Free Fishing on July 4th in North Carolina

Looking for something fun to do on July 4th? Why not fish?! It's an activity the whole family can enjoy. Even folks who don't like to fish will enjoy the time outdoors with picnic or BBQ while the kids fish.

If you live in North Carolina, you can fish for free on July 4th ... no fishing license or trout stamp is required. All other fishing regulations, such as fish length and daily possession limits, as well as bait and tackle restrictions and park-use fees, apply.

Already have plans this year? There's always next year then. Every year North Carolina designates July 4th as a free fishing day in an effort to raise interest in the sport.

For more information about North Carolina's free fishing day, click here.

Want to know where the best fishing spots in North Carolina are, click here.

Speckled Trout in North Carolina

Residents of Topsail Island reported catching speckled trout in the 2 lb range yesterday. They were using white grubs with blue split tails and Gulp saltwater 4-inch white shrimp.

Click here for more speckled trout tips.

Top 5 Trout Fishing Spots in North Carolina

There may not be much trout fishing in North Carolina, but there are places you can go to catch stocked and wild trout. You might even find some big brown trout in these waters.

Below is a list of the top 5 trout fishing spots in North Carolina:

• Talulah River (Robbinsville, Graham County)
• Valley River (Andrews, Clay County)
  
• Jonathan Creek (Bryson City, Swain County)
• Deek Creek (Maggie Valley, Haywood County)
• Allen Creek (Waynesville, Haywood County)
  

When fishing for trout in creeks and rivers, natural baits usually work best. This is especially true when fishing for brown trout. Worms (nightcrawlers and red worms) are always a favorite. But don't overlook spring lizards, and “nests” (the larva of wasps, yellow jackets or hornets) as possible bait sources. Using something with a bit color always makes your baited hook more attractive to trout swimming by!

However, in-line spinners and artificial flies often work too. When using spinners, stick to the smaller sizes and ones with rooster tails. Get them down deep in the water near the bottom.

Plugs that imitate crickets, grasshoppers, and might also be useful at times. They have been known to work on trout - especially larger trout!

For more information about North Carolina trout fishing, click here.