Fishing Regulations in North Carolina
Size limits, bag limits, and seasons by species in North Carolina.
North Carolina's Wildlife Resources Commission manages mountain trout streams, piedmont bass reservoirs, and the inland side of a coast famous for red drum and striped bass. Limits and seasons differ by region and species, so confirm the rules for your water before you keep a fish.
62 species with limits50 special regulation bodies of water
Notable waters
Inland WatersCatawba River (Special Regulation — Burke Co.)Catch and Release / Artificial Flies and Lures Only Trout WatersDelayed Harvest Trout Waters (C&R Window)Delayed Harvest Trout Waters (Harvest Window)Hatchery Supported Trout WatersHatchery Supported Trout Waters (Power/Municipal Reservoirs)Lake Chatuge
Applies to: Buckhorn Reservoir
Buckhorn Reservoir
Year-round · Year-round
Min size16"Daily bag5
Specific bodies of water may have special regulations.
Always confirm with the official state agency before keeping a fish. Regulations can change and local exceptions may apply.
Check North Carolina Regulations on the App
Take size limits, bag limits, and seasons for every species with you on the water. CatchVault is on iOS, with Android on the way.