If you’re fishing in North Carolina but don’t live here, you must buy a non‑resident license and carry proof while fishing. Annual inland non‑resident licenses run about $54; annual coastal recreational licenses are $38. Short‑term options include a ten‑day inland license ($28) and ten‑day coastal ($38); blocks of ten coastal ten‑day licenses cost about $150. Buy online, by phone, or at vendors; follow the same rules and limits as residents — more details follow below.
Who Needs a Non‑Resident Fishing License in North Carolina?
Who needs a non-resident fishing license in North Carolina? You do if you’re 16 or older and fishing public waters as a non-resident. Non resident eligibility is straightforward: any out-of-state angler 16+ must hold a license to fish coastal, inland, or joint waters.
Non-residents aged 16+ must have a North Carolina fishing license to fish public coastal, inland, or joint waters.
You won’t need one only when fishing on a private pond located entirely on private land where access isn’t public.
You must follow the same fishing regulations as residents, including size and possession limits, regardless of license type. That means when you fish coastal or inland waters you comply with season, gear, and limit rules enforced statewide.
Carry proof of your non-resident license while fishing; enforcement officers will expect it. Note the state separates coastal and inland privileges, so determine which license fits your trip.
This section defines eligibility and regulatory obligations so you can plan legally and avoid citations.
Current Non‑Resident License Fees and Recent Increases
Now that you know when a non‑resident license is required, you should also know what it costs: a non‑resident Coastal Recreational Fishing License runs $38, and non‑residents may buy a 10‑day coastal license for the same $38 rate; a non‑resident State Inland Fishing License is $54.
You should expect fee comparisons between coastal and inland options: coastal access is $38, inland access is $54, and the unified inland/coastal license isn’t offered to non‑residents.
These figures define core non resident benefits — clear, tiered access depending on where you’ll fish.
Note that recent increases affected other permits, for example the non‑resident season‑long hunting license rose to $119, signaling a broader fee adjustment trend.
Non‑resident fishing fees can change annually; new rates take effect July 1.
Before you purchase, verify current rates with the appropriate agency to ascertain compliance and to accurately assess cost versus access when planning your trip.
Short‑Term Non‑Resident Options: Ten‑Day and Block Licenses
If you need short-term coverage, non-resident ten-day licenses give you focused, legal access: the Coastal Recreational Fishing Ten-Day License costs $38 and covers coastal waters for ten days, while the Inland Ten-Day License is $28 and covers designated inland waters for the same period.
You can buy a block of ten Ten-Day Coastal licenses for $150; the block is valid for two years and intended to serve repeat short visits without annual purchases.
Each Ten-Day license is water-type specific, non-transferable, and issued to an individual; you can’t assign them to another person.
Both short term licenses require you to follow all applicable fishing regulations, including bag limits, seasons, gear restrictions, and prohibitions on commercial sale of caught fish.
Keep your license available for inspection while fishing.
These options provide regulatory-compliant, temporary access for non-residents who need limited-duration coverage without committing to full-season permits.
Where to Buy Non‑Resident Licenses: Online, Phone, and In‑Person
When you need a non‑resident fishing license, you can buy it online through the Go Outdoors North Carolina portal (a $2 transaction fee applies), by phone at 888‑248‑6834 during business hours, or in person at registered vendors and DMF offices—vendors like tackle shops and Walmart issue licenses instantly, while some special licenses are sold only at DMF offices. You must have a valid photo ID to complete any purchase.
| Method | Where | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Online | Go Outdoors NC portal | $2 transaction fee; use secure payment |
| Phone | 888‑248‑6834 | Have ID details ready; follow phone transaction tips |
| In‑Person | Vendors, DMF offices | Instant issuance; some licenses DMF‑only |
Use online purchasing methods for speed and record-keeping. For phone transactions, provide ID info exactly as on your ID and confirm confirmation number. At vendors, present your photo ID; vendors issue licenses immediately. DMF offices sell all license types, including those not available elsewhere.
Rules, Possession Limits, and Use Restrictions for Non‑Residents
Because non‑residents can’t buy the Unified Inland/Coastal license, you must hold the appropriate separate inland or coastal recreational license and comply with all size and possession limits that apply to residents; the Coastal Recreational Fishing License costs $38 and permits only personal consumption in coastal waters.
You’ll follow identical species-specific size and bag limits as residents, and you must know local regulations before you fish. On July 4th you may fish public waters without a license, but that single‑day exemption doesn’t extend to other dates.
Under recreational rules you’re prohibited from selling any finfish you catch; transfer for profit voids your license privileges. Maintain regulatory compliance by carrying proof of license when required, observing seasonal and area closures, and documenting harvests per rules.
Practice fishing ethics: respect size limits, release protected species promptly, and avoid illegal gear or methods. Violations can lead to fines, license suspension, or forfeiture of catch; you’re responsible for staying current with regulations before each outing.
Tournament and Exemption Permits for Out‑of‑State Anglers
Although you’re not a resident, you can still run or enter organized events in North Carolina by securing the appropriate permits: you must follow tournament regulations and determine whether a Recreational Fishing Tournament License or a Coastal Recreational Fishing License Exemption Permit applies. If fish will be sold, obtain the tournament license to align with commercial rules and sustainable practices. If you seek an exemption, submit a complete exemption application at least 30 days before the event; approved permits waive individual fishing licenses for organized events. You must comply with local size and possession limits during events. Issuance of licenses and permits enables monitoring and protects marine resources.
| Permit type | Purpose | Lead time |
|---|---|---|
| Tournament License | Authorizes sale of catch; enforces commercial rules | Immediate if applied |
| Exemption Permit | Waives licenses for organized events | 30 days prior |
| Compliance | Size/possession adherence | Continuous monitoring |
Lifetime and Special‑Rate Licenses Available to Non‑Residents
Several specific lifetime and special‑rate coastal licenses are available to non‑residents, with clear eligibility and fee distinctions you should note.
You can purchase a Coastal Recreational Fishing Lifetime License for $630; this license lasts for your lifetime and provides lifetime license benefits such as eliminating annual renewal for coastal fishing only.
Non-residents don’t qualify for the Unified Inland/Coastal Recreational Fishing Lifetime License, which is reserved for residents and priced at $567.
Non-residents are ineligible for the $567 Unified Inland/Coastal Recreational Fishing Lifetime License; it’s reserved for residents.
You may apply for a Disabled Veteran Coastal Recreational Fishing License at $14, provided you meet the documented veteran disability criteria; this constitutes a special rate eligibility category for non-resident disabled veterans.
Note that exemptions available to legally blind residents — free special rate licenses — don’t extend to non-residents.
Other non-resident options include short-term and annual coastal licenses (10‑day at $14, annual at $38).
Choose the product that matches your status and intended fishing scope to guarantee compliance and correct fee payment.
What to Do If You Lose a Non‑Resident License or Need a Replacement
If you lose your non‑resident fishing license, report the loss immediately to prevent misuse and to remain compliant.
You can request a replacement via the Go Outdoors North Carolina portal, customer service, or in person at a registered vendor or DMF office (fees may apply and instant issuance is possible in person).
Update your account details and keep your license number and ID ready to expedite the replacement.
Report Loss Immediately
Report a lost non‑resident fishing license immediately to avoid fines or enforcement actions; contact the Go Outdoors North Carolina portal or a registered license agent as soon as you discover the loss.
You should report promptly, because timely notification demonstrates compliance intent and reduces enforcement risk. For loss prevention, maintain license tracking records—store a photo or the license number and record purchase details.
When reporting, have your picture ID ready to verify identity and speed processing. Expect a small processing fee for a replacement and be prepared to provide the original purchase information if available.
Reporting doesn’t replace the license automatically but documents the loss for enforcement records. Follow agent or portal instructions closely to complete the report and retain confirmation for your records.
Get Replacement Options
Need a replacement for a lost non‑resident fishing license? You can complete the replacement process by logging into your Go Outdoors North Carolina account or calling customer service at 888-248-6834.
Request replacements for short‑term or annual non‑resident licenses originally purchased; a small processing fee may apply. Have your identification ready for license verification—agent or online prompts may require ID to confirm identity.
After issuance, print and carry the replacement license before fishing; enforcement treats an absent license as a violation subject to fines.
Follow the state’s procedural steps exactly: authenticate, pay any fee, obtain a printable copy. Keep the replacement with your other angling documentation to avoid repeat contacts or enforcement issues on the water.
Update Account Details
When you lose a non‑resident fishing license or need a replacement, log into your Go Outdoors North Carolina account or contact customer service to begin the update; you can also visit a registered vendor or DMF office in person.
Use account management tools to report the loss, verify identity, and request a duplicate. Online access is available 24/7 for most transactions; customer service can assist with verification or fee questions.
Expect a processing fee (commonly $2) and have photo ID ready. Report promptly to avoid enforcement issues.
- Log into Go Outdoors North Carolina and select “Replace License”
- Provide ID and personal details for verification
- Pay the replacement processing fee online or in person
- Request a mailed or printed duplicate
- Contact customer service for complex cases
Tips for Out‑of‑State Anglers: Best Practices and Cost‑Saving Strategies
If you’re visiting North Carolina to fish coastal waters, pick the license that matches your trip length and location: non‑residents can buy the 12‑month Coastal Recreational Fishing License ($38) or the 10‑day Coastal Recreational Fishing License ($14) for short stays, but you can’t purchase the Unified Inland/Coastal license as a non‑resident.
Plan in advance: choose the 10‑day license for brief visits to save money, or the 12‑month if you expect multiple trips.
Observe fishing etiquette: respect other anglers, local access points, and posted closures.
Follow regulations: check species-specific size and bag limits before you fish.
If you’ll enter tournaments, obtain a Recreational Fishing Tournament License to lawfully sell catch within event rules.
For gear recommendations, bring terminal tackle suited to target species and durable bait coolers to avoid disposal issues.
Keep licenses accessible for inspection.
Confirm local rules online or with wardens to avoid fines and guarantee a lawful, efficient, and respectful fishing experience while visiting North Carolina.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Children of Non‑Residents Ever Fish Free With a Licensed Adult?
Yes — you can have children fishing free with a licensed adult in certain jurisdictions, but you’ll need to verify specific regulations and age limits, carry proper documentation, and follow bait, possession, and supervision requirements.
Are Non‑Resident Licenses Refundable if Travel Plans Change?
Like reading a rulebook, you’ll find non‑resident license refunds depend on license transfer policies and refund eligibility criteria; you’ll need to apply promptly with proof, and agencies rarely allow refunds except for defined, documented exceptions.
Do Non‑Resident Fees Vary by County or Specific Lake?
Yes — you’ll find non‑resident fees usually set statewide, but county fishing regulations or specific lake fees can add surcharges; check the state wildlife agency and local county or lake authorities for precise, legally binding fee schedules.
Can Non‑Resident Licenses Be Gifted to Another Person?
No — you can’t transfer a non‑resident license or give it away; licensing authorities prohibit license transfer. Check specific gifting regulations for permitted exceptions (e.g., vouchers); you’ll need to follow agency procedures and documentation.
Is There a Non‑Resident Senior or Disability Discount?
No, you won’t receive automatic senior discounts or disability benefits on non‑resident licenses unless specific state rules allow exemptions; you should check that state’s wildlife agency regulations for documented proof requirements, eligibility criteria, and application procedures.
Conclusion
You’ll want to keep this paperwork tidy and current to avoid an unpleasant surprise. Buy the correct non‑resident permit for your trip, know possession limits and special permits, and replace a lost license promptly — it’s just sensible housekeeping. Use short‑term or tournament options when they fit, and consider lifetime or reduced‑rate choices if you’ll fish often. Follow the rules closely so your time on the water stays trouble‑free and enjoyable.
