Exciting News for Anglers in Atlanta: Trout Stocking Program Funding Renewed!
ATLANTA — If you love fishing and spending time outdoors, there’s some great news coming your way! The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has just announced the renewal of funding for a trout stocking program in Georgia and Tennessee, and it’s set to run through 2027! With a total of $1 million earmarked for the next three years, this program is a fantastic opportunity to boost local fishing and enhance the outdoor experience for everyone.
A Look Back at the Program
This trout stocking program has been making waves since 2013. Back then, the Tennessee Valley Authority, Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources came together to craft a plan that ensures trout production stays strong across three fish hatcheries. Since its inception, millions of trout have been introduced to waters in both states, keeping the fishing community buzzing with excitement.
Where’s the Action?
The hatcheries involved in this program are the Dale Hollow and Erwin hatcheries in Tennessee and the Chattahoochee Forest Hatchery in Georgia. Each year, these hatcheries work tirelessly to raise thousands of fish, which are then stocked in various tailwaters and reservoirs. Some of the prime fishing spots include the Hiwassee River, Blue Ridge, Fort Patrick Henry, and Wilbur Reservoirs — just to name a few!
Why This Matters
According to Michael McCall, TVA’s chief sustainability officer, “Few things are more enjoyable – and challenging – than testing your fishing skills against trout in the tailwaters of TVA dams!” Supporting these fish hatcheries is crucial for ensuring fun fishing experiences are available for years to come. This is not just about fishing, though; it’s also about supporting local economies. Outdoor recreation, like fishing, is a cornerstone of quality life in the region and helps local businesses thrive!
A Win-Win Partnership
The renewed funding, announced this past Monday, amounts to a whopping $3 million over the next three fiscal years. As Mike Oetker, Regional Director of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, puts it, “This partnership connects state and federal agencies in our work to support the nation’s interest in outdoor recreation.” This collaboration is key to upholding clean water, strengthening the economy, and enhancing recreational opportunities in the Tennessee Valley.
Fishing for Fun and Economy
Each year, the program ensures that around 500,000 brook, brown, cutthroat, and rainbow trout make their way into the waters of the Tennessee Valley Authority’s jurisdiction. It’s estimated that over 256,000 anglers cast their lines in Georgia and Tennessee each year, contributing around $50 million to the local economy. Each angler spends roughly $75 for every $1 invested in the program, making it a powerful economic driver.
Looking Forward
According to Ted Will, the director of the Georgia DNR Wildlife Resources Division, this long-standing partnership allows for ongoing high-quality trout fishing. “Maintaining this partnership and working together gives us the ability to meet angler needs and additionally add economic value to communities in these mountain areas,” he says. So, whether you’re a seasoned angler or new to the fishing scene, this renewal is great news for everyone who loves to fish!
With funding renewed, anglers in Atlanta and the surrounding areas can look forward to many more seasons of thrilling trout fishing ahead. So, grab your tackle box, head out to your favorite fishing spot, and enjoy the great outdoors!
