2026 regulation year
North Carolina Spotted seatrout 2026 — Season, Bag Limit, Size Rules
Cynoscion nebulosus
Last updated
Spotted seatrout (speckled trout) are the second pillar of NC's inshore coastal fishery alongside red drum. A 14-inch minimum and 4-fish bag apply, but in-season cold-stun events occasionally trigger emergency closures.
Season
Open year-round Open year-round (subject to cold-stun emergency closures).
Bag & possession
- Daily bag
- 4 / day
- Possession
- 4 in possession
Size, slot, trophy rules
- Size
- 14 in minimum
Gear restrictions
- Coastal Recreational Fishing Licence required
- Circle hooks required with natural bait
Named water-body overrides
Where statewide rules differ on specific North Carolina waters:
Pamlico Sound
Statewide rule; primary trout grass-flat fishery
Bogue Sound
Statewide rule; consistent fall fishery
Neuse River
Statewide rule; estuarine trout water
New River (Onslow)
Statewide rule; cold-stun closure zone in severe winters
Official source
North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission publishes the authoritative 2026 North Carolinafishing regulations. Always verify the current rule before fishing — emergency closures and in-season changes can override what's published here.