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NC DEQ »   About »   Divisions »   Marine Fisheries »   Rules, Proclamations, and Size and Bag Limits »   Recreational Size and Bag Limits »   Why Do We Have Fishing Regulations?

Why Do We Have Fishing Regulations?

There are good reasons for fishing laws. All are intended to conserve and improve fish populations. Fisheries biologists study bodies of water to check on fish numbers and the health of fish populations. If there is a problem with a fish stock, regulations are created to help keep the fish population healthy. Marine Patrol officers check to make sure that fishing regulations are being obeyed.

There are several types of fishing regulations. Limits on the number of fish that can be caught are meant to keep anglers from taking too many fish at one time. Size limits are meant to protect fish of spawning size before they are caught. Fishing seasons protect fish during spawning and limit the catch on heavily fished waters. Fishing laws are meant to protect fish and make sure there is fishing to be shared by everyone.

If you fish, it's important that you know the rules and regulations. Ignorance of the law is no excuse. Fishing is a wonderful privilege; obeying fishing regulations is the responsibility that goes with it.

Recreational Size and Bag Limits

  • Why Do We Have Fishing Regulations?

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https://deq.nc.gov/about/divisions/marine-fisheries/rules-proclamations-and-size-and-bag-limits/recreational-size-and-bag-limits/why-do-we-have-fishing-regulations