RegistryFee

North Carolina Hunting & Fishing License Fee Calculator

An annual resident fishing license in North Carolina costs $30 and a resident hunting license $30 — or combine both for $42, through the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. Non-residents pay $54 to fish and $119 to hunt. Big-game tags, stamps, and permits are extra — the license is the entry ticket, not the whole cost.

Your license

Estimated annual cost
$30.00/ year
  • Resident fishing license (annual)
    $30.00

Estimate only — actual fees are set by your state and county at the time of registration. Data last reviewed 2026-07-17. This state's full local formula is not yet implemented; see the notes below the calculator.

Good to know

  • Fees rose July 2024; the $42 combo remains the resident bargain (hunting + inland fishing).
  • Fees shown are the standard adult annual licenses. Youth, senior, military, and disability discounts are common; big-game tags, stamps, and the federal duck stamp ($25) are extra.

What determines license cost in North Carolina?

  • Residency (non-residents often pay 3–10×)
  • Fishing ($30 res) vs hunting ($30 res)
  • Combo license available ($42)
  • Tags, stamps & permits (extra)

Frequently asked questions

How much is a fishing license in North Carolina?

An annual resident fishing license is $30; non-residents pay $54. Short-term (1-day/7-day) licenses are usually available for less. Trout/salmon stamps may be extra where required.

How much is a hunting license in North Carolina?

The annual resident hunting license is $30 ($119 non-resident) — but that's the base license. Deer, elk, turkey, and other big-game tags are purchased separately and often cost more than the license itself, especially for non-residents.

Is there a combined hunting and fishing license in North Carolina?

Yes — the resident combo/sportsman license is $42, cheaper than buying both separately.

Who sells licenses in North Carolina?

The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission — online, plus license agents (sporting-goods stores, some retailers). Federal requirements like the $25 duck stamp for waterfowl are bought separately.

More North Carolina calculators

Hunting & Fishing License calculators for other states

Official North Carolina resources

Estimates here are informational — the state is the only source of an official quote.

Data last reviewed 2026-07-17.