How Much Does A North Carolina Fishing License Cost?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Residents need to pay $25.00 for an annual state inland license, while non-residents can get it for $45.00

. If you want to fish in the coastal waters, you can also purchase a coastal recreational fishing license for $16 if you are a resident of North Carolina or $32.00 if you are a non-resident.

How do I get a free fishing license in NC?

Types of Fishing Licenses

Annual NC Fishing Licenses: An annual license is valid for 12 months from the date of purchase.

Those who receive Medicaid, Food Stamps or Work First Family Assistance can get a license waiver from the county Department of Social Services and fish for free

.

Do seniors need a fishing license in North Carolina?

Note:

Individuals 16 years of age or older using any type of bait or gear to catch finfish while fishing in North Carolina's public waters must possess a valid North Carolina fishing license

. This license requirement does not apply to private ponds.

How much does a North Carolina out of state fishing license cost?

Out-of-state prices are

$11 for 14 days, $35 per year and $105 for three years

. A basic North Carolina fishing license costs $5 for 10 days or $15 per year.

Does NC require a fishing license?

Fishing Licenses


The state of North Carolina requires that those ages 16 or older hold a Coastal Recreational Fishing License (CRFL) to saltwater fish

. The license can be purchased on a lifetime, annual or 10-day basis or it can be combined with a variety of licenses issues by the Wildlife Resources Commission.

How do you get your fishing license?

Buying a fishing license is quick, easy and directly contributes toward conservation efforts. In most states,

licenses can be purchased online, by phone or at retail establishments

. Purchase a Fishing License in Your State.

How much is a NC lifetime fishing license?

RALEIGH, N.C. (October 27, 2021) – Officials from the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission announced that recent legislation now allows for North Carolina residents, 50 – 69 years old, to purchase a Lifetime Sportsman and Lifetime Unified Sportsman license for

$265 and $358

respectively.

Do you need a fishing license to fish on a pier in NC?

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.

Can you get a free fishing license if you get food stamps in NC?


FREE Fishing License waivers are available to NC food stamps recipients

. In fact, any North Carolina residents with either a Medicaid, EBT, or Work First Family Assistance program letter can get a fishing license waiver. The waiver provides basic fishing license privileges for inland, coastal and joint waters.

How much is a senior fishing license in North Carolina?

License Type Fee Adult – age 16 and older

Resident: $69

Nonresident: N/A

At what age is a fishing license free in NC?

Does a 14-year-old need a fishing license in NC?

Youth under age 16

are exempt from the requirement of any fishing license and trout privilege license. The game lands license is not required to fish in any waters on game lands or Wildlife Conservation Areas.

How many rods can you fish with in North Carolina?

As it stands now, most NC piers restrict people to

2 rods ( including a “bait rod” ) or 3 rods if they are “pin rigging” ( slide-bait fishing )

.

How much is a North Carolina saltwater fishing license?

License Cost for Residents Cost for Non-Residents Inland (Adult) $265 N/A Inland (Senior) $16 N/A
Coastal (under 1)


$106


$106
Coastal (1-11) $159 $159

Do I need a special license to trout fish in NC?


You will need to purchase a N.C Trout Stamp and N.C. Fishing License if you plan to fish outside the designated Mountain Heritage Waters section

. The N.C. Heritage License is valid for 3-days and only cost $5.

How much does a fishing rod cost?

You can find a spinning combo (rod and reel together) for a good price,

about $40 dollars

. However, you can spend a little more and step up the quality of your gear by buying your rod and reel separately. For example, you can find a nice spinning rod for $35 and the reel for $30.

How do you catch and release?

Place fish in the water, gently supporting the mid-section and tail until it swims away. Resuscitate an exhausted fish by moving it or facing it into the current, gently forcing water into the mouth and over the gills. Watch the fish when released. If it doesn't swim away, recover it and try again.

How do I start fishing?

  1. Keep it Simple. If don't know how to fish, keep it simple to start. …
  2. Find a Bank Fishing Spot. Find a nearby waterway that has shoreline fishing access. …
  3. Buy a Fishing License. …
  4. Learn to Identify Fish Species. …
  5. Get a Rod and Reel Combo. …
  6. Use Live Bait. …
  7. You Might Also Like.

Does NC have a lifetime fishing license?

Lifetime License Information


The lifetime comprehensive hunting and lifetime comprehensive inland fishing licenses are sold only to residents of North Carolina

. Nonresidents may purchase the nonresident sportsman's license. There are no residency restrictions when purchasing the infant and youth licenses.

WHAT IS HIP certification in NC?

All licensed hunters hunting migratory game birds (dove, rails, woodcock, snipe, or waterfowl) in North Carolina are required to have certification in the

Federal Harvest Information Program

(HIP). Certification can be obtained free of charge from any Wildlife Service Agent* when you purchase a hunting license.

What does NC sportsman license cover?

Includes the privileges of hunting for big game, hunting on game lands, hunting for waterfowl (does not include the bear management e-stamp or federal duck stamp), fishing in Public Mountain Trout Waters, fishing in trout waters on game lands, and fishing in joint waters.

What size fish can you keep in North Carolina?

Finfish Species NC Coastal Waters Minimum Length Bag Limits (per person) Scup (North of Cape Hatteras only)

9′′ TL


50/Day
Black Sea Bass (North of Cape Hatteras) SEASON CLOSED UNLAWFUL TO POSSESS Black Sea Bass (South of Cape Hatteras) 13′′ TL 7/Day

Do you need a license to catch crabs in NC?


No license is required to harvest crabs recreationally, unless a vessel is used

. There are per person per day limits on allowable crabs caught, however, there are no records kept regarding the actual amount of blue crabs taken recreationally.

Diane Mitchell
Author
Diane Mitchell
Diane Mitchell is an animal lover and trainer with over 15 years of experience working with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, and horses. She has worked with leading animal welfare organizations. Diane is passionate about promoting responsible pet ownership and educating pet owners on the best practices for training and caring for their furry friends.