Summer Fun Series: Fishing! Welcome to the first article in our Summer Fun series! Considering where we are, fishing seemed the logical choice to kick things off, but look for new water-focused topics with each segment. Feel free to send us your ideas, too! Let's go fishing! First things first - you need a fishing license! Both Georgia and South Carolina offer resident and visitor licenses, so don't rule out hopping across the river to fish the other side!
GA - gooutdoorsgeorgia.com, click on licenses and permits SC - dnr.sc.gov/purchase.html Photo by Alix Pedraza/ SCDNR
Now that you're legal, what's next? Plan your trip! Options to consider: • An afternoon at a local fishing pier • A day on the boat, launching from a local ramp • A weekend at another of our amazing coastal areas • Why not make it a family adventure? If you have people in your group who don't care to fish, consider picking a location with additional activities nearby, like campgrounds, dolphin or ecotours, beaches, or kayak rentals.
Boat Ramp Lists GA - georgiaoutdoormap.com/ (click boating) SC - dnr.sc.gov/fishing.html (click boat ramps) Fishing Pier Lists GA - Search "Fishing Piers" by county SC - dnr.sc.gov/fishing.html (click bank and pier, then click county)
Pack and Go! Don't forget your supplies! Search by county for local bait and tackle shops near your fishing destination and make sure you pack these necessary items: • Sunscreen • Bottled water & snacks • Bug repellant • Needle nose plyers • Towels • Sunglass &/or a ballcap
Other Options Surf Fishing There's nothing like a cooling sea breeze on your face and your toes in the sand while you cast a line for dinner! Look up the beach you'd like to fish from online to see what the rules and requirements are, then pack your gear and head out. Take the whole family! Hire a Guide Not sure of your fishing skills or where to go? Consider hiring a charter captain! Any local marina can recommend a good captain who will put you on the fish! Most charters offer half-day and fullday trips for less than what you'd pay to rent a boat and provide your own gear. Give Freshwater a Try Both Georgia and South Carolina have numerous state parks that offer freshwater lake fishing for a variety of species. For Georgia Parks visit gastateparks.org For South Carolina visit southcarolinaparks.com
Now get out there and fish! Photo provided by GADNR May 2018
Southern Tides Magazine
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