Governor Brian Kemp has officially marked Saturday, September 27, 2025, as National Hunting and Fishing Day in Georgia, signing a proclamation that celebrates the state’s rich outdoor traditions and the vital role of sportsmen and women in conservation. To commemorate the day, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division (WRD) is set to host 11 special events across the state, alongside a statewide free fishing day for all Georgia residents.

The proclamation, signed by Gov. Kemp, underscores the deep historical roots of hunting and angling in Georgia. “Georgia has a rich and storied tradition of hunting and angling, that dates back further than the state itself and carries forward to this day,” the proclamation states. “Hunting and angling continue to be an integral component of the cultural fabric of communities throughout the state, and over recent years have offered a growing number of participants an opportunity to connect with nature on a personal level while simultaneously providing food security, a sense of self-sufficiency, and both mental and physical health benefits.”

The governor also highlighted the foundational role of hunters and anglers in preserving Georgia’s natural resources. “Georgia’s hunters and anglers were among the first conservationists to support the establishment of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources to conserve fish, wildlife and their habitat, and through their license fees helped fund state efforts to provide for healthy and sustainable natural resources.”

Among the 11 planned events are family/kid fishing events and “Outdoor Adventure Days,” designed to introduce participants to a variety of activities such as archery, fishing, and shooting. One of those celebrations will take place at James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park in Summerville, where families and outdoor enthusiasts are invited for a day of fun, fishing, and adventure on Saturday, September 27th, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The park’s “Outdoor Adventure Day and Kid’s Fishing Rodeo” promises an engaging mix of activities aimed at entertaining and educating visitors of all ages while showcasing Georgia’s natural beauty.

In addition to the organized events, National Hunting and Fishing Day offers a unique opportunity for all Georgia residents: a FREE fishing day on Saturday, September 27, 2025. On this day, residents do NOT need a fishing license or a trout license to fish on any public waters in the state, including lakes, streams, ponds, and public fishing areas.

“By hosting these events and celebrating National Hunting and Fishing Day, we hope to salute the rich tradition of fishing, hunting and sport shooting and also introduce new audiences to some of these outdoor activities and help make them more aware of the connection between hunting, angling, and conservation,” said Georgia DNR Wildlife Resources Division Director Ted Will. “So, be sure to put Sept. 27 on your calendar and pick an event to help you and your family get outside and try something new.”

National Hunting and Fishing Day was first established by the U.S. Congress and President Richard Nixon in 1972 to recognize the significant contributions of hunters and anglers. Through self-imposed fees and excise taxes on equipment, U.S. sportsmen and women have collectively raised more than $57 billion for conservation efforts nationwide – an astonishing average of over $100,000 every 30 minutes.

Georgians are encouraged to participate in one of the 11 events or simply enjoy a day of free fishing, celebrating the state’s natural beauty and the enduring legacy of its outdoor enthusiasts.

Outdoor Adventure Day at Sloppy Floyd State Park

Kid’s Fishing Rodeo: Reel in the Fun Young anglers aged 15 and under can test their skills at the Kid’s Fishing Rodeo. Participants have the chance to catch specially tagged catfish, which could earn them exciting prizes. While participants must bring their own fishing poles and bait, Georgia’s Free Fishing Day means residents will not need a fishing license to cast their lines in public waters.

More Than Just Fishing Beyond the fishing rodeo, the event offers a wide array of hands-on activities, including:

Archery: Test your aim with guided instruction.
Birds of Prey Show: Get up close with majestic raptors.
Climbing Wall: Challenge your agility and reach new heights.
Face Painting: Add some colorful fun to the day.
Reptile Show: Learn about local wildlife from expert naturalists.

Admission & Parking While entry to the event itself is free, a $5 per vehicle parking fee applies at James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park.

Plan Your Visit:

When: Saturday, September 27, 2025, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Where: James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park, Summerville
Cost: Free event entry ($5 parking fee per vehicle)
Contact: For more details, call the park office at 706-857-0826.
Statewide Free Fishing Day and Conservation Legacy