THE GOWA STORY…
OVER 50 YEARS OF OUTDOOR STORYTELLING
The Georgia Outdoor Writers Association is all about the outdoors. It’s in our blood. Our members write stories, photograph, blog and promote the abundance of outdoor activities available in Georgia and throughout the Southeast U.S.
Formed in 1968, GOWA is one of the most notable outdoor writer groups in the U.S. Over the years, our members have continued to showcase the broad spectrum of outdoor opportunities and attractions available in Georgia. Their content appeals to a growing audience of outdoor enthusiasts, from the shooting sports to fishing, and camping to kayaking, all while discovering the natural beauty of Georgia.
Georgia offers a wealth of outdoor adventures. From the peaceful beauty of mountain streams to the salty breezes of the barrier islands, there’s something for everyone to enjoy outdoors in the state. And GOWA writers are continuing to tell those stories every day.
It’s what we do. It’s our passion.

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“It’s not just about the hunt. It’s about the entire experience.”
Years AS AN ORGANIZATION
OF READERS EVERY MONTH
ARTICLES, PHOTOS, VIDEOS, BLOGS PUBLISHED
GOWA PARTNER SPOTLIGHT
St. CROIX RODS
– PERSISTENT PURSUIT OF PERFECTION –
At the core of our brand ethos lives a simple yet fierce conviction; we exist to create dynamic fishing tools that intuitively help you evolve as a caster and angler. Our focused philosophy continually questions conventional wisdom, inspires innovation, and drives our persistent pursuit of fly rod perfection. When you own a St. Croix — it’s more than just a rod, it’s a promise. It’s 75 years of hard earned knowledge aimed at designing and building the Best Rods on Earth, so you can be at your best in your own persistent pursuit.
COOL ARTICLES FROM OUR MEMBERS
WHY JOIN GOWA?
MEMBER BENEFITS
Our members realize enormous benefits from being a part of GOWA. If you create outdoor content for print, video, blogs or social media, you should apply for membership.
PARTNER BENEFITS
Our corporate and tourism partners realize increased exposure and promotion through content featuring their products, businesses, and destination amenities. GOWA members are recognized as experts in their chosen fields, and their readers rely on their insight, reviews and recommendations.
EXCELLENCE IN CRAFT AWARDS
Every year, GOWA members are recognized for their work through the Dean Wohlgemuth Excellence In Craft Awards.
These awards represent the best-of-the-best in outdoor writing and content. Entries are judged by other industry professionals in a variety of categories from hunting, fishing, tourism, product reviews and more. Awards are presented at the spring conference each year.

GEORGIA OUTDOOR HALL OF FAME
The Georgia Outdoor Hall of Fame resides at the Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center in Mansfield, Georgia. Charlie was an avid outdoor writer and advocate, and became the first person chosen by GOWA for the Hall of Fame.
Since then, a distinguished group of outdoor enthusiasts, writers, and promoters of Georgia’s outdoor wonders have been inducted, including a U.S. President.

GEORGIA BIG BUCK CONTEST
The Georgia Big Buck Contest runs for a 17 week period during Georgia’s deer season. During the course of the season, hunters submit their racks to be officially measured by certified Boone & Crockett/Pope & Young measurers. At the end of the season, the archery and firearm winners are declared.
GOWA recognizes and presents plaques to the winners at the annual spring conference.





















