North Carolina Angler Recognition Program

The North Carolina Angler Recognition Program (NCARP) gives anglers an opportunity to catch and release trophy fish, yet have their fishing skills recognized by the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission. Anglers who catch large fish that exceed a certain size can apply to the Commission's Division of Inland Fisheries for NCARP recognition. In turn, the Division of Inland Fisheries sends these accomplished anglers NCARP certificates featuring color reproductions of fish artwork by renown wildlife artist and former Commission fisheries biologist Duane Raver. The NCARP program should not be confused with the State Record Fish program that recognizes anglers who catch a new state record fish (largest fish recorded for that species in the state). Instead, NCARP recognizes anglers who catch trophy-size fish that are not necessarily state records.

Trophy Fish/Master Angler Certificates

The NCARP program features two levels of angler recognition. Anglers catching a fish exceeding the minimum "trophy" weight or length criteria receive a "Trophy Fish" certificate from the Division of Inland Fisheries. These species-specific certificates feature Duane Raver artwork representative of the species caught by the NCARP applicant. In addition, the certificates are printed on high-quality paper suitable for framing. For anglers catching six trophy-size fish of the same species or six different species of trophy-size fish, the Division of Inland Fisheries awards a "Master Angler" certificate and patch. Because either lengths or weights can be used to certify fish as NCARP-eligible trophy fish, anglers can practice catch-and-release with their fish, allowing other anglers the same trophy fishing opportunity.

Application Forms

Application forms for having a fish certified as a trophy are available at bait and tackle shops, sporting goods stores and Wildlife Cooperator Agents. Click here to view/print a copy of the application form (pdf). An application fee of $5.00 will be assessed to cover costs associated with the program. Additional information about this program can be obtained from the Division of Inland Fisheries at (919) 707-0220.

Saltwater Angler Awards Program

The North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries also has an angler recognition program for anglers who catch trophy saltwater fish. Application forms for the Saltwater Angler Awards Program can be obtained from marinas, some charter boat captains and bait and tackle shops located along the coast. For more information about the saltwater trophy fish program, contact Randy Gregory of the N.C. Division of Marine Fisheries at 1 (800) 682-2632, or visit www.ncfisheries.net.

NCARP Minimum Trophy Fish Weight or Length Requirements

* New species add September 2008
** Species minimum weight and/or length requirement changed

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