Buy a Fishing License Before Heading to Coast

Now that a license is required to fish North Carolina's coastal waters, the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission is urging beach-bound anglers to purchase a Coastal Recreational Fishing License (CRFL) before leaving home.

Recreational fishermen can purchase their license by:
• Calling the Wildlife Resources Commission at 1 (888) 248-6834. Hours of operation are: 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday;
• Going to the Wildlife Resources Commission's Web site, NC Wildlife Commission;
• Visiting a local Wildlife Service Agent. Most are located in bait-and-tackle shops, hunting and sporting good stores and larger chain stores.

Licenses can also be purchased at one of six Division of Marine Fisheries offices located along the coast. However, these offices may have long lines as well. For locations, visit the agency's Web site, NC Marine Fisheries.

A CRFL is required for anyone 16 years and older who wants to fish recreationally in the state's coastal fishing waters, which include sounds, coastal rivers and their tributaries out to three miles into the ocean. Recreational anglers who catch fish from three miles to 200 miles offshore also need this license in order to transport fish back to the shore.

Prices for the CRFL vary depending on residency, age, duration and type of license purchased.