Fishing

Tucked between the Cape Fear River to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east, Wilmington, N.C., is a terrific place for fishing trips. The city has easy access to sandy beaches for surf fishing and pier fishing, nearby marinas for head boats and charter boats, as well as great fishing supply stores where you can pick up a fishing license, a new rod, live bait or the latest lures. You may even want to sign up for a fishing tournament.

The N.C. Coastal Recreational Fishing License is required for saltwater rod and reel fishing. The license can be purchased on a 10-day, annual or lifetime basis. An annual saltwater fishing license for state residents costs $15, and an annual nonresident license costs $30. Ten-day licenses are $5 for state residents and $10 for nonresidents. Contact the North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries for saltwater regulations or for more information, (252) 726-7021, (800) 682-2632, or www.ncdmf.net. Be sure to familiarize yourself with regulations, including size and bag limits, which are posted at most piers and marinas.

Freshwater licenses are issued by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. Call (888) 248-6834 for credit card purchases or purchase from one of the locations listed below. Nonresident freshwater fishing licenses for 12 months cost $30. Three-day licenses cost $15, a license for one day is $10, and trout fishing is an additional $10. For residents, the annual 12-month fee is $15 with an additional $5 for a comprehensive license that includes trout fishing. A one-day license (not including trout waters) is $5. Licenses may be combined with a hunting license and can be obtained at slightly higher rates. As regulations and fees are complex and subject to change, you're advised to check the website for complete information at www.ncwildlife.org.