Wildlife Commission Announces 2026 Recreational Flounder Season

RALEIGH, N.C. (June 3, 2026) – The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) will open the 2026 flounder harvest season for Inland Fishing Waters and in Joint Fishing Waters for hook and line fishing only, Sept. 1 to Sept. 14, 2026. The daily creel limit is one fish with a minimum size limit of 15 inches.

“We have worked closely with the North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries to ensure that regulations match across jurisdictional lines. This will provide regulatory consistency and avoid angler confusion” said NCWRC Inland Fisheries Assistant Chief Ben Ricks.

According to a recent proclamation, N.C. Division of Marine Fisheries opened its recreational harvest season for the same two weeks, so the season, size limit and daily creel limit will be consistent across jurisdictions.

About the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission     

Since 1947, the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission has been dedicated to the conservation and sustainability of the state’s fish and wildlife resources through research, scientific management, wise use and public input. The Commission is the state regulatory agency responsible for the enforcement of fishing, hunting, trapping and boating laws and provides programs and opportunities for wildlife-related educational, recreational and sporting activities.     

Purchase or renew a fishing, trapping and hunting license and renew a vessel registration online at gooutdoorsnorthcarolina.com.     

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