAWN FROM MARKET AFTER REPORTS OF DEATHS AND INJURIES
Kite Tubes Banned on all Corps of Engineers Lakes in Georgia
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Sportsstuff, Inc., of Omaha, Nebraska is voluntarily recalling about 19,000 Wego Kite Tubes. Additionally, the use of kite tubes are banned from all Corps of Engineers lakes in Georgia - this includes Allatoona, Lanier, Walter F. George, Carters, West Point, Seminole, Hartwell and Richard B. Russell.
Kite tubing is a new form of extreme water sport. The kite tube has a fabric floor that a rider holds onto while being towed behind a boat. The front of the tube lifts out of the water as the boat excels -sometimes to extremely dangerous heights. Often the kite tube will come back down at a rapid rate of speed, either hurling the rider off of it or slamming into the water with the rider on board. CPSC staff is aware of 39 injury incidents with 29 of those resulting in medical treatment. Those injuries include a broken neck, punctured lung, chest and back injuries and facial injuries. One serious injury has been reported in Georgia at Lake Lanier.
Consumers who need recall information regarding the Wego Kite Tube by Sportsstuff should contact Sportsstuff at (866) 831-5524 or at www.sportsstuff.com . For more information about the ban of kite tubing on Corps of Engineers lakes, call (251) 690-2506 or (251) 690-2512.
NEW STATE RECORD FLATHEAD CATFISH!
WAYCROSS, Ga. -- Carl Sawyer of Screven (Wayne County) had more than just a great day of fishing on the Altamaha River on June 22, 2006. He caught a new state record flathead catfish.
The big fish weighed 83 lbs. 0 oz., and was 54 inches long, surpassing the old state record for a flathead catfish of 67 lbs. 8 oz. also caught on the Altamaha River in 2000.
"As Carl Sawyer can tell you, it's nice when you catch the 'big one' that you actually have the evidence to back it up," said Georgia Wildlife Resources Division Fisheries Management Chief Chuck Coomer. "We hope that the recognition of this new state record will inspire experienced and novice anglers to get out and fish at any one of Georgia's numerous lakes and rivers. You might not catch a new state record, but odds are you will still have a great day of fishing and enjoying the tremendous natural resources of this State."
Flathead catfish (Pylodictis olivaris), also known as appaloosa cats, are one of several types of catfish found in Georgia. The list also includes channel catfish, blue catfish, white catfish and yellow and brown bullheads.
Flathead catfish, as one might expect, have a head that appears "flattened," they are a yellowish color mottled with brown and green and their lower jaw extends beyond the upper jaw. They have an unforked tail and very small eyes and as with other catfish species, they also can be identified by their lack of scales and the "cat-like" barbels on their mouths that look like cat whiskers.
They can reach weights up to 100 lbs., although less than 30 lbs. is typical for Georgia. They like deep, murky pools with some current and rocky, rubble-bottom areas with holes. The best bet for catching a flathead is by using live bait, such as minnows, chubs, crayfish or sunfish.
Information about state record fish can be found on the WRD website at www.gofishgeorgia.com or in the Sport Fishing Regulations Guidebook available at all WRD offices and all license agents. In order for a catch to be recognized as a state record, anglers should follow these steps:
ﾷ Do not clean or freeze the fish
ﾷ Keep the fish cool, preferably on ice.
ﾷ Weigh the fish as soon as possible on scales certified accurate to the nearest ounce by the Georgia Department of Agriculture in the presence of two witnesses who are over the age of 18 (witnesses must provide names/addresses and telephone numbers and may not be members of the anglers immediate family).
ﾷ Take the fish to a WRD Fisheries Management Office as soon as possible and have it positively identified by a WRD Fisheries Biologist or Technician.
ﾷ Complete an application and submit with a clear side view photo of the whole fish within 90 days of the catch.
Make plans now for your fishing trip, and don't forget to introduce someone new to fishing! For more information about fishing opportunities in Georgia, visit the WRD website at www.gofishgeorgia.com or call a WRD Fisheries Management Office.
KID'S FISHING EVENTS - INTRODUCE YOUR CHILD TO A LIFETIME OF ENJOYMENT
Looking for a way to spend more time with your child or grandchild? Introduce them to fishing. Research shows that most people are introduced to fishing by a family member, and most consider a family member to be their best fishing friend. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division (WRD) encourages adults, especially those with little or no angling experience, to introduce a child to fishing at one of the many statewide kid's fishing events (KFE) scheduled this spring.
"KFEs' are popular community activities that introduce both youth and their families to the joys of fishing and promote a better understanding of the natural environment," says WRD Chief of Fisheries Management Chuck Coomer. "These events provide an opportunity for youth to fish, often for the first time, with assistance from experienced volunteers and in places that the probability of catching a fish is high."
KFEs' are sponsored around the state and provide fishing instructions to both children (under age 16), and parents, from knowledgeable instructors. WRD co-sponsors most events by providing channel catfish and trout to improve fishing, educational materials for participants and guidance for sponsors.
"Lessons about life and the importance of nature often are learned and passed between generations while fishing. Fishing also provides that rare time when you and your child can relax and talk," says Coomer. "Children who are introduced to fishing today are more likely to continue fishing as adults. In fact, 85 percent of today's freshwater anglers began fishing before they turned 13. In contrast, only eight percent took up fishing as adults - so take them fishing, today!"
Take Me Fishing! * A recent national survey indicated that 87 percent of Americans believe fishing and boating have a positive effect on family relationships. So take your family fishing and you will always have something in common.
For more information on KFEs in Georgia - including how to host one, tips on fishing with children and a calendar listing events - visit www.gofishgeorgia.com .
YOU WANT THE BASS? GEORGIA HAS 'EM AND THE PLACES TO GO!
There are anglers that dream of reeling in a fish that exceeds the weight of the world record largemouth bass caught in Georgia in 1932 (22 lbs 4 oz). However, the largemouth bass is just one member-- albeit the most well-known-- of the black bass family which also includes shoal, spotted, redeye (also called Coosa), Suwannee and smallmouth, all of which can be found in Georgia.
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division (WRD) has put together the following information to make it easy to pursue your favorite bass species.
"Fishing for bass is an all-time favorite passion of many, many anglers in Georgia and is the most popular type of freshwater fishing in the nation," says WRD Assistant Chief of Fisheries Management John Biagi. "Bass are appealing because they are relatively abundant in most water bodies throughout Georgia, they grow to a quality size, are aggressive fighters and provide a fun challenge to catch."
At this time of year, post spawn bass are moving from the shallows to offshore areas to feed heavily on forage. Anglers should target offshore structures (trees, stumps, creek channels, rocks or man-made fish attractors) in 12-25 feet of water. Favorite lures for bass are crankbaits, Texas or Carolina-rigged plastic worms and live baits such as minnows and nightcrawlers.
WRD recommends the following prime bass fishing spots (many additional good locations also are available throughout the great fishing state of Georgia):
--Rocky Mountain Public Fishing Area (PFA)-- two lakes offer excellent bass fishing.
--Lake Hartwell - target primary and secondary points in coves for bigger fish.
--Lake Lanier - great lake for spotted bass that inhabit steeper, more rocky banks than largemouths.
--Lake Varner - reservoir lake with great largemouth bass fishing.
--McDuffie PFA - a great location to fish for bass and spend a fun day with the family.
--Flint River - highly recommended for shoal bass.
--West Point Lake - good largemouth bass fishing and increasing abundance of spotted bass.
--Big Lazer PFA - feels like a well-managed farm pond-great fishing without reservoir size crowds.
--High Falls Lake - Try Buck Creek when fishing for big bass.
--Lake Walter F. George - excellent numbers of largemouths that exceed 16 inches in length.
--Ocmulgee PFA - this new PFA (opened June 10) promises some memorable bass fishing.
TAKE YOUR FAMILY FISHING FOR BREAM
Many anglers will tell you that the first fish they ever caught was a bream--making it a good bet that if you teach someone to fish, that may be the first thing they catch. Not a bad thing, considering that members of the bream (sunfish) family are among the most widely distributed fish in Georgia. The bream family includes bluegills, redear sunfish (also called "shellcrackers") and redbreast sunfish.
"This time of year is a great time to try bream fishing because these species move into shallow water and become more active and easier to catch," say Georgia Wildlife Resources Division Chief of Fisheries Management Chuck Coomer. "They also put up a good fight and even better, they are good on the dinner plate."
Beginner bream anglers should start out with equipment that is simple and easy to use, such as light to medium rods with light spin-cast reels or medium size open-face spinning gear with 6-8 pound test line. Cane or fiberglass poles with small hooks (size 8-10), small split shot and a float also work well. Baits and lures to consider are small spinners, small 1/16 to 1/8 ounce jigs, beetle spins and live bait (crickets, meal worms and earth worms) fished under a small float.
For those who use fly rods, popping bugs, wet flies and small spinner-fly combinations are effective. One especially effective fly rod lure is a small (size 10) sponge rubber spider with rubber band legs. It is best to fish bait on the bottom for shellcrackers while bluegill prefer baits suspended off the bottom.
This time of year brings bream towards shallow waters (less than five feet deep) as they search for places to spawn. This includes the backs of major creeks, downstream end of sandbars, small coves and points off the main lake. Bream are attracted to natural shoreline cover (fallen trees, stumps, rocks and vegetation) and man-made cover (boat docks). Look for bream beds--plate-sized, bowl-shaped depressions in shallow water where adult fish will stay for extended periods of time.
Good bream fishing can be found throughout Georgia, including the following hot spots: Rocky Mountain Recreation and Public Fishing Area (PFA), Lake Russell, Lake Rabun, Buford Hatchery Kids Pond, Clarks Hill Lake, McDuffie PFA, Lake Oliver, Goat Rock Lake, Big Lazer PFA, Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center, High Falls Lake, Lake Juliette, Lake Jackson, Hamburg State Park, Lake Blackshear, Lake Seminole, Hugh Gillis PFA and the Satilla, St. Mary's, Altamaha and Ocmulgee rivers.
DECATUR COUNTY RESIDENT REELS IN NEW STATE RECORD BLUE CATFISH!
James Franklin Tyus of Brinson, GA, (Decatur County) had more than just a great day of fishing in the Chattahoochee River (below Columbia Lock and Dam) on April 1, 2006-- he managed to catch a new state record! Tyus reeled in a 67 lbs. 8 oz. 48-inch blue catfish, topping Ralph Barbee's old mark of a 62 lbs. fish caught on Clarks Hill Lake in 1979.
"James Tyus can tell an official tale of how he caught the big one--and its certified!" says Georgia Wildlife Resources Division Fisheries Management Chief Chuck Coomer. "We hope that the recognition of this new state record will inspire experienced and novice anglers to get out and fish at any one of Georgia's numerous lakes and rivers. You might not catch a new state record, but odds are you will still have a great day of fishing and enjoying the tremendous natural resources of this State."
Blue catfish (Ictalurus furcatus) are one of several types of catfish found in Georgia. The list also includes channel catfish, flathead catfish, white catfish and yellow and brown bullheads. Blue catfish are a silvery blue color and have a "humped" back, forked tail and small eyes. As with other catfish species, they also can be identified by their lack of scales and the "cat-like" barbels on their mouths that look like cat whiskers. They can reach weights over 100 lbs., although 1-20 lbs. is typical for Georgia. They like fast water in large rivers, reservoirs and tributaries.
Information about state record fish can be found on the WRD website at www.gofishgeorgia.com or in the Sport Fishing Regulations Guidebook available at all WRD offices and all license agents. In order for a catch to be recognized as a state record, anglers should follow these steps:
ﾷ Do not clean or freeze the fish
ﾷ Keep the fish cool, preferably on ice.
ﾷ Weigh the fish as soon as possible on scales certified accurate to the nearest ounce by the Georgia Department of Agriculture in the presence of two witnesses who are over the age of 18 (witnesses must provide names/addresses and telephone numbers and may not be members of the anglers immediate family).
ﾷ Take the fish to a WRD Fisheries Management Office as soon as possible and have it positively identified by a WRD Fisheries Biologist or Technician.
ﾷ Complete an application and submit with a clear side view photo of the whole fish within 90 days of the catch.
Make plans now for your fishing trip, and don't forget to introduce someone new to fishing! For more information about fishing opportunities in Georgia, visit the WRD website at www.gofishgeorgia.com or call a WRD Fisheries Management Office.
KNOW GEORGIA BOATING LAWS BEFORE HEADING OUT TO THE WATER
Quick boating safety quiz: Do you think it is okay to jump the wake of another boat when you are less than 100 feet away or use your personal watercraft to splash someone sitting on a dock? Guess what, it's not and in fact, both activities are illegal. If you thought otherwise, you should definitely make an effort to learn the boating "rules of the road."
Last year, there were 116 boating incidents and 16 boating-incident related fatalities, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division (WRD). Incidents can occur quickly, and the chance of one happening increase greatly if one or either boat operator is unfamiliar with or does not follow existing boating laws, or the "rules of the road," that govern lakes and rivers.
"Boat operators do not need a license to operate a boat and people over the age of 16 are not required by law to take a test to operate a vessel, " says WRD Lt. Col. Homer Bryson, Assistant Chief of Law Enforcement. "Therefore, it is extremely important for boat operators to take responsibility for educating themselves on boating safety and boating laws. Your efforts to learn boating laws could potentially save your life or the life of someone you know."
One of the most important "rules of the road" is the '100 foot law' which includes all boats, not just personal watercraft (such as Jet Skis or Sea Doos), and requires boat operators to slow to idle speed when they are within 100 feet of docks, piers, bridges, shorelines or people in the water. The 100-foot law states, "No person shall operate any vessel or tow a person or persons on water skis, an aquaplane, a surfboard, or any similar device on the waters of this state at a speed greater than idle speed within 100 feet of any vessel which is moored, anchored, or adrift outside normal traffic channels, or any wharf, dock, pier, piling, bridge structure or abutment, person in the water, or shoreline adjacent to a full-time or part-time residence, public park, public beach, public swimming area, marina, restaurant, or other public use area."
This means that it is illegal to jump the wake of another boat within 100 feet and to "buzz" other boats, vessels cannot operate around or within 100 feet of another vessel faster than idle speed unless it is overtaking or meeting the other vessel in compliance with the rules of the road for boat operation and makes it illegal for boat operators to follow closely behind another vessel, jump the wake of another vessel, or change or reverse their course of direction in order to ride or jump in the wake of another vessel.
"People who operate boats and personal watercraft at dangerously high speeds, and zip into and out of coves and along shorelines where other vessels are anchored or where people are in the water are not only putting themselves and others at risk for serious accidents, but they also are breaking the law," says Lt. Col. Bryson.
Other "rules of the road" for boat operation include:
--When meeting another vessel, boat operators should pass on the right side (just like in a car) unless the boats are far enough apart that they are not meeting head on or close to head on.
--On narrow rivers and streams, stay as far right as possible and be careful when rounding bends and curves and overtaking or passing other boats.
--In a crossing situation, the boat on the right should hold its course and the boat on the left should slow down and cross behind the other boat.
--Powerboats always should yield to sailboats.
NEW FISHING BOOK BY BILL VANDERFORD
Lake Lanier's acclaimed fishing expert, Bill Vanderford, has written The New Guide to Bank Fishing on Lake Lanier. The lake's most experienced guide gives the definitive answer to fishing success on the 38,000-acre reservoir. At $14.95, the book saves more than amount in fuel by pointing out Vanderford's favorite fishing holes and how to get to them.
There is also something extra: "My previous books have been about fishing from a boat," says Vanderford, "yet there was nothing to guide shore fisherman to the honey holes. This book addresses that need."
The book is available at select fishing supply stores in the Lake Lanier area.
Autographed copies of this first edition are available for an additional $5.00.
Go to www.fishinglanier.com for orders or more information.
A professional fishing guide on Lake Lanier for over 35 years, Vanderford has the oldest registered freshwater fishing guide service in the State of Georgia. He is also a prolific writer and an award-winning photographer, and is often invited to talk and teach about fishing, his favorite subject, across the country.
"I have fished all over the Southeast with Bill Vanderford for a number of different species and he always catches fish," notes Jimmy Jacobs, Editor, Georgia Sportsman Magazine. "When it comes to angling on Lake Lanier, his knowledge is unsurpassed."
Previous book titles by Bill Vanderford include The New Fishing Guide to Lake Lanier, Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Lake Lanier ... and More, and Secrets of Fishing Lake Lanier.
THE TIME IS RIGHT FOR WHITE BASS FISHING
Anglers wanting to target white bass should be hitting the water right now. Late February through early April is the ideal time to pursue this species as they begin making spawning runs up several Georgia rivers, including the Oconee, Apalachee, Coosa and Chattahoochee (near Franklin).
"Fishing for white bass during the spring spawning run is a great deal of fun and trips taken during that time will likely turn into fond memories," says WRD Fisheries Chief Chuck Coomer. "The good news is that even if the white bass action slows, don't fret because the white bass' bigger cousins - stripers and hybrids also are out there waiting to be caught."
White bass are a silvery colored fish with several faint horizontal stripes on the sides. They are found in large streams, rivers and lakes and travel in schools. The current state record, caught on Lake Lanier in 1971, weighed 5 lbs. 1 oz., but typical weights are 1/2 - 2 lbs.
WRD personnel recommends the following lures for white bass fishing; white, chartreuse or shad patterned jigs with small to medium size heads that can handle the current and not sink too fast; small crankbaits, curly tail grubs, rooster tails and Little George's. The best live bait is minnows, small shad and herring. Anglers should key in on creek mouths and fallen trees with good water flow around them in the main river. Sandy bars and banks also provide good white bass fishing.
Where to go:
--Coosa River: White bass congregate in the upper Coosa as they make their annual upstream spawning run from Lake Weiss. The area around Mayo's Bar Lock and Dam is a prime fishing spot and is perfect for the family as there also is a county park at this facility with bait, supplies, restrooms and camping. This area has a paved boat ramp and also is good for the bank angler. Good white bass fishing also can be found from the lock and dam down to the Georgia Hwy. 100 crossing.
--Oconee River: Anglers can find excellent access for this river at the Dyar's Pasture boat ramp and at SR 15 (Redlands) boat ramp, both in Greene County.
--Apalachee River: Angler can find good access to this river at the Swords boat ramp in Morgan County.
--Clarks Hill Lake: Fishing for white bass in the Little and Broad rivers of this lake is excellent at this time of year. Anglers can access the Little River (by boat or bank) at the Hwy. 78 crossing (note: fallen trees may limit boat access). At the Hwy. 80 crossing, there is good bank access on the Clarks Hill Wildlife Management Area (WMA). Access for the Broad River can be found at Broad River Campground, Gill Point Recreation Area, Cooter Creek and Bobby Brown State Park. Fish tend to congregate around Anthony Shoals located about two miles upstream of Hwy. 79 and anglers can fish by boat or bank (note: use caution boating upstream of Hwy. 79 as the river channel is narrow).
--Chattahoochee River: A hot spot on this river is in the upper reaches of West Point Reservoir near the town of Franklin. Anglers should target the mouth of New River and work their way up towards Franklin. As the flows and temperatures begin to rise, the fish move up the river towards the shoals above Franklin. Boat anglers can access this area by running upriver from West Point or put in at the boat ramp located on the west side of the river off SR 100 (U.S. Hwy. 27). There also is decent bank fishing access at this boat ramp.
EXCELLENT WALLEYE FISHING OPPORTUNITY IN NORTHEAST GEORGIA
Once water temperatures hit 50 degrees at Lakes Hartwell and Burton, the annual walleye pilgrimage from within these reservoirs to their headwaters begins. Mid-to-late March typically is the prime time to target this species.
"For the past five years, WRD has stocked walleye in these waters and anglers now can enjoy the fruits of those labors," says WRD Fisheries Biologist Anthony Rabern. "Hopefully, the last two weeks of March will provide the best conditions of the year for catching this particular species."
Walleye have a golden brown colored body with a white belly. They have large, glassy marble-like eyes and long, sharp teeth. The current state record, caught on Richard B. Russell Lake in 1995, weighed 11 lbs. 6 oz., but typical weights are 2-4 lbs.
During daylight hours walleye retreat to deep water downstream of the rocky, shallow areas where they will spawn, so WRD personnel recommends trolling Shad Raps or live nightcrawlers near the bottom. In the evenings this species moves upstream, so change to floating Rapalas or curly-tailed grubs to be most effective.
For anglers who happen to miss the spawning run of walleye, there is still good fishing to be found in April. At this time of year, anglers should try trolling Shad Raps and nightcrawlers in 10-feet of water in the upper reaches of lakes Rabun, Seed, Tugalo, Yonah and even Hartwell.
SPRING BRINGS THE OPENING OF TROUT SEASON
Trout anglers are eagerly anticipating the opening day of the 2006 Georgia trout season on Saturday, March 25th. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division (WRD) states that north Georgia streams will be well stocked prior to the season opener. Currently, trout hatcheries in the state are loaded with good-sized fish waiting to be stocked and from early March through Labor Day, WRD plans on stocking about 1.1 million trout for eager anglers.
"Fishing should be great if you are willing to make the short trip to north Georgia's trout streams and small lakes this year" says WRD Trout Stocking Coordinator Perry Thompson. "Growing trout for spring and summer stocking depends largely on the fall and winter weather. When it's cold, trout eat less and are slow to reach catchable size. When it's mild, like it has been this year, they grow faster, putting on that extra bit of weight that, come opening day, will make anglers glad they ventured out."
Trout fishing information is readily available. Anglers can view a copy of the current Georgia Sportfishing Regulations, a list of streams stocked, a northeast Georgia fishing guide and the award-winning "Trout Streams of Georgia" map, at the WRD website at www.gofishgeorgia.com . A hard copy of the regulations and the trout stream map are available at all WRD Fisheries Management offices and regulations also can be found at fishing license dealers.
Anglers must possess both a current Georgia fishing license and a trout license to fish in designated trout waters and to fish for or to possess trout. Licenses can be bought on-line, at many local sporting good dealers, or by calling 888-748-6887. On general regulation trout waters there is a daily limit of eight trout. Trout season runs from Saturday, March 25 through Tuesday, October 31, 2006 for seasonal trout waters, while many other waters will remain open year around. Anglers are reminded to respect private property rights along streams flowing through private lands, and to obtain permission before fishing on private property.
"For those looking for some beginner or kid-friendly streams to introduce someone to the sport of trout fishing, try Rock Creek next to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service trout hatchery near Suches, Wildcat Creek on Lake Burton Wildlife Management Area near Lake Burton Trout Hatchery, Dicks Creek on Chestatee Wildlife Management Area in Lumpkin County, the Chattahoochee River in Helen, Johns Creek near Armuchee, Holly Creek near Chatsworth or the Tallulah River west of Clayton," says Thompson. "These streams are well-stocked and will provide a great angling experience for someone new to the sport. In addition, Buford Dam Park and the Jones Bridge Area along the Chattahoochee River are close to downtown Atlanta and provide family-friendly angling opportunities."
For more trout fishing information, visit the WRD website, www.gofishgeorgia.com or call 706-947-3112.
2006 FISHING PROSPECTS: 31 GEORGIA RESERVOIRS AND 18 GEORGIA RIVERS
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division (WRD) recently updated two fishing prospect guides that not only help anglers find great fishing locations, but also provide great fishing tips for catching particular species from that body of water. These two guidebooks, 2006 Georgia Reservoir Fishing Prospects and 2006 Georgia River Fishing Prospects, contain the latest information on fishing 31 reservoirs and 18 rivers located in the state. These FREE guides are available online and in a hard copy version.
Anglers can find suggestions on where and how to catch fish in 31 Georgia lakes with the help of the 2006 Georgia Reservoir Fishing Prospects. This information is annually compiled by WRD Fisheries Biologists and is based on sampling efforts, knowledge of past fishing trends, fishing experiences and angler and marina owner information. Lakes detailed include Allatoona, Andrews, Bartlett's Ferry, Blackshear, Blue Ridge, Burton, Carters, Chatuge, Chehaw, Clarks Hill, Goat Rock, Hamburg, Hartwell, High Falls, Jackson, Juliette, Lanier, Nottely, Oconee, Oliver, Rabun, Randy Poynter, Richard B. Russell, Seminole, Sinclair, Tobesofkee, Tugalo, Varner, Walter F. George, Weiss and West Point.
There are over 12,000 miles of warmwater streams in Georgia that support some excellent and unique fishing opportunities. Anglers can find fishing outlooks for the Altamaha, Chattahoochee, Chattooga, Conasauga, Coosa, Coosawattee, Etowah, Flint, Ochlockonee, Ocmulgee, Oconee, Ogeechee, Oostanaula, Satilla, Savannah, St. Marys, Suwannee and Toccoa rivers in the 2006 Georgia River Fishing Prospects. The Conasauga River is a new addition to the guide this year. The information contained in the guide is based on annual sampling efforts conducted by WRD. Information collected allows fisheries staff to determine growth, sizes and abundance of important game fish.
These two free fishing publications are available at www.gofishgeorgia.com or from any WRD Fisheries Management Office.
Take Me Fishing! * A recent national survey indicated that 87 percent of Americans believe fishing and boating have a positive effect on family relationships. So take your family fishing and you will always have something in common.
THE INLAND BOATING CAPITAL OF THE WORLD
Boating might not be totally year-round in Atlanta but it's close. The motorboat crowd more or less docks from Labor Day through Memorial Day, primarily because even though the sun shines brightly the water isn't as warm and the spray and wind can get downright chilly. Sailors, on the other hand, might be out there in January and February even if ice falling from the rigging is tinkling on the deck. There's wind and no houseboats, runabouts or people on personal watercraft to watch out for.
Fishing is year-round no matter what the weather. Bass anglers can be seen zooming from cove to cove in the heat of summer or sitting over a submerged hump, swaddled in all the clothing their bodies can carry, while they jig for a big fish. Striped bass anglers love the cold weather, too. Nearby rivers and streams abound with fly fishermen chasing stocked trout, and there's no telling how many crappie anglers are out at night on one of the big lakes.
It's no wonder that Atlanta has been called the Inland Boating Capital of the World.
STRIPED BASS FISHING IN GEORGIA
Striped bass are ready to be caught by the angler that wants to step up to the challenge! Stripers of 5-15 pounds are what anglers most often will find during this time of year, with those weighing up to 30 pounds showing up on occasion, according to biologists with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division (WRD).
Striped bass typically have about seven heavy and distinct black stripes running the length of their body. Stripers prefer water temperatures of less than 75 degrees and tend to concentrate over river channels and around submerged islands where their favorite coolwater baitfish, the blueback herring, are abundant. WRD stocks stripers in reservoirs across the state for anglers
To catch a striper: WRD recommends medium to heavy 6-7 foot rods equipped with 12-17 pound test line. Common striper lures are 3/8-ounce white bucktail jigs, soft plastic jerk baits and large minnow-like lures. Casting to the shoreline or trolling these artificial lures can be very productive.
Fishing with live bait (4-6 inch minnows, shad and blueback herring), available at many local bait and tackle shops, is the most consistent producer for stripers. Fish live bait shallow, less than 10 feet, with a large bobber and no weight attached (free-lining) or fish vertically (down-lining) with a 1-ounce sinker weight at greater depths (10-30 feet). A large hook, size 2-4 is recommended, is best for fishing these large live baits and landing big stripers.
Where to go:
ﾷ Lake Lanier: The upper half of the reservoir and creek arms scattered around the entire lake are best bets for winter striper action. Creeks with stained (muddy) water on the north end of the lake are prime late winter hot spots for stripers, because they reach warmer temperatures sooner than clear water, which triggers feeding activity by stripers on shad and blueback herring.
ﾷ Clarks Hill Lake: This lake is annually stocked and has an abundant baitfish (threadfin shad, gizzard shad and blueback herring) population. One of the best locations is below the Richard B. Russell Dam, especially when power is being generated, allowing water to pass through the dam as this creates a current and stimulates a feeding response. Another good area to try is the Little River arm.
ﾷ Lake Richard B. Russell: While this lake was stocked for the first and only time in 2004 to try and create a trophy striped bass fishery, it does receive escapee fish from upstream reservoirs. In addition, it has a large baitfish population allowing stripers to feed and grow larger. The large creek arms, such as Beaverdam Creek, the upper reaches of the Savannah River and the deeper water around the dam should provide good spots for stripers at this time of year.
ﾷ Chattahoochee River: Fish below the Columbia Dam in Early County.
ﾷ Flint River: Try below Lake Worth near Albany and Lake Blackshear (Warwick Dam). Fish tend to be more active during hydroelectric operations are occurring.
For more information about striper fishing in Georgia, visit www.gofishgeorgia.com and if you go, don't forget to take a kid and a camera with you!
TROUT FISHING ON DELAYED HARVEST STREAMS
Delayed Harvest Regulations on Four Trout Streams Until May 14th
Let the thought of fishing in a trout stream lure you away from the office - there is an opportunity closer than you think! Georgia is home to more than 4,000 miles of trout streams and three species of trout!
Trout streams are designated as seasonal, year-round or delayed harvest and different streams offer varying populations of rainbow, brown and brook trout.
There are four delayed harvest streams in Georgia, with special regulations from Nov. 1 - May 14. All provide excellent fishing opportunities, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division (WRD).
The four trout streams managed under delayed harvest regulations are: Amicalola Creek on the Dawson Forest Wildlife Management Area (from Steele Bridge Road downstream to Georgia Highway 53), Smith Creek at Unicoi State Park, the Chattahoochee River in Atlanta (between Sope Creek - off Columns Drive - and U.S. Highway 41) and a portion of the Chattooga River (from Ga. Hwy. 28 upstream to the mouth of Reed Creek) on U. S. Forest Service land bordering South Carolina.
Download your free Georgia trout stream map and other trout fishing tips from the WRD website, www.gofishgeorgia.com or call 770-535-5498 for trout fishing information.
COOL WEATHER CREATES EXCELLENT CRAPPIE FISHING
Don't let the cool weather keep you home - take time to get out on the lake and fish for crappie, an excellent choice for this time of year. Crappie fishing is a great way to spend time with the whole family and provide a great meal at the end of the day.
Georgia is fortunate to have many areas across the state that offer fabulous crappie fishing opportunities - and right now is one of the best times to give it a try, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division (WRD).
Crappie tend to be found in deeper water, generally 15-30 feet, near the mouths of major tributaries and in the main lake during mid-February. As the water warms towards later February, fish will move to more shallow water and towards the middle and back of major tributaries.
Crappie prefer to congregate around woody cover, such as stumps, logs, downed trees, fish attractors (man-made structures placed in lakes) and creek ledges - so target these types of areas when fishing. Minnows and small jigs are a favored lure/bait, as is light spinning tackle spooled with 6 or 8 pound test line.
Some Georgia hot spots for crappie fishing include:
Northeast Georgia
ﾷ Lanier - the upper part of the reservoir, especially the Chattahoochee River arm;
ﾷ Hartwell - the upper part of the reservoir, especially Eastanollee Creek;
ﾷ Nottely - the upper half of the reservoir and around the man-made fish attractors.
East Central Georgia
ﾷ Clarks Hill Lake-Excellent fishing predicted for 2005, especially Soap, Fishing, Grays and Newford creeks, and the Little River arm;
ﾷ Lake Oconee - Beaverdam, Sandy, Rocky, Richland and Sugar creeks and the Appalachee River arm;
ﾷ Lake Russell - Rocky River, Beaverdam, Coldwater and Allen creeks;
ﾷ Lake Varner and Randy Poynter - Varner provides good numbers of crappie while Poynter provides the opportunity for larger crappie (depending on your preference);
ﾷ Lakes Blalock and J.W. Smith (Clayton County Recreation Authority) -Best bank fishing is near the boat ramps. Blalock offers good boat fishing near areas of standing timber and J.W. Smith offers good boat fishing around the Panhandle Road bridge, the overflow structure near the dam and the submerged pond and dam on the south side of the lake.
West Central Georgia
ﾷ West Point Lake - Concentrate around fish attractors in lake, and areas of deeper water.
ﾷ Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center - Fox Lake is most popular for crappie fishing as it has good deep water and flooded timber.
ﾷ Big Lazer Public Fishing Area - Best areas include the old river channel and around the plentiful standing timber. There also are several docks and earthen piers available for the bank angler, which provides good fishing access.
ﾷ Lake Sinclair - Beaverdam Creek provides some good opportunities for early spawning as it receives the warm water discharge from the steam plant. As temperatures warm, anglers should try fishing around the larger islands, such as Optimist, Budweiser and Goat. Bank anglers will want to concentrate on the riprap (rocks, or other items, placed along an embankment to prevent erosion of soil underneath) along Hwy. 441 at Little River, Beaverdam and Rooty Creek. In addition, the riprap found in the Twin Bridges area (with lots of parking) and Potato Cree |
