Conservation department seeks public fishing lake managers in Geneva and Lee Counties

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Photo Credit: OutdoorAlabama.com

The Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) announced this week that it is currently accepting applications for both the lake manager positions at the Geneva County Public Fishing Lake near Coffee Springs and the Lee County Public Fishing Lake near Opelika.

The lake manager positions are contracted with the State of Alabama for a three-year term, which is renewable at the discretion of the state. Duties include the sale of fishing licenses and permits, grounds maintenance, store management, and other related responsibilities. An investment is required to meet the initial needs of daily operations. There is no salary or state benefits associated with this position. Income is derived from fishing permits and concession sales.

To be considered for either of the lake manager positions, contact Jason Junkin at jason.junkin@dcnr.alabama.gov or (334) 242-3472 to receive an information packet and application. Persons interested in this position should apply before December 30, 2022.

The Alabama Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division manages 23 Public Fishing Lakes (PFLs) in 20 counties. The lakes range in size from 13 to 184 acres for a total of 1,912 acres of water. Each lake is intensively managed to provide quality fishing on a sustained basis. All lakes were originally stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill (bream), and redear sunfish (shellcracker). Channel catfish are stocked in every lake during the winter. White crappie and black crappie have become established in many lakes. 

To fish on one of the state’s public fishing lakes, anglers must have a valid Alabama fishing license. Anglers 12 years of age and older must also purchase a fishing permit. To Launch a personal boat, kayak, or canoe, anglers must also purchase a launch permit and be purposely fishing.

You may also rent a Jon boat by purchasing a boat rental permit, have a valid fishing license, and a fishing permit. If renting a motorized boat, you must also have a boater certification from the state of Alabama or agree to the Alabama PFL boat rental agreement and be 16 years of age or older.

PFLs are typically open six days a week from February 1 through June 30 each year. From July 1 until November 30, some lakes are only open five days a week. Many lakes are closed in December and January or operate on a limited basis. Information and schedules may change without notice, so please call the Lake Manager or the appropriate Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries District Office for the current operating schedule.

To connect with the author of this story, or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.