Fishing
Fishing happens here! Gray's Reef is a popular spot off the Georgia coast for recreational fishing and diving. Sport fishing occurs year-round but at different levels of intensity. Anglers protect and preserve Gray's Reef for future generations by fishing sustainably and using sanctuary best practices.
Fishing for pelagic species such as king mackerel and bottom fishing for snapper and groupers are 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 these tournaments.
As a reminder, fishing and diving is prohibited in the Research Area.
Fishing Charters
Gray's Reef National Marine Sanctuary does not endorse or promote individual businesses or clubs, but to our knowledge the following are currently charters that may offer fishing charters to Gray's Reef:
If you are a fishing charter that frequents Gray's Reef National Marine Sanctuary and would like to be added to our list, please contact us at graysreef@noaa.gov.
Fishing Best Practices
Make the most out of your fishing trip to Gray's Reef National Marine Sanctuary.
Catch Seasons
Anglers at Gray's Reef National Marine Sanctuary can keep their catch, as long as they abide by state and federal size, weight, and species regulations.
Sanctuary Regulations
To protect the live-bottom habitats of the sanctuary, managers have several regulations boaters and anglers must follow.