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The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has announced a new women’s state saltwater fish record for jack crevalle (Caranx hippos). Lauren E. Harden, 21, of St. Marys, Georgia, broke the previous record by landing a 33 pound, 10.72 ounce crevalle jack on May 24, 2024 while fishing on Cumberland Island. The previous record of 30 pounds, 6 ounces was set in 1981 by Ann Allen of St. Simons Island, Georgia. Harden’s impressive catch was officially verified and recognized by Georgia DNR after evaluation. Representatives from the DNR’s Coastal Resources Division (CRD) certified the weight on May 24 at DNR’s...

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is hosting another license-free freshwater fishing weekend on June 8 and 9.  Freshwater fishing is a fun activity for all ages to enjoy and there are many great locations across Florida to explore. Florida residents and visitors of all ages and skill levels are encouraged to try recreational fishing on this special weekend and the FWC has helpful resources for new anglers to get started.  Where to Fish Fish Management Areas Fishing piers Boat ramps Lakes and rivers  How to Fish First time angler What to bring Knot tying What Species to Fish...

by Misty Wells June 1 marks the date for American red snapper on the west coast of Florida, and we are blessed to get so many fishing dates this year.  Gov. Ron DeSantis announced a record 103 days of American red snapper this year, breaking last year’s record of 87 days.  The opening of American red snapper is one of the most awaited dates all year next to gag grouper in my opinion.  As most of you know, there has been a lot of controversy based around American red snapper that include opening dates, fall season and bag limits, but...

Media Contact Tyler JonesPublic Information OfficerCoastal Resources DivisionGeorgia Department of Natural Resourcestyler.jones@dnr.ga.gov912-262-3140 Georgia’s coastal waters have been kind to Telfair County anglers this week, with two individuals setting new state records for their catches. Jason H. Rich, 40, of McRae-Helena, reeled in a massive 23-pound, 15.04-ounce Almaco Jack (Seriola rivoliana) on May 2, 2024, while fishing offshore between the South Ledge and Navy Tower R3. This impressive catch shatters the previous record of 19-pounds, 10.53-ounces set by Hayden W. Mundy of Midway, Ga., just three months ago in March 2024. Rich, a licensed saltwater guide, was fishing aboard his boat...

At their May 2024 meeting in Daytona Beach, Commissioners with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) approved a rule amendment to clarify the possession of largemouth bass over applicable legal bag or length limits when participating in FWC documentation programs. The amendment clarifies possession rules when documenting largemouth bass for TrophyCatch, FWC’s bass fishing and citizen science program. It also allows for possession for the certification of a potential state record largemouth bass. An angler is in possession of a fish once the fish is placed in a live well or any other container. While current statewide regulations permit...