Do You Need a Fishing License in North Carolina in 2024?

Fishing is a popular pastime in North Carolina, with anglers enjoying the state’s diverse waterways and abundant fish populations. However, before casting a line, it’s crucial to understand the state’s fishing license requirements. In 2024, the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) continues to enforce regulations that require individuals 16 years of age and older to possess a valid fishing license when fishing in public waters, excluding private ponds.

Types of Fishing Licenses in North Carolina

North Carolina offers several types of fishing licenses to accommodate the needs of both residents and non-residents, as well as short-term and long-term anglers.

The main categories of fishing licenses in North Carolina are:

Inland Fishing License: Covers fishing in freshwater and joint waters.
Coastal Recreational Fishing License: Required for fishing in coastal and joint waters.
Unified Inland/Coastal Fishing License: Allows fishing in both inland and coastal waters.

Within each category, licenses are available for various durations, including 10-day, annual, and lifetime options.

Exemptions and Discounts

While most anglers 16 and older must purchase a fishing license, there are some exemptions and discounts available in North Carolina.

Exemptions include:

Children under 16 years of age.
Anglers fishing on a licensed charter boat.
North Carolina residents on leave from the military for 30 days or less.

Discounts and free licenses are available for certain groups, such as:

North Carolina residents who rely on fishing for food.
North Carolina residents who are legally blind.
Residents of North Carolina care homes.
Permanently and totally disabled North Carolina residents.
North Carolina resident veterans who are 50% or more disabled.

Purchasing a Fishing License

Anglers can purchase fishing licenses in North Carolina through several convenient methods:

Online: Through the NCWRC’s website, with a $2 transaction fee.
By phone: By calling 888-248-6834, available Monday through Friday, 8 A.M. to 5 P.M.
In person: At registered vendors, such as tackle shops, hardware stores, and Walmart locations.

When purchasing a license, anglers should have a form of identification and payment method ready. Once obtained, the license must be carried while fishing.

Importance of Fishing Licenses

Purchasing a fishing license in North Carolina serves several important purposes:

Compliance with the law: Fishing without a license can result in hefty fines and potential criminal charges.
Conservation efforts: License fees contribute to the NCWRC’s efforts to maintain and improve the state’s aquatic resources.
Economic impact: The fishing industry in North Carolina generates significant revenue and supports local economies.

In 2022 alone, North Carolina saw a total economic impact of $1.38 billion from fishing activities, with 321,872 resident and 48,096 out-of-state anglers contributing to this figure.

As North Carolina anglers prepare for the 2024 fishing season, it’s essential to familiarize themselves with the state’s fishing license requirements and ensure compliance. By purchasing the appropriate license, anglers can enjoy the state’s abundant fishing opportunities while supporting conservation efforts and contributing to the local economy.