Flounder fishing in north carolina: can you keep your catch?

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a novice just starting out, understanding the intricacies of fishing regulations is paramount for a successful and enjoyable experience. One of the most common questions that arise among anglers in North Carolina is whether it’s permissible to keep flounder. This blog post aims to provide a comprehensive guide to the regulations surrounding flounder fishing in the Tar Heel State, empowering you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions while casting your line.

Minimum Size Limit

One of the most important regulations to be aware of when keeping flounder in North Carolina is the minimum size limit. This limit is in place to ensure the sustainability of the flounder population and to protect juvenile fish from being harvested prematurely. In North Carolina, the minimum size limit for flounder is 15 inches. This means that any flounder you catch that measures less than 15 inches from the tip of the nose to the fork of the tail must be released back into the water unharmed.

Daily Creel Limit

Another important regulation to be aware of is the daily creel limit. The daily creel limit for flounder in North Carolina is 10 fish per person. This means that you may keep up to 10 flounder per day, regardless of the size or species. It’s important to note that the daily creel limit applies to all anglers on a boat, so if you’re fishing with multiple people, you must divide the total catch evenly among all anglers.

Closed Season

In addition to the minimum size limit and daily creel limit, there is also a closed season for flounder fishing in North Carolina. The closed season runs from December 1st to March 31st each year. During this time, it is prohibited to harvest flounder in any waters of the state. The closed season is in place to protect flounder during their spawning season, ensuring that the population remains healthy and sustainable.

Flounder Species in North Carolina

There are several different species of flounder that can be found in North Carolina waters. The most common species include:

• Southern flounder
• Summer flounder
• Gulf flounder
• Yellowtail flounder

Each species has its own unique characteristics and habitat preferences. Southern flounder are typically found in shallow waters near the coast, while summer flounder prefer deeper waters offshore. Gulf flounder are found in the Gulf of Mexico and can occasionally be found in North Carolina waters. Yellowtail flounder are found in the Atlantic Ocean and are known for their distinctive yellow tail fin.

Fishing Methods

Flounder can be caught using a variety of fishing methods. Some of the most popular methods include:

• Jigging
• Baitcasting
• Trolling
• Gigging

Jigging involves using a weighted hook with a soft plastic or live bait attached. Baitcasting involves casting a weighted hook with a live or artificial bait. Trolling involves dragging a baited hook behind a boat. Gigging involves using a spear to catch flounder at night.

Where to Fish

Flounder can be found in a variety of habitats in North Carolina. Some of the best places to fish for flounder include:

• Estuaries
• Inlets
• Bays
• Sounds
• Near jetties
• Offshore reefs

Flounder prefer areas with sandy or muddy bottoms and often lie in wait for prey to pass by.

Tips for Catching Flounder

Here are a few tips to help you increase your chances of catching flounder:

• Use live bait such as minnows, shrimp, or mud crabs.
• Fish during the early morning or late evening when flounder are most active.
• Use a slow and steady retrieve when jigging or baitcasting.
• Be patient and persistent. Flounder can be elusive, but with a little patience and effort, you can increase your chances of success.

Where to Find More Information

If you have any further questions about flounder fishing in North Carolina, you can contact the North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries at (252) 808-8028. You can also find more information on the Division of Marine Fisheries website at https://deq.nc.gov/about/divisions/marine-fisheries.

Questions You May Have

Q: What is the minimum size limit for flounder in North Carolina?
A: The minimum size limit for flounder in North Carolina is 15 inches from the tip of the nose to the fork of the tail.

Q: What is the daily creel limit for flounder in North Carolina?
A: The daily creel limit for flounder in North Carolina is 10 fish per person.

Q: When is the closed season for flounder fishing in North Carolina?
A: The closed season for flounder fishing in North Carolina runs from December 1st to March 31st each year.

Q: What are the most common species of flounder found in North Carolina waters?
A: The most common species of flounder found in North Carolina waters include Southern flounder, summer flounder, Gulf flounder, and yellowtail flounder.

Q: What are some tips for catching flounder?
A: Some tips for catching flounder include using live bait, fishing during the early morning or late evening, using a slow and steady retrieve when jigging or baitcasting, and being patient and persistent.