2012 - 2013 ga hunting regulations

YOUTH SKILL DEVELOPMENT & OPPORTUNITIES

| see pages 14-15

Hunting &SeaSonS

G E O R G I a

RegulationS2012-2013

For Early licEnsE rEnEwal See Page 12

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To learn more about the Grizzly Family, visit yamaha-motor.comShown with optional accessories. ATVs over 90cc are recommended for use only by riders age 16 years and older. Yamaha recommends that all ATV riders take an approved training course. For safety and training information, see your dealer or call the ATV Safety Institute at 1-800-887-2887. ATVs can be hazardous to operate. For your safety: Always avoid paved surfaces. Never ride on public roads. Always wear a helmet, eye protection and protective clothing; never carry passengers; never engage in stunt riding; riding and alcohol/drugs dont mix; avoid excessive speed; and be particularly careful on difficult terrain. Specifications subject to change without notice. Professional rider depicted on a closed course. *Based on Polk CYE 2010 total U.S. new ATV registrations in the Yamaha-defined Big Bore Utility ATV segment. **Based on ADP competitive comparison study of CVT belt components reported in warranty and non-warranty repair order records for 2007-2010 model year CVT belt-driven 4x4 ATVs 400cc and above. 2011 Yamaha Motor Corp. U.S.A. All rights reserved.

ATLANTA MOTOR WORLD 1275 UPPER HEMBREE ROAD ROSWELL, GA 30076 (770) 664-0820 CYCLE NATION OF CANTON 645 RIVERSTONE PKWY. CANTON, GA 30114 (770) 720-9554 CYCLE WORLD OF ATHENS, INC. 4225 ATLANTA HWY BOGART, GA 30622 (706) 548-3300 GAINESVILLE MOTORSPORTS 2750 BROWNS BRIDGE ROAD GAINESVILLE, GA 30504 (770) 532-7083 MOUNTAIN MOTORSPORTS 899 IRIS DRIVE SE CONYERS, GA 30094 (770) 761-4800 POWERSPORTS PLUS, LLC. 3006 KENSINGTON CT ALBANY, GA 31721 (229) 432-2025 STREET & TRAIL YAMAHA 4277 WASHINGTON ROAD EVANS, GA 30809 (706) 868-5050 YAMAHA OF DALTON 205 M. L. KING JR. BLVD DALTON, GA 30721 (706) 278-1620

BLUE RIDGE YAMAHA 5740 APPALACHIAN HWY. BLUE RIDGE, GA 30513 (706) 632-8700 CYCLE NATION OF MCDONOUGH 755 INDUSTRIAL BLVD. MCDONOUGH, GA 30253 (770) 957-7404 DIXIE M/C MART 1027 ALBANY AVENUE WAYCROSS, GA 31501 (912) 283-3058 LAWRENCEVILLE YAMAHA 155 PARK ACCESS DRIVE LAWRENCEVILLE, GA 30045 (770) 822-0089 MOUNTAIN MOTORSPORTS, LLC. 333 COBB PKWY N. MARIETTA, GA 30062 (770) 425-4000 R/T YAMAHA, INC. 1931 LAFAYETTE ROAD FORT OGLETHORPE, GA 30742 (706) 861-3000 TIFTON CYCLES, INC. 2502 MAIN STREET S. TIFTON, GA 31794 (229) 382-3640 YAMAHA OF SAVANNAH 11512 ABERCORN EXT SAVANNAH, GA 31419 (912) 927-7070

CAPITOL CYCLE CO., INC. 4950 MERCER UNIVERSITY DRIVE MACON, GA 31210 (478) 475-5711 CYCLE SPECIALTY CO, INC. 104 KENWOOD ROAD/GA HWY 85 FAYETTEVILLE, GA 30214 (770) 461-3541 EASY LIVING YAMAHA 3120 MARTHA BERRY HWY NE ROME, GA 30165 (706) 234-8502 MEGA-MOTORSPORTS 2710 HIGHWAY 17 TOCCOA, GA 30577 (706) 886-8321 OCMULGEE OUTDOORS, INC. 560 LUMBER CITY HWY. HAZLEHURST, GA 31539 (912) 375-3038 SPORT CENTER 1444 SAM NUNN BLVD. PERRY, GA 31069 (478) 987-3580 VALDOSTA POWERSPORTS 2713 BEMISS ROAD VALDOSTA, GA 31602 (229) 244-1413 YAMAHA OF SWAINSBORO 534 S. MAIN STREET SWAINSBORO, GA 30401 (478) 237-7546

CYCLE CITY OF NEWNAN, INC. 66 MILLARD FARMER IND BLVD. NEWNAN, GA 30263 (770) 253-2201 CYCLE WORKS 900 N. HIGHWAY 27 ROOPVILLE, GA 30170 (770) 832-2003 EXTREME POWERSPORTS, INC. 2990 NORTH LAKE DRIVE COLUMBUS, GA 31909 (706) 324-0128 METRO CYCLES 631 THORNTON ROAD LITHIA SPRINGS, GA 30122 (770) 941-9050 OKEFENOKEE CYCLE CENTER 2817 US HIGHWAY 84 BLACKSHEAR, GA 31516 (912) 807-1002 STATESBORO YAMAHA 22815 US HIGHWAY 80 E. STATESBORO, GA 30461 (912) 764-7433 YAMAHA OF BYRON 300 GA HIGHWAY 49 S. BYRON, GA 31008 (478) 654-6760

Hunting &SeaSonS

G E O R G I a

RegulationS2012-2013

ContentsGame Management Offices .......................................................4 Law Enforcement Offices ...........................................................4 Major Changes ...........................................................................10 Public Meetings..........................................................................10 License Fees & Sales ................................................................ 12 Youth Education, Skill Development & Opportunities.....14 Hunter Education Requirements ...........................................16 License Requirements ....................................................... 1617 Legal Archery Equipment & Firearms..................................16 Unlawful Activities ...................................................................18 Training Dogs .............................................................................18 Required Clothing .....................................................................18 Legal Hours .................................................................................18 Protected Species .......................................................................18 Seniors (60-64): Be Counted and Save! .................................21 Landowner Liability..................................................................24 Establishing Deer Harvest Guidelines for Your Property or Hunting Club....................................... 26 Baiting ......................................................................................... 23 National Hunting and Fishing Day ........................................37Courtesy of Brad Gill

20122013 GeorGia HuntinG SeaSonS & reGulationSNathan Deal, Governor Mark Williams, Commissioner, Department of Natural Resources Dan Forster, Director, Wildlife Resources Division

BoarD oF natural reSourCeSWilliam Bagwell, Jr. J. Dennis Billew William A. Carruth Joseph M. Hatfield Walter A. Hudson Mabel C. Jenkins Duncan Johnson, Sr. Phyllis T. Johnson Ray P. Lambert, Jr. Robert D. Leebern, Jr. Aaron McWhorter J. Mark Mobley, Jr. Mark Smith Loyce W. Turner James A. Walters Phillip C. Watt Philip Wilheit, Jr. Steven R. Woodruff

Statewide Seasons & Regulations

Deer ....................................................................................... 2025 Northern & Southern Zone Firearms Maps ........................24 Dog Hunting Seasons (Southern Zone) ............................... 25 Bear .............................................................................................. 28 Turkey .......................................................................................... 28 Feral Hog .................................................................................... 28 Alligator .......................................................................................29 Small Game .................................................................................29 Trapping.......................................................................................29 Falconry .......................................................................................29 Migratory Bird Hunting .......................................................... 30 Seasons Summary .............................................................. 3233

List of Board Members was current as of press time. To see a current list of Board Members please go to www.GADNR.org.

aBout tHiS PuBliCationWelcome to Georgias 20122013 Hunting Seasons and Regulations. Hunting regulations are set by the Board of Natural Resources, acting on the recommendations of the Departments professional wildlife biologists and other field personnel. Laws are set by the elected members of the General Assembly. This guide is designed to help you understand the laws and regulations for hunting in Georgia. For complete rules and exact wording, refer to the Game and Fish Code (Title 27) and the current copy of the Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Divisions regulations (Chapter 391) on file with the Secretary of State. This publication is paid for through the sale of advertising space. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources neither endorses the products or services listed nor accepts any liability arising from the use of products or services listed. Editor: Brandon Anderson, Senior Wildlife Biologist, GADNR advertising: J.F. Griffin Publishing (413) 884-1001

Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) Q&A ................ 3537 Alphabetical WMA Index ........................................................37 General WMA Regulations .................................................... 38 Unlawful Activities on WMAs .............................................. 38 Shooting Ranges ........................................................................39 Specific WMA & Federal Area Regulations .................4059 Specialty Hunts on WMAs & Federal Areas ................ 6061 Dog Training ...............................................................................62 Quota Hunts: Application Instructions ............................... 63 Quota Hunts: General Quota Hunt Listings ................6465 Quota Hunts: Adult-Child Quota Hunt Listings ............... 66

Georgia Public Hunting Opportunities...34

on tHe CoverPhoto courtesy Matt Lindler/National Wild Turkey Federation Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained within this publication. If any errors are discovered, the online version of this publication found at www.gohuntgeorgia.com will be updated.

Sunrise/Sunset Table ...........................722012

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g e o r g i a h u n t i n g s e a s o n s & r e g u l at i o n s

w w w.g o h u n t g e o r g i a .c o m

Purchase a License by phone 1-800-366-2661 or online at www.gohuntgeorgia.com or www.active.com/outdoors

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intRoduction

contact inFoRmation & oFFiceSgamE managEmEnt rEgion mapGame Management Region Office1 2

STaTewide OR GeneRal OfficeSwildliFE rEsourcEs division statE HEadquartErs 2070 US Highway 278 SE, Social Circle, GA 30025 Main Number .............................................................. 770-918-6400 Game Management ..................................................... 770-918-6404 Fisheries Management ............................................... 770-918-6406 Law Enforcement ........................................................ 770-918-6408 Nongame Conservation ............................................. 770-761-3035 wildliFE rEsourcEs consErvation cEntEr 2065 US Highway 278 SE, Social Circle, GA 30025 Boating Registration ................................................... 800-366-2661 Hunting & Fishing Licenses ...................................... 800-366-2661 Boating Education ....................................................... 770-918-6414 Hunter Education........................................................ 770-761-3010 Special Permits Unit.................................................... 770-761-3044 Hunter Services ........................................................... 770-761-3045 Private Lands Program............................................... 478-994-7583 coastal rEsourcEs division HEadquartErs One Conservation Way, Suite 300, Brunswick, GA 31520 Main Number .............................................................. 912-264-7218 Coastal Law Enforcement .......................................... 912-264-7237 Turn in Poachers (T.i.P.) sTaTewide ..................................800-241-4113

Wildlife Resources Division Headquarters

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ReGiOn OfficeSnortHwEst rEgion oFFicE (rEgion 1) 2592 Floyd Springs Road, Armuchee, GA 30105 Game Management (Armuchee) .............................. 706-295-6041 Law Enforcement (Calhoun) ..................................... 706-624-1367 Law Enforcement (Atlanta) ....................................... 770-769-9680 nortHEast rEgion oFFicE (rEgion 2) 2150 Dawsonville Hwy, Gainesville, GA 30501 Game Management (Gainesville) ............................. 770-535-5700 Law Enforcement (Gainesville) ................................. 770-535-5499 East cEntral rEgion oFFicE (rEgion 3) 142 Bob Kirk Road NW, Thomson, GA 30824 Game Management (Thomson) ................................ 706-595-4222 Game Management (Social Circle) ........................... 770-918-6416 Law Enforcement (Thomson) .....................................706-595-4211 wEst cEntral rEgion oFFicE (rEgion 4) 1014 MLK Blvd., Fort Valley, GA 31030 Game Management (Fort Valley) .............................. 478-825-6354 Law Enforcement (Macon) ........................................ 478-751-6415 soutHwEst rEgion oFFicE (rEgion 5) 2024 Newton Road, Albany, GA 31701 Game Management (Albany) .................................... 229-430-4254 Law Enforcement (Albany) ....................................... 229-430-4252 soutH cEntral rEgion oFFicE (rEgion 6) 1773-A Bowens Mill Hwy, Fitzgerald, GA 31750 Game Management (Fitzgerald) ............................... 229-426-5267 Law Enforcement (Metter) ......................................... 912-685-2145 coastal rEgion oFFicE (rEgion 7) 1 Conservation Way, Brunswick, GA 31520 Game Management (Brunswick) .............................. 912-262-3173 Law Enforcement (Brunswick).................................. 912-264-72374

law EnForcEmEnt rEgion mapPLEASE NOTE: the Law Enforcement regions and offices differ slightly from those in the Game Management map above. Law Enforcement Region Office2 1

Wildlife Resources Division Headquarters

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G e o r G i a h u n t i n G S e a S o n S & r e G u l at i o n S

Turn In Poachers! 1-800-241-4113

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WE PROVIDE THREE WAYS TO SHOPBaSSPro.com14045 Abercorn St. Savannah, GA 31419 (912) 961-4200 Hours: MonFri 9am9:30pm, Sat 9am10pm, Sun 10am7pm

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The ulTimaTe hunTing Tool.Ram 1500 mossy oak ediTion AvAilAble 5.7l HeMi v8 eNGiNe WiTH 390 HP, 407lb-FT TORQUe 4 PiN & 7-PiN TRAileR WiRe CONNeCTORS TRAileR SWAY CONTROl(1) PROviDeS PeACe OF MiND TO TOW UP TO 10,000lbS(2) bACKeD bY A 5 YeAR / 100,000 Mile POWeRTRAiN WARRANTY(3) ReAR iN-FlOOR AND UNDeR-SeAT STORAGe 2-YeAR OWNeR CARe MAiNTeNANCe PROGRAM(4)(1)ALWAYS DRIVE CONSISTENT WITH ROAD CONDITIONS. (2)WHEN PROPERLY EQUIPPED. (3)SEE DEALER FOR A COPY OF LIMITED WARRANTY AND DETAILS. (4) RESIDENCY RESTRICTIONS APPLY. SEE DEALER FOR DETAILS. RAM AND HEMI ARE REGISTERED TRADEMARKS OF CHRYSLER GROUP LLC.

20122013

commiSSioneRS meSSage75 yEars oF succEss a partnErsHip For amErican wildliFE

In 1937, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act (now the Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration Act). At a difficult time when the country was still reeling from an economic crash, Senator Key Pittman from Nevada and Congressman A. Willis Robertson co-sponsored the Pittman-Robertson bill for wildlife restoration. This radical, unprecedented law established an excise tax on sporting guns and ammunition to fund wildlife restoration and conservation. The Act fostered partnerships between federal and state fish and wildlife agencies, the sporting arms industry, conservation groups, and sportsmen and sportswomen to benefit wildlife. It has been key to implementing the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation. In 1950, the Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration Act (now the Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration Act) passed. Together, the Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration program has contributed more than $12 billion to fish and wildlife conservation in the U.S.; more than any other single conservation effort. Monies are directed to the state level based on several factors including the number of paid sporting licenses. In Georgia, these funds are approximately $14 million a year and have helped to fund the management and acquisition of nearly 1 million acres of wildlife management areas, along with other conservation efforts. 2012 marks the 75th anniversary of the Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration program. Generations of Georgias citizens have benefited from this partnership and with your support, the Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration program will continue to conserve habitat for fish and wildlife, and recreational opportunities for anglers, boaters, hunters and shooters far into the future. By purchasing your license, you are contributing to this important work, and we thank you for being our partner in conservation. MARK WILLIAMS Commissioner, Georgia Department of Natural Resources

About this GuideThis high-quality regulation guide is offered to you by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources through its unique partnership with J.F. Griffin Publishing, LLC. J.F. Griffin is an award winning publishing house that specializes in producing state fish & wildlife regulation books. J.F. Griffin supports the Georgia Department of Natural Resources staff in the design, layout and editing of the guides. They also manage the marketing and sales of advertising to appropriate businesses within the book. The revenue generated through ad sales significantly lowers production costs and generates savings. These savings translate into additional funds for other important wildlife management programs! If you have any feedback or are interested in advertising, please contact us at 413.884.1001 or online at www.JFGriffin.comgraphic design:

Jon Gulley, Evelyn Haddad, Erin Murphy

430 main st. suite 5 | williamstown, ma 01267

in a new Digital Edition!Fully searchable Live hyperlinks to expanded content Email pages One-click printing

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eRegulations.com/GA/hunting

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TAKE

$

YOUR NEXT HUNTING, FISHING ANDCAMPING PURCHASE OF $50 OR MORELimit one coupon per customer. Minimum purchase of $50 before sales tax. Total amount of coupon must be redeemed at one time. Cannot be combined with any other offers, coupons, team discounts or Guaranteed In-Stock markdown, or used for licenses or previously purchased merchandise. Coupon valid on in-store purchases only. Not redeemable for cash, gift cards or store credit. No reproductions or rain checks accepted. Returns or exchanges where a ScoreCard Rewards Certificate or other discount was applied may result in an adjusted refund amount. Excludes firearms, ammunition, Shimano, St. Croix, G. Loomis, fishing electronics, trolling motors, outboard motors, Jansport, Under Armour, The North Face, Patagonia, Ugg Australia, Merrell, Burton, Marmot, Spyder, Mountain Hardwear, Columbia, Quiksilver, Roxy, Billabong and Volcom. Some additional exclusions may apply. See store for details.

10 OFFP00011367TO FIND A STORE NEAR YOU: 1.866.819.0038 | DICKSSPORTINGGOODS.COM

Valid 7/21/12 through 1/31/13.

20122013

majoR cHangeS ew dove hunTing oPPorTuniTies: Rogers n State Prison Farm Dove Fields will offer sign-in dove hunting near Reidsville and Indian Ford Farms Dove Field will offer an Adult/Child quota dove hunt on opening day near Lyons. See page 54.

ew online QuoTa hunT sysTem: In order to n better serve our customers, all quota hunt applications must be submitted through the new online system. This includes all previously paper-based quota hunts (including Adult/Child, Dove, Feral Hog, Dog-Deer, and Quail quota hunts). Wheelchair hunts are not included in the online system. See pages 63-66.

2013-2015 Hunting Regulations Public MeetingsAll meetings start at 7PM.

Mon., Jan. 7, 2013

John w stephens wetlands Education center (JF Gregory Park) 600 Cedar Street Richmond Hill, GA 31324

Family memories are always in season

Mon., Jan. 7, 2013 wrens city Hall public meeting room 401 East Broad Street Wrens, GA 30833

tues., Jan. 8, 2013

lanier technical college Forsyth campus 7745 Majors Road Cumming, Georgia 30028, at the Forsyth Conference Center

tues., Jan. 8, 2013 walker county civic center 10052 N Highway 27 Rock Spring, Georgia 30739

Wed., Jan. 9, 2013 mitchell county agricenter 4590 Highway 37 East Camilla, GA 31730

Its never too late to start making year round memories with a hunting lease from Plum Creek. To find a lease or sign up for lease information, go to:

Wed., Jan. 9, 2013

plumcreekrecreation.com

columbus state university, Elizabeth Bradley turner ctr for continuing Ed 4225 University Avenue Columbus, GA 31907

thurs., Jan. 10, 2013 rabun county courthouse 25 Courthouse Square Clayton, GA 30525

thurs., Jan. 10, 2013 charlton county annex 68 Kingland Drive Folkston, GA 31537

For more specific information on locations, visit www.gohuntgeorgia.com or contact the hunter services office at (770) 761-3045. Comments may also be submitted in writing or electronically by visiting http://www.gohuntgeorgia. com/Hunting/SubmitComments?cat=1 for more information.

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Hunting licenSe inFoRmationlicenSe feeS Hunting license TeRm Annual Two-year Annual Combo Hunting & Fishing license Apprentice Hunting license 1 Big Game license Dog-Deer Hunting license Deer Harvest Record 2 (expires 2/28/2013) Waterfowl Conservation license Migratory Bird Hunting license (H.I.P. Permit) (expires 2/28/2013) Sportsmans license Alligator Hunting license Trapping license 3 Wildlife Management Area license Shooting Preserve license 6 Lifetime Licenses 4 Under 2 years old Ages 215 Ages 16 and older Ages 6064 Ages 65 and older 7 Veteran Non-Resident Grandchild Georgia Outdoor Recreational Pass (GORP) 5 Individual Small Group (not more than 8 individuals) $200.00 $350.00 $500.00 $95.00 FREE $400.00 n/a TeRm 3-day Annual 3-day Annual n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a $1,000.00 fee $3.50 $19.00 $10.00 $35.00 Two-year Three-day Three-day Annual Two-year Three-day Annual Annual Annual Two-year Annual Annual Two-year Annual Annual Annual Two-year Two-year ReSidenT $10.00 $18.00 $17.00 $31.00 $3.50 $3.50 $9.00 $16.00 n/a $5.00 FREE $5.50 $11.00 FREE $55.00 $105.00 $50.00 $30.00 $19.00 $38.00 $12.00 nOnReSidenT n/a n/a $100.00 n/a $20.00 $20.00 $195.00 n/a $90.00 $5.00 FREE $5.50 $11.00 FREE n/a n/a $200.00 $295.00 $73.00 n/a $12.00

wHeRe TO Buy yOuR licenSeintErnEt gohuntgeorgia.com By pHonE 1-800-366-2661 in pErson License vendors statewide. Check the list of vendors at gohuntgeorgia.com FEdEral duck stamp 1-800-STAMP24 or www.usps.com social sEcurity numBEr (ssn) Anyone buying any commercial, professional or recreational licenses and permits must furnish their SSN. No hunting, fishing or other wildlife-related license can be issued to anyone who possesses a valid SSN, but refuses to provide it to an authorized license agent. No dissemination of the SSN to any entity other than the Department of Human Resources is permitted, unless required by law.

Biggest SavingsTip Buy a one-tiMe

liFetiMe liCenSe!All ages can buy a Lifetime License and save.* This onetime purchase satisfies all state license requirements for hunting and fishing for the life of the license holder. Infants under age 2....... $200 Youth ages 215 ........... $350 Adult ages 1659 .......... $500 Veterans* ....................... $400 Senior (6064) ................ $95 Senior (65+) .....................$0** Non-resident under 16* .................... $1,000 * Special restrictions apply. Visit gohuntgeorgia.com or call 1.800.366.2661 for instructions and more information **$10 for durable plastic card Lifetime License holders will need to renew and print a Deer Harvest Record and HIP permit annually after March 1st. Tip Give a lifetime license

1 The Apprentice Hunting license is a three day hunting and fishing privilege that does not require completion of hunter education. 2 A Deer Harvest Record is required for anyone hunting deer and must be replaced each season. 3 Non-resident trapping license requires a forfeiture bond. Please refer to application for specific details. 4 Restrictions apply. Go to gohuntgeorgia.com for details and application instructions. 5 Please refer to page 16 for more information. 6 Resident and non-resident hunting of pen-raised birds on commercial and private shooting preserves. 7 Optional Senior Lifetime Commemorative Plastic Card - $10.00

Early Renewal DiscountTip leT uS Remind yOu An easy way to save! Most hunting and fishing licenses offer an early renewal discount of $2.75 when a same privilege license is purchase before expirationeven just one day before it expires. Enter your email address while purchasing and well send you a reminder.

Quickest SavingsTip Buy online! Transaction charge for an Internet license sale: $2.50 Transaction charge at a retail license dealer: $3.00 Transaction charge for a telephone license sale: $5.00Fees subject to change.

The perfect gift for graduation, milestone birthdays, and even the birth of a child! Visit gohuntgeorgia.com or call 800-366-2661 for information on purchasing a Lifetime License.

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Youth Education, Skill Development & OpportunitiesGettinG Started & GettinG Out there!Hunters education certificationrEquirEd to purcHasE most licEnsEs Learn hunting and shooting skills, firearms safety and wildlife conservation. Hunter education develops the knowledge, skills and attitude necessary to become a safe, responsible hunter. Courses are available online as well as in the classroom. Go to www.gohuntgeorgia.com/ hunting/education for details and registration. If you were born on or after January 1, 1961, you need to complete a hunter education course prior to purchasing a hunting license. (See page 16 for more information) You can take a hunter education course at any age.

national archery in Schools Program (naSP)Does your school have an archery program? NASP is an in-school archery curriculum taught in Grades 4-12 that meets all education department standards. Schools in nearly 100 Georgia counties are NASP certified. The program promotes instruction in international-style target archery to improve educational performance and participation in shooting sports. Georgia schools have consistently placed high in the international tournament, held at Disney World each year. For more information, visit www.georgiawildlife.com/ NASP or call 770-388-0045.

advanced Hunter education SeriesTake it to the next level at Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center! Young hunters (17 and under) and their parents/mentors can take a whole weekend to focus on improving hunting skills and conservation knowledge. Participants will hunt and fish on the property and take part in a variety of skills-based and conservationfocused programs. Classes will cover the basics of hunting, how to care for harvested game and more. Hunter Education is included if a participant is not certified. The cost includes lodging and meals. uPcoming classes: unt & Learn Squirrel: H Oct. 1214, 2012; $60 per person unt & Learn Upland Game Bird: H Nov. 1618, 2012; $60 per person unt & Learn Rabbit: H Jan. 46, 2013; $60 per person unt & Learn Falconry: H Jan. 46, 2013; $60 per person unt & Learn Turkey: H May 1012, 2013; $60 per person For more information, visit www.CharlieElliott.org or call 770-784-3059.

Hunter education Skills challengeThese events offer the chance to advance your outdoor education skills through competition. The program includes events that simulate realistic conditions and reinforce and test a young hunters skills. See upcoming dates at www.gohuntgeorgia.com/HSECevents

earn more about Gun Safety L earn about the North American Model of L Wildlife Conservation the worlds most successful. No other continent has conserved as many species of native wildlife as North America. While other countries struggle to conserve the wildlife they have left, we enjoy great abundance and diversity of wildlife.

Specialty Quota HuntsWildlife Management Areas around the state offer special opportunities for youth hunts, which limit either the age (Specialty) or the age and number of hunters (Quota). See all AdultChild Hunts where just the child hunts on pages 60-66. Visit w ww.gohuntgeorgia.com and click on Quota Hunt to apply online. (Note: The child is the person who applies. Also, you do not need to apply for a Specialty Hunt.)

events and Places to VisitJakEs days arE FrEE outdoor EvEnts For tHE wHolE Family harlie Elliott Wildlife Center, Jasper C County, May 11, 2013 aradise Public Fishing Area, Berrien P County, September 22, 2012 Hosted by the National Turkey Federation, these are free outdoor fun for the whole familyfishing, archery, birding, live animals, shooting range and much more! Visit www.georgiawildlife.com and click on Calendar of Events.

more info OnlineonlinE rEsourcEs at www.goHuntgEorgia.com/Hunting ign up for email and text updates on hunting S in Georgia. Go to www.gohuntgeorgia.com and click on the red envelope. ind a Shooting Range or Archery Range F near you.

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outdoor advEnturE day Locations around the state, September 22, 2012 Free outdoor fun for the whole family. Act ivit ies var y by locat ion. Visit www.georgiawildlife.com and click on Calendar of Events. summEr camps Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center hosts numerous camps from Girls of the Great Outdoors to Shooting Sports Camps. Visit www.CharlieElliott.org for details. The Shooting Sports Program hosts several archery camps in the summer. Visit www.georgiawildlife.com/shooting/camps for details. go FisH Education cEntErs sHooting sports room Open to the public Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 1 to 5 p.m. in Perry, just off I-75.

In addition to exhibits and activities related to fishing, the center has a shooting sports room with simulators. Take your best shot and learn about waterfowl and other aquatic wildlife while youre there. Visit www.gofisheducationcenter.com for details.

consider a career as a conservation RangerProtecting our natural resources is a challenging and rewarding career. A conservation ranger enforces wildlife, environmental, boating and other state and federal laws. If you have an interest in forestry, wildlife, criminal justice or natural science, plus have experience with hunting or fishing, this may be a great career for you. Visit www.gohuntgeorgia. com/LawEnforcement to learn the academic, physical and training requirements.

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geneRal Hunting inFoRmationmay apply: see page 37 for WMAs and pages 5859 for Federal Areas. hunTers age 1625 must present a Hunter Education Card when purchasing a season hunting license and must possess the card while hunting. hunTers over age 25 and born after Jan. 1, 1961 must meet hunter education course requirements but need not present their Hunter Education Card when buying a season hunting license or possess it while hunting. aPPrenTice hunTer is any person who has not successfully completed a hunter education course or does not possess a hunter education certificate. Apprentice hunters may purchase an Apprentice Hunting License for the privilege to hunt and fish in Georgia. and Conservation Stamp. However, they must possess a Deer Harvest Record. honorary license for senior ciTizens: Georgia residents 65 years old or older may obtain an Honorary License free of charge from any license dealer, or a permanent Lifetime License card for $10. See page 12 for details. honorary license for disabled georgians: Georgia residents who are permanently, totally disabled may obtain an Honorary License by applying to the License Unit, 2065 US Hwy 278 SE, Social Circle, GA 30025, 1-800-366-2661 or on the web at gohuntgeorgia.com. A qualifying disability is an impairment of a permanent and total nature, which prevents gainful employment and is certified as such by the Department of Veterans Affairs, Social Security Administration, Medicaid, Medicare, or Railroad Retirement System. Honorary License for disabled Georgians must be renewed every 3 years. honorary license for reTurning georgia veTerans (one time only): A one-year (from date of issuance) Honorary License is available one time to returning veterans, that were on active duty for 90 or more consecutive days, and who were discharged on or after July 1, 2005. Such veterans may obtain this license by providing a copy of their DD Form 214, and a completed DNR application. Applications for this license may be obtained at any WRD office, on the web at gohuntgeorgia.com, or by contacting the License Unit, 2065 US Hwy 278 SE, Social Circle, GA 30025, 1-800-366-2661. residenT hunTing or hunTing & fishing license is required for all resident hunters 16 years old or older except when hunting on land owned by them or their immediate family (blood or dependent relationship) residing in the same household. non-residenT hunTing & fishing license is required for all non-resident hunters, except non-resident small game hunters under 16. Additionally, non-resident big game hunters (deer, turkey, or bear) 16 years of age and older must possess a valid Big Game License. When hunting big game, non-residents under age 16 must possess a valid non-resident Hunting License, but are exempt from the Big Game License requirement. All non-resident deer hunters must possess a deer harvest record regardless of age. alligaTor hunTing license is required, in addition to a valid Hunting License, for anyone 16 years of age or older hunting alligator or assisting an alligator permit holder. This privilege is not covered by the Sportsman License. However, Lifetime and Honorary License holders do not need an Alligator Hunting License. big game license is required for hunting deer, turkey, or bear, in addition to a

HunTeR educaTiOn & aGe ReQuiRemenTS fOR HunTinG

Resident and non-resident hunters born on or after Jan. 1, 1961 must successfully complete a hunter education course prior to purchasing a hunting license. Hunter education courses certified or mandated by any state wildlife agency or Canadian province are accepted. Hunter education is not required to purchase an Apprentice Hunting License or a Three-day Hunting & Fishing license. Hunter education is not required to hunt on ones own land or land of a parent or guardian (blood or dependent relationship) residing in the same household. Contact your local DNR Law Enforcement Office or (770) 761-3010 for course information or register at gohuntgeorgia.com.

rEplacEmEnt cards Anyone who completed a Georgia hunter education course can obtain a replacement card online at gohuntgeorgia.com or call 800-864-7275 (outside Atlanta) or 770-389-7275 (in Atlanta) MondayFriday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for information. agE rEquirEmEnts hunTers under age 16 are not required to complete a hunter education course; however, a child under age 16 must be under Direct supervision or directly supervised, which means uninterrupted, unaided visual contact and auditory communication of a child by an adult. All children under sixteen years of age shall be accompanied by and under direct supervision of an adult eighteen years of age or older when hunting. It is unlawful for an adult to permit their child or ward (under age 16) to hunt without adult supervision. Exception: Hunters 1215 years old may hunt unsupervised after successfully completing a hunter education course. Special restrictions

Any person, age 16-64, entering any designated fee area on state-owned WMAs and PFAs must possess a valid GORP. Persons who possess a valid three-day hunting & fishing, WMA, Lifetime, Sportsmans, or Honorary license are exempt from this requirement. Designated fee areas are marked with the posting of a sign at the site or area entrance. More information at www.gohuntgeorgia.com.

GeORGia OuTdOOR RecReaTiOnal PaSS (GORP)

Apprentice Hunting LicenseThis license offers potential hunters (16 years of age and older) an opportunity to hunt for three days without completing a hunter education course. It also includes fishing privileges on WMAs and PFAs, and this license may be purchased multiple times. All other license requirements still apply. For more information, go to: http://www.gohuntgeorgia.com/ recreational-licenses

Reliable identification and a Social Security Number (SSN) are required to purchase a license (see page 12; OCGA 19-11-9.1). Conservation rangers may require positive identification when checking licenses. All required hunting licenses and stamps must be in possession while hunting. Any person hunting or providing assistance to another hunter must meet applicable licensing requirements as specified below. It is unlawful to obtain, possess, or use multiple licenses for the purpose of circumventing the season bag limit for deer. residenT means any citizen of the United States who has been domiciled within the State of Georgia for a period of at least three months. Residents include full-time military personnel on active duty who list Georgia as their home of record in their official military files or who are stationed at a military base located in Georgia and the dependents of such military personnel. Residents also include out-of-state college students living in Georgia. Students may use a current Georgia student ID as documentation. residenT hunTers under age 16 are not required to possess any of the following: Hunting, Big Game, Wildlife Management Area, Georgia Waterfowl Conservation, Deer-Dog Hunting, Alligator Hunting licenses or Federal Migratory Bird Hunting

licenSe ReQuiRemenTS

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regular Hunting License. The Big Game License requirement is met by residents who possess a Lifetime, Honorary, or Sportsman License. Everyone else who hunts big game must purchase a Big Game License except non-residents under age 16 and resident hunters 16 years old or older when hunting on land owned by them or their immediate family (blood or dependent relationship) residing in the same household.

gallinules). This license is free. This license is valid only for a single hunting season and expires at the end of February each year. georgia waTerfowl conservaTion license is required for hunting waterfowl, except for hunters with a valid Honorary, Sportsman, or Lifetime License or children under the age of 16. Waterfowl hunters must also obtain a free Migratory Bird Hunting License (H.I.P. permit) in addition to other required licenses and stamps.

a Dog-Deer license (free of charge). Lifetime License applications can be obtained at gohuntgeorgia.com, Wildlife Resources Division (WRD) offices, or by mail. For identification and proof of residency requirements see information on page 16.

dog-deer hunTing license is required for all hunters participating in a dog deer hunt. federal duck sTamP is required for all waterHunters who possess a valid Honorary, fowl hunters 16 years old or older including Lifetime, or Sportsmans License can obtain resident landowners and their immediate the dog deer license at no cost. family. The stamp is valid from July 1June deer harvesT record is required for any 30 and must be signed in ink across the face. person, regardless of age, who hunts deer. The The Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Deer Harvest Record is valid only for a single Conservation Stamp is available at US Post deer hunting season. Deer hunters who are Offices, 1-800-STAMP24 or usps.com. not required to purchase a Big Game License sPorTsmans license is a license that covers (Youth under 16, Honorary, Lifetime License all hunting and fishing privileges excluding: holders and resident landowners and their Dog Deer License, Alligator License, and immediate family) must obtain a free Deer Federal Duck Stamp. This license specifically Harvest Record at gohuntgeorgia.com or includes Hunting, Big Game, WMA, Georgia from any license agent. All deer hunters must Waterfowl Conservation, Fishing and Trout obtain new Deer Harvest Record each deer Licenses. Migratory bird hunters must season. obtain a H.I.P. license. Deer hunters must wildlife managemenT area (wma) license obtain a deer harvest record. Dog Deer is required for any person 16 years old or hunters must obtain a Dog Deer license older, who does not possess a valid Honorary, (free of charge). Sportsman, or Lifetime License, when hunting lifeTime licenses are valid for the life of on a WMA, PFA or State Park (except that any the person and cover all hunting and fishing person hunting on a State Park quota hunt is privileges (except Federal Duck Stamp). This exempt from this requirement). specifically includes Alligator, Hunting, Big migraTory bird hunTing license or Harvest Game, WMA, Georgia Waterfowl Conservation, Information Program (H.I.P.) License is Fishing, and Trout Licenses. Migratory bird required for any person who possesses a hunters must obtain a H.I.P. license. license and hunts migratory birds (doves, Deer hunters must obtain a deer harvest ducks, geese, woodcock, snipe, coots, rails, or record. Dog-Deer hunters must obtain

leGal fiReaRmS, PRimiTiVe weaPOnS & aRcHeRy eQuiPmenTconvicTed felons may not possess any firearm (including primitive weapons) while hunting unless that individuals right to carry has been restored (OCGA 16-11-131). This does not apply to archery equipment. primitivE wEapons Legal weapons during primitive weapons season include crossbows, bow and arrow, and any muzzleloading firearm (scopes are legal for deer and bear). arcHEry EquipmEnt Crossbows, longbows, recurve bows, and compound bows are allowed for hunting any game or feral hog. Arrows for hunting deer, bear or feral hog must be broadhead type. loadEd wEapon A firearm is considered loaded if a shell is in the chamber or magazine; a percussion cap is on the nipple; or powder is present on the frizzen pan. A crossbow is considered loaded if it is cocked and either has a bolt or arrow engaged or partially engaged on the shooting rail or track or with a trackless crossbow when the crossbow is cocked and a bolt or arrow is nocked.

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geneRal Hunting inFoRmation(magazine and chamber combined) except for deer, bear and feral hog shotguns, which are limited to maximum capacity of 5 shells. Plugs must be one piece and incapable of being removed through the loading end of the magazine. hunting dogs, except during open seasons for such game. For specific rules & regulations for dog training on WMAs & Chattahoochee National Forest see page 62.

dEEr & BEar FirEarms Modern Rifles and Handguns: Centerfire Only, .22-cal. or larger with expanding bullets. Shotguns: 20-gauge or larger loaded with slugs or buckshot. Buckshot is not allowed on WMAs, unless otherwise specified.

Silencers: Silencers may not be used for Muzzleloaders: .44-cal. or larger, or muzzlehunting. loading shotguns 20 gauge or larger. Scopes are legal. alligator EquipmEnt Hand-held ropes or snares, snatch hooks, turkEy FirEarms harpoons, gigs, or arrows with restraining Shotguns with No. 2 or smaller shot and any line attached. Lawfully restrained alligators muzzleloading firearm. may be killed with any caliber handgun or bangstick. FEral Hog FirEarms Any deer, bear, turkey or small game fire- unprotEctEd spEciEs FirEarms arms. Additional weapons restrictions apply For unprotected species onlyany firearm. on WMAs (see page 35) and Federal lands (see pages 5859). small gamE & FurBEarEr FirEarms Persons training dogs for hunting must have a Rifles and Handguns: Any .22-cal. or smaller valid Hunting License unless they are on their rimfire, air rifle, or any muzzleloading firearm. own land or land of an immediate relative. Shotguns: Any having shot shell size 3.5 There is no closed season for training dogs on inches or smaller in length with No. 2 or private lands. It is unlawful to possess firearms (except handguns with blank or shot cartridges), smaller shot. axes, climbers, or other equipment for taking Shotguns (Waterfowl): Any 10-gauge game while training hunting dogs except that or smaller loaded with federally approved shotguns with number six or smaller shot may nontoxic shot of size F or smaller. Lead be used while training pointing, flushing, and shot may not be in possession while hunting retrieving dogs using pen raised quail and waterfowl. pigeons provided that the dog trainer maintains proof of purchase of pen raised quail. It is spEcial FirEarm rEstrictions unlawful to run deer with dogs, except during Plugged Shotguns: Shotguns must be open seasons for hunting deer with dogs, or plugged to a maximum capacity of 3 shells to take game by any means while training

A hunter, and anyone accompanying the hunter, must at all times wear as an outer garment at least 500 square inches of visible hunter orange above the waist (which may include a head covering) when hunting: deer during the primitive weapons or firearms deer season bear during the primitive weapons or firearms bear seasons feral hogs during the primitive weapons or firearms deer season Hunter orange is not required on WMA or Corps of Engineers tracts designated archeryonly, unless otherwise indicated.

ReQuiRed clOTHinG

TRaininG dOGS

Legal hours for hunting are 30 minutes before sunrise until 30 minutes after sunset, except that alligators, raccoons, opossums, foxes, coyotes, bobcats and feral hogs may be hunted at night. Any light used to hunt raccoons, opossums, foxes, bobcats or feral hogs shall be carried on the person of a hunter, affixed to a helmet or hat worn by a hunter, or be part of a belt system worn by a hunter. There is no voltage restriction on such lights. Legal hours for migratory bird hunting conform to federal regulations (see page 38).

leGal HOuRS

UnLAwfUL ActivitiES unt, shoot, kill, or wound any farmed H deer (e.g. elk, red deer, fallow deer, sika deer, or axis deer) or exotic wild animal (e.g. farmed deer, mouflon sheep, Barbary sheep [aoudad], antelope, etc.) held under a wild animal license for enjoyment, gain, amusement, or sport. unting while under the influence of drugs H or alcohol. se of any pitfall, deadfall, snare, catch, trap, U net, exposed salt or minerals, live decoy, or baited hook to take game species. unting or shooting from or across a public H road. ischarging a firearm within 50 yards of D a public road. unting from a vehicle, plane, or boat under H power. unting without landowners permission, H including power line, gas line, railroad and other rights-of-way. Written permission must be obtained if land is so posted. se of drugs, poisons, chemicals, smoke, U gas, or explosives, or electronically-amplified sounds to hunt any game species. 2012 2013 18 U se of electronic communications equipment to aid in the pursuit of game. se of a computer or any other device to U remotely discharge a firearm for the purpose of hunting. elling or purchasing any game species S or parts thereof, except antlers, hides, and tails of legally taken deer, tails of legally taken squirrels, and legally taken alligator products. isturbing wildlife dens, holes, or homes, or D driving wildlife, except venomous snakes, from their dens, holes, or homes. linding wildlife with lights. B illing or crippling game without reasonK able efforts to retrieve. olding, possessing, releasing, or importing H wildlife without a permit from the DNR. oncealing the taking or possession of wildC life (or parts) which the person in possession reasonably should have known was obtained illegally.

clOSed aReaS

Hunting for all species of wildlife is prohibited on that portion of Morgan Falls Lake (Bull Sluice) lying within Fulton Co. and in Willeo Creek. Counties or parts of counties not specifically open by law or regulation are closed to hunting. Counties open for hunt ing do not include lands lying within WMAs, PFAs, State Parks, or other State/Federal lands except when such lands are specifically opened.

It is unlawful to take nongame wildlife except fiddler crabs, coyotes, armadillos, groundhogs, beavers, starlings, English sparrows, pigeons, and venomous snakes. Additionally, rats, mice, frogs, spring lizards, freshwater crayfish, freshwater turtles, and freshwater mussels may be taken except for species on Georgias Protected Species List. The taking of freshwater mussels requires a Fishing License or Commercial Fishing License. For more information on the commercial taking of freshwater mussels, consult your local state fisheries office or visit gofishgeorgia.com.

PROTecTed SPecieS

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Someones Stealing Georgias wildlife Poaching is the illegal taking of wildlife. Poachers rob you of hunting opportunities. Poachers steal everyones wildlife. Poachers give ethical hunters a bad name. Rewards are paid if an arrest is made. Anonymity is respected.

wildlife violator compactGeorgia, along with 38 other states, is a member of the Wildlife Violator Compact (WVC). This allows Wildlife Officers to treat non-residents hunting in WVC member states (shown below in green) as if they were a resident of that state in regards to wildlife violations. All wildlife law violators will be held more responsible due to the fact that their illegal activities in one state can affect their hunting privileges in all WVC member states. For more information visit georgiawildlife.com. WILDLIFE COMPACT MEMBER STATES

Go Ahead and Make Their Day turn in Poachers [email protected] 1-800-241-4113 WE ARE AVAILABLE 247365MEMBER STATESIn Process (2) No (7) Passed Legislation (3) Yes (38)

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deeR Hunting

SeaSonS & RegulationSon WMAs. Archery hunters must wear at least 500 square inches of hunter orange during primitive weapons and firearms deer seasons except in Archery-Only Counties. primitivE wEapons sEason eiTher sex Youth under 16 may hunt deer with any legal deer firearm during primitive weapons deer hunts and seasons. Oct. 1319; Statewide, except in archery-only counties and in accordance with bag limits, countywide antler restrictions and other regulations. Primitive weapons hunters may not possess any centerfire or rimfire firearm while hunting during the primitive weapons season for deer, except that any person possessing a license to carry a concealed firearm that is valid in this state pursuant to OCGA 16-11-126(f) or 16-11-129 may carry such firearm subject to the limitations of OCGA 16-11-126 and 16-11-127 except where prohibited by federal law. Scopes may be used.

deeR HunTinG SeaSOnSarcHEry sEason eiTher sex Statewide: Sept. 8Oct. 12 Archery Only Counties: Fulton (north of GA Hwy 92) and all of Clayton, Cobb, and DeKalb Counties): Sept. 8Jan. 1 in accordance with statewide bag limits, county-wide antler restrictions and other regulations. Extended Archery Season: Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, and Rockdale Counties only; Jan. 231 in accordance with statewide bag limits. Hunter orange is not required in archery-only counties or portions thereof.

deeR HunTinG ReGulaTiOnSdEEr Hunting witH dogs Deer may be hunted with dogs only within authorized seasons and localities (see page 25). Additionally, deer may be hunted with dogs only on leased properties of at least 1,000 contiguous acres or privately-owned properties of at least 250 contiguous acres that are permitted by DNR. Permits are specific to a piece of property. Only one annual permit application per property should be submitted. Applications for a permit must be received at least 30 days prior to hunting deer with dogs. Applicants wishing to hunt on opening day must submit an application by September 20, 2012. Applications for a permit may be obtained by visiting www.gohuntgeorgia.com. To legally hunt deer with dogs, each hunter 16 years and older must possess a deer dog hunting license in addition to all other required licenses and permits. The fee for this license is $5 except that Honorary, Sportsmens and Lifetime license holders may obtain the license at no charge. Dogs used for hunting deer on such properties must be marked with the assigned permit number during a hunt. The permit number also must be clearly displayed on all vehicles being used during a dog deer hunt. For more information visit gohuntgeorgia.com or call (706) 557-3241.

additional arcHEry sEason inFormation Archers may not possess any centerfire, rimfire, or muzzleloading firearm while hunting during the archery deer season , except that any person possessing a license to carry a concealed firearm that is valid in this state pursuant to FirEarms sEason OCGA 16-11-126(f) or 16-11-129 may carry See pages 24 and 25 for firearms deer season, such firearm subject to the limitations of OCGA dog deer seasons and either-sex dates. 16-11-126 and 16-11-127 except where prohibited by federal law. Archery hunting is allowed during firearms deer seasons and deer of either sex may be taken except as otherwise specified

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coolEr lockErs Whole or field dressed deer received by a cold storage or processing facility must be county-widE antlEr rEstrictions marked by the facility operator with hunters Antlered bucks may be harvested in Dooly name, county of kill, sex of deer, and date and Macon Cos. only if they have a minimum of kill. A list of processors is available at outside antler spread of 15 inches. In Hancock, gohuntgeorgia.com. See Importation section Harris, Meriwether, Montgomery, Randolph, below for restrictions on importation of deer Talbot, and Troup Cos., antlered bucks may carcasses. be taken only if they have a minimum of 4 antler points, 1 inch or longer, on one side of HEad oF dEEr the antlers. It is unlawful to remove the head of a deer until the deer is self-processed or surrendered antlErs to a storage facility for storage or processing. It is unlawful to kill a deer unless it has antlers (bone) visible above the hair, except during rigHts-oF-way/ transmission towErs either-sex or antlerless seasons or hunts. Transmission towers are property of the utility rEcording dEEr HarvEst company. Hunting from a stand or platform Except for WMA, State Park and NWR hunts attached to a transmission tower is trespassing requiring hunter check-out of harvested deer, and is prohibited. Written permission must be hunters may not remove a deer from the place obtained from the landowner to hunt on power of kill until the deer harvest record has been line, gas line, railroad, or other rights-of-way. permanently marked. Hunters may not possess multiple deer harvest records. All deer hunters lakEs, strEams & ponds regardless of age or residency must obtain a It is unlawful to take a deer by any means while deer harvest record and must record all deer it is in a lake, stream, or pond. harvest information.

sEason limit Season Limit is 10 antlerless deer and 2 antlered deer. One of the two antlered deer must have a minimum of 4 points, 1 inch or longer, on one side of the antlers except in counties with special antler restrictions (see pages 2425). There are no antler restrictions for the other antlered buck except in counties with special antler restrictions (see pages 2425).

transporting dEEr HarvEstEd By anotHEr HuntEr Persons transporting deer harvested by another hunter must possess, in writing, the complete name, address, telephone and hunting license number of the person who harvested the deer.

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Summary of Georgias Laws & Regulations Pertaining to Statewide*

Bait and the taking of Game & feral Hogs Over BaitIt is unlawful for any person to hunt any game animal (except as noted below) or game bird upon, over, around, or near any place where any corn, wheat, or other grains, salts, apples, or other feed or bait has been placed, exposed, deposited, distributed, or scattered so as to constitute a lure, attraction, or enticement to such game animals or game birds. It shall also be unlawful to hunt any game animal or game bird upon, over, around, or near any such place for a period of 10 days following complete removal of all such feed or bait. The placing of any feed or bait and the hunting of any game or feral hog over such feed or bait on Wildlife Management Areas is prohibited. Any person who takes any big game, other than in accordance with the following exceptions, shall upon conviction be guilty of a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature and subject to a fine up to $5,000 or imprisonment up to 12 months, or both. The DNR Board may by rule or regulation restrict the feeding, baiting, or hunting of deer and/or feral hogs upon, over, around or near such feed or bait in any county and any adjoining county, upon documented occurrence of a communicable disease in deer in such county. No person shall feed, bait or hunt deer and/or feral hogs in violation of any such restriction imposed. DNR will notify current licensed hunters by mail or electronic means within a restricted county. DNR may place signs to give such notice of restrictions. hunting of deer over such feed or bait on any state or federal lands is prohibited. In the Northern Deer Zone, it is unlawful to hunt deer upon, around, over or near any feed or bait when the hunter is less than 200 yards away or within sight of such feed or bait. Any such feed shall not be placed in a manner as to cause hunting on an adjacent property to be prohibited. The placing of any feed or bait and the hunting of deer over such feed or bait on any state or federal lands is prohibited.

exceptions for Deer (Zone limited)

In the Southern Deer Zone, deer may be hunted upon, around, over or near any feed or bait on private lands provided such person has written permission of the landowner. Any such feed or bait shall not be placed in a manner as to cause hunting on an adjacent property to be prohibited. The placing of any feed or bait and the

exceptions for Feral Hogs (Statewide)

Feral hogs may be hunted upon, around, over or near any feed or bait on private lands year round provided that any such feed or bait is not placed within 50 yards of any property ownership boundary. Any such feed or bait shall not be placed in a manner as to cause hunting on an adjacent property to be prohibited.

* Additional restrictions apply to federally regulated migratory birds (e.g., doves, ducks, geese, etc.). See the Late-Season Migratory Bird Regulations or visit www.gohuntgeorgia.com/hunting/regulations.

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Buck only except during either sex days. Fulton (north of GA Hwy 92) and all of Clayton, Cobb, and DeKalb Counties are CLOSED to firearms deer hunting. In the portion of Forsyth County lying south of GA Hwy 20, archery equipment, shotguns and muzzleloading firearms only (no other firearms allowed). Antler restrictions in Hancock, Meriwether and Troup Counties: ONLY bucks with at least four points (one inch or longer) on one side of antlers are legal.Lincoln

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Either-sex entire season except that portion of Glynn County lying within Jekyll Island. Dooly and Macon Counties ONLY antlered bucks with a minimum outside spread of 15 inches are legal. Harris, Montgomery, Randolph, and Talbot Counties ONLY bucks with at least four points (one inch or longer) on Eff one side of the antlers are legal. ingh am

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*antlEr rEstrictions apply

Landowner Liability & Huntinggrant access to hunters to hunt their property. Legal liability has also been offered as a reason some landowners have stopped allowing hunter access to their property. This is an important issue of concern with the increasing need of improving deer management and hunting access. To encourage landowners to make their lands available to the public for recreational purposes, including hunting and fishing, Georgia law (OCGA 51-3-20 through 51-3-26) explicitly shields landowners from civil liability for injuries to persons who use 24

Legal liability has been identified as a major concern among landowners when considering whether or not to

their land for recreational purposes without charge unless the landowner willfully or maliciously fails to guard against or warn of a dangerous condition, use, structure, or activity. Landowners will not be liable unless they violate this standard of care. Georgia Courts have interpreted this reasonable standard of care as the duty of slight care, which is lower than that of ordinary care. Georgia law (OCGA 27-3-1) further extends this same protection to landowners, lessees of land, or lessees of hunting

or fishing rights who give permission to another to hunt or fish on their property with or without charge.

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*antlEr rEstrictions apply ExtEndEd arcHEry sEason

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In Forsyth County south of GA Hwy 20, only shotguns and muzzleloaders are legal for firearms deer hunting.

northern Zone southern Zone

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Baker, Brantley, Bryan, Bulloch, Burke, Calhoun, Camden, Candler, Charlton, Chatham, Clinch, Decatur, Dougherty, Early, Echols, Effingham, Emanuel, Evans, Glynn, Grady, Jenkins, Lanier (east of the Alapaha River and southeast of US Hwy 221), Liberty, Long, McIntosh, Pierce (southeast of US Hwy 84 and portion lying northwest of US Hwy 84 and east of Scenic Drive), Screven, Seminole, Tattnall, Thomas, Ware (that portion lying south of US Hwy 82; and that portion lying north of US Hwy 82 and southeast of US Hwy 84), Washington (north of GA Hwy 24), Wayne (north of US Hwy 341 and west of Beards Bluff Rd.; north of GA Hwy 169; and southeast of US Hwy 84) nov. 22Jan. 15 Atkinson (south of US Hwy 82), Jefferson, Johnson (east of GA Hwy 15) dEc. 1Jan. 15 Colquitt, Marion, Stewart, Terrell, and Webster.Washington Wilkinson Talbot Taylor Macon Schley Dooly Stewart PulaskiPe h ac

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DeeR HARvest GuiDelinesfoR YouR PRoPERtY oR hunting CLuBtailed deer population that provides diverse recreational opportunities and generates significant economic vitality. However, Georgias white-tailed deer herd can present a variety of management challenges as we strive to maintain a sustainable deer population within appropriate biological, ecological, and sociological limits. Properly managing this important resource is critical. Hunting is the primary tool for managing white-tailed deer and hunting has successfully reduced the statewide deer population from 1.4 million deer in the 1990s to close to 1 million today. This reduction decreased or stabilized the deer population across much of the state resulting in improved habitat conditions, healthier deer, and substantial increases in antler quality. Finally, this success is consistent with the goal established in Georgias Deer Management Plan. ized areas that may experience either overabundance or scarcity. Further complicating this issue is the scale at which deer density varies. There may be extreme variations in deer densities within a single county making this issue difficult or impossible to solve through regional or county level regulations on deer harvest. Thus, responsible deer management, individually or collectively, by landowners, hunting clubs and hunters is essential, especially regarding proper doe harvest rates. It is the responsibility of hunters, clubs, and landowners to establish objectives to manage deer on the property they own, lease, or hunt. Georgia deer hunters, landowners and hunting clubs have differing management objectives. There is no statewide season and bag limit scenario that will satisfy these differing objectives. As such, Georgias current statewide regulations provide a framework for

EStABLiShing

Georgia is blessed with a healthy white- Despite this statewide success, there are local- landowners and hunting clubs to use when

establishing a harvest regime for their specific property(ies). This statewide framework is not site-specific and should never be viewed as such. However, statewide regulations do provide landowners and hunting clubs great flexibility to meet their deer management objectives. When determining management objectives it is critical to consider property size, habitat conditions, and management of adjacent properties. Hunters often set deer management guidelines on the property they hunt through individual hunter bag limits that can, if hunter density is high, result in overharvest. For example, a 1,500 acre hunting club with 50 members has a density of 1 hunter per 30 acres. With a bag limit of 2 bucks and 3 does, overharvest is likely to occur. With this much hunting pressure, a harvest regime that is more restrictive is likely appropriate.

GeorGia

The State of Georgia has some of the finest public hunting land available anywhere in the country. Visit WMaHUNTeR.COM to get the information that you need to take full advantage of this resource. Sign up for our monthly newsletter to receive up-to-date news and reports that will make you a more successful hunter.

www.wmaHunTeR.com

THIS PROGRAM IS MADE POSSIBLE BY AN EXCLUSIVE AGREEMENT BETWEEN J.F.GRIFFIN PUBLISHING AND THE GEORGIA DNR, WILDLIFE RESOURCES DIVISION.

2012 2013 26

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Considering deer harvest per land area can be an effective way to avoid an unwanted decline in deer density. General guidelines for appropriate doe harvest rates across much of Georgia are: one doe per 75 acres will decrease density, one doe per 150 acres will stabilize density, and one doe per 200 acres will increase density. Keep in mind that these guidelines may not be applicable in all areas of the state and are not a substitute for population monitoring and management, which are critical elements of any successful deer management program. Technical assistance establishing a management program and biological advice is available to all Georgia hunters. Biologists with the states Wildlife Resources Division are available to provide technical guidance on managing deer herds or a private biologist can be hired to develop a management strategy and monitor deer harvest. However, biological recommendations are only as good as the information provided. Better and more extensive objective data result in better recommendations. Effective deer management requires more work than simply killing deer. At a minimum, records should be kept on each deer harvested (i.e., sex, age, weight, antler measurements). Also, fetal data from late season harvested does and observational records (e.g., antlered bucks seen, does seen, and fawns seen) add

greatly to the information used to generate advice and recommendations, although not generally required. Such data is used to establish baselines, monitor the population and adjust property-specific harvest strategies to achieve a desired goal. In many instances, a harvest strategy will be more restrictive than the statewide framework. Decreases in deer sightings may not always mean a decrease in deer density. Deer movements and behavior are affected by hunting pressure, habitat conditions, predation, and weather. The best advice for deer hunters is to hunt where the deer are rather than where you want the deer to be. More often than not, rainy summers make it a good year to be a deer, but a bad year to be a deer hunter. Failure to adapt to deer movement and feeding patterns affected by abundant rainfall can cause some hunters to believe there is a serious decline in deer numbers in their area. Wet growing seasons generally produce abundant natural forage and good acorn crops. Deer movement can be very limited when natural forage and acorns are abundant. Deer spend very little time, if any, in and around managed wildlife openings under these conditions. To be successful, hunters must spend more time hunting where the natural browse and acorns are located, or along travel routes leading to and from these natural feeding

areas. Knowing the whens and wheres of hunting a property makes for a more enjoyable hunting experience. It is worth considering whether feeding deer is or has altered deer activity patterns, especially when combined with hunting pressure, so that deer are more nocturnal, move less frequently, and are less exposed to harvest. This practice may create a welfare system such that deer do not have to work for a living locating natural food sources. Thus, deer remain largely sedentary and hidden during legal shooting hours, and get their fill by feeding for a short period of time during the night. This can reduce the number of deer seen and the exposure of deer to harvest. Deer always adapt to their circumstances hunters should too! Statewide regulations provide a framework within which landowners and hunting clubs establish a harvest regime for the property they hunt. Either-sex days and bag limits are effective at protecting statewide and regional populations from over-harvest, but they cannot protect every single property from over-harvest. This is the reason site-specific, property-level deer management is critical to a successful deer management program. Ultimately, the solution rests in the hands of Georgias deer hunters and their willingness to practice voluntary restraint and responsible deer management.

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Hunting RegulationSBeaR

BeaR, tuRkeY, FeRal Hog, alligatoR & Small gameHunting with dogs is allowed. Hunting over bait is prohibited. Bears must be checked and tagged at either the Georgia Forestry Commission Office at Fargo, from Noon through 9 p.m. on days of hunts or at the Waycross DNR office from 8 a.m. through 4:30 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays of hunts and Noon through 9 p.m. on Saturdays of hunts. Harvested bears may also be checked at Dixon Memorial WMA check station when WMA is open for a check-in deer or bear hunt. turkey weapons during turkey season and with small game weapons during small game season. Feral hogs may be hunted with dogs with appropriate weapons restrictions while training dogs during dates when training season coincides with small game or turkey season. See page 62 for dog training seasons and rules. No limit. No night hunting. No hunting over bait. Hunting license requirements must be met. Hunter orange is required during firearms and primitive weapons deer seasons. Special regulations apply for Hartwell, Strom Thurmond/Clarks Hill, and Russell lakes (see pages 5859). transporting & rElEasE Transporting live feral hogs is prohibited unless such feral hogs have tested negative for brucellosis and pseudorabies within 30 days prior to transport. It is illegal to release any trapped or transported live feral hogs into any area that is not fenced to prevent escape of such feral hog. Any persons convicted of the release of live feral hogs in violation of established laws and regulations may be subject to revocation of hunting privileges for up to three years. warning Feral hogs can carry infectious diseases that are transmissible to people. To avoid possible exposure, wear plastic gloves when field-dressing feral hogs; wash hands with soap and hot water immediately afterwards; avoid direct contact with blood and reproductive organs; cook thoroughly, and properly dispose of all waste. procEssing Any facility that processes hogs for a fee must be licensed as a red meat establishment by the Dept. of Agriculture. Deer processors can obtain a Custom Feral Hog Exempt license from the GA Dept. of Agriculture, Meat Inspection Section for $10. Contact the Meat Inspection Section at (404) 656-3673 for more information. This licensing requirement does not apply to anyone processing a feral hog for their own use.

rEstriction Killing of females with cub(s) or a cub under 75 pounds is prohibited.

nortHErn ZonE In Banks, Barrow, Bartow, Catoosa, Chattooga, Cherokee, Dade, Dawson, Fannin, Floyd, Forsyth, Franklin, Gilmer, Gordon,

2012 - 2013 ga hunting regulations

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