Hunting and Fishing
Stephens County offers the outdoorsman (or woman) a wide variety of hunting and fishing opportunities.
Local game includes deer, turkey, boar, fox, bobcat, raccoon and opossums, and hunting is permitted in season. For more information about locations and regulations, contact the Department of Natural Resources at 7705355700.
There are several trout streams in Stephens County: the Middle Fork Broad River, the North Fork of Broad River, Panther Creek and Toccoa Creek . Literally hundreds of other trout streams including trophy streams are only a short drive north from Toccoa.
Black crappie, largemouth bass, striped bass, hybrid bass and channel catfish are abundant, and can be pursued in Lake Hartwell, Lake Yonah, Lake Toccoa and Lake Louise.
For additional information, contact the Department of Natural Resources at 770-535-5700.
The Wildlife Resources Division (WRD) of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources regulates hunting, fishing, and the operation of watercraft in Georgia, protects non-game and endangered wildlife, and maintains public education and law enforcement programs to ensure that Georgia’s natural resources will be conserved for our present and future generations.
The Law Enforcement Section is responsible for protecting Georgia’s wildlife populations by enforcing laws, rules and regulations pertaining to game and non-game animals, threatened and endangered plants and animals, exotic animals, boating safety, litter and waste control and other natural resource issues.
The law enforcement section also administers the state’s hunter education and boating safety programs. Conservation Rangers investigate violations of wildlife laws, as well as hunting and boating incidents. They also conduct classes and programs to educate citizens about wildlife laws and safety practices.
How to Get a Hunting/ Fishing License
You can buy a hunting license in one of three ways:
- From a license agent
- By phone
- Purchase online
Click here for complete details about how to purchase a license in Georgia.
How to Register Your Boat in Georgia
You can obtain boat registration applications from any Wildlife Resources Division office or from most boat dealers, hardware stores, sporting goods stores or marinas. There is a temporary certificate on the registration form. The temporary certificate allows you to operate your boat until you receive your permanent certificate and decal by mail.
Register or Renew Your Boat by Mail
Mail your completed application or renewal form with a check or money order for the required fee to:
Georgia Department of Natural Resources
Boat Registration Office
P. O. Box 105310
Atlanta, Georgia 30348-5310
Renew Boat Registrations by Phone
You can also renew boat registrations by phone by calling 800-366-2661.
Register or Renew Your Boat Online
Register or renew your boat registration through this web site.
For more information, see the boating regulations or call the Boat Registration Office at 800-366-2661