Registered boaters can fish for free on birthday

ATLANTA (AP) The state Department of Natural Resources is offering birthday gifts to Georgia anglers.

Department spokeswoman Melissa Cummings says as of this month Georgia residents who have a boat registered with the state can fish on their birthday and for two days afterward as part of their boat registration fee.

Department officials say the three-day bonus they're offering to about 300,000 Georgia boaters also extends to some of the state's shooting ranges and more.

Officials say boat owners must carry a state identification, their plastic vessel registration card and show proof of valid vessel registration.

Trout fishing and big game hunting require additional paid licenses. Saltwater fishing and migratory bird hunting also require additional permits, which are free.