ATLANTA — Spring is on the way and as the weather warms and people venture outside, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources encourages families to go fishing.

Whether anglers are out for trout in the mountains, bass on a lake or red drum on the coast, Georgia has a place for everyone.

"There are year-round fishing opportunities in Georgia," said DNR Commissioner Chris Clark. "And beyond that, fishing gives everyone a chance to participate, from kids trying for their first fish to the angler who wants a serious challenge."

Research shows that most people are introduced to fishing by a family member, and most consider family members to be their best fishing friends. For adults who want to give children their first angling opportunity, consider joining other first-timers at a kids fishing event. Held throughout the state, these events provide instruction from professionals and are meant to make children’s fishing experiences fun. To celebrate that first catch, be sure to print off a "My First Fish" certificate and frame it with a photo.

If you’re looking for a place to fish, Georgia’s 10 public fishing areas are family friendly and easily accessible. These areas contain bass, catfish and bream. Many also provide other activities, such as hiking trails, picnic areas, camping and more.

Georgia’s state parks also provide great fishing opportunities, and 25 of them allow visitors to borrow fishing equipment as part of the fishing tackle loaner program. Anglers and their families can enjoy the parks’ nature trails, picnic areas, playgrounds and ranger programs. For a relaxing getaway, state park visitors can stay overnight in rental cottages, hotel-style lodge rooms and campgrounds.

If it’s saltwater fishing you prefer, check out angling information on red drum, sea trout, flounder and more at www.CoastalGaDNR.org and click on saltwater recreational fishing.

Anglers have two opportunities to receive recognition for great catches with the angler award program and the state record program. Angler awards recognize those who catch a fish that meets or beats established weights (for kept fish) or length limits (for catch and release). State records recognize those who catch a fish that beats a current state record. For more information on these programs, go to www.gofishgeorgia.com and select "fishing" and "angler resources."