On June 6 at 6 a.m., the Wildlife Commission will open 31 trout streams and two lakes classified as delayed-harvest trout waters under hatchery-supported regulations. From 6 a.m. to 11:59 a.m., only anglers age 15 and under can fish these waters, which open to all anglers at noon. Anglers fishing in these waters can keep up to seven trout per day, with no bait restrictions or minimum size limits through Sept. 30. More
The Wildlife Commission adopted a resolution on April 21 supporting a bill that would promote wildlife-related recreation and youth involvement in outdoor activities across the state. Provisions of House Bill 640 focus on private property rights that include increased Sunday hunting opportunities on private lands; increased access to public land; additional hunting opportunities; and promotion of a wide range of outdoor recreation, including horseback riding, hiking, bird watching, hunting, fishing and boating. More
We're halfway there and we need your help! The Wildlife Commission needs a minimum of 500 paid applications by July 1, 2015 for the native brook trout license plate to be produced. When you order this plate you are helping us protect habitat for brook trout and create public access to brook trout waters in North Carolina. All of the proceeds from the sale of this plate will be used for brook trout habitat and fishing access. Learn more about the plate or order a plate by visiting the Commission’s native brook trout license plate page, or print the application (PDF).
Free Kids' Fishing Events to Celebrate National Fishing and Boating Week Start May 29
From May 29 until June 16, the Wildlife Commission, in partnership with Neuse Sport Shop, Trout Unlimited and the U.S. Forest Service, will be supporting 40 free kids’ fishing events throughout the state, in celebration of National Fishing and Boating Week. Registered participants at any event will be entered into a statewide drawing for a chance to win one of more than 150 prizes, including a lifetime sportsman license and a lifetime freshwater fishing license. More
Protect Your Waters; Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers
With boating season in full swing, the Wildlife Commission reminds boaters to protect your waters and “Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers” from spreading by:
1) Removing visible mud, plants, fish or animals before transporting equipment; 2) Eliminating water from equipment before transporting; 3) Cleaning and drying anything that contacted water; and 4) Never releasing plants, fish or animals into a body of water unless they are from the same waterbody. Learn more
As temperatures rise, so do sightings of alligators. Feeding, harassing, hunting or otherwise killing alligators is illegal in North Carolina. The Wildlife Commission advises anyone who encounters an alligator to leave it alone and never approach it or follow it. Only authorized wildlife biologists and wildlife officers can remove problem alligators. To report an alligator problem, wildlife harassment or other violation, call 1-800-662-7137. Learn more
Support Wildlife Diversity; Buy a Tundra Swan T-shirt
The official Wildlife Commission T-shirt this year features a Tundra Swan flying across the agency’s logo on the front, and an enlarged image of the Tundra Swan on the back. This 100% cotton T-shirt benefitting the Commission’s Wildlife Diversity Program was made possible through a generous donation from Neuse Sport Shop, located in Kinston. Available only through the Neuse Sport Shop’s website.
Wildlife Commission Offers Fly-Fishing Workshop for Women
The Wildlife Commission is offering a fly-fishing workshop for women only at the John E. Pechmann Fishing Education Center in Fayetteville, on June 13 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Receive hands-on instruction on fly-fishing basics, such as casting, knot and fly tying. Fish for largemouth bass and bluegill. Registration fee of $20 covers rods, reels, equipment, lunch, drinks and snacks. Register online or contact BB Gillen at 919-218-3638 or bb.gillen@ncwildlife.org. More
Other News
Public Invited to Comment on Early Migratory Game Bird Seasons
New Public Fishing Access Areas Open on Yadkin River
Hydrilla Herbicide Treatment in Eno River to Begin May 27
Free Kids’ Fishing Event at Neuseway Nature Park on June 6
Temporary Drawdown Planned for Blewett Falls Lake
N.C. Wildlife Update
Upland Gazette
WRC Rulemaking