How Much Does a North Carolina Fishing License Cost in 2024?

If you’re an avid angler looking to fish in North Carolina’s abundant waters, you’ll need to purchase a fishing license. The cost of a North Carolina fishing license varies depending on your residency status, the type of license you need, and the duration of the license. In this article, we’ll break down the different types of fishing licenses available in North Carolina and their associated costs.

Temporary Fishing Licenses

North Carolina offers temporary fishing licenses for both residents and non-residents. These licenses are valid for a specific period and are ideal for those who plan to fish for a short duration.

For residents, the cost of a temporary fishing license is as follows:

10-Day Coastal: $6
Annual Coastal: $16
10-Day Inland: $9
Annual Inland: $25

Non-residents can purchase temporary fishing licenses at a higher cost:

10-Day Coastal: $11
Annual Coastal: $32
10-Day Inland: $23
Annual Inland: $45

Annual Fishing Licenses

If you plan to fish more frequently, an annual fishing license might be a better option. Annual licenses are valid for 12 months from the date of purchase.

The cost of an annual fishing license for residents is:

Annual Coastal: $16
Annual Inland: $25
Annual Unified (Inland and Coastal): $41

Non-residents can purchase an annual coastal fishing license for $32.

Lifetime Fishing Licenses

For those who plan to fish regularly, a lifetime fishing license might be a worthwhile investment. North Carolina offers several types of lifetime fishing licenses, with varying costs based on age and residency status.

The cost of a lifetime fishing license for residents is:

Inland (Adult): $265
Inland (Senior): $16
Coastal (under 1): $106
Coastal (1-11): $159
Coastal (12 ): $265
Coastal (Senior): $16
Unified: $477

Non-residents can purchase a lifetime coastal fishing license for $530.

Free and Reduced-Fee Licenses

North Carolina offers free and reduced-fee fishing licenses to certain groups, including:

NC residents who rely on fishing for food
NC residents who are legally blind
Residents in NC care homes
Residents who are permanently and totally disabled
Resident veterans who are 50% or more disabled

These individuals can obtain a free or discounted Unified Lifetime Fishing License.

Where to Purchase a North Carolina Fishing License

You can purchase a North Carolina fishing license through several convenient methods:

Online: Complete your application online using Visa or MasterCard. This comes with a $2 transaction fee.
By phone: Call 888-248-6834 to get your license over the phone. Working hours are 8 A.M. to 5 P.M. Monday through Friday.
In person: Visit a registered vendor, such as tackle shops, hardware stores, or chains like Walmart, to buy your license instantly.

If you purchase your license in person, you’ll receive it immediately. Otherwise, it will be mailed to you.

Remember, youth, infant, and disabled lifetime licenses can’t be bought online. You need to call or visit a local agent to obtain these licenses.

In conclusion, the cost of a North Carolina fishing license depends on your residency status, the type of license you need, and the duration of the license. Whether you’re a resident or non-resident, temporary or annual, there’s a fishing license option that suits your needs. By purchasing a fishing license, you contribute to the preservation and management of North Carolina’s aquatic resources, ensuring that fishing remains a popular pastime for years to come.