Enjoy Local Nature With Your Family

(StatePoint) Year round, more families are taking to the great outdoors for fun activities. Whether for economic reasons or a desire to unplug from the world of computers and video games, parents are increasingly turning to local parks, wildlife outings and outdoor sports.

While children are born with a curiosity about the natural world, more and more, digital media is absorbing young peoples' time, say experts. In fact, research from the Kaiser Family Foundation indicates kids are absorbing more than seven hours of media content daily.

"We need to capitalize on the latest digital trends to help us spark a curiosity among students in outdoor activities," says Mary Rollins, vice president of educational partnerships of Discovery Education.

Parents who want to encourage natural curiosity need to stimulate children's interest at an early age. Exploring nature can be done inexpensively and close to home.

Local Wonders

One of the great beauties of America is its geographical diversity: from mountains to lakes, deserts to waterfalls, and canyons to plains. State parks abound with diverse wonders and offer many activities for youngsters, such as boating, fishing and camping. You can search locations online at ExploreTheBlue.com, TakeMeFishing.org, or nps.gov.

"Parents and teachers need to stimulate children's natural interest in the outdoors and lead by example. Simply getting outside together to explore can inspire a new generation of boaters and anglers," says Frank Peterson, President and CEO of the Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation.

Actively Involve Kids

Once you get kids outdoors, here are some ways to stimulate curiosity:

* Let them lead. You may be tempted to lead explorations of the woods, but children are more likely to enjoy the outdoors if they have some say in their experience. Whether for exercise or quiet reflection, let them choose and develop their own relationship to nature. 

* Create maps. Have kids create a map of your outdoor excursion area and track where you go and what you see along the way to compare different habitats within an ecosystem.

* Enter contests together that encourage outdoor activities. For example, TakeMeFishing.org and Discovery Education have launched a digital program called "Explore the Blue" and an essay contest for elementary schoolchildren. Kids need to write a short essay describing their favorite fishing or boating experience and submit a picture or photo for a chance to win a family vacation to Yellowstone National Park and a $250 gift card. 

* Encourage kids to draw or write about what they see in a journal. Or create a scrapbook to categorize your adventures on land or water, and have children research their floral and animal spotting.

* Build boats. Create model boats using different materials, then test them out on the water for a fun activity that will teach the basics of buoyancy, water displacement, surface area and boat design.

For more information on the contest and ideas for fun outdoor activities for kids, visit ExploreTheBlue.com.

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Governor Signs Proclamation for 39th Annual National Hunting and Fishing Day

In celebration of the passion for the outdoors that you share with 64 million other Americans, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division encourages you to get out and participate in one of the many FREE celebrations that will be held in honor of the 2010 National Hunting and Fishing day.  Governor Sonny Perdue recently signed a proclamation in honor of the conservation efforts led by America’s hunters and anglers, recognizing Saturday, Sept. 25 as NHF Day in Georgia, noting the plans underway for a statewide celebration. 

Events that will be offered in Georgia include seven kids’ fishing events and five Outdoor Adventure Days (activities will differ at each event – but some highlights include archery and air rifle shooting, trout fishing, hunting dog demonstrations, wildlife programs, exhibits and more).  These events are spread out across the whole state – meaning that one is probably near you!

In addition to these events, a FREE fishing day is offered to all Georgia residents on Saturday, Sept. 25, 2010.  On this day, residents do NOT need a fishing license or a trout license to fish on any public waters in the state including lakes, streams, ponds and public fishing areas.  In addition, residents do not need to obtain a wildlife management area license to fish on a PFA, WMA or on Waters Creek on this day.  

And if you thought the day could not get better – it just did.  Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites are offering a FREE day on Sept. 25, 2010, which means no parking or admission fees. 

CHANCE TO WIN! As part of their partnership with National Hunting and Fishing Day, Yamaha Motor Corp., U.S.A. has donated an all-new 2011 Grizzly 450 with Electric Power Steering (EPS) that one lucky outdoorsman will win. The sweepstakes is being promoted at NHF Day events nationwide, and anyone can enter to win by simply registering online at www.yamahaoutdoors.com/nhfday through the end of November.

The U.S. Congress and President Richard Nixon established National Hunting and Fishing Day 39 years ago to recognize generations of hunters and anglers for the time and money – more than a billion dollars each year – they donate to wildlife conservation programs.  According to the proclamation signed by Governor Perdue, conserving the state’s natural and wildlife resources is one of the most important responsibilities for this and future generations, and the conservation programs supported and financed by Georgia hunters and anglers have benefited hundreds of wildlife species, including deer, wild turkeys, bald eagles and songbirds for all Georgians to enjoy.

For more information on NHF Day in Georgia – including a complete listing of all events, click here.   For more on NHF Day across the nation, visit www.nhfday.org .


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BOBBERTHON! Are You Registered Yet?

Your chance at guaranteed prizes awaits you! Even better, these prizes are a reward for fishing in a new regional fishing tournament – Bobberthon. 

Bobberthon is a tournament at which registered anglers have approximately two months to catch tagged bream in any of three public fishing area lakes. The angler then must register their tag. These first few steps guarantee a prize – but then even more prizes are available!

Quick Tournament Details

·         Registration: Interested anglers can register at any participating vendor (list found online at the Bobberthon website) beginning today. Registration is available through Sept. 11, 2010.

·         Fishing Locations: Once registered, anglers are instructed to fish at any of three local public fishing area lakes (Dodge County, Ocmulgee and Flat Creek) that have tagged bream.  

·         Tag Reporting: If an angler catches a tagged bream, they need to register the tag number by visiting any of the participating vendors (same vendors as registration) by Sept. 11, 2010.

·         Tournament Dates: Dates to catch a tagged bream are July 17th-Sept. 11, 2010. Anglers that catch and report a tagged bream during that time are guaranteed a prize. They then also are eligible to participate in the Grand Bobberthon Tournament on Sept. 25, 2010 (visit the website for more info on the Grand Bobberthon Tournament).

·         Prizes: Prizes could be anything from hats/t-shirts to larger prizes like cash or a boat. The Department of Economic Development and local community representatives are soliciting local and regional businesses for exciting prizes. Bobberthon committee representatives hope to be able to offer anything from hotel stays to restaurant gift cards to sporting equipment. As prizes are secured, they will be listed on the Bobberthon website.

The event is a collaborative effort between the Georgia Department of Natural Resources/Wildlife Resources Division, Georgia Department of Economic Development  and four local communities (Bleckley, Houston, Dodge and Pulaski).

For more information about Bobberthon, visit www.gofishgeorgia.com (click on Bobberthon link on home page) or call the Fisheries Management office at 478-825-6151.

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Family Benefits When you Participate in National Fishing and Boating Week

The Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation declare boating and fishing as unmatched leisure activities that help make a true connection with family, friends and the natural environment. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division encourages people of all ages to reconnect with their families during National Fishing and Boating Week, June 5-13, 2010.

“Outdoor recreation strengthens the family as a unit and children as individuals,” says WRD Chief of Fisheries Management John Biagi. “National Fishing and Boating Week is an opportunity to remind all outdoor enthusiasts to teach their children and others the importance of natural resource conservation while introducing them to an exciting activity that could last a lifetime.”

NFBW began in 1979 as National Fishing Week and was created to recognize the tradition of fishing, to broaden the spirit of togetherness and to share the values and knowledge of today’s anglers with tomorrow’s anglers.

In the spirit of introducing new family members or friends to the sport of angling, Georgia offers two free fishing days during NFBW – Saturday, June 5 and Saturday, June 12, 2010. On these days, Georgia residents do not need a fishing license or a trout license in order to fish. Residents can fish on any public waters in the state including lakes, streams, ponds and public fishing areas (PFA). Additionally, residents do not need to obtain a WMA license to fish on a PFA or on Waters Creek on these two free fishing days.

In addition to the two free fishing days, there are multiple kids fishing events scheduled across the state during the week to help introduce children to fishing. These events offer a healthy form of entertainment for kids and are an excellent opportunity for beginning anglers to experience the vast rewards of recreational fishing. KFEs are FREE, held statewide and have experienced volunteers on hand to help. Many events offer prizes, free lunches and other fun-filled activities – so make plans to attend a KFE 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 free fishing days, finding the nearest KFE or finding a place to fish, visit the WRD website at www.gofishgeorgia.com or call a WRD Fisheries Management Office.

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Fee Changes for Rocky Mountain Recreation and Public Fishing Area

Rocky Mountain Recreation and Public Fishing Area, located in northern Floyd County, is worth the drive if you have the time. This beautiful 5,000-acre area boasts two recreational lakes, camping opportunities, swimming areas and plenty of other outdoor activities.

The area is managed by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division and funded (operational) by the property owner Oglethorpe Power. Beginning June 1, 2010, visitors who frequent the recreation area and campground (tents and recreational vehicles) will see a change in fees.


Rocky Mountain Recreation and PFA has 36 developed recreational vehicle (RV) campsites that include grill, picnic table, 50 amp electrical hookup and a water hookup. There are nine wooded tent sites that include a picnic table, tent pad and grill. Fees are as follows:

·         Daily parking fee: $5/day (previously $3)
·         Annual parking permit: $30/year (no increase)
·         RV Campsites: $25/day (previously $20)
·         Double-site campsites: $50/day (previously $40)
·         Tent campsites: $12/day (previously $10).

A wildlife management area license is not required to fish at Rocky Mountain, but all vehicles parked on the area must have a valid parking permit, which are available at all entrances.

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Go Fish! Angling Opportunities Plentiful in Georgia

Spring is on the way, and as the weather warms and people begin venturing outside, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) encourages families to get outdoors and Go Fish!  Whether you are fishing for trout in the mountains, bass on a lake, or red drum on the coast, Georgia has a place for you.

“There are year-round fishing opportunities in Georgia,” said DNR Commissioner Chris Clark.  “And beyond that, fishing gives everyone a chance to participate, from kids trying for their first fish to the angler who wants a serious challenge.”

Opportunities for First-Time Anglers

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.  For adults who want to give children their first angling opportunity, consider joining other first-timers at a Kids Fishing Event.  Held throughout the state, these popular events provide instruction from knowledgeable professionals and are meant to make a child’s fishing experience fun.  To celebrate that first catch, be sure to print off a “My First Fish” certificate and frame it together with a photo.  Tips on taking children fishing, kids fishing events and the “First Fish” certificate can be found at www.gofishgeorgia.com (select “Fishing,” then “Kids Fishing”).

Know Where to Go

Looking for a place to Go Fish? Georgia’s ten public fishing areas are outstanding family-friendly examples, and there is one within an hour’s drive of all residents.  These areas are managed for fishing, with bass, catfish and bream the main species to target. Many of these areas also provide other activities, such as hiking trails, picnic areas, camping and more.  Visit www.gofishgeorgia.com and select “Fishing” and then “Public Fishing Areas.”

State Parks Offer Great Fishing Opportunities

Many of Georgia’s state parks also provide great fishing opportunities, and 25 of them even allow visitors to borrow fishing equipment as part of the Fishing Tackle Loaner Program.  Anglers and their families can also enjoy the parks’ nature trails, picnic areas, playgrounds and ranger programs.  For a relaxing getaway, state park visitors can stay overnight in rental cottages, hotel-style lodge rooms and cozy campgrounds.  Visit www.GeorgiaStateParks.org for more information.

Head to Georgia’s Coast for More Angling Opportunities

Saltwater fishing calling your name?  Be sure to check out angling information on red drum, sea trout, flounder and more at the Coastal Resources Division website - www.CoastalGaDNR.org. and click on Saltwater Recreational Fishing.  Also visit www.MarineFishesofGeorgia.org to learn more about saltwater fishes of Georgia.  Along the coast, state parks such as Crooked River and Skidaway Island offer affordable places to stay.

Fishing Prospects

Want to find out how the fishing is on a water body near you?  Experienced and beginner anglers will find helpful information in the annually updated Georgia Fishing Prospects.  These documents detail the “need-to-know-info” on more than 30 lakes and 18 rivers, including best bets and species specific techniques.

Catch one for the Record Books?

Anglers have two opportunities to receive recognition for great catches with the Angler Award Program and the State Record Program. Angler awards recognize those who catch a fish that meets or beats established weights (for kept fish) or length limits (for catch and release).  State records recognize those who catch a fish that beats a current state record.  For more information on these programs, visit www.gofishgeorgia.com and select “Fishing” and “Angler Resources.”

“Go Fish, Georgia” is the latest in a series of outdoor adventure tips from DNR Commissioner Clark that highlight affordable getaways, outdoor activities close to home, and creative ways to support conservation in Georgia.  The series is part of DNR’s “Get Outdoors, Georgia” initiative, which encourages citizens to lead healthy, active lifestyles in the great outdoors and includes hiking, biking and paddling clubs, as well as outdoor events.

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Fun Stuff in Florida

Celebrate Labor Day With a Road Trip to the Coast

Nothing says summer more than a road trip! And there's no better way to send summer packing than with a road trip to the coast for Labor Day. If you travel the Big Bend Scenic Byway on your journey, getting here is going to be half the fun!

There are two sections of the Big Bend Scenic Byway that wind through Franklin County - the Coastal Trail (U.S. Highway 98 along the coast) and the Forest Trail (State Road 65). Along each of these scenic highways, you will encounter dozens of parks, wildlife areas, museums and recreational opportunities. Click here to learn more about Franklin County's parks, museums and wildlife areas along the scenic byway.

Click Here to Learn About Labor Day and Late Summer Hotel and Vacation Rental Accommodation Specials

Lighthouse Day Shines Light on Two Historic Landmarks

Franklin County's two historic lighthouses will shine just a bit brighter this month as America pays tribute to these beacons of light during National Lighthouse Day August 7.

National Lighthouse day is celebrated across the US to commemorate a beacon of light that symbolizes safety and security for boats at sea.

Franklin County boasts two restored lighthouses. The first is located on St. George Island. The second, the Crooked River Lighthouse, is located at Carrabelle Beach. Each tells a tale of coastal living in Franklin County more than 100 years ago and each is a site worth visiting.

St. George Island. Today, the lighthouse of St. George Island is a welcome landmark to arriving visitors. In the 1800s, it stood in a different location near the east end of Cape St. George. To learn more about the St. George Island Lighthouse and Museum, visit www.seestgeorgeisland.com

Carrabelle Beach. The Crooked River Lighthouse overlooks St. George Sound where it has stood for more than 100 years. The Crooked River Lighthouse was constructed in 1895 to replace the lighthouse on Dog Island that was destroyed by hurricane in 1873. To learn more about the Crooked River Lighthouse, please visit www.crookedriverlighthouse.org

Franklin County Hosts Nationally Acclaimed Environmental Film Festival

Franklin County will host the nationally acclaimed Wild & Scenic Environmental Film Festival On Tour August 29 - September 5 in Carrabelle, Apalachicola, St. George Island, St. Teresa and neighboring Wewahitchka. Organized by the Apalachicola Riverkeeper Group, the week-long film festival will feature award-winning films and a children's program designed to raise awareness about environmental issues nationwide.

The films will be shown in the historic Dixie Theatre in Apalachicola, the Carrabelle City Auditorium, FSU's Coastal and Marine Laboratory in St. Teresa, the Volunteer Fire Department on St. George Island and the Tupelo Theater in Wewahitchka. more

Fall Fishing Getting Close

This fall features an Inshore Saltwater Fishing Tournament, Carrabelle's Annual Kingfish Shootout and the first Kayak Fishing Tournament on St. George Island. For more information on each tournament, visit the Apalachicola Bay Chamber, Carrabelle Chamber and the St. George Island Visitor Center. For area fishing information, visit www.anaturalescape.com

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Celebrate Fishing Week at Georgia State Parks

There's still time to enjoy the end of National Fishing Week in Georgia this weekend.


Kids from 3 to 103 are invited to explore Georgia’s great lakes, rivers and streams in celebration of National Fishing Week, June 6-13, at Georgia’s state parks. With more than a dozen fishing events planned in the week ahead, Georgia’s state parks offer an adventure for everyone – from children’s fishing rodeos to expert fly fishing classes.

No fishing gear? Some of Georgia’s state parks offer a fishing equipment loaner program for free. Georgians interested in angling in the parks can check out a pole, try their luck and return the equipment when finished. Check out www.GeorgiaStateParks.org for a list of participating parks.

Turn an exciting day of fishing into an overnight adventure under the stars. State park visitors can stay the night in a campsite, cottage, yurt, or hotel-style lodge. What better way to get away from computers and build memories that last a lifetime? Reservations can be made by calling 1-800-864-7275.

Free Fishing Days
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Victoria Bryant State Park - Royston, GA
No license is required for this special day of free fishing. $5 parking. 706-245-6270.

Senior Citizen Fishing Rodeo
Saturday, June 13, 2009
9 AM to 12 PM
James H. (Sloppy) Floyd State Park - Summerville, GA

Ladies and gentlemen 65 and older can enjoy using their skills to bring in the largest catfish. Bring your own bait. $5 parking. 706-857-0826.

Fishing and Boating Blast
Saturday, June 13, 2009
10 AM to 6 PM
Little Ocmulgee State Park and Lodge - McRae, GA

Kids can earn a GO Georgia Badge by participating in a canoe trip, fishing in the lake, identifying some water dwellers and being creative with some fishy crafts. Stay overnight in the park’s lodge. $5 parking. 229-868-7474.

Basic Fly Fishing Clinic
2nd Saturday of Month (June 13)
10 AM - 12 PM
Panola Mountain State Park - Stockbridge, GA

The two-hour clinic covers equipment, knot tying, casting, safety issues and other tricks of the trade. If time permits participants may stay to catch the "Fish of Fish." Instructors C. H. Brown and Michael Reilley suggest wearing long pants/shorts and hiking shoes, and bringing snacks, water and sun lotion. Georgia fishing license required. Register in advance. $7 - $10 plus $5 parking. 770-389-7801.

Kids Fishing Rodeo
Saturday, June 13, 2009
9 AM
Reed Bingham State Park - Adel, GA

Children 12 and younger can enjoy friendly competition to see who can catch the most or biggest fish. Meet at the Kiddie Ponds on the Cook County side of the park. Kids must bring their own tackle, but the park will furnish some bait. $5 parking. 229-896-3551.

Paddle and Cast at Buck Shoals State Park
Saturday, June 13, 2009
9 AM to 12 PM
Smithgall Woods Conservation Area and Lodge - Helen, GA

This is a rare opportunity to canoe and fish at Buck Shoals State Park because the park is not open to the public yet. Canoes, paddles and life jackets are provided. Bring your favorite fishing gear. No live bait allowed. Register in advance. 706-878-3087.

Kids Fishing Rodeo
Saturday, June 13, 2009
8 AM to 12 PM
Vogel State Park - Blairsville, GA

Join kids 12 and younger to fish our stocked trout stream. Prizes will be given to the lucky ticket holders, and families will enjoy watching children have a blast. $5 parking. 706-745-2628.

Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites is one of the top-rated state park systems in the country. With a diverse geographic topography, Georgia’s 63 state parks and historic sites offer adventures in northern mountains, midland swamplands, piedmont plains and along the beautiful Georgia coast.

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New Fishing Area Opens for the Public Near Perry, Georgia

Anglers’ high hopes for more fishing opportunities in Houston County become reality on Friday, June 5th as Governor Sonny Perdue and other state and local officials welcomed the first visitors to the grand opening of the Flat Creek Public Fishing Area (PFA) located near Perry. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division will manage the PFA and its amenities.

“Fishing is big business in Georgia,” said Governor Perdue. “Based on 18,000 annual fishing trips expected at Flat Creek PFA, the lake will generate about $645,000 annually in fishing-related expenditures, resulting in more than $1.3 million in economic activity each year. When other outdoor recreation such as bird and wildlife watching is considered, these numbers double.”

The grand opening of the PFA began with a dedication ceremony in front of the lake and speeches by such notables as Governor Perdue, Senator Ross Tolleson, Rep. Larry O’Neal, former House Majority Leader Larry Walker as well as local officials Perry Mayor Jim Worrall and Houston County Commission Chairman Ned Sanders.

Governor Perdue surprised former DNR Commissioner Lonice C. Barrett by announcing that the lake would be named for him as recognition of all that he has done for the natural resources of the state.

After the ceremony, the speakers moved to the boat ramp service pier and made a ceremonial “first cast” into the water. Anglers were able to head out on the water following the ceremony and test their luck on such species as largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish and redear sunfish.

“This PFA is within a thirty-minute drive of more than 250,000 citizens, many of whom participate in some type of wildlife-related recreation,” said Commissioner Chris Clark “This is the tenth PFA available in Georgia and, of course, will be of great economic value, but will also provide an opportunity for families to get together in a safe, outdoors environment and develop an appreciation of our wonderful natural resources in this part of the state.”

The area offers a 108-acre lake that will provide excellent fishing opportunities for both bank and boat anglers. Anglers 16 years of age or older must possess current and appropriate Georgia fishing licenses. Anglers may use up to two fishing poles and any size outboard motor may be used at idle speed.

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Trout-filled Mountain Streams a Winter Fishing Destination

The crisp, swift-flowing waters of north Georgia’s rivers and creeks offer an abundance of trout angling opportunities this winter.

Home to some of the southeast’s finest trout streams and three species of trout - rainbow, brown and brook trout - Georgia claims nearly 4,000 miles of streams, and more than half lie in the northern part of the state in the Chattahoochee National Forest.

Winter is a particularly attractive time of year for anglers to bravely wade the calm, cooler rapids thanks to delayed-harvest regulations. Delayed-harvest streams are regularly stocked and operate under a catch-and-release system, which lends to high catch rates for new and seasoned anglers alike.

“Trout fishing on a delayed harvest stream is a great way to introduce new anglers to the sport,” says John Biagi, chief of Fisheries Management for the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division. “Five streams within easy driving distance of many Georgians including Metro Atlanta are available right now.”

The Wildlife Resources Division recommends casting a line at any of the following five delayed harvest trout streams now through May 14: the Toccoa River located on U.S. Forest Service land upstream of Lake Blue Ridge in Fannin County (from 0.4 miles above Shallowford Bridge to 450 feet above the Sandy Bottom Canoe Access); 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 (Sope Creek, downstream of Johnson Ferry Road, downstream to the Hwy 41 bridge); and a portion of the Chattooga River (from Ga. Highway 28 upstream to the mouth of Reed Creek) on U.S. Forest Service land bordering South Carolina.

On the other hand, anglers anxious to tackle harvestable seasonal streams can prepare for opening day, March 28. Some popular seasonal streams include Cooper Creek in Union County, Wildcat Creek in Rabun County, Dicks Creek in Lumpkin County and Johns Creek in Floyd County.

But, with Georgia’s abundant trout fishing opportunities, including the many year-round streams open to fishing throughout the year, there is no need to wait and no catch-and-release restrictions.

For year-round opportunities, here’s where to go, what to bring and what to expect:

·Blue Ridge Tailwater: This tailwater actually is a stretch of the Toccoa River located downstream of Blue Ridge Lake in Fannin County, and in many trout fishing circles is considered 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. 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 return to boats immediately if levels begin 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 advantage 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-inch minimum size limit in order to ‘recycle’ the 8 to 12-inch 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 only use artificial lures with barbless hooks. The stream offers a chance at a trout greater than 20 inches, so bring a camera for a quick shot before release. The best time to fish is after a rain discolors the water.

·Chattahoochee River: For good trout fishing close to the metro Atlanta area, the Chattahoochee downstream of Buford Dam offers family-friendly and close-to-home, year-round fishing for stocked rainbow trout, brown trout and wild brown trout. Part of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, this location offers good bank, wading and boating access. Year-round harvest is legal from Buford Dam to Sope Creek. Best fishing is at low flow when the river is clear or slightly stained.

Some additional notable year-round trout streams include Holly Creek in Murray County, Tallulah River in Rabun County and Rock Creek in Fannin County.

Download a free Georgia trout stream map and other trout fishing tips from the Wildlife Resources Division Web site at www.gofishgeorgia.com or call (770) 535-5498 for trout fishing information.

Take Me Fishing! ™ According to a recent national survey, 87 percent of Americans believe fishing and boating have a positive effect on family relationships.

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Quality Winter Crappie in Deep, Cool Waters

T2F Note: Don't you have some great memories of fishing with your dad or grandpa? Spending time together is always a favorite sport and what better way is there than fishing? This week's coveted "Fayette Front Page Day Tripper Award" proudly is presented to all streams in Georgia and the wonderful memories you'll make while fishing with your kids. Spend some time with your family fishing in Georgia.

Springtime is not the only ideal time for crappie fishing in Georgia. The brief winter season also produces excellent results, and several reservoirs across the state offer rewards for anglers willing to brave the bitter cold temperatures.

“Fishing for crappie in the winter can be very rewarding if anglers concentrate on cold weather hot spots,” says John Biagi, chief of Fisheries Management for the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division. “Also, because there is a lot of action involved when crappie fishing, it is an excellent time to engage the entire family and/or to introduce someone new to the fun aspect of the sport.”

Now through mid-February crappie tend to congregate in deeper water, generally 15-30 feet deep, near the mouths of major tributaries and in the main lake. Large schools are easily located with sonar electronics.

As the water warms in late February, crappie will move to more shallow water toward the middle and back of major tributaries, preferring to congregate around woody cover such as stumps, logs, downed trees, fish attractors and creek ledges. Minnows and small jigs are favored bait, and light spinning tackle spooled with 6 or 8-pound test line is recommended.

Cool weather hot spots

In northwest Georgia, visit Lake Allatoona and look for the marked manmade fish attractors, especially near the Kellogg Creek area. Maps of fish attractor locations are available at www.gofishgeorgia.com . Also look to the Rocky Mountain Public Fishing Area, located 16 miles north of Rome, where good slabs are predicted this year and hot spots include fishing off of riprap dams. The Coosa River, which begins in the city of Rome and flows roughly 30 miles west-southwest before entering Lake Weiss, is another area to target; concentrate below the lock and dam area, especially near Brush Branch.

Northeast Georgia offers three different reservoirs for targeting crappie. Metro area anglers should look to Lake Lanier, located just 50 miles northeast of Atlanta. The upper part of the reservoir, especially the Chattahoochee River arm, Wahoo Creek and Little River are considered hot spots. Anglers should also consider the upper part of Lake Hartwell, located on the Georgia-South Carolina border near Franklin and Hart counties. The Eastanollee Creek area is considered a crappie haven. The manmade fish attractors around the upper half of Lake Nottely rank as another active location.

Several east-central area lakes offer prime crappie habitat, including Clarks Hill Lake where excellent fishing is predicted for the year, especially at Soap, Fishing, Grays and Newford creeks, and the Little River arm. On Lake Oconee, Beaverdam, Sandy, Rocky, Richland and Sugar creeks and Appalachee River arm are good target areas. At Lake Russell anglers should concentrate at Rocky River, Beaverdam, Coldwater and Allen creeks. Lakes Blalock and J.W. Smith in Clayton County offer good bank fishing opportunities near boat ramps. Areas of standing timber are key targets at Lake Blalock while 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. Anglers can count on Lake Varner for good numbers of crappie and Randy Poynter Lake for larger crappie.

Wildlife Resources Division biologists recommend five areas in the west-central area of the state for crappie fishing - West Point Lake in Troup County, Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center in Mansfield, Big Lazer Public Fishing Area in Talbot County, Ocmulgee Public Fishing Area in Bleckley County and Lake Sinclair just north of Milledgeville. At West Point, concentrate around fish attractors and deep water areas. Visit Fox, Shepherd or Margery Lake at the Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center and look for deep water and flooded timber or fish attractors. At Lake Sinclair, Beaverdam Creek provides good opportunities for early spawning due to the warm water discharge from the steam plant. When temperatures warm, anglers should target larger islands such as Optimist, Budweister and Goat. Sinclair bank anglers should concentrate on the riprap along Highway 441 at Little River, Beaverdam and Rooty Creek. Additionally, the riprap at Twin Bridges and Potato Creek along Highway 212 also provide good bank access. Big Lazer and Ocmulgee Public Fishing Area anglers should seek flooded timber near the creek channels and deep water.

Southwest Georgia also offers key areas for crappie. Lake Walter F. George, located on the Georgia-Alabama state line between Columbus and Ft. Gaines, provides good fishing at the mouths of Pataula Creek, Sandy Branch Creek and Sandy Creek. On Lake Seminole, in the southwest corner of the state, anglers should fish the main river channels around Ford Scott Island, the Chattahoochee River mouth between river miles three and four, the mouth of Spring Creek and the old river channels and submersed structures.

For more information on crappie fishing in Georgia, visit www.gofishgeorgia.com or call a Wildlife Resources Division Fisheries Management office.

Take Me Fishing! ™ According to a recent national survey, 87 percent of Americans believe fishing and boating have a positive effect on family relationships.

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Do You Miss Fantasy Football? Too Soon for Fantasy Baseball? Try Fantasy Fishing ... and Win $1 Million!

/PRNewswire/ -- Just because Steelers season is over and the Pirates are still two months away doesn't mean you still can't enjoy all the fun and excitement of fantasy sports.

And a $1 million grand prize with no entry fee doesn't hurt, either.

That's because fantasy fishing season is upon us. Established by the creator of FLW Outdoors and the Forrest Wood Cup, fantasy fishing is rapidly growing in popularity. There is no entry fee to enter, but for that added edge, participants can purchase Player's Advantage for only $10 to assist them in trying to win a $1 million payday, plus six $100,000 payouts, one for each qualifying tournament.

Fantasy Fishing is sponsored by FLW Outdoors, which brings the world's richest bass fishing tournament, the Forrest Wood Cup, to Pittsburgh this summer from July 30-Aug. 2. The Forrest Wood Cup is the final event in the Walmart FLW Tour, and just like fantasy football and fantasy baseball, you can follow the leading money winners on the FLW Tour all season long and win America's richest fantasy event when the Fantasy Fishing winners for 2009 are announced here in Pittsburgh on July 31.

There's no entry fee, it is easy to play, and one lucky winner will receive a check for $1 million. Runners-up will win prizes such as a $54,000 Ranger boat, a brand new Chevy vehicle, a $25,000 gift card, or one of more than 1,800 additional prizes.

The FLW Fantasy Fishing season kicks off on Thursday, February 12, with the first Walmart FLW Tour event in Lake Guntersville, Ala., the Chevy Open. Fantasy league players increase their chances of winning the $1 million grand prize by entering all FLW Fantasy Fishing tournaments throughout the season and accumulating a greater amount of points leading up to the Forrest Wood Cup.

The Richest Sports Fantasy Game

In just one season, Fantasy Fishing soared to the top of the fantasy sports world, gaining fans from all over the world attracted to the game's $7.3 million in cash and prizes, the highest payout of any fantasy sports game in the world.

More than 4,400 prizes were awarded during FLW Fantasy Fishing's first season, including seven $100,000 prizes, which went to the players who came in first place at the conclusion of each fantasy fishing tournament during the FLW Tour season. The $1 million grand prize went to the player who obtained the most points over the seven tournaments.

Last year's million dollar winner was Michael Thompson, 34, of Minneapolis.

Participants from 123 countries enjoyed Fantasy Fishing and prizes were awarded to players from the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, Indonesia, Poland, South Africa, Estonia and a number of other countries.

Easy to Play

Fantasy Fishing is one of the easiest fantasy sports to play, especially with Player's Advantage. Players can simply register online at www.fantasyfishing.com and start enjoying the fun. A team of ten anglers will be selected randomly for all players, who can simply play all season with that team, or select their own team from the FLW roster of anglers.

And Fantasy Fishing is free to all players, unlike other fantasy sports that require an entry fee that is used to create the prize pool for winners. Participants can win prizes for individual tournaments as well as accumulate points over the six event season to make them eligible for the $1 million cash prize, which will be awarded to the player with the highest overall points for the season. That winner will be announced here in Pittsburgh at the Forrest Wood Cup on July 31. Fantasy Fishing also offers $3 million and $5 million exacta bonus games by correctly ranking the top five finishers in the Forrest Wood Cup or the top seven finishers in a tournament.

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Make Your Next Fishing Trip An Eco-Friendly One

(NAPSI)-The next time you go fishing, be an environmentally conscious angler and keep your favorite fishing spots clean to ensure that future generations can reap the many rewards of the sport, says BP Pro Bass Angler Judy Israel, an 11-year veteran on the professional bass fishing circuit. On tour 120 days a year, Israel spends the majority of her time fishing and she has some simple tips on how to make your next excursion more enjoyable and eco-friendly:

Lighten your load before you hit the road and the water

An eco-friendly fishing trip begins before you hit the water, so be sure to prepare your tow-vehicle (or car) and boat for the trip. Before you tackle the drive, get the "junk out of your trunk" and leave nonessential items housed on your boat at home. "You can save fuel by taking simple steps like lightening your vehicle's load and keeping your tires properly inflated," said Israel. "And, don't forget to stop at your local BP to fill up with quality fuel. With continuous use, quality fuel, like that at BP, can clean up a dirty engine caused by the use of low quality fuel, resulting in smoother acceleration, less hesitation, restored fuel economy and reduced emissions."

Before you cast your line, bait with the right hooks

Oftentimes, an angler's hook can get caught in a fish's mouth; by using bronze hooks, which rust out over time, you can reduce the risk of injuring the fish. Avoid stainless steel hooks, since they are very durable and have a higher chance of lingering within a fish's mouth after it has been released.

While on the water, choose lead-free sinkers

Sinkers are easy to lose and can end up sitting at the bottom of fishing spots for years. Most are made from lead, a highly toxic metal that has adverse effects on the nervous and reproductive systems of fish. Recently, eco-friendly alternative sinkers entered the market that are lead-free and some are even invisible to fish.

After you've reeled-in the "big catch"… release it

Be sure to release your fish after catching it, to help reduce bass mortality and to ensure this popular sport maintains a healthy fish stock for future generations. "Taking proper care of the species is the number-one priority of environmentally conscious anglers," said Israel. "It's exciting when you reel in a great catch, but releasing your fish back into its natural environment will keep the sport of bass fishing alive for a long time to come."

Although it may take some small, initial changes to make your fishing routine green, Israel says it pays to make the switch.

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