Within the park, there are three special regulation sections. The first concerns live bait-fish. Live bait-fish may only be used downstream of the GA 9 highway bridge, except at certain times in the delayed harvest section (see more information below). The seining of bait-fish is not allowed at any time.

The next allows artificial lures only year-round. This fifteen mile section is located from GA 20 highway to the boat ramp at Medlock Bridge just upstream of the GA 141 highway bridge. In this artificial lure section, it is unlawful to use or possess any other type of bait.

The last section covers delayed harvest. This five mile section is located from Sope Creek (off Columns Drive) downstream to U.S. Hwy 41 (Cobb Parkway). Anglers must release all trout immediately and use and possess only artificial lures with single hooks from November 1 through May 14 annually. Anglers fishing for species other than trout must abide by the artificial lure only regulation while fishing in the delayed harvest section. These restrictions do not apply in this delayed harvest section from May 15 to October 31 of each year.

U.S. Coast Guard approved personal flotation devices are REQUIRED TO BE WORN if you are boating, tube floating, or wading in river areas between (1) Buford Dam and the GA 20 highway bridge and (2) between Morgan Falls Dam and the boat ramp at Morgan Falls parking lot. On all other river sections in the park, you must have a wearable, appropriately sized, U.S. Coast Guard approved personal flotation device on board all vessels for each person. Additionally, all children under age 10 MUST WEAR a U.S. Coast Guard approved personal flotation device when the vessel is underway.