IMPORTANT NEWS FOR FISHERMAN !
According to a report in the Virginan-Pilot newspaper, effective January 1, 2007 anglers fishing in public waters will have to purchase a coastal recreational fishing license. The annual fishing license will cost $15 for residents and $30 for non-residents. A 10-day license will cost $5 and $10 respectively. Licenses can be purchased at tackle shops, hunting supply stores, through the Internet, and at some retail stores. The requirement for a coastal recreational fishing license means that residents and visitors will no longer be able to just go out to the beach and throw their lines in the water without first obtaining the necessary permit. Reportedly, North Carolina is the last state between Maryland and Texas to require a saltwater recreational fishing license.
While details about how the revenue from the new license will be used are still being developed, laws require that the money can only be spent to protect, conserve and enhance marine resources.
For more detailed information concerning the new coastal recreational fishing license, please visit the North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries web site at: http://www.ncfisheries.net/recreational/NCCRFL.htm