In North Carolina, the rules around fishing licenses can be a bit confusing, especially when it comes to seniors. Do they need a license to fish in the state’s waters? The answer depends on a few factors, including the senior’s age, residency status, and the type of fishing they plan to do.
North Carolina Fishing License Requirements
According to the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, anyone 16 years of age or older must possess a valid fishing license when fishing in the state’s public waters, including inland, joint, and coastal waters. This requirement applies to all anglers, regardless of age, with a few exceptions.
The license requirement includes fishing in public mountain trout waters, fishing in trout waters on game lands, and fishing in joint waters. However, individuals fishing in private ponds on privately-owned land do not need a license.
Senior Fishing License Exemptions
North Carolina does offer some exemptions and discounts for seniors when it comes to fishing licenses. Residents of the state who are 65 years of age or older can purchase a senior lifetime sportsman license for $16. This license includes hunting, fishing (inland and coastal), and trapping privileges.
In addition, North Carolina residents who are 70 years of age or older can obtain a lifetime fishing license for free. This license includes both inland and coastal fishing privileges.
It’s important to note that these senior fishing license exemptions and discounts only apply to North Carolina residents. Non-resident seniors do not qualify for these special licenses and must purchase a regular fishing license if they wish to fish in the state’s waters.
Purchasing a North Carolina Fishing License
If you don’t qualify for a senior fishing license exemption or discount, you’ll need to purchase a regular fishing license. North Carolina offers several options for both residents and non-residents, including annual, short-term, and lifetime licenses.
You can purchase a fishing license online, by phone, or from a licensed agent such as a tackle shop or sporting goods store. When purchasing a license, you’ll need to provide a valid form of identification and payment.
It’s important to note that some licenses, such as youth and disabled lifetime licenses, can only be purchased by phone or from a licensed agent.
Reciprocal Agreements with Other States
North Carolina has reciprocal fishing license agreements with certain states, which means that a valid fishing license from those states may be honored in certain boundary waters. As of 2024, North Carolina has reciprocal agreements with:
– Georgia (Chatuge Reservoir)
– Tennessee (Slick Rock Creek, Calderwood Reservoir, and the Catawba River)
– Virginia (New River, Roanoke River, and Currituck Sound)
If you plan to fish in these boundary waters, it’s important to check the specific regulations and license requirements for that area.
In conclusion, whether or not a senior needs a fishing license in North Carolina in 2024 depends on their age, residency status, and the type of fishing they plan to do. While the state does offer some exemptions and discounts for senior residents, non-residents and those who don’t qualify for the special licenses will need to purchase a regular fishing license to fish in the state’s public waters.