What Age Requires a Fishing License in North Carolina in 2024?

In North Carolina, individuals 16 years of age or older are required to possess a valid fishing license when using any type of bait or gear to catch finfish while fishing in the state’s public waters. This regulation applies to both residents and non-residents, with a few exceptions outlined below.

Types of Fishing Licenses in North Carolina

North Carolina offers several types of fishing licenses, including:

Short-term licenses: Valid for the period specified on the license, ranging from $9 for residents and $23 for non-residents for a 10-day license, to $6 for residents and $11 for non-residents for a 3-day license.
Annual licenses: Unless otherwise specified, annual licenses are valid for 12 months from the date of purchase. Prices range from $25 for residents and $45 for non-residents for a basic inland or coastal license, to $80 for residents and $530 for non-residents for a comprehensive unified license.
Lifetime licenses: Available for residents only, with prices varying based on the angler’s age. Lifetime licenses range from $106 for infants under age 1, to $265 for adults ages 12 and older, to $16 for seniors who meet the eligibility requirements.

Exceptions to the Fishing License Requirement

While most anglers 16 and older must possess a valid fishing license, there are a few exceptions to this rule:

Youth under age 16: Children under the age of 16 are exempt from the fishing license requirement in North Carolina.
Fishing in private ponds: A fishing license is not required when fishing in private ponds on privately-owned land.
Fishing on a charter boat: Anglers do not need a license when fishing aboard a licensed charter boat in coastal waters.
Military personnel on leave: North Carolina residents who are members of the U.S. Armed Forces serving outside the state, or who are on full-time military duty outside North Carolina in a reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces, are exempt from fishing license requirements while on leave in the state for 30 days or less.

Purchasing a Fishing License in North Carolina

Fishing licenses in North Carolina can be purchased through several convenient methods:

Online: Licenses can be purchased online at the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission’s website, gooutdoorsnorthcarolina.com.
Retail locations: Licenses are available for purchase at many bait and tackle shops, sporting goods stores, and other retail locations throughout the state.
Wildlife Service Agent: Licenses can be obtained from Wildlife Service Agents, which are located in all 100 counties in North Carolina.

When purchasing a license, anglers will need to provide personal information such as their name, date of birth, and proof of residency (if applicable). Licenses can be printed immediately after purchase or sent by mail.

Importance of Fishing Licenses

Fishing licenses serve several important purposes in North Carolina:

Conservation efforts: Revenue generated from fishing license sales is used to support conservation efforts, habitat restoration, and fish stocking programs throughout the state.
Access to fishing areas: A valid fishing license grants anglers access to public fishing waters, including lakes, rivers, and coastal areas.
Compliance with regulations: Fishing licenses help ensure that anglers are aware of and comply with the state’s fishing regulations, such as size and creel limits, seasons, and gear restrictions.

By purchasing a fishing license, anglers contribute to the long-term sustainability of North Carolina’s fisheries and help ensure that future generations can enjoy the state’s abundant fishing opportunities.