Fishing

Gray's Reef is one of the most popular spots off the Georgia coast for recreational fishing and diving. The sanctuary is only accessible by private boat. The Sanctuary does not run boat tours, fishing trips or dive trips. However, independent boat operators run fishing trips and dive trips to the Sanctuary. Gray's Reef does not make recommendations.

Sport fishing occurs year-round but at different levels of intensity. Fishing for pelagic species such as king mackerel is one of the most popular activities; sport fishing tournaments sponsored by private fishing clubs and marinas take place in the spring and summer. Gray's Reef is a popular destination for participants.

Only rod and reel and handline are allowable fishing gear at Gray's Reef. See the regulations section for details. It is also against regulations to anchor in Gray's Reef except during an emergency.

In addition to sanctuary regulations, anglers should be aware of and follow all regional federal fisheries regulations, which can be found at the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council regulations web page . Free apps for iPhone in the App Store and Android phone in Google Play are available, and include species identification guides and regulations for each species.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources' Coastal Resources Division publishes numerous brochures that can be mailed or downloaded and offer information about the Environment, Fishing - Fisheries (Angler's Guide, Offshore Artificial Reef, Fishing Regulations, etc.), Coastal Management and Shellfish.