Anglers’ high hopes for more fishing opportunities in Houston County become reality on June 5 as Gov. Sonny Perdue and other state and local officials welcomed the first visitors to the grand opening of the Flat Creek Public Fishing Area (PFA) located near Perry. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division will manage the PFA and its amenities.
“Fishing is big business in Georgia,” Perdue said. “Based on 18,000 annual fishing trips expected at Flat Creek PFA, the lake will generate about $645,000 annually in fishing-related expenditures, resulting in more than $1.3 million in economic activity each year. When other outdoor recreation such as bird and wildlife watching is considered, these numbers double.”
Perdue surprised former DNR Commissioner Lonice C. Barrett by announcing that the lake would be named for him as recognition of all that he has done for the natural resources of the state.
After the ceremony, the speakers moved to the boat ramp service pier and made a ceremonial “first cast” into the water. Anglers were able to head out on the water following the ceremony and test their luck on such species as largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish and redear sunfish.
“This PFA is within a 30-minute drive of more than 250,000 citizens, many of whom participate in some type of wildlife-related recreation,” said DNR Commissioner Chris Clark “This is the 10th PFA available in Georgia and, of course, will be of great economic value, but will also provide an opportunity for families to get together in a safe, outdoors environment and develop an appreciation of our wonderful natural resources in this part of the state.”
The area offers a 108-acre lake that will provide excellent fishing opportunities for both bank and boat anglers. Anglers 16 years of age or older must possess current and appropriate Georgia fishing licenses. Anglers may use up to two fishing poles and any size outboard motor may be used at idle speed.
For more information on the Flat Creek PFA or other fishing opportunities in Georgia, visit www.gofishgeorgia.com or call the WRD Fisheries Management Regional Office at (478) 825-6151.
