What Fishing License Do You Need to Fish for Trout in North Carolina in 2024?

Fishing for trout in North Carolina in 2024 requires careful consideration of the different licenses available and the specific waters you plan to fish. The type of license you need depends on your residency status, the duration of your fishing trip, and whether you intend to fish in designated Mountain Heritage Trout Waters or other public waters.

North Carolina Fishing Licenses

In North Carolina, individuals 16 years of age or older must possess a valid fishing license when fishing in public waters using any type of bait or gear to catch finfish. This requirement does not apply to private ponds.

There are two main types of fishing licenses in North Carolina: Inland and Coastal. Inland licenses cover all freshwater fishing, while Coastal licenses are for saltwater fishing. Areas where fresh and saltwater meet, known as “joint waters,” are usually covered by either license, but it’s essential to check the specific regulations for the waters you plan to fish.

The cost of fishing licenses varies based on the duration of the license (10-day or annual) and whether you are a North Carolina resident or non-resident. Temporary licenses are available for both Inland and Coastal fishing, while lifetime licenses are only available for North Carolina residents.

Mountain Heritage Trout Waters

The Mountain Heritage Trout Waters program is a cooperative effort between the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission and local governments to encourage trout fishing as a tourism activity in designated western North Carolina cities. Non-residents as well as residents may fish these designated sections of stream with a Mountain Heritage Trout License.

The Mountain Heritage Trout License is a 3-day license that costs $8 and is only valid on the areas designated as N.C. Mountain Heritage Waters. If you plan to fish outside the designated Mountain Heritage Waters section, you will need to purchase a N.C. Trout Stamp and N.C. Fishing License.

To fish for trout in Public Mountain Trout Waters that are not designated as “Mountain Heritage Trout Waters,” anglers age 16 and over must have a valid inland fishing license.

Before heading out to fish, it’s essential to research and select the sections of water you want to fish and ensure you have the proper license. If you plan to fish one of the designated Mountain Heritage Trout Waters sections, the N.C. Heritage Fishing License is for you.