Online: Most fishing licenses can be purchased online at the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission website at ncwildlife.org. By Phone: You can call 888-248-6834 and purchase your license with a credit card.
How much does a North Carolina fishing license cost?
Coastal Recreational Fishing License
| License Type |
Fee |
| Adult: age 16 and older |
Resident: $16 Nonresident: $32 |
How much is a non resident NC fishing license?
Meanwhile a Coastal Recreational Fishing license costs $6.00 (residents) and $11.00(non-residents). Annual licenses are valid for 12 months after the date of purchase unless stated otherwise. Residents need to pay $25.00 for an annual state inland fishing license, while non-residents can get it for $45.00.
Do you need a fishing license in North Carolina to fish in the ocean?
If fishing in Inland waters, the only fishing license required is the Wildlife Resources Commission’s Inland Fishing License . However, if fishing in Coastal waters you are required to have a Coastal Recreational Fishing License.
How do I get a NC fishing license? – Related Questions
Where can I fish in NC without a license?
Every angler over 16 needs a fishing license when casting a line in NC waters. However, you don’t need a license to fish in private ponds on privately-owned land.
Can you fish on pier without a license in NC?
Yes, unless the public pier has purchased a blanket license. Will I need a license to fish from the shore? Yes, if you are fishing recreationally for finfish in coastal waters, you will need a CRFL.
Can you surf fish in North Carolina without a license?
Licensing > Hunting, Fishing & Trapping Licenses > Coastal Recreational Fishing License. As of Jan. 1, 2007, any person 16 and older who wants to fish recreationally in any water designated as coastal and joint waters of North Carolina must purchase a Coastal Recreational Fishing License (CRFL).
Do I need a fishing license to surf fish in the Outer Banks?
Outer Banks Surf Fishing
A Coastal Recreation Fishing License is required and can be obtained at a local bait and tackle shop. Surf anglers have the most success in the early morning and late afternoon hours, but fish can be caught in the surf all day long.
Do you need a license to fish off the beach in Outer Banks?
License Information
A Coastal Recreational Fishing License is required to fish on the Outer Banks. Children under 16 are exempt. An individual does not need a license for charter boat and pier fishing, which are covered by a blanket license.
What fish can you catch off the beach in North Carolina?
Popular inshore fishing spots include the Cape Fear River, Intercoastal Waterway, Docks near Boat Basin, and Carolina Beach Inlet. Expect to cast some red and black drum, sheepshead, flounder, Croaker, Trout, bluefish, Spanish and mackerel, and even some sharks if you’re lucky.
How many rods can you fish with in North Carolina?
You may use as many as you like. There is no limit on the number of poles/rods one may use.
What is the most caught fish in North Carolina?
Fishing in North Carolina is productive on every level, and the outstanding Mackerel bite proves it. Both Spanish and King Mackerel are the most commonly caught saltwater species in the state, available all year.
What is the most popular fish in North Carolina?
Some of the most prevalent types of fish in NC streams and rivers include:
- Trout (Rainbow, Brook, Brown)
- Walleyes.
- Bass (Largemouth and Smallmouth)
- Whitefish.
- Catfish.
- Pike.
- Bluegills.
What is the best time to fish in North Carolina?
The best time of year to fish in North Carolina is from April through September for largemouth bass, trout, redfish, mahi-mahi, flounder, tuna, and striped bass. The best time of day for fishing is early mornings & late afternoons.
What is the best bait to use in North Carolina?
Artificial baits such as crankbaits, spinnerbaits, topwa- ters, jigs and soft plastic lures imitating minnows, crayfish, salamanders and worms are good choices. Live baits such as minnows, nightcrawlers and crayfish also can be effective.
What is the best place to fish in North Carolina?
5 Best Fishing Spots in North Carolina
- Lake Tomahawk Park, Black Mountain, NC. Lake Tomahawk Park of small town Black Mountain is home to a cozy lake that is not only breathtaking with a view of the mountains, but a great fishing spot.
- Lake Norman, Troutman, NC.
- Lake Glenville, Glenville, NC.
- Fontana Lake.
- Nantahala Lake.
How many hooks can you fish with in North Carolina?
Trotlines shall be set parallel to the nearest shore in all inland fishing waters unless otherwise prohibited. The number of jug hooks that may be fished is limited to 70 per boat.
What is the best bait for fish?
Some of the best freshwater fishing bait include worms, leeches, minnows, crayfish, crickets and grasshoppers. Select good saltwater baits including sea worms, eels, crabs, shrimp, strips of squid, and cut-up pieces of fish. You can purchase live bait, or better yet, find your own to save money.
What fish is in season in NC?
Fish by Season
| Species |
Peak Months |
Activity Range |
| Wahoo |
July-Nov |
March-Nov |
| King Mackeral |
Sept-Nov |
Year Round |
| Striped Bass |
Dec-Feb |
Nov-March |
| Cobia |
May-July |
May-July |
Do senior citizens need a fishing license in NC?
Yes. As of January 1, 2007, any individuals 16 years or older who want to recreationally finfish in any water designated as coastal or joint waters of North Carolina must purchase a NC Coastal Recreational Fishing License (CRFL).