Briefly Outdoor News: March 2021

Scott Robinson Named New WRD Chief Of Fisheries

Scott Robinson has been named the new Chief of Fisheries for the Wildlife Resources Division of DNR.

Scott is a longtime employee of the division, most recently serving as assistant chief of the Fisheries Section.

As chief, Robinson’s responsibilities will include coordinating and managing the statewide fisheries program, development of fisheries management budget, and supervision of Georgia’s public fishing areas. Additionally, he will oversee the drafting of fishing regulations statewide.

Scott is a Certified Fisheries Professional and past-president of the Georgia Chapter of the American Fisheries Society. He worked on state, regional and national fish habitat conservation issues with the Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies for nearly a decade. In addition, he has served as a fisheries biologist for the Georgia DNR working in a variety of roles in fish hatcheries, fisheries management, habitat conservation and aquatic education, and most recently he oversaw operations of the state fish hatchery system and aquatic education programs.

Scott holds a master’s in Fisheries and Wildlife Biology from Clemson University. Scott has written numerous articles for GON over the years and appeared in an episode of GON-TV in 1999. He is an avid angler and hunter, and currently resides in Covington with his wife and the only “kid” left in the house, the chocolate lab.

GWF Hosts Duck Hunt For UGA College Students

Staff from the Georgia Wildlife Federation (GWF) and UGA’s new Academics Afield coordinator, Cody Ellis, led six novice hunters, three volunteer mentors and two phenomenal retrievers for a special duck hunt in Newton County. It was a rainy day wading through the flooded tupelo swamps at the GWF’s Alcovy Conservation Center, weather fitting for a duck hunt!

The Academics Afield Program focuses on creating a collegiate hunting experience. The volunteer student mentors guide the student participants. The program structure enables group learning, community resources and follow-up opportunities.

UGA students took part in a duck hunt through the Academics Afield Program.

Samuel Robinson, a UGA student, participated in the hunt.

“I was already aware of the positive conservation impacts of hunting, but it was so nice to find a group of students who enjoyed hunting and were as interested in it as I was,” Samuel said.

 The students had hands-on demonstration of field-dressing their harvests and were provided guidance on food preparation or preservation.

Participant Emily Wolfe said, “I’m excited to go waterfowl hunting in the future and looking forward to my next duck.”

The Academics Afield Program hosts at least two events a semester, providing a continuous experience and opportunities for skill development in hunting, shooting sports and wildlife conservation.

‘ajeepchic ’ Connects On 8-Point Buck

Amy Brawner, who goes by ‘ajeepchik’ on the Forum, sent this picture and message:

“Got this Big 8 opening weekend in Franklin County. I’ve been hunting nine years and love every minute of it. My GSP puppy Josie was thrilled. I named the buck Scarface because he’s been rough and rowdy and fighting. He stepped out about 3:45 p.m., and I dropped him on the spot. Now it’s time to reap the rewards with some good deer jerky. I wish more women could understand that hunting can be a great hobby and a blessing. So much peacefulness getting away from the world. Thank you kindly and God bless.”

Where’s GON? At The Drive-Through

We certainly don’t recommend ‘GON Stickering’ private property, but that familiar red logo was greeting folks ordering food at the Mableton KCF drive-through.

Thank you to Stewart McDonough for having his phone handy at the drive-through to get this picture, and thanks for submitting it, Stewart.

When you see the GON logo in an interesting location, please email a photo and the details to [email protected], or mail to GON, 4331 Seven Islands Road, Madison, GA 30650.

Crappie USA Coming To Lake Weiss On March 20

Crappie fishermen will have the opportunity to win $10,000 in cash and prizes when Crappie USA comes to Lake Weiss on March 20.

Anglers can register for the tournament at www.crappieusa.com/Tournament_Registration.cfm. Teams may also enter by calling 502.384.5924 or in person at the pre-tournament seminar on March 19.

Social distancing will be mandatory in the weigh-in line. Anglers and spectators are urged to wear masks.