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ATHENS, GA–Georgia Rivers is offering kayak anglers and aspiring anglers multiple opportunities in 2026 to land some lunkers while learning from kayak fishing experts through the organization’s Fish Georgia Rivers program.
“Kayak angling is one of the fastest growing outdoor recreation activities,” said Kendon Townsel, Georgia Rivers Fish Georgia Coordinator. “Our goal is to connect anglers with Georgia rivers and givethem the tools and training they need to enjoy safe and successful kayak fishing trips.”
Each class will be led by certified American Canoe Association kayak angling instructors.This year’s schedule includes trips for a variety of experience levels from novice to expert kayak anglers and are open to all ages.
The training sessions kick off March 28 with a kayak fishing class on Lake Allatoona, followed by an introduction to kayak river fishing April 28 on North Georgia’s Chestatee River. Additional classes will be held July 18 and Aug.15 on the Chattahoochee River in metro Atlanta, and Aug. 29 on the Chestatee River. A complete listing of kayak fishing excursions can be found at
“Anglers’ connection to rivers is unrivaled – the more rivers we connect anglers to, the more protectors our rivers gain,” said Rena Ann Peck, Georgia Rivers executive director.
“We are growing the movement of outdoor recreation by making it affordable and accessible, with scholarships available. These classes aim to get participants more comfortable using a kayak for fishing and more familiar with fishing gear and techniques. The training trips in the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area will include both ground instruction and advanced paddling techniques to optimize efficiency on the water.”
The final fishing trip of the year is a two-day trip on the Flint River September 19-20 centered around catching the Shoal Bass. Camp at Big Lazer Wildlife Management Area or come for the day to learn and share fish stories. Participants will float the river the first day and wade the shallow shoals the next
Scholarships for women, people of color, recent immigrants and lower income individuals and families are available for all trips. Interested parties can apply for a scholarship at
https://georgiarivernetwork.regfox.com/paddle-georgia-scholarship-application
Contact Kendon Townsel, kendon@garivers.org, with questions regarding Fish Georgia Rivers.
Photos provided Georgia Rivers