The Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division (WRD) offers a unique recognition for anglers in the state: the Freshwater Fish State Record Program. This program celebrates the achievement of catching truly exceptional fish in Georgia’s freshwaters. If you believe you’ve landed a record-breaking fish, it’s crucial to understand the guidelines to officially submit your impressive catch. Documenting your potential record is essential, and a clear photo of a fish is a key part of the submission process.
Understanding the Program: Celebrating Record-Breaking Fish in Georgia
The Freshwater Fish State Record Program is designed to acknowledge anglers who land trophy-sized fish in Georgia. To be considered for a state record, your catch must surpass the existing record weight by at least one ounce. This program is a testament to the fantastic fishing opportunities within Georgia and the skill of its anglers.
Eligibility and Application: Steps to Submit Your Record Fish
Both Georgia residents and out-of-state anglers are welcome to participate in the program. To apply, you’ll need to download and complete the official application form. Along with the application, two photos of a fish are required: a clear side view of the fish for identification purposes, and another photo of a fish showing you, the angler, proudly displaying your catch. The WRD reserves the right to evaluate each submission and ensure its validity.
Essential Rules for Your Submission
To ensure your catch is eligible, it must adhere to specific rules. The fish must be caught within Georgia’s waters during the legal fishing season for that particular species, following all state fishing regulations. The catch must be made using sporting tackle, meaning the fish must be hooked and landed directly by the angler. Gear such as bush hooks, trot lines, jugs, baskets, and nets are not considered sporting tackle. Fish originating from hatcheries or intensive fish farming operations are not eligible, nor are freshwater fish caught from private waters stocked with adult fish of the species in question.
Certified Scale: Accurate Weighing is Key
Accurate weight is paramount for a state record submission. Your fish must be weighed on a scale certified for accuracy within the last year by the Department of Agriculture. This certification ensures the weight is precise to the nearest ounce or less. You can weigh your fish in pounds and ounces or metric units, but metric weights will be converted to pounds and ounces for record-keeping. Estimated weights are not acceptable. Any sling, platform, or rope used for weighing must have its weight deducted from the total. The scale must measure in one-ounce increments, and visual estimation between graduations is not allowed; weights falling between graduations are rounded down. The scale owner’s address and phone number must be provided on the application.
Publicity and Submission Process
Be aware that if your catch becomes a state record, your name and photo of a fish will be featured on the WRD website and may be used in social media posts and media releases. To officially submit your potential state record, it MUST be taken to a WRD Fisheries Management Office for verification.
Official State Record Fish Rules: Key Guidelines
Several official rules govern state record fish submissions:
- Time Frame: Applications must be submitted within 90 days of the catch date.
- Qualifying Weight: The fish must weigh at least one ounce more than the existing state record. A catch that exactly matches the current record or exceeds it by less than an ounce will be considered a tie.
- Certified Scale: As mentioned, a certified scale is mandatory.
- Identification: A WRD Fisheries Section biologist or technician must positively identify the fish species and sign your application to confirm.
- Unacceptable Entries: Frozen or mounted fish are not eligible for submission.
- Witnesses: Weighing must be witnessed by two individuals, both over 18 years old and not immediate family members of the angler. Witness details (address and phone number) are required on the application unless the weighing is conducted at a WRD office.
Recognition: Celebrating Your Achievement
Anglers who successfully submit a state record fish will receive significant recognition. This includes a certificate presented in a binder, a personalized ball cap, complimentary passes to the Go Fish Education Center, and features on the WRD website and social media, along with a news release announcing the record. Media and interested parties may also receive the names and addresses of state record holders.
By following these guidelines, you can properly document and submit your potential state record fish, ensuring your remarkable angling achievement is recognized by the Georgia Freshwater Fish State Record Program.
