North Carolina Regulations
Hunting and fishing regulations, seasons, species information, and public access resources for the state of North Carolina.
Overview
North Carolina offers exceptional outdoor opportunities across mountains, piedmont, and coastal regions.
Below are quick links to seasons, species, licensing, and access information.
Season Information
- Whitetail deer (archery, blackpowder, gun)
- Turkey seasons (spring & youth)
- Black bear (regional seasons)
- Small game (squirrel, rabbit, dove, quail)
- Waterfowl (duck, goose, swan permit)
- Freshwater & saltwater fishing seasons
Licensing
North Carolina requires appropriate licenses for hunting and fishing activities.
- Hunting license (resident & non-resident)
- Inland & coastal fishing licenses
- Big game harvest reporting (NC Wildlife Check-In)
- Bear & turkey tags
- Waterfowl stamps
Key Species
- Whitetail Deer
- Black Bear
- Eastern Turkey
- Dove & Quail
- Bass, Crappie, Catfish
- Red Drum, Speckled Trout, Flounder (coastal)
Public Land & Access
North Carolina offers extensive public land access through WMAs, national forests, and coastal areas.
- Game Lands (WMAs)
- Pisgah National Forest
- Nantahala National Forest
- Uwharrie National Forest
- Coastal access & boat ramps
- Permit hunts & special opportunities