Free fishing on July 4

The July 4th holiday is also a free fishing day in North Carolina.

Everyone can fish in public waters, including coastal waters, on this date without a license, according to a N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission news release.

The annual free fishing day was authorized by the N.C. General Assembly in 1994 as a way to promote the sport.

While no license is required during the July 4 event, all other fishing regulations such as length and daily possession limits and bait and tackle restrictions still apply.

To make finding a spot to fish easier, the Commission has a list of free fishing access areas on its website, www.ncwildlife.org. Public Fishing Areas offer free access from the banks of many streams, rivers, lakes and ponds across the state while Community Fishing Program sites provide fishing opportunities in urban areas.

North Carolina residents age 16 and older who are interested in fishing the remaining 364 days of the year can purchase a one-year comprehensive inland fishing license, which includes public trout waters, for $20. A one-year license to fish in coastal waters is $15. A one year unified license to fish in inland and coastal waters is $35.

To purchase a license, call the Wildlife Resources Commission at 1-888-248-6834; go to the website at www.ncwildlife.org and click on the yellow “Purchase License” button at the top left side of the home page; a visit a local wildlife service agent at most bait and tackle and hunting and sporting goods stores.