Georgia Book alpha layout - Georgia`s Coastal Resources Division
Transcription
Georgia Book alpha layout - Georgia`s Coastal Resources Division
Georgia Book alpha layout 10/16/01 11:39 AM Page 60 A GUIDE TO GEORGIA’S OFFSHORE ARTIFICIAL REEFS Including the Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary & U.S. Navy TACS Towers Free Copy – Not for Sale Published September 2001 Disclaimer: “This information is intended as a general guide to artificial reef sites off the Georgia coast and is not intended for use as a navigational guide for offshore and coastal waters.” Illustrations by: Diane Rome Peebles Graphic Design by: BroadBased Communications, Inc. Georgia Department of Natural Resources Coastal Resources Division This publication was developed and printed by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, using recreational fishing license funds. 1 Conservation Way, Suite 300 Brunswick, Georgia 31520-8687 Telephone: (912) 264-7218 Georgia Book alpha layout 10/16/01 11:39 AM Page 2 Table of Contents Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 USCG Buoys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Navy Towers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Coastal Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Artificial Reefs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Artificial Artificial Artificial Artificial Artificial Artificial Artificial Artificial Artificial Artificial Artificial Artificial Artificial Artificial Artificial Artificial Artificial Artificial Artificial Artificial Artificial Reef A . . . . . . . Reef ALT . . . . . Reef BH . . . . . . Reef BL . . . . . . Reef C . . . . . . . Reef CAT . . . . . Reef CCA . . . . . Reef DRH . . . . . Reef DUA . . . . . Reef F . . . . . . . Reef G . . . . . . . Reef J . . . . . . . Reef KBY . . . . . Reef KC . . . . . . Reef KTK . . . . . Reef L . . . . . . . Reef MRY . . . . . Reef SAV . . . . . Reef SFC . . . . . Reef TC . . . . . . Reefs WW & DW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30 32 34 36 38 40 42 44 46 48 50 52 54 56 Gray’s Reef . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Fish Information Index Round Scad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cobia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Crevalle Jack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bluefish . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Spanish Mackerel . . . . . . . . . . . King Mackerel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Red Snapper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Spottail Pinfish . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sheepshead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Great Barracuda . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 19 21 23 25 27 29 31 33 35 37 Greater Amberjack . . . . . . . . . . 39 Vermilion Snapper . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Gray Triggerfish . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Black Sea Bass . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Scamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Tomtate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Little Tunny . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Red Porgy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Atlantic Spadefish . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Dolphin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Sailfish . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 3 Georgia Book alpha layout 10/16/01 11:39 AM Page 4 Offshore Georgia Most anglers know fish aren’t caught everywhere: they’re usually taken at specific “drops.” Fish congregate where conditions favor them or their prey. For many species, bottom structures provide shelter from currents and predators. For others, the invertebrates and smaller fish associated with bottom structures improve chances of obtaining a meal. Off Georgia, the continental shelf slopes gradually eastward for over 80 miles before reaching the Gulf Stream and the continental slope. This broad, shallow shelf consists largely of dynamic sand/shell expanses that do not provide the firm foundation needed for the development of reef communities, which include popular gamefish such as groupers, snappers, sea bass, and amberjack. Only about 5% of the adjacent shelf features natural reefs or “live bottoms” anchored to rock outcrops, most of which occur more than 40 miles offshore. Artificial/ Manmade Reefs Fish like this sheepshead use reefs for shelter, as well as for food. Tomtate feeding on reefs in turn provide prey for large gamefish. Early anglers venturing off Georgia knew that excellent fishing for grouper, snapper, black sea bass, and other gamefish could be experienced closer to shore at scattered nearshore wrecks and wherever the bottom provided a solid footing above the shifting sands. Based on these observations, coastal sportfishing groups realized that they could deploy materials in Georgia’s offshore waters to provide the solid structure needed to establish additional “drops” or “artificial” reefs. The concept of placing materials in coastal waters to create artificial reefs is not a new one. As early as the 1700’s, Japanese fishermen were sinking old vessels and offloading rocks in local waters to improve catches. Over 100 years ago, South Carolinians placed wooden, crib-like structures in estuarine waters to improve catches of sheepshead and other fish. Despite its popular usage, the term “artificial” reef may be somewhat of a misnomer. While the foundation of an artificial reef may consist of manmade structures, the biological community that establishes itself on these materials is very “natural.” Off Georgia, where natural reefs are not based on coral, but rather on rock outcroppings, this distinction may be even less, depending on the type of manmade material deployed. Surplused steel vessels and tanks are popular materials on Georgia’s artificial reefs. 4 5 Georgia Book alpha layout 10/16/01 Artificial Reef Materials 11:39 AM Page 6 Georgia’s Offshore Artificial Reefs I n order to provide long-term benefits, artificial reef materials must be stable, longlasting, and free of contaminants. Complexity and the amount of surface area are other important factors. Holes and openings permit light entry and water flow. A variety of materials have been used in the development of Georgia’s offshore artificial reefs, ranging from “materials of opportunity” to specially designed fisheries enhancement units. Although artificial reef development is not intended to simply provide a convenient disposal option for problematic materials ashore, some scrap materials such as concrete rubble and steel vessels can be used effectively to create long-term fisheries habitat and recreational opportunities. 6 Whether pipes, rubble, or designed units, concrete is an excellent artificial reef material. Early artificial reef construction off Georgia was accomplished largely through the efforts of coastal sport fishermen. Although shortterm benefits were realized, the materials quickly deteriorated and were lost. In 1970, the Georgia State Game and Fish Commission initiated a State artificial reef development program. Today, the program is housed within the Coastal Resources Division of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. Funding for the program relies on the Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration program, state appropriations, and the assistance of sport fishing clubs, coastal businesses, and private individuals. Goals of Georgia’s artificial reef program include: 1) the development of long-term fisheries habitat; 2) the creation of additional and more accessible recreational fishing opportunities; and 3) the enhancement and support of local and regional fisheries management efforts. In addition to the benefits realized by anglers, fish, and the attached reef communities of corals, sponges, hydroids, mollusks, worms, and crabs, artificial reefs also create opportunities for other wildlife. Threatened loggerhead sea turtles utilize the reefs for resting and shelter. Marine mammals such as dolphins frequent the artificial reefs. Seabirds feed on the schools of small baitfish attracted to the artificial reefs. Manmade materials provide a foundation for natural reef communities, including corals, sponges, and crabs. Artificial Reef Locations Most of the artificial reefs off Georgia’s coast are located 6-23 nautical miles (nm) offshore in 30'-75' water depths. Two experimental “deepwater” artificial reefs have also been initiated in 120'-170' water depths 50-70 nm offshore to address a growing “bluewater” fishery targeting tunas, wahoo, and dolphin. Where an artificial reef is sited is determined by a variety of factors. One of the most important is water depth, which in turn dictates the size and type of reef material that can be used without affecting navigational interests. Wave action in shallow waters is more pronounced, increasing sand movement and siltation. The composition of the bottom is an important consideration, especially closer to shore where the substrate largely consists of fine sand and silt. Other important factors that determine the siting of an artificial reef are socio-economic, including angler characteristics, preferred fish species, accessibility, demand, existing opportunities, and user group conflicts. Buoying Permitted through the United States Coast Guard, all-yellow nun buoys with RADAR reflectors are 7 Georgia Book alpha layout 10/16/01 11:39 AM Page 8 Safety S mart fishermen know that their first priority is safety, which takes on even more meaning when venturing offshore. Prior to departing, make sure that the boat, engines, controls, pumps, electronics, safety gear, and communications equipment are in good working order and that you are familiar with their use. Ensure that your nautical charts are current. Those unfamiliar with offshore Georgia might consider accompanying a more experienced angler initially. Always file a float plan and be sure to call in any changes. Have an alternative plan in case the weather or seas are too rough or threatening. Do not push your capabilities. Finally, monitor weather reports regularly and keep alert for squalls building between you and the shore. maintained at most of Georgia’s offshore artificial reefs. Placed away from structures to avoid entanglement, the buoys warn larger vessels of the artificial reefs and help anglers locate and use the reefs. For these reasons, DO NOT TIE TO THE BUOYS. In addition to hazards to both the buoy and vessel, substantial fines can also be levied against boaters tying to or otherwise damaging the buoys. Regulations Whatever is biting, anglers must stay informed about current state and federal fishing regulations. Too, anglers must be able to accurately identify their catches. Information on federal regulations and fish identification are available through the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council [(843) 571-4366; http://www.safmc.net] and the United States Coast Guard (http://www.uscg.mil/d7/units/srftc/jobaid1.html). Information on 8 Red snapper state regulations may be obtained by contacting Coastal Resources Division, Georgia Department of Natural Resources at (912) 264-7218. All of Georgia’s offshore artificial reefs beyond 3 nm have also been established as “Special Management Zones (SMZs)”. Under this designation, only handheld hook-andline gear and spearfishing gear, including powerheads, may be used at the artificial reefs. Powerheads may only be used to harvest a recreational bag limit. No boats at the artificial reefs may have powerheaded catches aboard in excess of the bag limits. Fishing Georgia’s Offshore Artificial Reefs Recreational fishing on Georgia’s artificial reefs occurs year-round, but is most concentrated from June through August. With the advent of warmer water temperatures, bluefish, cobia, and little tunny arrive at the artificial reefs in Spring, followed shortly by amberjack, king and Spanish mackerel, sharks, barracuda, and an occasional dolphin, sailfish, or tuna. Bottom fish caught at the artificial reefs include black sea bass, gag grouper, red snapper, sheepshead, porgies, triggerfish, red drum, spadefish, and more. Offshore fishing techniques employed off Georgia are similar to those used elsewhere, although coastal marina operators and local anglers can often provide more specific information as to what is biting, where to fish, and the gear and bait to use. Georgia’s offshore fisheries are not inexhaustible. Anglers are encouraged to practice catch & release, taking only what Anglers are encouraged to practice catch & release, taking only what they can use. 9 Georgia Book alpha layout 10/16/01 11:39 AM Page 10 they can use. If quickly and properly handled, released fish can survive. It is up to today’s fishermen to restore and maintain Georgia’s offshore fisheries for future generations. Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary Diving SCUBA diving off Georgia continues to increase, although this activity remains largely limited to the warmer months of the year. Divers typically target locations further offshore due to improved water visibilities, which are affected by sea conditions and tidal cycles. Currents offshore of Georgia can also be strong. Georgia’s artificial reefs have been constructed primarily to create fisheries habitat and provide offshore angling opportunities. Wrecks and other reef materials become unstable over time and collapse. For divers, entanglement and entrapment are real dangers that are unavoidably associated with artificial reef structures. In light of these hazards, it remains the personal responsibility of divers choosing to dive at Georgia’s artificial reefs to recognize and assume these risks, to take precautions against these and other hazards existing at the artificial reefs, and to evaluate all safety considerations in light of existing conditions, individual abilities, and the dictates of their training. To minimize conflicts while at the artificial reefs, courtesy, communication, and compromise are the rules. Do not start diving where others are fishing. Communicate with fishermen to inform them of your plans. Always display a dive flag. Once dives are completed, move away and spend surface intervals off the reef structures. 10 Constructed primarily for recreational angling, Georgia’s offshore artificial reefs are also targeted by divers. Designated in 1981 as a National Marine Sanctuary, Gray’s Reef is located 17 nautical miles east of Sapelo Island. Natural rocky outcrops blanketed with lush communities of sponges, corals, and other invertebrates occur throughout the Sanctuary, providing a stark contrast to the interspersed sand expanses. The largest “live bottom” area most accessible to Georgia anglers and divers, Gray’s Reef is managed by the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). A weather buoy and four corner buoys mark the Sanctuary. For current on-site weather/sea conditions, forecasts, regulations, and other information on the Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary, access www.graysreef.nos.noaa.gov/ or contact the Sanctuary Manager at (912) 598-2345. Gray’s Reef is the largest “live bottom” area most accessible to Georgia’s offshore recreational fishermen. A diver explores a rocky ledge at Gray’s Reef. 11 Georgia Book alpha layout 10/16/01 11:39 AM Page 12 Navy Towers USCG Aids to Navigation USCG Aids Although GADNR maintains the offshore artificial reef buoys, the United States Coast Guard (USCG) is largely responsible for maintaining buoys, daymarkers, and other aids to navigation that mark the various coastal channels. Occasionally these navigational aids are re-located to better delineate the channels, which are subject to constant shoaling. Some buoys may added or discontinued. Characteristics of navigational aids may be modified. Buoys and daymarks may be missing. The prudent mariner needs to remain aware of these possibilities at all times. Buoys, daymarks, and other aids to navigation are just that - navigational aids. For these reasons, the following list of coordinates for USCG buoys and daymarks should be used with caution and updated frequently. USCG Aid to Navigation GPS Latitude N/Longitude W Green Channel Buoy “5” 31˚59.164'/80˚46.121' Red Sea Buoy “2W” Ossabaw Sound Entrance St. Catherines Sound Entrance St. Catherines Channel Sapelo Sound Entrance LOCATION Savannah Channel Wassaw Sound Entrance Sapelo Channel 15 nm East of Sapelo Island GPS Latitude N/Longitude W Navy Tower “R7” 45388.0/61069.1 31˚49.000'/80˚16.500' 31˚51.538'/80˚53.022' Navy Tower “R8” 45220.4/60955.5 31˚38.000'/79˚55.500' Red & White Sea Buoy “OS” 31˚47.793'/80˚56.185' Navy Tower “M2R6” 45284.1/61143.6 31˚32.000'/80˚14.000' Red & White Sea Buoy “STC” 31˚40.211'/81˚00.209' Navy Tower “R2” 45342.3/61365.7 31˚22.500'/80˚34.000' Green Channel Buoy “3” 31˚40.498'/81˚03.543' Navy Tower “R3” 45137.2/61189.4 31˚13.000'/80˚07.000' Red & White Sea Buoy “S” 31˚31.205'/81˚03.907' Navy Tower “M1R1” 45186.3/61406.8 31˚03.000'/80˚27.000' Green Channel Buoy “3” 31˚31.962'/81˚07.000' Navy Tower “R5” 45251.7/61589.8 30˚56.500'/80˚45.000' Navy Tower “R4” 45045.1/61414.2 30˚48.000'/80˚19.000' Yellow Buoy “S” 31˚28.498'/80˚54.554' 31˚21.231'/81˚11.406' St. Simons Channel Entrance Red & White Sea Buoy “STS” 31˚03.233'/81˚15.152' 13.5 nm East of Jekyll Island Red Buoy “2B” 31˚00.130'/81˚09.630' Red & White Sea Buoy “STA” 30˚55.617'/81˚19.016' St. Andrew Sound Entrance 12 LORAN C 7980-Z/7980-X Red & White Sea Buoy “D” Doboy Sound Entrance In the 1980’s, the U.S. Navy constructed eight Navy offshore towers to support its Tower Tactical Aircrew Combat System. Located 30-60 nm offshore, the “Navy Towers” also created exceptional fishing opportunities for offshore anglers. Reaching 180' in height, the highly visible structures have become a popular destination for anglers targeting pelagic gamefish, such as king mackerel, amberjack, barracuda, tunas, dolphin, and wahoo. St. Mary’s Channel Rear Approach Range 30˚43.553'/81˚19.673' St. Mary’s Channel Red Channel Buoy “18” 30˚42.674'/81˚23.192' LOCATION 13 Georgia Book alpha layout 10/16/01 11:39 AM Page 14 80˚ 30' Tybee Island Savannah 80˚ 00' 32˚ 00' G"5" SAV Wassaw Island N R"2W" KC RW"OS" Ossabaw Island G"3" St. Catherines Island R7 DUA RW "STC" CCA G"3" E WW S CAT R8 BL GEORGIA W L J RW"S" M2R6 KTK BH 31˚ 30' Y"S" Sapelo Island "GRS" W R2 RW"D" ALT DW Atlantic Ocean DRH R3 St. Simons Island Brunswick Georgia’s Offshore Artificial Reefs Gray’s Reef, & U.S. Navy Towers F Jekyll Island M1R1 RW"STS" SFC W G R"2B" RW"STA" Artificial Reef Weather Buoy Navy Tower USCG Buoy A Gray’s Reef 31˚ 00' R5 one inch = approximately 10 nautical miles C Cumberland Island TC KBY 0 5 10 R4 MRY Rear Approach Range R"18" 81˚ 00' 14 80˚ 30' 80˚ 00' 15 Georgia Book alpha layout 10/16/01 11:39 AM Page 16 Artificial Reef A Location: 7 nm east of Little Cumberland Island Mean Low Water Depths: 30' - 45' 81˚ 16.0' W 81˚ 15.75' W 81˚ 15.25' W 81˚ 15.5' W N W 30˚ 56.0' N E # Structure LORAN C 7980-Z / 7980-X Heading / Distance from BUOY GPS Latitude N / Longitude W B Buoy “A” 45447.0/61862.6 1 USN Wharf Rubble 45446.1/61860.9 078° @ 0.16 nm 30°55.964' / 81°15.998' 2 USN Wharf Rubble 45445.7/61861.0 098° @ 0.16 nm 30°55.910' / 81°15.987' 3 USN Wharf Rubble 45445.1/61861.6 129° @ 0.19 nm 30°55.817' / 81°15.999' 4 USN Wharf Rubble 45445.3/61863.3 176° @ 0.24 nm 30°55.686' / 81°16.130' 5 USN Wharf Rubble 45439.8/61854.8 104° @ 0.83 nm 30°55.797' / 81°15.212' 6 USN Wharf Rubble 45439.9/61855.2 105° @ 0.81 nm 30°55.767' / 81°15.237' 7 USN Wharf Rubble 45439.3/61854.9 108° @ 0.85 nm 30°55.735' / 81°15.205' 30°55.918' / 81°16.175' S 1 Notes: 2 3 5 6 30˚ 55.75' N 7 4 30˚ 55.5' N Round Scad Decapturus punctatus Nautical Mile Dive at your own risk! 0 1/4 BUOY to BUOY HEADINGS/DISTANCES TO “A” TO RW“STS” FROM RW“STS” FROM “A” 192° @ 7.42 nm 012° @ 7.42 nm TO “A” TO RW“STA” FROM RW“STA” FROM “A” 089° @ 2.46 nm 269° @ 2.46 nm Caution! Locations of USCG buoys & other aids may change. 1/2 Description: Also known as “cigar minnows,” one of many small fish species commonly used alive or dead as bait. Other offshore schooling baitfishes include Spanish sardines (Sardinella aurita) and Atlantic thread herring (Opisthonema oglinum). Known as “pogies,” Atlantic menhaden (Brevoortia tyrannus) likely represent the most popular baitfish used by Georgia anglers. Striped mullet (Mugil cephalus), pinfish, and small jacks, such as blue runners, are other popular baitfishes. Season: Depends on species. For most, April-December. Methods: Small gold-hook bait rigs fished around offshore buoys and other structures. Cast nets are used to target schools of menhaden and mullet in inshore and coastal waters. Enclosed information not to be used as sole source for navigation. 16 Notes: Constant-flow bait wells are essential to keep baitfish alive and active. 17 Georgia Book alpha layout 10/16/01 11:39 AM Page 18 Artificial Reef ALT Location: 6 nm east of Little St. Simons Island Mean Low Water Depths: 30' - 40' 81˚ 09.0' W 81˚ 08.5' W 81˚ 08.0' W N W # Structure LORAN C 7980-Z / 7980-X Heading / Distance from BUOY GPS Latitude N / Longitude W B Buoy “ALT” 45536.0/61696.5 1 Concrete Rubble 45534.3/61695.3 129° @ 0.19 nm 31°18.542' / 81°09.195' 2 Concrete Rubble 45533.7/61695.3 135° @ 0.25 nm 31°18.486' / 81°09.159' 3 Crew Boat “Mary Lou” 45533.5/61695.7 145° @ 0.27 nm 31°18.422' / 81°09.180' 4 Pallet Balls 45525.4/61687.3 118° @ 1.17 nm 31°18.210' / 81°08.120' 5 Pallet Balls 45523.7/61681.6 102° @ 1.52 nm 31°18.467' / 81°07.623' 31°18.649' / 81°09.385' E Notes: S 1 31˚ 18.5' N 2 3 5 4 31˚ 18.0' N Cobia Rachycentron canadum Nautical Mile Dive at your own risk! 0 1/4 1/2 3/4 BUOY to BUOY HEADINGS/DISTANCES TO TO “ALT” RW''D” TO “ALT” TO RW“STS” FROM FROM RW“D” “ALT“ FROM RW“STS” FROM “ALT” 151° @ 3.08 nm 331° @ 3.08 nm 023° @ 16.19 nm 203° @ 16.19 nm Caution! Locations of USCG buoys & other aids may change. 1 Description: Chocolate-brown above with a white belly. Broad, somewhat flattened head. A series of short spines occur in front of the dorsal fin. Lower jaw protrudes past the upper jaw. Often mistaken at first sight for small sharks or remoras. Occur singly or in schools around offshore structures and buoys. Average 15-30 lbs., but may get much larger. Season: April-November, migrating seasonally each Spring and Fall. Methods: Casting live eels, crabs, and jigs at fish near the surface. Slow trolling by buoys, over wrecks, and around other structures. Enclosed information not to be used as sole source for navigation. 18 Notes: Cobia readily approach boats, even when hooked and still “green.” 19 Georgia Book alpha layout 10/16/01 11:39 AM Page 20 Artificial Reef BH Location: 2.5 nm east of Blackbeard Island Mean Low Water Depths: 10' - 16' 81˚ 06.5' W 81˚ 06.25' W # Structure LORAN C 7980-Z / 7980-X Heading / Distance from BUOY GPS Latitude N / Longitude W B Buoy “BH” 45579.7/61609.7 1 Concrete Tetrahedrons 45579.8/61609.4 010° @ 62 yds. 31°30.421' / 81°06.255' 2 Concrete Tetrahedrons 45579.8/61609.8 246° @ 33 yds. 31°30.383' / 81°06.274' 3 Concrete Tetrahedrons 45580.2/61610.0 297° @ 140 yds. 31°30.413' / 81°06.333' 4 Concrete Tetrahedrons 45580.3/61609.6 338° @ 128 yds. 31°30.446' / 81°06.290' 31°30.391' / 81°06.260' Notes: 31˚ 30.5' N 4 1 3 2 N W E S Crevalle Jack Caranx hippos 31˚ 30.2' N Yards Dive at your own risk! 0 100 BUOY to BUOY HEADINGS/DISTANCES TO TO “BH” G“3”* FROM FROM G“3”* “BH” 164° @ 1.69 nm 344° @ 1.69 nm * Sapelo Channel Caution! Locations of USCG buoys & other aids may change. 200 Description: Oblong body with black-green to greenish-gold back, silvery white sides, and yellowish belly. Blunt head. Black spot on gill covers and at the base of the pectoral fins. Common up to 25 lbs. Bluish-green in color, the similar-looking blue runner (Caranx crysos) lacks the blunt head and the dark spot found at the base of the pectoral fins in crevalle jack. Season: April-December. One of many jacks that arrive off Georgia as waters warm. Methods: Trolling with dead/live natural baits and artificial lures. Notes: Scutes located along the mid-line of the body and just before the Enclosed information not to be used as sole source for navigation. 20 tail are sharp. Tablefare is poor. 21 Georgia Book alpha layout 10/16/01 11:39 AM Page 22 Artificial Reef BL Location: 3 nm east of St. Catherines Island Mean Low Water Depths: 9' - 15' 81˚ 05.0' W 81˚ 04.75' W # Structure LORAN C 7980-Z / 7980-X Heading / Distance from BUOY GPS Latitude N / Longitude W B Buoy “BL” 45612.2/61554.0 1 Concrete Tetrahedrons 45612.4/61553.8 062° @ 95 yds. 31°38.547' / 81°04.746' 2 Concrete Tetrahedrons 45612.0/61554.0 115° @ 112 yds. 31°38.503' / 81°04.732' 3 Concrete Tetrahedrons 45612.0/61554.2 150° @ 123 yds. 31°38.471' / 81°04.749' 4 Concrete Tetrahedrons 45612.5/61555.0 218° @ 120 yds. 31°38.472' / 81°04.828' 5 Barge Wreckage 45613.2/61555.1 280° @ 160 yds. 31°38.536' / 81°04.885' 31°38.521' / 81°04.792' N W E Notes: S 1 5 2 31˚ 38.5' N 4 3 Bluefish Pomatomus saltatrix Yards Dive at your own risk! 0 100 BUOY to BUOY HEADINGS/DISTANCES TO TO “BL” G“3”* FROM FROM G“3”* “BL” 214° @ 2.24 nm 034° @ 2.24 nm * St. Catherine’s Channel Caution! Locations of USCG buoys & other aids may change. 200 Description: Moderately stout, bluish-green body fading to silver below. Teeth prominent, compressed, and sharp. Large bluefish found further offshore can easily exceed 10 lbs. Closer to shore, bluefish are normally smaller, ranging from 1-4 lbs. Season: April-December, migrating seasonally. Large bluefish arrive each Spring at the offshore reefs. At the same time, schools of small “snapper blues” appear in coastal waters along the outer bars and on the nearshore reefs. Methods: Bottom fishing with live or dead bait for bluefish congregated around vessels and other structures. Casting with silver spoons to surface schools. Wire leaders recommended. Enclosed information not to be used as sole source for navigation. 22 Notes: Teeth are extremely sharp. 23 Georgia Book alpha layout 10/16/01 11:39 AM Page 24 Artificial Reef C Location: 13.5 nm east of Cumberland Island Mean Low Water Depths: 45' - 55' 81˚ 10.5' W 81˚ 10.0' W 81˚ 09.5' W N 6 W E # Structure LORAN C 7980-Z / 7980-X Heading / Distance from BUOY GPS Latitude N / Longitude W B Buoy “C” 45372.5/61829.7 1 USN Wharf Rubble 45373.8/61828.8 009° @ 0.22 nm 30°50.962' / 81°09.831' 2 USN Wharf Rubble 45370.6/61828.8 118° @ 0.17 nm 30°50.681' / 81°09.663' 3 USN Wharf Rubble 45370.8/61830.2 171° @ 0.22 nm 30°50.531' / 81°09.784' 4 “Esparta” Wreck 45375.2/61832.1 295° @ 0.29 nm 30°50.845' / 81°10.171' 5 M-60 Battle Tanks 45378.6/61825.6 005° @ 0.95 nm 30°51.701' / 81°09.846' 6 M-60 Battle Tanks 45378.8/61825.8 004° @ 0.97 nm 30°51.714' / 81°09.864' 30°50.747' / 81°09.848' 5 S Notes: 30˚ 51.5' N 30˚ 51.0' N 1 4 2 Gag Mycteroperca microlepis 3 Nautical Mile Dive at your own risk! 0 1/4 1/2 3/4 BUOY to BUOY HEADINGS/DISTANCES TO “C” To RW''STA” FROM RW“STA” FROM “C” 127° @ 9.25 nm 307° @ 9.25 nm TO “C” TO RANGE* FROM RANGE* FROM “C” 055° @ 11.08 nm 235° @ 11.08 nm 1 Description: Brownish to olive-gray grouper with numerous dark, wormlike markings on sides. Fins dark. Anal, tail, and soft dorsal fins with pale or white edges. Tail slightly concave without elongated rays. Common nearshore and offshore. Average 15-20 lbs., but get much larger. Season: May-December, nearshore. Year-round, offshore. * Rear (Northern) Offshore Range/Tower –St. Mary’s Channel– Caution! Locations of USCG buoys & other aids may change. Enclosed information not to be used as sole source for navigation. 24 Methods: Heavy tackle with bottom or “grouper” rig baited with live cigar minnows, pinfish, or other baitfish. Whole dead cigar minnows, cut bait, or squid can also be used. Notes: Change sex from female to male and form offshore spawning aggregations. Large males remain well offshore and are known as “charcoal bellies” due to distinctive black patches that develop on the undersides and elsewhere on the body. 25 Georgia Book alpha layout 10/16/01 11:39 AM Page 26 Artificial Reef CAT Location: 7 nm east of St. Catherines Island Mean Low Water Depths: 35' - 45' 80˚ 58.5' W 80˚ 58.0' W 80˚ 57.5' W 80˚ 57.0' W N W E S 31˚ 40.0' N 2 1 6 # Structure LORAN C 7980-Z / 7980-X Heading / Distance from BUOY GPS Latitude N / Longitude W B Buoy “CAT” 45582.3/61489.8 1 Pallet Balls 45577.6/61484.0 105° @ 0.62 nm 31°39.983' / 80°57.835' 2 Pallet Balls 45575.6/61480.9 101° @ 0.90 nm 31°39.990' / 80°57.504' 3 Pallet Balls 45572.4/61477.2 103° @ 1.29 nm 31°39.909' / 80°57.056' 4 Pallet Balls 45570.6/61477.3 111° @ 1.44 nm 31°39.700' / 80°56.928' 5 Pallet Balls 45568.3/61477.6 118° @ 1.62 nm 31°39.425' / 80°56.803' 6 Concrete Boxes/Pipe 45580.4/61488.4 129° @ 0.23 nm 31°39.951' / 80°58.325' 7 Concrete Boxes/Pipe 45577.3/61487.3 140° @ 0.59 nm 31°39.671' / 80°58.063' 8 Concrete Boxes/Pipe 45576.5/61488.7 150° @ 0.72 nm 31°39.490' / 80°58.070' 9 Concrete Boxes/Pipe 45573.4/61486.9 145° @ 1.06 nm 31°39.272' / 80°57.755' 31°40.080' / 80°58.555' 3 Notes: 7 4 8 5 31˚ 39.5' N 9 31˚ 39.0' N 0 1/4 1/2 BUOY to BUOY HEADINGS/DISTANCES TO “CAT” TO RW“OS” FROM RW“OS” FROM “CAT” 200° @ 7.99 nm 020° @ 7.99 nm TO “CAT” TO RW“STC” FROM RW“STC” FROM “CAT” 103° @ 1.30 nm 283° @ 1.30 nm Caution! Locations of USCG buoys & other aids may change. Enclosed information not to be used as sole source for navigation. 26 Spanish Mackerel Scomberomorus maculatus Nautical Mile Dive at your own risk! 3/4 1 Description: Streamlined body, greenish above to silver below with distinct gold spots along the sides. A jet black patch on the leading edge of the dorsal fin and a gradually sloping lateral line help distinguish Spanish from king mackerel. Average 1-2 lbs., but may exceed 5 lbs. Season: April-November, migrating seasonally each Spring and Fall. Methods: Trolling with small silver spoons. Casting to surface schools. Notes: Often seen in large schools at the surface. Diving birds are good indicators of feeding schools of Spanish mackerel and other fish. 27 Georgia Book alpha layout 10/16/01 11:39 AM Page 28 Artificial Reef CCA Location: 22 nm east of Ossabaw Island Mean Low Water Depths: 50' - 60' 80˚ 41.5' W 80˚ 41.0' W 80˚ 40.5' W 3 1 2 4 31˚ 43.0' N 5 N 6 W 7 31˚ 42.5' N E S 8 Structure LORAN C 7980-Z / 7980-X B Buoy “CCA” 45496.7/61315.6 1 Deck Barge 45495.3/61317.8 189° @ 0.33 nm 31°43.180' / 80°41.166' 2 SMS Warehouse Barge 45492.4/61312.7 127° @ 0.50 nm 31°43.220' / 80°40.638' 3 Concrete Pipe 45492.7/61312.2 117° @ 0.50 nm 31°43.301' / 80°40.585' 4 Tug “Matt Turecamo” 45489.6/61308.8 115° @ 0.88 nm 31°43.200' / 80°40.170' 5 Talmadge Bridge Supports 45493.9/61318.5 182° @ 0.53 nm 31°42.976' / 80°41.112' 6 Talmadge Bridge Supports 45493.8/61320.2 193° @ 0.68 nm 31°42.826' / 80°41.246' 7 Talmadge Bridge Supports 45492.4/61319.4 182° @ 0.79 nm 31°42.712' / 80°41.089' 8 Talmadge Bridge Supports 45492.9/61321.7 192° @ 0.90 nm 31°42.609' / 80°41.269' 9 Talmadge Bridge Supports 45491.5/61320.9 184° @ 1.00 nm 31°42.509' / 80°41.110' 10 Talmadge Bridge Supports 45491.7/61322.9 191° @ 1.13 nm 31°42.384' / 80°41.267' 11 Deck Barge 45489.9/61324.6 188° @ 1.47 nm 31°42.039' / 80°41.241' 12 Concrete Pipe 45493.6/61331.0 210° @ 1.62 nm 31°41.986' / 80°41.930' # Heading / Distance from BUOY GPS Latitude N / Longitude W 31°43.505' / 80°41.144' Notes: 9 10 King Mackerel Scomberomorus cavalla 11 12 Nautical Mile Dive at your own risk! 0 1/4 1/2 3/4 BUOY to BUOY HEADINGS/DISTANCES TO “CCA” TO RW“OS” FROM RW“OS” FROM “CCA” 114° @ 13.49 nm 294° @ 13.49 nm TO “CCA” TO RW“STC” FROM RW“STC” FROM “CCA” 084° @ 16.50 nm 264° @ 16.50 nm 1 Description: Elongate, greenishsilver body with a uniform slate-colored dorsal fin. Sharply dropping lateral line below the second dorsal fin. While small king mackerel have gold spots on their sides similar to Spanish mackerel, king mackerel lack the jet black patch found on the forward edge of the dorsal fin in Spanish mackerel. Average 10-15 lbs., often exceeding 30 lbs. Season: April-December, migrating seasonally each Spring and Fall. Large “smoker Caution! Locations of USCG buoys & other aids may change. kings” begin to arrive when water temperatures approach 70˚F, with the smaller “snakes” becoming more common as waters warm. Methods: Slow trolling or drift-fishing with live baitfish or dead ribbonfish. Fast-trolling with rigged dead baits and artificials tend to produce more, but smaller fish. Notes: Teeth are sharp. Consumption advisories are in effect for larger fish Enclosed information not to be used as sole source for navigation. 28 due to mercury levels. 29 Georgia Book alpha layout 10/16/01 11:39 AM Page 30 Artificial Reef DRH Location: 15 nm east of Little St. Simons Island Mean Low Water Depths: 45' - 55' 80˚ 58.5' W 1 80˚ 58.0' W 80˚ 57.5' W 80˚ 57.0' W N 2 W 8 S 3 31˚ 17.5' N E 4 5 9 # Structure LORAN C 7980-Z / 7980-X Heading / Distance from BUOY GPS Latitude N / Longitude W B Buoy “DRH” 45465.6/61606.7 1 Pallet Balls 45464.9/61606.1 096° @ 0.60 nm 31°17.868' / 80°58.815' 2 Pallet Balls 45459.7/61599.5 100° @ 0.71 nm 31°17.822' / 80°58.049' 3 Pallet Balls 45457.4/61601.0 123° @ 0.84 nm 31°17.487' / 80°58.001' 4 R/V “Zapala” 45457.5/61601.3 126° @ 0.85 nm 31°17.441' / 80°58.021' 5 Pallet Balls 45457.5/61601.6 129° @ 0.86 nm 31°17.422' / 80°58.043' 6 Pallet Balls 45455.8/61602.9 140° @ 1.00 nm 31°17.157' / 80°58.038' 7 Pallet Balls 45454.7/61603.1 146° @ 1.15 nm 31°16.979' / 80°58.003' 8 Pallet Balls 45462.4/61607.1 166° @ 0.37 nm 31°17.522' / 80°58.733' 9 “John Bird” Wreck 45461.0/61608.9 176° @ 0.67 nm 31°17.232' / 80°58.765' 10 Tug “Rio Caroni” 45445.4/61598.0 133° @ 2.13 nm 31°16.370' / 80°57.058' 11 Pallet Balls 45444.9/61597.6 140° @ 2.22 nm 31°16.341' / 80°57.014' 31°17.896' / 80°58.889' 6 Notes: 31˚ 17.0' N 7 31˚ 16.5' N 10 11 Nautical Mile Dive at your own risk! 0 1/4 1/2 BUOY to BUOY HEADINGS/DISTANCES TO TO “DRH” RW“D” TO “DRH” TO RW“STS” FROM FROM RW“D” “DRH” FROM RW“STS” FROM “DRH” 113° @ 11.20 nm 293° @ 11.20 nm 049° @ 20.08 nm 229° @ 20.08 nm Caution! Locations of USCG buoys & other aids may change. Enclosed information not to be used as sole source for navigation. 30 Red Snapper Lutjanus campechanus 3/4 1 Description: Brick-red above, lighter below. No distinct markings, except that young “chicken” snapper have a dark spot below the soft dorsal fin. Differs in body shape and eye color from other nearshore snappers. Averages 2-5 lbs., but reaches 20 lbs. or greater. Season: April-December, nearshore. Year-round, offshore. Methods: Bottom or “grouper” rig baited with live cigar minnows, pinfish, or other baitfish. Whole dead cigar minnows, cut bait, or squid can also be used. Notes: Also referred to as the “genuine red.” Large females called “sows.” 31 Georgia Book alpha layout 10/16/01 11:39 AM Page 32 Artificial Reef DUA Location: 7 nm east of Ossabaw Island Mean Low Water Depths: 35' - 45' 80˚ 54.0' W 80˚ 53.5' W 80˚ 53.0' W 80˚ 52.5' W 31˚ 47.5' N 3 2 1 4 31˚ 47.0' N 5 6 # Structure LORAN C 7980-Z / 7980-X Heading / Distance from BUOY GPS Latitude N / Longitude W B Buoy “DUA” 45589.6/61414.8 1 Pallet Balls 45583.5/61397.4 070° @ 1.49 nm 31°47.399' / 80°52.626' 2 Pallet Balls 45582.1/61394.7 072° @ 1.71 nm 31°47.442' / 80°52.354' 3 Concrete Boxes/Pipe 45591.1/61409.2 020° @ 0.65 nm 31°47.397' / 80°54.000' 4 Concrete Boxes/Pipe 45588.8/61409.3 052° @ 0.49 nm 31°47.104' / 80°53.765' 5 Concrete Boxes/Pipe 45587.4/61408.8 070° @ 0.52 nm 31°46.990' / 80°53.629' 6 Concrete Pipe 45584.9/61406.8 089° @ 0.74 nm 31°46.852' / 80°53.327' 7 Concrete Pipe 45587.7/61411.8 092° @ 0.29 nm 31°46.785' / 80°53.850' 8 Concrete Pipe 45586.4/61411.7 115° @ 0.39 nm 31°46.633' / 80°53.753' 9 Concrete Pipe 45584.5/61409.2 111° @ 0.63 nm 31°46.597' / 80°53.475' 10 Concrete Pipe 45582.8/61406.7 106° @ 0.87 nm 31°46.606' / 80°53.178' 11 Concrete Pipe 45589.0/61416.5 201° @ 0.20 nm 31°46.580' / 80°54.250' 31°46.769' / 80°54.188' 7 8 11 Notes: 10 9 31˚ 46.5' N N W E Spottail Pinfish Diplodus holbrooki S 31˚ 46.0' N Nautical Mile Dive at your own risk! 0 1/4 1/2 BUOY to BUOY HEADINGS/DISTANCES TO TO “DUA” R2“W” TO “DUA” TO RW“OS” FROM FROM R2“W” “DUA” FROM RW“OS” FROM “DUA” 198° @ 4.87 nm 018° @ 4.87 nm 127° @ 1.96 nm 307° @ 1.96 nm Caution! Locations of USCG buoys & other aids may change. Enclosed information not to be used as sole source for navigation. 32 3/4 1 Description: A deep-bodied porgy. Dusky to metallic blue with silvery sides. Several faint vertical bars along the sides of the body, fading in larger fish. A distinctive large, dark blotch or saddle before the tail fin. Welldeveloped front incisor teeth. All sizes occur offshore of Georgia. May reach 3 lbs. Smaller and more abundant in Georgia’s offshore and inshore waters, the related pinfish (Lagodon rhomboides) lacks the black tail patch characteristic of spottail pinfish. Pinfish coloration is also less drab, consisting of a silvery body with yellow & blue horizontal stripes, vertical bars, and a dark shoulder spot. Season: Year-round. Methods: Bottom or fish-finder rig baited with squid or cut bait. Notes: A strong fighter. 33 Georgia Book alpha layout 10/16/01 11:39 AM Page 34 Artificial Reef F Location: 9 nm east of Jekyll Island Mean Low Water Depths: 35' - 45' 81˚ 13.0' W 81˚ 12.5' W 81˚ 11.5' W 81˚ 12.0' W N 3 W E # Structure LORAN C 7980-Z / 7980-X Heading / Distance from BUOY GPS Latitude N / Longitude W B Buoy “F” 45485.4/61787.7 1 Landing Craft 45483.0/61784.6 098° @ 0.28 nm 31°05.926' / 81°12.483' 2 Landing Craft 45481.7/61782.7 095° @ 0.47 nm 31°05.939' / 81°12.255' 3 Concrete Rubble 45481.5/61778.2 071° @ 0.82 nm 31°06.281' / 81°11.933' 4 Tire Units 45480.0/61779.8 090° @ 0.73 nm 31°05.990' / 81°11.959' 5 Concrete Rubble 45476.0/61780.5 121° @ 0.97 nm 31°05.508' / 81°11.771' 6 Pallet Balls 45479.0/61785.2 142° @ 0.65 nm 31°05.463' / 81°12.286' 7 Pallet Balls 45482.6/61790.2 189° @ 0.49 nm 31°05.445' / 81°12.847' 31°05.937' / 81°12.808' S 31˚ 06.0' N Notes: 4 2 1 5 31˚ 05.5' N 6 7 31˚ 05.0' N Sheepshead Archosargus probatocephalus Nautical Mile Dive at your own risk! 0 1/4 1/2 3/4 BUOY to BUOY HEADINGS/DISTANCES TO “F” TO RW“STS” FROM RW“STS” FROM “F” 043° @ 3.35 nm 223° @ 3.35 nm TO “F” TO RW“STA” FROM RW“STA” FROM “F” 033° @ 11.61 nm 213° @ 11.61 nm 1 Description: A deep-bodied porgy. Silver-gray with 5-6 dark vertical bars down the sides. Strong incisor and rear molar teeth designed for feeding on oysters, barnacles, shells, and sea urchins. Averages 3-7 lbs., but commonly reaches 10 lbs. or more. Season: Year-round, with most Caution! Locations of USCG buoys & other aids may change. offshore angling primarily occurring in Spring. Methods: Fish-finder rig baited with a live fiddler crab and fished in the water column off the bottom. Notes: Forms aggregations at the nearshore reefs March-April. Enclosed information not to be used as sole source for navigation. 34 Anglers should limit their take of these spawning adults. 35 Georgia Book alpha layout 10/16/01 11:39 AM Page 36 Artificial Reef G Location: 23 nm east of Little Cumberland Island Mean Low Water Depths: 55' - 75' 080˚ 58.5' W 5 080˚ 58.0' W 080˚ 57.5' W 6 9 7 8 30˚ 59.0' N # Structure LORAN C 7980-Z / 7980-X Heading / Distance from BUOY GPS Latitude N / Longitude W B Buoy “G” 45348.4/61700.1 1 Tug “Tampa” 45348.0/61700.3 185° @ 0.04 nm 30°58.203' / 80°58.804' 2 Work Boat “Striker” 45348.1/61700.3 181° @ 0.05 nm 30°58.198' / 80°58.800' 3 Liberty Ship “Nettleton” 45349.6/61695.7 030° @ 0.50 nm 30°58.704' / 80°58.562' 4 Tug “Recife” 45345.9/61691.7 066° @ 0.75 nm 30°58.617' / 80°58.034' 5 M-60 Battle Tanks 45354.0/61693.4 014° @ 1.13 nm 30°59.361' / 80°58.603' 6 M-60 Battle Tanks 45353.8/61693.0 015° @ 1.13 nm 30°59.365' / 80°58.583' 7 M-60 Battle Tanks 45349.0/61688.1 043° @ 1.23 nm 30°59.224' / 80°57.934' 8 M-60 Battle Tanks 45348.8/61688.2 043° @ 1.23 nm 30°59.215' / 80°57.923' 9 Tug “Mac Tide 21” 45344.1/61681.0 053° @ 1.80 nm 30°59.269' / 80°57.153' 30°58.247 / 80°58.804' N W Notes: E 3 S 4 30˚ 58.5' N 1 2 30˚ 58.0' N Great Barracuda Sphyraena barracuda Nautical Mile Dive at your own risk! 0 1/4 1/2 3/4 BUOY to BUOY HEADINGS/DISTANCES TO R“2B” TO RW''STS” FROM RW“STS” FROM R“2B” 129° @ 5.65 nm 309° @ 5.65 nm TO TO FROM FROM 066° @ 9.48 nm 246° @ 9.48 nm “G” R“2B” TO R“2B” TO RW“STA” R“2B” “G” FROM RW“STA” FROM R“2B” 066° @ 9.22 nm 246° @ 9.22 nm Caution! Locations of USCG buoys & other aids may change. Enclosed information not to be used as sole source for navigation. 36 1 Description: Long, slim, silver body with a dark back and irregular black splotches on the sides. Extended snout. Large mouth with sharp, pointed teeth. Generally average 15 - 20 lbs., but may exceed 40 lbs. or more. Season: May-October. Numerous during warmer months over wrecks and other high relief structures. Methods: Slow trolling or live-lining with live bait. Fast-trolling with rigged dead baits and artificial lures. Casting at fish near the surface. Jigging. Excellent fighting fish on light tackle. Notes: Curious, readily attacking hooked fish. Implicated in ciguatera poisoning. 37 Georgia Book alpha layout 10/16/01 11:39 AM Page 38 Artificial Reef J # Location: 17.5 nm east of St. Catherines Island Mean Low Water Depths: 55' - 75' 80˚ 49.0' W 80˚ 48.5' W 80˚ 48.0' W N W E S 5 31˚ 36.5' N 3 15 2 31˚ 36.0' N 13 6 12 14 1 9 11 8 Heading / Distance from BUOY GPS Latitude N / Longitude W B Buoy “J” 45495.5/61411.7 31°36.110' / 80°47.470' 1 Tug “Elmira” 45496.0/61413.0 266° @ 0.18 nm 31°36.082' / 80°47.673' 2 Liberty Ship“Daniels”(main) 45497.8/61413.8 297° @ 0.26 nm 31°36.207' / 80°47.750' 3 Liberty Ship“Daniels”(stern) 45497.5/61412.8 315° @ 0.23 nm 31°36.260' / 80°47.680' 4 Ferry Boat “Janet” 45497.1/61411.7 340° @ 0.21 nm 31°36.298' / 80°47.575' 5 Buoy Tender “Sagebrush” 45500.0/61412.0 335° @ 0.56 nm 31°36.600' / 80°47.800' 6 M-60 Battle Tanks 45499.8/61419.4 272° @ 0.71 nm 31°36.036' / 80°48.295' 7 M-60 Battle Tanks 45499.8/61419.6 266° @ 0.72 nm 31°35.990' / 80°48.300' 8 M-60 Battle Tanks 45500.0/61420.2 266° @ 0.76 nm 31°35.993' / 80°48.352' 9 M-60 Battle Tanks 45502.3/61423.6 269° @ 1.08 nm 31°35.987' / 80°48.728' 10 M-60 Battle Tanks 45502.2/61424.3 266° @ 1.13 nm 31°35.924' / 80°48.777' 11 M-60 Battle Tanks 45503.8/61426.0 270° @ 1.20 nm 31°35.989' / 80°48.982' 12 M-60 Battle Tanks 45504.0/61425.9 270° @ 1.31 nm 31°35.987' / 80°48.996' 13 M-60 Battle Tanks 45503.7/61426.3 272° @ 1.33 nm 31°35.978' / 80°49.026' 14 M-60 Battle Tanks 45502.2/61424.3 271° @ 1.34 nm 31°35.962' / 80°49.027' 15 Tug “Rio Apon” 45517.1/61428.1 273° @ 1.62 nm 31°36.180' / 80°49.364' Notes: Greater Amberjack Seriola dumerili Nautical Mile 0 1/4 1/2 3/4 BUOY to BUOY HEADINGS/DISTANCES TO “J” TO RW“STC” FROM RW“STC” FROM “J” 116° @ 11.60 nm 296° @ 11.60 nm TO TO FROM FROM 077° @ 14.85 nm 257° @ 14.85 nm RW“S” “J” Caution! Locations of USCG buoys & other aids may change. Enclosed information not to be used as sole source for navigation. 38 LORAN C 7980-Z / 7980-X 7 10 Dive at your own risk! “J” RW“S” 4 Structure 1 Description: Torpedo-shaped. Olive-brown back with a white belly. A faint amber band runs along the sides. A distinct stripe extends through the eyes to the base of the first dorsal fin. Congregates around prominent structures, such as wrecks and the Navy Towers. Common to 30 lbs., but exceeds 90 lbs. Two deep water relatives also occur off Georgia. The almaco jack (Seriola rivoliana) is stockier, with higher dorsal and anal fins. In lesser amberjack (Seriola fasciata), the eye stripe crosses the back well in front of the dorsal fin. Season: April-December. Methods: Live-lining over structures with pinfish, tomtate, and other small fish. Jigging. Notes: A strong fish that will fight until exhausted. Released fish need to be revived fully. 39 Georgia Book alpha layout 10/16/01 11:39 AM Page 40 Artificial Reef KBY Location: 8 nm east of Cumberland Island Mean Low Water Depths: 35' - 45' 81˚ 17.25' W 81˚ 17.0' W 81˚ 16.75' W 81˚ 16.5' W 11 12 10 30˚ 47.25' N 9 6 5 8 7 4 3 30˚ 47.0' N 2 13 1 14 W Structure LORAN C 7980-Z / 7980-X Heading / Distance from BUOY GPS Latitude N / Longitude W B Buoy “KBY” 45395.7/61912.8 1 USN Wharf Rubble 45396.1/61910.4 037° @ 0.28 nm 30°46.829' / 81°17.140' 2 USN Wharf Rubble 45396.0/61907.6 044° @ 0.55 nm 30°47.016' / 81°16.907' 3 USN Wharf Rubble 45397.0/61908.9 030° @ 0.50 nm 30°47.041' / 81°17.066' 4 USN Wharf Rubble 45397.7/61909.2 032° @ 0.50 nm 30°47.066' / 81°17.131' 5 USN Wharf Rubble 45397.3/61908.3 029° @ 0.58 nm 30°47.120' / 81°17.042' 6 USN Wharf Rubble 45396.3/61906.4 040° @ 0.70 nm 30°47.166' / 81°16.846' 7 USN Wharf Rubble 45394.2/61904.9 056° @ 0.75 nm 30°47.092' / 81°16.647' 8 USN Wharf Rubble 45395.2/61904.8 055° @ 0.85 nm 30°47.163' / 81°16.636' 9 USN Wharf Rubble 45395.5/61905.0 047° @ 0.81 nm 30°47.197' / 81°16.686' 10 USN Wharf Rubble 45397.2/61906.2 034° @ 0.78 nm 30°47.273' / 81°16.865' 11 USN Wharf Rubble 45395.6/61901.7 045° @ 1.14 nm 30°47.465' / 81°16.461' 12 USN Wharf Rubble 45394.6/61901.6 050° @ 1.15 nm 30°47.405' / 81°16.372' 13 USN Wharf Rubble 45393.1/61904.6 070° @ 0.81 nm 30°46.967' / 81°16.549' 14 USN Wharf Rubble 45394.4/61908.0 061° @ 0.45 nm 30°46.844' / 81°16.874' 15 USN Wharf Rubble 45394.3/61908.5 073° @ 0.45 nm 30°46.788' / 81°16.905' 30°46.590' / 81°17.309' Notes: N 15 30˚ 46.75' N # E S Dive at your own risk! Nautical Mile 0 1/4 BUOY to BUOY HEADINGS/DISTANCES TO “KBY” TO RW“STA” FROM RW“STA” FROM “KBY” 177° @ 9.10 nm 357° @ 9.10 nm TO “KBY” TO RANGE* FROM RANGE* FROM “KBY” 038° @ 3.63 nm 218° @ 3.63 nm * Rear (Northern) Offshore Range/Tower -St. Mary’s Channel- Caution! Locations of USCG buoys & other aids may change. Enclosed information not to be used as sole source for navigation. 40 1/2 Vermilion Snapper Rhomboplites aurorubens Description: More streamlined than red snapper with a bright vermilion (scarlet red) back fading to a white belly. Forked tail with a faint black margin. Adults prefer deeper waters, where it forms large schools. Average less than 2 lbs. Season: June-October, nearshore. Year-round, offshore. Methods: Bottom rig baited with squid or cut bait. Notes: Commonly referred to as “beeliners.” 41 Georgia Book alpha layout 10/16/01 11:40 AM Page 42 Artificial Reef KC Location: 9 nm southeast of Wassaw Island Mean Low Water Depths: 40' - 50' 80˚ 47.0' W 80˚ 46.5' W 80˚ 46.0' W 31˚ 51.0' N 1 Structure LORAN C 7980-Z / 7980-X Buoy “KC” 45564.3/61324.2 1 “Honey” Barge 45563.7/61321.1 064° @ 0.26 nm 31°50.944' / 80°46.290' 2 Deck Barge 45561.2/61319.6 100° @ 0.46 nm 31°50.775' / 80°46.015' 3 Pallet Balls 45560.6/61316.6 305° @ 0.22 nm 31°50.920' / 80°45.777' 4 “Motherlode” Barge 45563.9/61324.6 178° @ 0.11 nm 31°50.699' / 80°46.533' 5 Dump Scow 45562.8/61325.5 178° @ 0.31 nm 31°50.502' / 80°46.507' 6 Sailboat “Jupiter” 45560.4/61325.6 169° @ 0.62 nm 31°50.211' / 80°46.343' 7 Pallet Balls 45559.9/61325.2 167° @ 0.67 nm 31°50.171' / 80°46.297' 8 “Olympics” Barge 45558.6/61326.6 170° @ 0.94 nm 31°49.904' / 80°46.260' 9 Concrete Pipe 45564.0/61328.7 215° @ 0.44 nm 31°50.409' / 80°46.798' 10 Concrete Pipe 45562.7/61330.6 205° @ 0.75 nm 31°50.086' / 80°46.842' # 3 2 4 Heading / Distance from BUOY GPS Latitude N / Longitude W 31°50.810' / 80°46.550' N 5 31˚ 50.5' N W E 9 Notes: S 6 7 10 31˚ 50.0' N 8 Nautical Mile Dive at your own risk! 0 1/4 1/2 3/4 BUOY to BUOY HEADINGS/DISTANCES TO TO “KC” R“2W” TO “KC” TO RW“OS” FROM FROM R“2W” “KC” FROM RW“OS” FROM “KC” 103° @ 5.47 nm 283° @ 5.47 nm 075° @ 8.70 nm 255° @ 8.70 nm Caution! Locations of USCG buoys & other aids may change. 1 Gray Triggerfish Balistes capriscus Description: Drab-gray with a tough, leathery skin and distinctive shape. Like sheepshead, “triggers” have strong, flat teeth for grazing on barnacles and similar growth. Average 2-4 lbs., but may exceed 10 lbs. Season: April-December, nearshore. Year-round, offshore. Methods: 2-hook bottom rig baited with squid or cut bait. Notes: Named for the large forward dorsal Enclosed information not to be used as sole source for navigation. 42 spine or “trigger” that cocks up when the fish is disturbed. 43 Georgia Book alpha layout 10/16/01 11:40 AM Page 44 Artificial Reef KTK Location: 7 nm east of Blackbeard Island Mean Low Water Depths: 35' - 45' 81˚ 01.0' W 1 81˚ 00.5' W 3 81˚ 00.0' W 80˚ 59.5' W 4 31˚ 31.0' N 2 7 14 5 6 31˚ 30.5' N 8 N 9 W E S 15 31˚ 30.0' N 11 10 # Structure LORAN C 7980-Z / 7980-X Heading / Distance from BUOY GPS Latitude N / Longitude W B Buoy “KTK” 45553.5/61561.7 1 Concrete Rubble 45552.2/61559.4 088° @ 0.18 nm 31°31.187' / 81°01.152' 2 Concrete Rubble 45550.0/61561.9 163° @ 0.41 nm 31°30.792' / 81°01.175' 3 Debarking Drums/Rubble 45550.4/61557.4 098° @ 0.43 nm 31°31.146' / 81°00.863' 4 Barge “Modena” 45545.3/61551.1 101° @ 1.05 nm 31°31.061' / 81°00.132' 5 M-60 Battle Tanks 45541.1/61548.0 108° @ 1.53 nm 31°30.831' / 80°59.614' 6 M-60 Battle Tanks 45540.7/61548.2 110° @ 1.51 nm 31°30.788' / 80°59.643' 7 Debarking Drums/Rubble 45546.0/61556.8 128° @ 0.84 nm 31°30.718' / 81°00.530' 8 Concrete Pipe 45543.2/61556.1 132° @ 1.13 nm 31°30.440' / 81°00.310' 9 Concrete Pipe 45543.1/61556.1 135° @ 1.15 nm 31°30.431' / 81°00.317' 10 Concrete Pipe 45538.5/61555.6 143° @ 1.63 nm 31°29.950' / 80°59.976' 11 Concrete Pipe 45538.6/60555.4 141° @ 1.69 nm 31°29.961' / 80°59.971' 12 Pallet Balls 45535.3/61552.4 130° @ 1.96 nm 31°29.838' / 80°59.614' 13 Pallet Balls 45544.6/61570.1 113° @ 1.87 nm 31°29.515' / 80°59.351' 14 Pallet Balls 45549.9/61562.3 167° @ 0.50 nm 31°30.688' / 81°01.175' 15 Pallet Balls 45546.4/61565.1 175° @ 1.07 nm 31°30.109' / 81°01.136' 16 Pallet Balls 45544.0/61568.3 180° @ 1.59 nm 31°29.584' / 81°01.194' 17 Pallet Balls 45540.5/61563.2 159° @ 1.67 nm 31°29.562' / 81°00.642' 31°31.164' / 81°01.362' 12 16 17 31˚ 29.5' N Nautical Mile Dive at your own risk! 0 1/4 1/2 BUOY to BUOY HEADINGS/DISTANCES TO TO “KTK” RW“S” FROM FROM RW“S” “KTK” 097° @ 2.17 nm 277° @ 2.17 nm TO TO “KTK” RW“D” FROM FROM RW“D” “KTK” 047° @ 13.11 nm 227° @ 13.11 nm Caution! Locations of USCG buoys & other aids may change. Enclosed information not to be used as sole source for navigation. 44 Black Sea Bass, Blackfish Centropristis striata 13 3/4 1 Description: One of Georgia’s most abundant offshore reeffishes. Black-green to brown overall. A white “streamer” may extend from the upper lobe of the tail in larger fish. During spawning, the larger males develop greenish humps in front of the dorsal fin and are often referred to as “greenheads.” Average less than 1 lb., although fish over 2 lbs. are common. May exceed 5 lbs. Less abundant and generally smaller, related rock (Centropristis philadelphica) and bank (Centropristis ocyurus) sea bass feature more body markings and the three tail lobes are extended, often with filaments. Season: Year-round. Methods: 2-hook bottom rig baited with almost anything. Notes: Become males as age. Congregate at reefs in Winter and Spring to spawn. 45 Georgia Book alpha layout 10/16/01 11:40 AM Page 46 Artificial Reef L # Location: 23 nm east of Ossabaw Island Mean Low Water Depths: 55' - 65' 80˚ 36.5' W 80˚ 36.0' W 80˚ 35.0' W 80˚ 35.5' W 31˚ 46.0' N 15 7 6 31˚ 45.5' N 1 2 16 17 8 9 3 10 4 31˚ 45.0' N 11 5 12 13 N W Nautical Mile 0 1/4 1/2 BUOY to BUOY HEADINGS/DISTANCES TO TO “L” R“2W” TO “L” TO RW“OS” FROM FROM R“2W” “L” FROM RW“OS” FROM “L” 299° @ 15.20 nm 119° @ 15.20 nm 103° @ 16.80 nm 283° @ 16.80 nm Caution! Locations of USCG buoys & other aids may change. Heading / Distance from BUOY GPS Latitude N / Longitude W Buoy “L” 45480.0/61263.6 31°45.498' / 80°36.475' 1 Dredge “Henry Bacon” 45480.0/61264.7 228° @ 0.09 nm 31°45.385' / 80°36.543' 2 “Latex” Barge 45480.9/61266.1 255° @ 0.20 nm 31°45.379' / 80°36.700' 3 “Sayler” Barge 45479.4/61266.1 208° @ 0.27 nm 31°45.200' / 80°36.596' 4 Tug “Senasqua” 45479.3/61268.3 212° @ 0.47 nm 31°45.030' / 80°36.721' 5 Tug “Delta Diamond” 45477.0/61265.8 178° @ 0.50 nm 31°44.948' / 80°36.405' 6 M-60 Battle Tanks 45475.2/61255.7 092° @ 0.75 nm 31°45.492' / 80°35.595' 7 M-60 Battle Tanks 45475.0/61255.2 090° @ 0.80 nm 31°45.515' / 80°35.539' 8 M-60 Battle Tanks 45474.3/61256.7 105° @ 0.77 nm 31°45.319' / 80°35.586' 9 M-60 Battle Tanks 45474.1/61256.4 104° @ 0.77 nm 31°45.325' / 80°35.576' 10 M-60 Battle Tanks 45473.2/61257.7 118° @ 0.83 nm 31°45.133' / 80°35.573' 11 M-60 Battle Tanks 45472.1/61258.3 128° @ 0.95 nm 31°44.938' / 80°35.538' 12 M-60 Battle Tanks 45472.1/61258.4 129° @ 0.95 nm 31°44.928' / 80°35.546' 13 M-60 Battle Tanks 45472.0/61258.7 130° @ 0.96 nm 31°44.902' / 80°35.553' 14 M-60 Battle Tanks 45468.2/61258.7 142° @ 1.41 nm 31°44.463' / 80°35.300' 15 Pallet Balls 45472.8/61248.9 083° @ 1.32 nm 31°45.721' / 80°34.960' 16 Pallet Balls 45471.5/61249.9 093° @ 1.30 nm 31°45.504' / 80°34.942' 17 Pallet Balls 45471.0/61249.1 094° @ 1.38 nm 31°45.492' / 80°34.858' Scamp Mycteroperca phenax 14 Dive at your own risk! LORAN C 7980-Z / 7980-X E S 31˚ 44.5' N Structure 3/4 1 Description: A light to dark brown grouper with small, dark reddishbrown spots on sides, possibly in indistinct broken lines or blotches. Corners of the mouth yellowish. Elongated tail rays develop with age, creating a ragged edge, often referred to as a “broom tail.” More common in depths greater than 75’. Generally smaller than gag grouper, scamp average 10-15 lbs., but may get larger. Season: May-November, nearshore. Year-round, offshore. Methods: Heavy tackle with bottom or “grouper” rig baited with live cigar minnows, pinfish, or other baitfish. Whole dead cigar minnows, cut bait, or squid can also be used. Notes: Like gag, scamp change sex from female to male with age and Enclosed information not to be used as sole source for navigation. 46 form spawning aggregations along the edge of the continental shelf. 47 Georgia Book alpha layout 10/16/01 11:40 AM Page 48 Artificial Reef MRY Location: 18 nm east of Cumberland Island Mean Low Water Depths: 50' - 60' 81˚ 07.0' W 81˚ 06.5' W 81˚ 06.0' W 5 N 30˚ 47.0' N W E LORAN C 7980-Z / 7980-X Heading / Distance from BUOY GPS Latitude N / Longitude W # Structure B Reef “MRY” 1 Pallet Balls 45326.5/61826.0 30°46.310' / 81°07.172' 2 Pallet Balls 45325.6/61825.6 30°46.255' / 81°07.091' 3 Pallet Balls 45323.6/61822.5 30°46.295' / 81°06.757' 4 Pallet Balls 45322.2/61816.7 30°46.591' / 81°06.248' 5 Pallet Balls 45322.5/61810.7 30°47.104' / 81°05.798' 6 Pallet Balls 45321.4/61812.1 30°46.871' / 80°05.846' 7 Pallet Balls 45318.6/61813.0 30°46.511' / 81°05.759' 8 Pallet Balls 45316.8/61815.1 30°46.172' / 81°05.837' not buoyed S 6 4 7 30˚ 46.5' N 1 Notes: 3 2 Tomtate Haemulon aurolineatum 8 30˚ 46.0' N Nautical Mile Dive at your own risk! 0 1/4 1/2 3/4 BUOY to BUOY HEADINGS/DISTANCES TO “MRY” (#4) TO RANGE* FROM RANGE* FROM “MRY” (#4) 081° @ 11.93 nm 261° @ 11.93 nm * Rear (Northern) Offshore Range/Tower -St. Marys Channel- Caution! Locations of USCG buoys & other aids may change. 1 Description: Silvery-white overall with a yellow-brown stripe running along the body from the eye to a distinct spot at the base of the tail. Another, shorter yellowish stripe may occur on the upper back. In older fish, body color darkens and the tail spot becomes less distinct. Inside of mouth scarlet red. One of the smallest grunts, tomtate caught by anglers generally average 6”-8”. Season: April - December. Methods: A standard bottom rig with small hooks and baited with small pieces of squid, shrimp, or cut bait. Often used as live bait when fishing for grouper or live-lining for amberjack or barracuda. Enclosed information not to be used as sole source for navigation. 48 Notes: Georgia’s most abundant offshore grunt. 49 Georgia Book alpha layout 10/16/01 11:40 AM Page 50 Artificial Reef SAV Location: 6 nm southeast of Tybee Island Mean Low Water Depths: 30' - 40' 80˚ 47.5' W 80˚ 47.0' W 80˚ 46.5' W # Structure LORAN C 7980-Z / 7980-X Heading / Distance from BUOY GPS Latitude N / Longitude W B Buoy “SAV” 45589.7/61305.6 1 Concrete Pipe 45588.7/61305.6 144° @ 0.09 nm 31°55.196' / 80°47.142' 2 Concrete Pipe 45588.8/61306.7 179° @ 0.21 nm 31°55.051' / 80°47.182' 3 Concrete Pipe 45586.5/61303.6 132° @ 0.37 nm 31°55.042' / 80°46.863' 4 Deck Barge 45585.5/61310.5 185° @ 0.89 nm 31°54.370' / 80°47.207' 5 Deck Barge w/Work Boat 45585.4/61311.1 186° @ 0.96 nm 31°54.299' / 80°47.229' 31°55.261' / 80°47.209' 1 31˚ 55.0' N Notes: 3 2 N W E S 31˚ 54.5' N 4 5 Little Tunny Euthynnus alletteratus 31˚ 54.0' N Nautical Mile Dive at your own risk! 0 1/4 1/2 3/4 BUOY to BUOY HEADINGS/DISTANCES TO TO “SAV” G“5”* FROM FROM G“5”* “SAV” 199° @ 4.02 nm 019° @ 4.02 nm * Savannah Channel 1 Description: Bullet-shaped. Steel-bluish above and silvery-white below. Rear of the back with a dark, wavy pattern. Scattered dark spots below the pectoral fins. Little tunny average 5-10 lbs., but can reach 20 lbs. Commonly referred to as “bonito,” little tunny should not be confused with smaller Atlantic bonito (Sarda sarda), which have straight lines on the back and occur only occasionally off Georgia. Season: March-December, migrating seasonally. Schools of little tunny arrive in TO TO “SAV” R“2W” FROM FROM R“2W” “SAV” 058° @ 6.14 nm 238° @ 6.14 nm Caution! Locations of USCG buoys & other aids may change. Enclosed information not to be used as sole source for navigation. 50 nearshore waters in early Spring, followed by blackfin tuna (Thunnus atlanticus), which are caught at the deeper reefs and Navy Towers. Yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares) are also taken near the Navy Towers and further offshore during the warmer months. Methods: Trolling with dead/live natural baits and artificial lures. Notes: A strong fighting fish, even at small sizes. Unlike true tunas, tablefare is poor. 51 Georgia Book alpha layout 10/16/01 11:40 AM Page 52 Artificial Reef SFC Location: 18nm East of Little Cumberland Island Mean Low Water Depths: 45' - 55' 81˚ 03.0' W 81˚ 02.75' W 81˚ 02.5' W 31˚ 00.5' N 1 2 # Structure LORAN C 7980-Z / 7980-X Heading / Distance from BUOY GPS Latitude N / Longitude W B Buoy “SFC” 45384.5/61721.7 1 M-60 Battle Tanks 45384.2/61720.1 053° @ 0.14 nm 31°00.483' / 81°02.283' 2 Pallet Balls 45389.6/61727.6 283° @ 0.63 nm 31°00.456' / 81°03.128' 3 Pallet Balls 45387.7/61726.9 4 M-60 Battle Tanks 45386.6/61726.3 255° @ 0.43 nm 31°00.240' / 81°02.874' 5 M-60 Battle Tanks 45386.5/61726.5 254° @ 0.45 nm 31°00.224' / 81°02.890' 6 Pallet Balls 45386.6/61728.9 245° @ 0.64 nm 31°00.050' / 81°03.050' 7 Landing Craft “Optimist” 45381.1/61722.9 175° @ 0.47 nm 30°59.928' / 81°02.308' 8 Landing Craft “Scalper” 45380.6/61723.2 175° @ 0.53 nm 30°59.862' / 81°02.298' 31°00.386' / 81°02.405' 31°00.312' / 81°02.982' 3 Notes: 31˚ 00.25' N 4 N 5 W E S 6 31˚ 00.0' N 7 8 Dive at your own risk! Nautical Mile 0 1/4 USCG BUOY/ REEF COORDINATES TO “SFC” TO RW“STS” FROM RW“STS” FROM “SFC” 110° @ 11.34 nm 290° @ 11.34 nm TO R“2B” TO RW“STA” FROM RW“STA” FROM R“2B” 246° @ 9.22 nm 066° @ 9.22 nm TO TO FROM FROM 093° @ 6.21 nm 273° @ 6.21 nm “SFC” R“2B” R“2B” “SFC” Caution! Locations of USCG buoys & other aids may change. Enclosed information not to be used as sole source for navigation. 52 1/2 Red Porgy Pagrus pagrus Description: Deep-bodied. Pinkish above, silvery-white below. Rows of small blue spots along sides with blue streaks around the eyes. Rear nostril round, not slit-like. Average 1-2 lbs., but may get much larger. More common in deeper waters. Occasional at artificial reefs. Season: Year-round, offshore. Methods: Bottom rig baited with squid or cut bait. Notes: Often referred to as “pinkies” or “silver snapper.” Long-lived, changing sex to males with age and larger size. Heavily overfished. 53 Georgia Book alpha layout 10/16/01 11:40 AM Page 54 Artificial Reef TC Location: 3 nm east of Cumberland Island Mean Low Water Depths: 12' - 24' 81˚ 24.2' W 81˚ 24.0' W # Structure LORAN C 7980-Z / 7980-X Heading / Distance from BUOY GPS Latitude N / Longitude W B Buoy “TC” 45443.4/61969.6 1 Concrete Tetrahedrons 45443.3/61969.1 062° @ 115 yds. 30°47.004' / 81°23.923' 2 Concrete Tetrahedrons 45443.2/61969.9 190° @ 80 yds. 30°46.933' / 81°23.977' 3 Concrete Tetrahedrons 45443.9/61969.8 322° @ 105 yds. 30°47.010' / 81°24.015' 31°46.973' / 81°23.975' N Notes: W E S 3 1 30˚ 47.0' N 2 Atlantic Spadefish Chaetodipterus faber Yards Dive at your own risk! 0 100 USCG BUOY/ REEF COORDINATES TO TO “TC” R“18”* FROM FROM R“18”* “TC” 357° @ 4.35 nm 177° @ 4.35 nm * St. Mary’s Channel Caution! Locations of USCG buoys & other aids may change. 200 Description: Deep, compressed sliver-gray body with 4-6 broad, black vertical bars. Larger fish generally darker and bars may fade. Average 3-5 lbs., but may exceed 10 lbs. Season: Year-round. During warmer months, large schools are often seen finning at the surface over offshore wrecks. Methods: Spin-casting to surface schools using an unweighted or lightly weighted rig with a short-shanked hook baited with jellyball (a jellyfish) strips or small pieces of shrimp. Small float rigs are also used. Notes: Often erroneously referred to as “angelfish.” Abundant in estuarines as small Enclosed information not to be used as sole source for navigation. 54 juveniles, Atlantic spadefish gradually move offshore with growth. 55 Georgia Book alpha layout 10/16/01 11:40 AM Page 56 Artificial Reefs WW & DW LORAN C 7980-Z / 7980-X Heading / Distance from BUOY GPS Latitude N / Longitude W # Structure Reef WW Location: 50 nm southeast of Wassaw Sound Mean Low Water Depths: 120' - 130' B Reef “WW” 1 Hopper Barge 45262.4/60953.1 31°42.878' / 79°58.577' Reef DW Location: 70 nm east of Sapelo Island Mean Low Water Depths: 150' - 170' 2 Tug “Semarca 40” 45258.5/60952.5 31°42.434' / 79°58.281' not buoyed Notes: 80˚ 30.0' W 80˚ 20.0' W R7 80˚ 10.0' W 118 79˚ 50.0' W 80˚ 00.0' W N º@1 6.3n m 31˚ 40.0' N 1 WW 2 nm .2 @ º 58 17 W E S R8 # Structure 1 Reef “DW” 1 Dump Scow Loran C 7980-Z / 7980-X Heading / Distance from BUOY GPS Latitude N / Longitude W not buoyed 45102.2/61008.5 31°21.525' / 79°50.403' Notes: 0 31˚ 30.0' N M2R6 12 3º@ 22 .7n m Dolphin Coryphaena hippurus DW 1 31˚ 20.0' N m .8n 6 1 5º@ 06 = U.S. Navy Tower R3 Nautical Miles Dive at your own risk! 0 10 20 Description: Tapered, brightly-colored bodies with metallic blue-green backs and golden sides with blue spots. Male “bull” dolphin have steep foreheads, while “cows” have rounded heads. Openocean, warm water fish. Attracted to floating debris and weedlines. Young “school” dolphin average 2-3 lbs., while adults may reach 50 lbs. or more. Season: Regularly encountered near the warm waters of the Gulf Stream and in deeper shelf waters. Although commonly taken at the Navy Towers, dolphin are a rare summer visitor to Georgia reefs inside 30 nautical miles. Methods: Fast trolling with rigged dead baits and artificials. Keeping a hooked fish in the water next to the boat will frequently attract the remainder of the school, which can be cast to. Enclosed information not to be used as sole source for navigation. 56 Notes: Also referred to as “dolphinfish” or “mahi-mahi.” 57 Georgia Book alpha layout 10/16/01 11:40 AM Page 58 Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary Location: 17 nm east of Sapelo Island Mean Low Water Depths: 55' - 70' 80˚ 54.0' W 80˚ 53.0' W 80˚ 52.0' W 80˚ 51.0' W 1 2 31˚ 24.0' N 11 12 9 7 10 3 8 13 6 31˚ 23.0' N # Structure LORAN C 7980-Z / 7980-X Heading / Distance from BUOY GPS Latitude N / Longitude W B Buoy “GRS” 45459.5/61516.5 1 1'-3' Ledge & Outcrops 45458.1/61511.7 048° @ 0.53 nm 31°24.344' / 80°51.816' 2 1'-2' Ledge / Outcrops 45450.0/61503.4 090° @ 1.28 nm 31°24.074' / 80°50.720' 3 1'-2' Ledge 45444.0/61501.9 110° @ 1.74 nm 31°23.515' / 80°50.231' 4 1'-2' Ledge & Outcrops 45442.3/61510.8 142° @ 1.77 nm 31°22.688' / 80°50.770' 5 2'-3' Ledge & Outcrops 45457.7/61534.4 221° @ 1.72 nm 31°22.560' / 80°53.366' 6 1'-3' Ledge & Outcrops 45461.0/61531.0 237° @ 1.24 nm 31°23.191' / 80°53.330' 7 3' Ledge 45463.7/61529.2 257° @ 1.07 nm 31°23.622' / 80°53.387' 8 4'-5' Ledge 45462.9/61527.7 256° @ 0.92 nm 31°23.652' / 80°53.223' 9 2'-3' Ledge 45462.3/61526.1 257° @ 0.79 nm 31°23.701' / 80°53.078' 10 3'-6' Ledge 45460.8/61521.7 272° @ 1.26 nm 31°23.870' / 80°52.678' 11 4'-5' Ledge 45465.4/61528.5 271° @ 1.06 nm 31°23.866' / 80°53.447' 12 1'-2' Ledges 45470.3/61535.6 273° @ 1.75 nm 31°23.855' / 80°54.253' 13 1'-2' Ledges & Outcrops 45468.0/61538.0 259° @ 1.83 nm 31°23.422' / 80°54.275' 31°24.005' / 80°52.201' Notes: 4 N 5 W E S 31˚ 22.0' N Sailfish Istiophorus platypterus Nautical Miles Dive at your own risk! 0 1/2 1 1 1/2 BUOY to BUOY HEADINGS/DISTANCES TO TO Y“S” RW“S” FROM FROM RW“S” Y“S” 115° @ 8.42 nm 295° @ 8.42 nm TO TO “GRS” Y“S” FROM FROM Y“S” “GRS” 162° @ 4.79 nm 342° @ 4.79 nm TO TO “GRS” RW“D” FROM FROM RW“D” “GRS” 086° @ 16.63 nm 266° @ 16.63 nm Caution! Locations of USCG buoys & other aids may change. Enclosed information not to be used as sole source for navigation. 58 2 Description: Body dark blue above, fading to brownish-blue on the lower sides to silver white below. The sides feature 15-20 vertical bars consisting of small, blue spots. Uniformly high, sail-like, and with many small black spots, the blue-black dorsal fin of this billfish is distinctive. Most sailfish caught off Georgia are small, averaging less than 40 lbs. Season: Prefers warm water temperatures above 75˚ F. Occasionally encountered very close to shore during the Summer months. Methods: Trolling with natural baits and artificial lures. Notes: Release! May not be landed in Georgia. 59