Go Fish Georgia is a $30 million initiative that will leverage $19 million
in state funds with private donations and financial support from
local communities

G o F i s h G e o r g i a I n i t i a t i v e

The purpose of the Go Fish Georgia Initiative is to promote and enhance boating and fishing tourism and to
boost economic development in communities across the state. This initiative will result in a quality fisheries
resource statewide, including family friendly fishing and recreation access points that will increase fishing participation in Georgia. Fishing tournaments are a growing economic force in the nation. A single large tournament can contribute several million dollars to a local economy. Currently, all neighboring states except South Carolina, attract more large bass fishing tournaments than Georgia. Georgia is the sixth highest among states in sending resident anglers to other states and 21st in attracting non-resident anglers. A better quality fishery would encourage those anglers to spend their dollars here. Georgia is also home to the world record largemouth bass (22 lbs., 4 oz. caught by George W. Perry on June 2, 1932).

There are 10,649 jobs related to sport fishing in Georgia, which generates $15 million in state income
taxes, and $19 million in state sales taxes. $$ A major bass fishing tournament can have a $4-5 million economic impact on the local community. A championship event can have a $27 million economic impact

Resident and non-resident anglers currently spend about $569 million each year on fishing in Georgia