How & Where to Get a Georgia Fishing License | Rogers Bait Shop

October 24, 2026

How and Where to Get a Georgia Fishing License: The Complete Angler’s Guide

Whether you're targeting trophy largemouth bass on Lake Lanier, dropping line for slabs on Lake Oconee, or casting for mountain trout in North Georgia, having a valid Georgia fishing license is step number one before hitting the water.

In this quick guide, we break down who needs a Georgia fishing license, where to buy one, current license costs, and the essential tackle and apparel you need before your next trip.

Who Needs a Fishing License in Georgia?

According to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR):

Residents & Non-Residents: All anglers aged 16 and older must possess a valid Georgia freshwater or saltwater fishing license to fish in public streams, rivers, lakes, and coastal waters.
Special Permits: If you are targeting mountain trout, you’ll need an additional Georgia Trout License. Fishing in coastal saltwater requires a free Saltwater Information Program (SIP) permit.
Seniors & Youth: Anglers under 16 can fish for free, while Georgia resident seniors (65+) qualify for discounted or lifetime sportsman licenses.

Where to Buy Your Georgia Fishing License

You can obtain your license quickly through three official Georgia DNR channels:

Online (Fastest Method): Visit the official portal at GoOutdoorsGeorgia.com to purchase, renew, or download a digital copy directly to your smartphone.
In-Person Retailers: Purchase your license in person at local Georgia bait and tackle shops, hardware stores, or major outdoor retailers statewide.
By Phone: Call the Georgia Wildlife Resources Division hotline at 1-800-366-2661.

Georgia Fishing License Cost Breakdown

Resident Annual License: $15.00
Resident 1-Day Pass: $5.00 ($1.00 per additional consecutive day)
Non-Resident Annual License: $50.00
Non-Resident 1-Day Pass: $10.00 ($3.50 per additional consecutive day)

Gear Up at Rogers Bait Shop Before You Cast Off!

Getting your license is only half the battle—having high quality fishing tackle and gear is what converts bites into fish in the livewell.

Before heading out to Georgia's premier bass lakes and rivers, stop by Rogers Bait Shop to lock in the ultimate fishing setup:

Field-Tested Lures: Stock your box with top-producing soft plastic craws & swimbaits and precision-tuned hard bait crankbaits and jerkbaits.
Gear Storage: Protect your lures from humidity with heavy-duty utility trays and tackle boxes .
On-the-Water Apparel: Stay cool under that Summer sun with these ultra-soft Roger's Bait Shop graphic tees, UV-blocking performance fishing shirts , and classic Lucky fishing hats.