Do You Need a Fishing License to Fish at the Beach in North Carolina in 2024?

If you plan to cast a line in North Carolina’s coastal waters in 2024, you’ll need to have a valid Coastal Recreational Fishing License (CRFL). This license is required for anyone 16 years and older who wants to fish recreationally in the state’s coastal fishing waters, which include sounds, coastal rivers, their tributaries, and up to three miles into the ocean.
Who Needs a CRFL in North Carolina?
Every angler over the age of 16 needs a CRFL when fishing in North Carolina’s coastal waters. This includes both residents and non-residents. If you’re helping someone else fish, even if you’re not holding a rod yourself, you still need a license.
There are a few exceptions to the CRFL requirement:
Children under 16 don’t need a license.
You don’t need a license when fishing aboard a licensed saltwater charter boat.
NC residents on leave from the military can fish for up to 30 days without a license, as long as they have their military ID and leave papers with them.
Everyone can fish without a license on the 4th of July.
Types of CRFLs in North Carolina
There are several types of CRFLs available in North Carolina, depending on your residency status and how long you plan to fish:

Annual Licenses

Residents (16 and older): $16
Non-residents (16 and older): $32

10-Day Licenses

Residents (16 and older): $6
Non-residents (16 and older): $11

Lifetime Licenses

Adult resident (12 and older): $265
Adult non-resident (12 and older): $530
Youth resident (1-11): $159
Youth non-resident (1-11): $159
Infant resident (under 1): $106
Infant non-resident (under 1): $106
Senior resident (see eligibility): $16
Where to Get a CRFL in North Carolina
You can purchase a CRFL in North Carolina in several ways:
Online at ncwildlife.org
By phone at 888-248-6834
From a local Wildlife Service Agent or retailer like Walmart
If you buy your license online or by phone, it will be mailed to you. In-person purchases will give you an instant license. Remember to carry your license with you while fishing, even if you purchased it online.
Fishing Regulations in North Carolina
When fishing with a CRFL, you must follow the state’s recreational size and possession limits. The license is only for personal consumption and cannot be sold.
Anglers with a CRFL are also required to comply with all Division of Marine Fisheries sampling and survey programs.
Conclusion
In summary, if you plan to fish in North Carolina’s coastal waters in 2024, you’ll need a valid Coastal Recreational Fishing License. This license is required for anyone 16 and older, with a few exceptions. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the different license types, costs, and purchasing options to ensure you’re fishing legally and responsibly in the Tar Heel State.