NC Fishing License Types (2025) — Inland vs Coastal Explained

All NC license types: $30 Inland, $19 Coastal, $49 Unified (covers Trout!). 10-Day NR passes starting at $11. Valid full 12 months.

All NC Fishing License Types (2025)

LicenseResidentNon-ResidentDuration
Inland (Freshwater)$30$4512 Months
Coastal (Saltwater)$19$3812 Months
Unified (Both + Trout!)$49N/A12 Months
Inland 10-DayN/A$2310 Days
Coastal 10-DayN/A$1110 Days
Mountain Heritage Trout$15$1512 Months
Lifetime Unified (Age 12+)$250N/ALifetime
Senior 65+ Lifetime Unified$15N/ALifetime

The 12-Month Rule

In NC, annual licenses are valid for a full 12 months from the date of purchase. They do not expire at the end of the calendar year like in some other states!

Trout Stamps

If you plan to fish in Public Mountain Trout Waters, you need the Mountain Heritage Trout privilege. However, if you purchase the $49 Unified License, or the $250 Lifetime Unified, trout fishing is already included!

Get your NC fishing license →