July 4 is Free Fishing Day in North Carolina, a day set aside for nearly 30 years so that everyone can fish without having to purchase a license.
Free Fishing Day runs from midnight until 11:59 p.m., but all other fishing regulations apply, such as length and daily possession limits, as well as bait and tackle restrictions.
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The North Carolina General Assembly designated July 4 as the date of the annual license-free fishing day in 1994 to promote the sport of fishing, and it’s sponsored by the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission.
“Free Fishing Day is a great opportunity for families to enjoy some quality time together on the water,” said Christian Waters, the agency’s chief of the Inland Fisheries Division. “Fishing is relatively inexpensive activity that anyone, no matter what their age or skill level, can enjoy.”
The commission offers interactive fishing and boating maps on its website with more than 500 fishing and boating areas, many of which are free, that are open to the public.
The commission noted that many boating areas likely will be crowded over the holiday weekend, and officials urge boaters to be patient, courteous and follow the following boating etiquette tips:
- Be patient and remain calm until an open parking space is available.
- Wait your turn in the launch line. Get in line without blocking or cutting off others.
- Park your vehicle and trailer while someone moves the boat away from the ramp.
- Recruit someone to move the boat away from the ramp while you retrieve your vehicle and trailer.
- Observe no-wake zones and be cautious.
While anyone can fish for free on July 4, a fishing license is required for people ages 16 and older on all other days of the year for both inland and coastal waters in North Carolina.
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Licenses may be purchased online, by calling the commission between 8 a.m.-5 p.m. at 888-248-6834, or by visiting a Wildlife Service agent.
