Can I Use My North Carolina Fishing License in Virginia? A Comprehensive Guide for 2024

As an avid angler, you may be wondering if your North Carolina fishing license is valid in Virginia, or vice versa. The good news is that there are several reciprocal agreements between the two states, particularly when it comes to fishing in the Blue Ridge Parkway region. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the ins and outs of using your fishing license across state lines in 2024.

Reciprocal Agreements on the Blue Ridge Parkway

One of the most notable reciprocal agreements between North Carolina and Virginia is on the Blue Ridge Parkway. According to the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, “Virginia and North Carolina licenses are honored on all Parkway waters.” This means that if you have a valid fishing license from either state, you can use it to fish in the Blue Ridge Parkway region.

However, it’s important to note that while this agreement allows you to fish in the Parkway waters, the regulations of the state in which you are fishing apply. As the Virginia DWR states, “Virginia regulations apply in Parkway waters in Virginia with few exceptions.” So, if you’re fishing in the Virginia portion of the Parkway, you’ll need to follow Virginia’s fishing regulations, and if you’re in North Carolina, you’ll need to follow North Carolina’s regulations.

Other Reciprocal Agreements

In addition to the Blue Ridge Parkway, there are a few other areas where North Carolina and Virginia have reciprocal fishing license agreements:

– **Buggs Island (Kerr) and Gaston**: Virginia or North Carolina state fishing licenses and permits are honored on those waters lying east of Union Street Dam on the Dan River in Virginia and the mouth of Difficult Creek on the Staunton River of Kerr Reservoir to the Gaston Dam on the Roanoke River, including all tributary waters accessible by boat from the main bodies of the reservoirs, or from the Island Creek sub-impoundment. Note: North Carolina regulations apply on North Carolina portions of these waters. Virginia regulations apply in Virginia waters.

– **New River**: Virginia or North Carolina state fishing licenses and permits are honored on the mainstream portion lying between the confluence of the North and South Forks of the New River in North Carolina (Alleghany County) downstream to the confluence of the New and Little rivers in Virginia (Grayson County).

– **South Holston Reservoir**: Any person possessing a valid Tennessee or Virginia resident freshwater fishing license, or who is legally exempt from those license requirements, and possessing the South Holston Reservoir License may fish in the Tennessee and Virginia impounded waters of South Holston Reservoir.

Fishing Opportunities in the Blue Ridge Parkway Region

The Blue Ridge Parkway region offers a wealth of fishing opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. The Parkway itself is home to numerous streams and lakes that support a variety of fish species, including trout, bass, and sunfish.

Some of the notable fishing spots along the Blue Ridge Parkway include:

– **Otter Lake / MP 60** (handicap accessible fishing pier) – **James River / MP 63** – **Abbott Lake / MP 86** – **Roanoke River / MP 115** – **Price Lake / MP 297** (includes handicap accessible fishing pier) – **Linville River / MP 317** (access from picnic area, campground, and visitor center)

In addition to the Parkway itself, the surrounding national parks and state parks offer excellent fishing opportunities. For example, in Shenandoah National Park, adults over the age of 16 need a valid Virginia fishing license, and only single hook artificial lures are permitted (no organic bait allowed). In Great Smoky Mountains National Park, adult anglers must possess a valid fishing license or permit from either Tennessee or North Carolina.

Regulations and Considerations

When fishing in the Blue Ridge Parkway region, it’s important to be aware of the regulations and considerations specific to each area. Here are a few key points to keep in mind:

– **Licensing**: Adults need a valid state fishing license from either North Carolina or Virginia to fish on Blue Ridge Parkway lands. No trout stamp is required. Youth under age 16 can fish without a license while accompanied by an adult.

– **Lures and Bait**: In most Parkway waters, only single hook artificial lures may be used. The use of unpreserved fish eggs, minnows, or amphibians is not allowed, and digging for bait is not permitted.

– **Fishing Hours**: On all Parkway waters, fishing is allowed from one half hour before sunrise to one half hour after sunset.

– **Catch and Release**: Many anglers practice “catch and release” fishing in the Blue Ridge Parkway region to help ensure healthy fish populations for future generations. Using barbless hooks and minimal handling can help increase the survival rate of released fish.

– **Boundary Lines**: Be aware that many streams and rivers in the region cross into other state, federal, or private land where different regulations may apply. Pay attention to boundary lines and confirm regulations with park rangers.

By understanding the reciprocal agreements and regulations in the Blue Ridge Parkway region, anglers from North Carolina and Virginia can enjoy the best of both states’ fishing opportunities in 2024. Whether you’re targeting trout in the cool mountain streams or casting for bass and sunfish in the lakes, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers a truly unique and rewarding fishing experience.