reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 3 - WILDLIFE GENERALLY (§§ 27-3-1 — 27-3-185) › Article 8 - USE OF FERTIBILITY CONTROL ON WILDLIFE (§§ 27-3-180 — 27-3-185) › Section 27-3-185 - Penalties

(a)
Any person who violates any provision of this article shall be guilty of a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature and upon conviction shall be punished by a fine of not less than $1,500.00 nor more than $5,000.00, imprisonment for a period not exceeding 12 months, or both such fine and imprisonment.
(b)
Any licenses or permits issued under this title to any person convicted of violating any provision of this article shall by operation of law be revoked and shall not be reissued for a period of three years. The department shall notify the person in writing of the revocation.
Added by 2010 Ga. Laws 635,§ 9, eff. 6/4/2010.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-13) › Section 27-4-1 - Salt-water and fresh-water demarcation line

(a)
The line established in this state as the separation point between salt waters and fresh waters for commercial fishing and sport fishing is as follows:
(1)
The point at which U.S. Highway 17 crosses the following bodies of water and their tributaries shall be the line of demarcation for them: St. Marys River, Satilla River, South Altamaha River, Champney River, Butler River, Darien River, Little Ogeechee System (except Salt Creek), North Newport River, Medway River, Big Ogeechee River, and the point at which Georgia Highway 25/South Carolina 170 crosses the Savannah River and its tributaries. All water seaward of these points shall be considered salt water; and
(2)
The following streams and their tributaries are designated as salt water for their entire length: Crooked River, Little Satilla River, South Brunswick River, Turtle River, Sapelo River, South Newport River, Salt Creek (Little Ogeechee System), and all other rivers, streams, and tributaries in the six coastal counties which are not enumerated in this subsection.
(b)
This Code section shall not apply to fresh-water ponds on the seaward side of the demarcation line.
Amended by 2008 Ga. Laws 428,§ 1, eff. 5/6/2008.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-13) › Section 27-4-2 - Fishing in waters or from lands of another without permission; obstruction or interference with rights of others

It shall be unlawful for any person to fish in the waters or from upon the lands of another without first having obtained permission from the landowner or person in charge of such lands, provided that nothing contained in this Code section shall be construed to apply to the fishing or taking of fish, other than oysters, clams, and other shellfish, in any of the salt-water creeks, streams, or estuaries leading from the Atlantic Ocean or from the sounds, rivers, or bays surrounding the several islands of this state. It shall also be unlawful for any person to obstruct or interfere with the right of any other person to fish in these salt-water creeks, streams, or estuaries leading from the Atlantic Ocean or from the sounds, rivers, or bays surrounding the several islands of this state. Game wardens, sheriffs, deputy sheriffs, and all other peace officers of this state or of any county or municipality thereof shall enforce this Code section.
Amended by 2019 Ga. Laws 264,§ 7, eff. 7/1/2019.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-13) › Section 27-4-4 - Unlawful dumping; recovery of damages

(a)
It shall be unlawful for any person to throw, dump, drain, or allow to pass into any waters of this state which belong to the department or which are being utilized by the department for fish propagation any sawdust, dyestuff, oil, chemicals, or other deleterious substances that will or may tend to injure, destroy, or drive away from such waters any fish or aquatic organisms which may inhabit such waters.
(b)
The state, through the department, may recover damages in a civil action against any person who unlawfully or negligently injures or destroys any fish or aquatic organism in any waters which belong to the department or which are being utilized by the department for fish propagation. The measure of damages in such action shall be the amount which will compensate for all the detriment proximately caused by the destruction or injury of such fish or aquatic organism.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-13) › Section 27-4-5 - Methods for taking fish generally

(a)
It shall be unlawful to fish for game fish, except American shad, hickory shad, flathead catfish, and channel catfish, by any means other than a pole and line. Except as otherwise provided, it shall be unlawful to take any fish in the fresh waters of this state by any method other than a pole and line, sport trotlines in accordance with Code Section
27-4-32
, set hooks, jugs, bow and arrow in accordance with Code Section
27-4-34
, spears in accordance with Code Section
27-4-33
, minnow seines and minnow traps in accordance with Code Section
27-4-6
, by hand in accordance with Code Section
27-4-37
, and as authorized in Code Section
27-4-91
with regard to commercial fresh-water fishing.
(b)
Notwithstanding subsection (a) of this Code section, dip nets and cast nets may be used to take for bait threadfin shad, blueback herring, gizzard shad, and other nongame fish as authorized by the board; and landing nets may be used to land fish legally caught.
(c)
Notwithstanding subsection (a) of this Code section, it shall be lawful to use seines, nets, and chemicals in a pond if all the owners of a pond desire that such be done and if a local game warden is notified at least two hours in advance of the use, provided that it shall not be lawful to use such seines, nets, and chemicals in an oxbow lake. For purposes of this Code section, an "oxbow lake" means a lake formed in an abandoned river channel which has become separated from the main stream by a natural change in the river.
Amended by 2021 Ga. Laws 32,§ 2-5, eff. 4/27/2021.
Amended by 2019 Ga. Laws 264,§ 7, eff. 7/1/2019.
Amended by 2012 Ga. Laws 676,§; 3, eff. 1/1/2013.
Amended by 2005 Ga. Laws 411,§; 1, eff. 7/1/2005.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-13) › Section 27-4-6 - Use of minnow seines or traps

It shall be unlawful to take any game fish or American eels by minnow seines or minnow traps from the fresh waters of this state. It shall also be unlawful to take any nongame fish by minnow seines or minnow traps from any of the fresh waters of this state, except where such fish are five inches in length or less and are not to be sold or otherwise used for commercial purposes and except where such waters are not trout waters as designated pursuant to Code Section
27-4-51
. It shall further be unlawful for any person to engage in the use of minnow seines or minnow traps to collect nongame fish in the fresh waters of this state without a valid resident or nonresident fishing license as provided in Code Section
27-2-23
. In accordance with sound principles of wildlife research and management, the department shall have the authority to specify open seasons, creel and possession limits, gear specifications, species taken, and waters open to the use of minnow seines and minnow traps in accordance with this title.
Amended by 2021 Ga. Laws 32,§ 2-6, eff. 4/27/2021.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-13) › Section 27-4-7 - Use of gill nets; seizure of illegal nets

(a)
Except as otherwise provided by law or rule and regulation, it shall be unlawful for any person to use a gill net in any of the fresh waters or salt waters of this state at any time, provided that it shall be lawful for properly licensed fishermen to use such nets in the taking of shad in accordance with Code Section
27-4-71
and all other laws and rules and regulations applicable to the taking of shad. All nets violative of this Code section found in the fresh waters or salt waters of this state or in the possession of any person on or around fresh water or salt water shall be seized by game wardens or other peace officers of this state. Nets so seized shall be confiscated and shall become the property of the department and shall be disposed of as the commissioner shall direct.
(b)
Except for shad taken in accordance with Code Section
27-4-71
, it shall be unlawful to land in this state any of the species of fish enumerated in Code Section
27-4-10
which were taken by means of a gill net. For purposes of this subsection, "to land" fish means to bring the fish to shore in this state in the boat or vessel utilized in taking the fish by means of a gill net, regardless of the jurisdiction from which the fish were taken.
Amended by 2019 Ga. Laws 264,§ 7, eff. 7/1/2019.
Amended by 2012 Ga. Laws 676,§; 4, eff. 1/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-13) › Section 27-4-8 - Unlawful devices or substances

It shall be unlawful for any person to use any firearm, battery, generator or other similar device or any dynamite, explosives, or destructive substances, including poisons, walnut hulls, and lime, for the purpose of catching, killing, taking, or harming fish. The possession of any of the foregoing devices or substances, except firearms, in any boat on the fresh waters of this state shall be deemed prima-facie evidence of guilt under this Code section; provided, however, this provision shall not apply to batteries used to operate motors or lights.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-13) › Section 27-4-9 - Possession of nets or other devices for taking shad during closed season deemed evidence of violation

The possession, in any boat upon the waters of this state, of nets or other devices capable of taking shad during such time as laws or regulations prohibit the taking of such fish shall be prima-facie evidence that the person having such nets or equipment in his possession is guilty of taking shad in violation of the wildlife laws, rules, and regulations.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-13) › Section 27-4-11 - Fishing in department fish hatcheries

It shall be unlawful to fish in ponds or other waters of fish hatcheries owned or operated by the department, except for those waters which the department opens for fishing. The department may set special creel limits, hours, open dates, age limitations, and other conditions for fishing in the ponds or other waters at each facility.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-13) › Section 27-4-12 - Adoption of rules and regulations by board; reporting; legislative overruling of rules and regulations

(a)
In accordance with current, sound principles of wildlife research and management, the board shall have the authority to adopt rules and regulations establishing seasons; methods of fishing and disposition; size, possession, and creel limits; and gear and landing specifications for the taking of fish from the fresh waters and salt waters of this state, except to the extent that such matters are specifically provided for by this title.
(b)
Within the first ten days of a subsequent legislative session, the board shall report to the appropriate standing committees of each house and to all members whose districts are included within current boundaries of the First Congressional District the following information for the previous year:
(1)
A listing and description of rules promulgated by the board for salt-water species listed in Code Section
27-4-10
; and
(2)
A listing and description of any findings made by the department in making a determination pursuant to Code Section
27-4-130
.
(c)
The General Assembly may override any rule or regulation promulgated by the board affecting salt-water finfish fisheries after January 1, 2013, by adopting a joint resolution of the General Assembly so stating, the provisions of Code Section
50-13-4
notwithstanding.
Amended by 2012 Ga. Laws 676,§; 6, eff. 1/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-13) › Section 27-4-13 - [Repealed] Size and construction requirements of cast nets

Repealed by 2007 Ga. Laws 35,§ 3, eff. 7/1/2007.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 2 - NONCOMMERCIAL FISHING (§§ 27-4-30 — 27-4-53) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 27-4-30 — 27-4-37) › Section 27-4-30 - Fishing in private ponds

The owner of a private pond, the owner's immediate family, or tenants with the owner's consent shall be permitted to fish within the bounds of the pond at any time and in any manner without a fishing license. All other persons shall be required to obtain fishing licenses to fish within the bounds of a private pond as provided in this title unless the fish in the private pond are "domestic fish" as defined in paragraph (23) of Code Section
27-1-2
. For the purposes of this Code section, the term "private pond" shall not include ponds owned by city or county governments, the State of Georgia, the United States, or authorities or political subdivisions of such governments.
Amended by 2017 Ga. Laws 22,§ 14, eff. 7/1/2017.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 2 - NONCOMMERCIAL FISHING (§§ 27-4-30 — 27-4-53) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 27-4-30 — 27-4-37) › Section 27-4-31 - Catch-out pond licenses

The owner or operator of a catch-out pond operated as one contiguous unit and under single ownership, including ownership by a partnership, firm, association, or corporation, may purchase a catch-out pond license as provided in Code Section
27-2-23
. Such license shall not be transferable to another owner or operator or to any other site. Persons, both residents and nonresidents, may fish in a properly licensed catch-out pond without obtaining a fishing license or trout license and without complying with the creel limits, possession limits, size limits, and seasons set forth in this title. It shall be unlawful for the owner or operator of a catch-out pond not properly licensed to represent to any person that such person may fish in the pond as if the pond were a licensed catch-out pond.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 2 - NONCOMMERCIAL FISHING (§§ 27-4-30 — 27-4-53) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 27-4-30 — 27-4-37) › Section 27-4-32 - Sport trotlines

Sport trotlines must be marked with the owner's name and address and with visible buoys and must be submerged at least three feet below the surface of the water. Such trotlines must be attended regularly and removed after the completed fishing trip. Unmarked or unattended lines will be confiscated by personnel of the department. As used in this Code section, "sport trotlines" means one line or a combination of lines using less than 51 hooks. It shall be unlawful to use any sport trotline within one-half mile below any lock or dam on any of the fresh waters of this state.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 2 - NONCOMMERCIAL FISHING (§§ 27-4-30 — 27-4-53) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 27-4-30 — 27-4-37) › Section 27-4-33 - Spearing of fish

(a)
It shall be unlawful to spear game fish and all species of catfish in the fresh waters of this state except as provided in this Code section; provided, however, other species of nongame fish may be speared solely for the purpose of sport, provided the person engaged in the act of spearing is completely submerged.
(b)
"Spearing" as used in this Code section shall be limited to the use of a spear or similar instrument that is held in the hand of the person using the same and the use of a weapon other than a firearm which propels or forces a projectile or similar device therefrom, to which a wire, rope, line, cord, or other means of recovering the projectile or similar device is attached, which wire, rope, line, cord, or other means is secured to the weapon or the person using the weapon.
(c)
It shall also be unlawful for any person to engage in the spearing of fish in the fresh waters of this state without a resident or nonresident fishing license as provided in Code Section
27-2-23
.
(d)
It shall be unlawful to use spears with poisonous or exploding heads.
(e)
It shall be unlawful to discharge spears into waters nearer than 150 feet to anyone engaged in any other means of recreation.
(f)
Any game fish, except channel catfish and flathead catfish taken under the provisions of subsection (g) of this Code section, with an open wound and in the possession of a person fishing with a spear shall be prima-facie evidence of taking and possessing fish illegally.
(g)
It shall be unlawful to take channel catfish and flathead catfish anywhere in the Savannah River, including its tributaries and impoundments within the Savannah River Basin, by means of spearing, except under the following conditions:
(1)
The taking of channel catfish and flathead catfish in the Savannah River, including its tributaries and impoundments within the Savannah River Basin, by spear shall be legal at any time of the day and at night by the use of a light; and
(2)
All spears used pursuant to this subsection must be equipped with barbs or contain devices on the point to act as a harpoon for recovering fish and must be attached to the person using the spear or to the weapon by a rope, line, or cord sufficient for recovering the spear and channel catfish or flathead catfish.
Amended by 2005 Ga. Laws 411,§ 2, eff. 7/1/2005.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 2 - NONCOMMERCIAL FISHING (§§ 27-4-30 — 27-4-53) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 27-4-30 — 27-4-37) › Section 27-4-35 - [Repealed] Sport shad fishing

Repealed by 2012 Ga. Laws 676,§ 8, eff. 1/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 2 - NONCOMMERCIAL FISHING (§§ 27-4-30 — 27-4-53) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 27-4-30 — 27-4-37) › Section 27-4-36 - Artificial-lure streams or lakes

(a)
It shall be unlawful to fish in any artificial-lure stream or lake except with an artificial lure or to have any bait or lure other than artificial in possession at such stream or lake. The board shall have the authority to designate streams, lakes, or parts of streams or lakes as artificial-lure streams or lakes and to promulgate rules regarding fishing methods, gear, and size or type of artificial lures that may be used on such streams or lakes.
(b)
It shall be unlawful to have in possession while fishing such streams or lakes any bait, lure, landing net, or other gear which may not be lawfully used on such streams or lakes.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 2 - NONCOMMERCIAL FISHING (§§ 27-4-30 — 27-4-53) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 27-4-30 — 27-4-37) › Section 27-4-37 - Taking of fish by grabbling, noodling, or hand grabbing

(a)
It shall be unlawful to fish for game fish, catfish, and all other species of fish in the freshwaters of the state by grabbling, noodling, or hand grabbing except as provided in this Code section. Flathead, channel, and blue catfish may be taken by hand without the aid of any device, hook, snare, net, or other artificial instrument and without the aid of any scuba equipment, air hose, or other artificial breathing apparatus between March 1 and July 15 of each year.
(b)
It shall be unlawful to alter any natural or manmade feature by placing boards, wire, barrels, buckets, or any device or obstruction in any stream or other body of water or to modify any log, hole, or other feature in an attempt to attract or capture fish by grabbling, noodling, or hand grabbing or to take fish by grabbling, noodling, or hand grabbing from such altered devices. It shall also be unlawful to raise any part of a natural or artificial device out of the water to aid in the hand capture of enclosed fish.
(c)
Any game fish, except channel and flathead catfish, taken in violation of the provisions of subsections (a) and (b) of this Code section that are in the possession of a person grabbling, noodling, or hand grabbing fish shall be prima-facie evidence of taking and possessing fish illegally.
(d)
It shall be unlawful for any person to engage in the grabbling, noodling, or hand grabbing of flathead, channel, or blue catfish in the fresh waters of this state without a resident or nonresident fishing license as provided in Code Section
27-2-23
.
Amended by 2006 Ga. Laws 453,§ 27, eff. 4/14/2006.
Added by 2005 Ga. Laws 411,§ 3, eff. 7/1/2005.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 2 - NONCOMMERCIAL FISHING (§§ 27-4-30 — 27-4-53) › Part 2 - TROUT FISHING (§§ 27-4-50 — 27-4-53) › Section 27-4-50 - Manner of fishing; moving of trout

(a)
It shall be unlawful to fish for trout in any waters designated as trout waters pursuant to Code Section
27-4-51
by any means other than using one pole and line held in hand.
(b)
It shall be unlawful to use live fish for bait in any waters designated as trout waters pursuant to Code Section
27-4-51
, except as authorized by the board.
(c)
It shall be unlawful to move trout from any of the fresh waters of this state to any other fresh waters of this state, except that authorized agents of the department may move trout as necessary for purposes of fisheries management, conservation, and restoration.
Amended by 2012 Ga. Laws 676,§; 9, eff. 1/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 2 - NONCOMMERCIAL FISHING (§§ 27-4-30 — 27-4-53) › Part 2 - TROUT FISHING (§§ 27-4-50 — 27-4-53) › Section 27-4-51 - Designation of certain waters as trout waters; establishment of seasons and methods of fishing

(a)
The board is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations as may be appropriate based on sound wildlife management principles designating all or any portion of any watershed, stream, or lake as trout waters and establishing seasons, times, and methods of fishing in such waters.
(b)
It shall be unlawful to fish in any waters which the board designates as trout waters except during such times and in such methods as the board establishes by rule or regulation.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 3 - COMMERCIAL FISHING AND FISH DEALING GENERALLY (§§ 27-4-70 — 27-4-119) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 27-4-70 — 27-4-78) › Section 27-4-70 - Fishing in waters not opened for commercial fishing

It shall be unlawful to fish commercially except in waters opened for commercial fishing by regulation of the board.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 3 - COMMERCIAL FISHING AND FISH DEALING GENERALLY (§§ 27-4-70 — 27-4-119) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 27-4-70 — 27-4-78) › Section 27-4-71 - Commercial fishing for shad, American eels, catfish, and horseshoe crabs

(a)
It shall be unlawful to fish commercially for shad, American eels, catfish in salt water, or horseshoe crabs except with a valid commercial fishing license as prescribed in Code Section
27-2-23
and a valid commercial fishing boat license as prescribed in Code Section
27-2-8
. In accordance with current, sound principles of wildlife research and management, the commissioner may authorize any person so licensed to fish for shad, American eels, catfish in salt water, or horseshoe crabs.
(b)
In accordance with current, sound principles of wildlife research and management, the board is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations establishing the seasons, days, and places; methods of fishing and disposition; and size, creel, and possession limits for fishing commercially for shad, American eels, catfish in salt water, and horseshoe crabs.
(c)
It shall be unlawful to fish commercially for shad, American eels, catfish in salt water, or horseshoe crabs except in compliance with the rules and regulations of the board pertaining to the seasons, days, and places; methods of fishing and disposition; and size, creel, and possession limits for fishing commercially for such species.
Amended by 2012 Ga. Laws 676,§; 10, eff. 1/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 3 - COMMERCIAL FISHING AND FISH DEALING GENERALLY (§§ 27-4-70 — 27-4-119) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 27-4-70 — 27-4-78) › Section 27-4-72 - [Repealed] Commercial eel fishing

Repealed by 2012 Ga. Laws 676,§ 11, eff. 1/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 3 - COMMERCIAL FISHING AND FISH DEALING GENERALLY (§§ 27-4-70 — 27-4-119) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 27-4-70 — 27-4-78) › Section 27-4-73 - Confiscation and disposition of illegally used commercial fishing gear

Should any law enforcement officer of this state or employee of the department discover any commercial fishing gear or any trap, net, seine, basket, or similar device for taking fish, which gear or device is being used in violation of this title, such officer or employee shall seize and hold the same. In the event no one within a reasonable time claims the seized commercial fishing gear and the owner thereof is unknown to such officer or employee, the gear shall be confiscated and shall become the property of the department and disposed of as ordered by the commissioner.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 3 - COMMERCIAL FISHING AND FISH DEALING GENERALLY (§§ 27-4-70 — 27-4-119) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 27-4-70 — 27-4-78) › Section 27-4-74 - Sale, purchase, or transportation of game fish generally

(a)
Except as otherwise provided in this Code section and in Code Section
27-4-75
, it shall be unlawful for any person to sell or purchase any game fish.
(b)
Game fish shipped into this state and accompanied by a bona fide bill of sale or lading giving the date of the transaction, the details of the source of the fish, and the species, number, and pounds thereof may be lawfully transported, sold, and resold, provided each person in possession thereof has the bill of sale or lading and has otherwise complied with this Code section and any regulations promulgated pursuant to this Code section.
(c)
It shall be lawful for any person to sell or purchase game fish from a pond when the owner of the pond has obtained a valid permit from the department and the permit is displayed in a prominent place at the pond and the person shall have complied with all the requirements of this Code section and any regulations promulgated pursuant to this Code section. The permit may be issued to the owner only once annually and shall limit the time for taking fish from the pond to 15 days unless an extension is granted by the department. However, no person shall sell, purchase, or possess any game fish taken from such a pond unless the fish are packaged and labeled with the pond permit number and the number and pounds of each species of fish contained therein. The fish shall remain so packaged until processed for consumption or released into another body of water.
(d)
Notwithstanding any of the provisions of this title to the contrary, American shad, hickory shad, flathead catfish, and channel catfish harvested from Georgia waters other than private ponds in the course of commercial fishing as that term is defined in Code Section
27-1-2
shall not be subject to the prohibitions set forth in this Code section.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 3 - COMMERCIAL FISHING AND FISH DEALING GENERALLY (§§ 27-4-70 — 27-4-119) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 27-4-70 — 27-4-78) › Section 27-4-75 - Sale of fish by commercial fish hatcheries; sale of game fish; bill of sale or lading for possession of certain game fish and domestic fish; sale of diseased fish

(a)
It shall be unlawful to sell any fish from a commercial fish hatchery as defined in Code Section
27-1-2
unless the hatchery is licensed under Code Section
27-2-23
or except as follows:
(1)
Fish may be sold as provided in Code Section
27-4-74
or
27-4-76
; and
(2)
Domestic fish as defined in paragraph (23) of Code Section
27-1-2
and that are produced by an aquaculturist registered under Code Section
27-4-255
.
(b)
Except as provided in Code Section
27-4-74
and except for persons licensed as wholesale or retail fish dealers as provided in Code Section
27-4-76
, it shall be unlawful for anyone other than a commercial fish hatchery licensed under Code Section
27-2-23
to sell any species of game fish. It shall also be unlawful for any person to have in his or her possession any such game fish obtained from a commercial fish hatchery, wholesale fish dealer, or retail fish dealer or domestic fish from an aquaculturist registered under Code Section
27-4-255
without a bona fide bill of sale or lading which provides the date of transaction, identifies the seller, and details at least two of the following three criteria for each species of fish contained therein: number, weight, or average length.
(c)
It shall also be unlawful to sell fish from a commercial fish hatchery which the department has determined to have diseases or parasites which would be harmful to native fish populations.
Amended by 2004 Ga. Laws 728, § 2-4, eff. 5/17/2004.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 3 - COMMERCIAL FISHING AND FISH DEALING GENERALLY (§§ 27-4-70 — 27-4-119) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 27-4-70 — 27-4-78) › Section 27-4-76 - Licensing of wholesale and retail fish dealers; sale, transportation into state, or possession of live fish and fish eggs

(a)
It shall be unlawful to engage in the business of a wholesale or retail fish dealer, as defined in Code Section
27-1-2
, without first obtaining an annual license from the department as provided in Code Section
27-2-23
. Properly licensed wholesale fish dealers or retail fish dealers may sell game fish obtained from a licensed fish hatchery or domestic fish obtained from a registered aquaculturist or as otherwise provided in Code Section
27-4-74
. Notwithstanding any other provision to the contrary, a licensed commercial fish hatchery shall not be required to obtain a license as a wholesale fish dealer or a retail fish dealer.
(b)
Notwithstanding subsection (a) of this Code section, nonresident persons may sell and transport fish and fish eggs into the state without being required to procure a wholesale fish dealer license where the sale and shipment are made to a wholesale fish dealer duly licensed under Code Section
27-2-23
.
(c)
The board may by regulation prohibit or limit the importation, possession, or sale in this state of live fish or fish eggs where the same are found to be harmful to endemic fish populations or where the importation, possession, or sale might introduce or spread disease or parasites.
(d)
The game wardens or other agents or officials of the department shall confiscate any fish imported, purchased, or acquired by any person in violation of this Code section or any regulation promulgated by the board pursuant to this Code section.
Amended by 2019 Ga. Laws 264,§ 7, eff. 7/1/2019.
Amended by 2004 Ga. Laws 728, § 2-5, eff. 5/17/2004.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 3 - COMMERCIAL FISHING AND FISH DEALING GENERALLY (§§ 27-4-70 — 27-4-119) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 27-4-70 — 27-4-78) › Section 27-4-77 - Suspension of license for violation of article

Upon a conviction of any person for the violation of any of the provisions of this article, all licenses held by any such person to fish commercially or operate or use commercial fishing gear in the public impounded waters or navigable streams of this state may, at the option of the court, be forfeited for a period of six months from the date of conviction.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 3 - COMMERCIAL FISHING AND FISH DEALING GENERALLY (§§ 27-4-70 — 27-4-119) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 27-4-70 — 27-4-78) › Section 27-4-78 - Governance of food fish processing plants

Any food fish processing plant shall be governed by the provisions of Article 6 of Chapter 2 of Title 26 as such provisions apply to meat and poultry processing plants.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 3 - COMMERCIAL FISHING AND FISH DEALING GENERALLY (§§ 27-4-70 — 27-4-119) › Part 2 - FRESH-WATER FISHING (§§ 27-4-90 — 27-4-93) › Section 27-4-90 - Commercial fishing license required; effective dates

It shall be unlawful for any person to engage in commercial fresh-water fishing in this state without having a valid commercial fishing license as provided in Code Section
27-2-23
. The license shall be a personal license required of each individual engaging in the activities covered by this Code section and shall be effective from April 1 to March 31 of the following year.
Amended by 2003 Ga. Laws 9, § 27, eff. 5/14/2003.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 3 - COMMERCIAL FISHING AND FISH DEALING GENERALLY (§§ 27-4-70 — 27-4-119) › Part 2 - FRESH-WATER FISHING (§§ 27-4-90 — 27-4-93) › Section 27-4-91 - Lawful devices generally

(a)
Except as otherwise provided by law or regulation, it shall be unlawful for any person engaged in commercial fresh-water fishing in this state to use any gear other than trotlines, baskets in accordance with Code Section
27-4-92
, turtle traps, or shad nets in accordance with Code Section
27-4-71
, to which have been attached a tag bearing the name, address, and commercial fishing license number of the person using any such gear.
(b)
For purposes of subsection (a) of this Code section, "trotlines" means one line which has more than 50 hooks in any combination or a combination of lines with more than 50 hooks in use by one person. The lines must be marked with visible buoys and must be attended regularly and removed after the completed fishing trip. The lines must be submerged at least three feet below the surface of the water. It shall be unlawful to keep any game fish, except flathead catfish, channel catfish, American shad, and hickory shad, taken with such lines.
(c)
For purposes of subsection (a) of this Code section, turtle traps must be constructed of netting and shaped as hoop nets. The traps must also have one open muzzle or throat at least 32 inches wide with a ring ten inches in diameter made into the rear of the trap to permit fish to escape. Notwithstanding any other provision to the contrary, it shall be unlawful to use such traps in the Chattahoochee River and its impoundments lying between Georgia and Alabama. It shall also be unlawful to retain any game fish taken in such traps in any of the waters of this state.
Amended by 2012 Ga. Laws 676,§; 12, eff. 1/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 3 - COMMERCIAL FISHING AND FISH DEALING GENERALLY (§§ 27-4-70 — 27-4-119) › Part 2 - FRESH-WATER FISHING (§§ 27-4-90 — 27-4-93) › Section 27-4-92 - Lawful baskets

(a)
Except as otherwise provided by law or regulation, it shall be unlawful to fish with any basket unless such basket is constructed of one-inch mesh wire and is not more than 72 inches in length and 60 inches in circumference. One throat shall be located at the extreme front of the basket, and the second throat shall be located 17 inches behind the first. The second throat shall have a trap door 7 1/2 inches square.
(b)
It shall be unlawful to fish with baskets in fresh-water flowing streams. It shall also be unlawful to fish with a basket without notifying the game warden in the area of the time and place such basket is to be used.
(c)
It shall be unlawful for any person to possess any basket or trap made of metal, wire, wood, fabric, or other material suitable for use or capable of use in taking fish from the waters of this state unless the person has a commercial fishing license and unless an identification tag as required in Code Section
27-4-91
is attached to the basket or trap; provided, however, that the owner of a private pond may possess and use a basket or trap for taking fish therefrom without the necessity of obtaining a commercial fishing license; provided, further, that baskets meeting the requirements of subsection (a) of this Code section may be possessed for the purpose of sale and may be sold at a regularly established place for sale without the owner or operator of the place obtaining a commercial fishing license.
(d)
Notwithstanding any other provision to the contrary, it shall be unlawful to take any game fish, except flathead catfish and channel catfish, with baskets.
(e)
Notwithstanding any other provision to the contrary, it shall be unlawful for any person to fish with more than five baskets in the waters of Lake Sinclair and Lake Oconee. No person shall fish with the baskets of other persons unless accompanied by such other persons at the time of such fishing.
Amended by 2019 Ga. Laws 264,§ 7, eff. 7/1/2019.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 3 - COMMERCIAL FISHING AND FISH DEALING GENERALLY (§§ 27-4-70 — 27-4-119) › Part 2 - FRESH-WATER FISHING (§§ 27-4-90 — 27-4-93) › Section 27-4-93 - Use of commercial fishing gear within one-half mile below lock or dam

It shall be unlawful to use any commercial fishing gear, as designated in this title, within one-half mile below any lock or dam on any of the fresh waters of this state.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 3 - COMMERCIAL FISHING AND FISH DEALING GENERALLY (§§ 27-4-70 — 27-4-119) › Part 3 - SALT-WATER FISHING (§§ 27-4-110 — 27-4-119) › Section 27-4-110 - Commercial fishing license required

It shall be unlawful for any person other than the crew of a trawler licensed as provided in Code Section
27-2-8
with a trawler crew license, for purposes of such license, or a person in possession of a valid commercial crabbing license as provided for in Code Section
27-4-150
, for purposes of such license, or a person in possession of a commercial food shrimp cast netting license as provided in Code Section
27-4-205
, for purposes of such license, to engage in commercial fishing in any of the salt waters of this state without first obtaining a commercial fishing license, which shall be carried on his or her person while engaging in such activities. Each license shall be separate and distinct from each other and separate from and in addition to the commercial fishing boat license required by Code Section
27-2-8
.
Amended by 2017 Ga. Laws 22,§ 15, eff. 7/1/2017.
Amended by 2007 Ga. Laws 35,§ 4, eff. 7/1/2007.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 3 - COMMERCIAL FISHING AND FISH DEALING GENERALLY (§§ 27-4-70 — 27-4-119) › Part 3 - SALT-WATER FISHING (§§ 27-4-110 — 27-4-119) › Section 27-4-111 - Filing of bond or affidavit as condition for validity of commercial fishing boat license

A commercial fishing boat license issued under Code Section
27-2-8
shall not be valid unless there is in effect in the name of the owner of the boat one of the following:
(1)
A cash forfeiture bond meeting the requirements of Code Section
27-4-134
sufficient to cover the forfeiture prescribed by law for the next offense; or
(2)
A forfeiture bond executed by a bonding, surety, or insurance company meeting the requirements of Code Section
27-4-134
sufficient to cover the forfeiture prescribed by law for the next offense; or
(3)
An affidavit meeting the requirements of Code Section
27-4-134
.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 3 - COMMERCIAL FISHING AND FISH DEALING GENERALLY (§§ 27-4-70 — 27-4-119) › Part 3 - SALT-WATER FISHING (§§ 27-4-110 — 27-4-119) › Section 27-4-112 - through 27-4-115 - [Reserved]

Code 1933, §§
45-812
,
45-813
,
45-814
, enacted by Ga. L. 1977, p. 396, § 1; Code 1933, §
45-818
, enacted by Ga. L. 1979, p. 678, § 34; Ga. L. 1978, p. 816, §§ 60, 61, 62; Ga. L. 1979, p. 678, § 32; Ga. L. 1981, p. 1003, § 1; Ga. L. 1982, p. 1729, § 7; Ga. L. 1984, p. 801, § 1; Ga. L. 1985, p. 1047, § 4; Ga. L. 1998, p. 1133, § 6; §§ Ga. L. 2007, p. 93, 5, 6/HB 100; repealed by §§ Ga. L. 2012, p. 739, 13-16/HB 869, effective January 1, 2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 3 - COMMERCIAL FISHING AND FISH DEALING GENERALLY (§§ 27-4-70 — 27-4-119) › Part 3 - SALT-WATER FISHING (§§ 27-4-110 — 27-4-119) › Section 27-4-116 - [Repealed] Diamondback terrapins

Repealed by 2003 Ga. Laws 311, § 13, eff. 7/1/2003.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 3 - COMMERCIAL FISHING AND FISH DEALING GENERALLY (§§ 27-4-70 — 27-4-119) › Part 3 - SALT-WATER FISHING (§§ 27-4-110 — 27-4-119) › Section 27-4-117 - Identification tags, numbers, and letters for boats or vessels

It shall be unlawful for any boat or vessel licensed by the department pursuant to Code Section
27-2-8
to fail to have fixed securely on each side of the bow or pilothouse thereof, and displayed conspicuously in order that it may be read from a reasonable distance, a tag furnished by the department. It shall also be unlawful for any boat or vessel so licensed to fail to have painted upon the boat or vessel, in a size and upon such part as may be prescribed by the department, such numbers and letters to identify the boat or vessel. The paint used for such purpose shall be different from and in clear contrast in color to the boat or vessel on which applied. The numbers and letters so painted on the boat or vessel shall not be covered at any time while the boat or vessel is trawling, fishing, or taking any seafood.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 3 - COMMERCIAL FISHING AND FISH DEALING GENERALLY (§§ 27-4-70 — 27-4-119) › Part 3 - SALT-WATER FISHING (§§ 27-4-110 — 27-4-119) › Section 27-4-118 - Required records

(a)
It shall be unlawful for any person landing seafood in this state to fail to maintain at all times a record book showing the amount of seafood landed per trip; the name and address of the person or persons to whom sold; the date of sale and the time and place of delivery; and such other information as may be required by the department.
(b)
Each person required to maintain records pursuant to the provisions of subsection (a) of this Code section shall report such information to the department, whose address for the purpose of reporting shall be the Coastal Resource Division headquarters, at such times and in such manner as the board provides by rule or regulation.
Amended by 2012 Ga. Laws 676,§; 17, eff. 1/1/2013.
Amended by 2007 Ga. Laws 35,§; 7, eff. 7/1/2007.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 3 - COMMERCIAL FISHING AND FISH DEALING GENERALLY (§§ 27-4-70 — 27-4-119) › Part 3 - SALT-WATER FISHING (§§ 27-4-110 — 27-4-119) › Section 27-4-119 - [Repealed] Lawful commercial shrimping devices

Repealed by 2007 Ga. Laws 35,§ 8, eff. 7/1/2007.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 4 - SEAFOOD (§§ 27-4-130 — 27-4-206) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 27-4-130 — 27-4-140) › Section 27-4-130 - Authority to close salt waters; notice; regulations prohibiting sale of seafood

(a)
The commissioner shall have the power to close all or any portion of the salt waters of this state to commercial and noncommercial fishing by species for a period not to exceed six months within a calendar year. Any determination to close the salt waters pursuant to this subsection or to reopen such waters shall be made in accordance with current, sound principles of wildlife research and management.
(b)
Nothing in this Code section shall prohibit a person from landing in this state any fish or seafood taken in federal waters pursuant to a valid commercial federal permit.
(c)
For the purposes of enforcing this article, the department is authorized to zone the salt waters of this state.
(d)
Public notice of the opening or closing of salt waters as provided in this article shall be given by posting a notice of such opening or closing at the courthouse in each coastal county and by such other means as may appear feasible to inform interested persons of the opening or closing. Such notices shall be posted at least 24 hours prior to any enforcement action taken pursuant to this Code section.
(e)
In accordance with current, sound principles of wildlife research and management, the board is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations to prohibit the sale of any or all seafood in this state.
Amended by 2012 Ga. Laws 676,§; 18, eff. 1/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 4 - SEAFOOD (§§ 27-4-130 — 27-4-206) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 27-4-130 — 27-4-140) › Section 27-4-130.1 - [Repealed] Open seasons, creel and possession limits, and minimum size limits for certain finfish species

Repealed by 2012 Ga. Laws 676,§ 19, eff. 1/1/2013.
Amended by 2010 Ga. Laws 635,§ 10, eff. 6/4/2010.
Amended by 2007 Ga. Laws 18,§ 27, eff. 5/11/2007.
Amended by 2006 Ga. Laws 515,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2006.
Amended by 2002 Ga. Laws 946, § 3, eff. 7/1/2002.
Amended by 2002 Ga. Laws 826, § 1, eff. 7/1/2002.
Amended by 2001 Ga. Laws 185, §1, eff. 4/19/2001.
Amended by 2001 Ga. Laws 2, §27, eff. 2/12/2001.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 4 - SEAFOOD (§§ 27-4-130 — 27-4-206) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 27-4-130 — 27-4-140) › Section 27-4-130.2 - [Repealed] Taking or possession of Atlantic billfish prohibited; catch and release exception

Repealed by 2012 Ga. Laws 676,§ 19, eff. 1/1/2013.
Added by 2001 Ga. Laws 185, § 2, eff. 4/19/2001.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 27 - GAME AND FISH (§§ 27-1-1 — 27-5-12) › Chapter 4 - FISH (§§ 27-4-1 — 27-4-283) › Article 4 - SEAFOOD (§§ 27-4-130 — 27-4-206) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 27-4-130 — 27-4-140) › Section 27-4-131 - [Repealed] Zoning of salt waters

Repealed by 2012 Ga. Laws 676,§ 20, eff. 1/1/2013.