NC Angler Recognition Program

N.C. Angler Recognition Program

So you caught a big fish (nice!), but it doesn’t quite qualify for a freshwater fishing state record. Good news – you can still have your catch officially recognized by the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission through the N.C. Angler Recognition Program.

Latest, Greatest Catches!

Check out our Angler Recognition Program photo gallery on Flickr, for more angler-submitted photos. The photo gallery is updated on a continual basis so bookmark the page and check back often! 

Get Recognized! 

If a fish meets or exceeds either weight or length requirements (see table below):

  • Fill out this online form to receive a FREE downloadable certificate featuring artwork of the species by renowned wildlife artist Duane Raver. 
     
  • Anglers 15 and younger do not need to meet the minimum weight and length requirements in order to receive a certificate.
     
  • Catch-and-release or catch-and-keep! Either way, snap a photo of your catch (including a fishy selfie – we want to see the angler, too!) to share. Submit your photo using the online form so we can post it on this page.
     
  • Collect six unique Angler Recognition Program certificates to receive a special edition Master Angler certificate and patch, mailed to you (limited to one certificate and patch per angler).
     

  • More information or questions about the Angler Recognition Program? Email ncarp@ncwildlife.org.

     

     

     

More Ways to Get Recognized!

Interested in recognition for your saltwater catch? The state's Division of Marine Fisheries offers its own program for saltwater species of fish. Learn more about the NC Saltwater Fishing Tournament here.

Do you enjoy collecting patches? There’s another way to commemorate your fishing achievements through our friends at the Outdoor Heritage Advisory Council (OHAC)! Anglers of all ages can receive beautifully designed patches for their first fish, a variety of freshwater and saltwater species and for completing an introductory fishing course. Learn more here about OHAC’s Patch Program.

Minimum Angler Recognition Program Fish Weight or Length Requirements

SpeciesMin. WeightMin. Length
Largemouth Bass8 lbs24 in
Smallmouth Bass3 lbs19 in
Spotted Bass2 lbs15 in
Striped Bass10 lbs27 in
Bodie Bass (hybrid striped bass)8 lbs24 in
White Bass2 lbs17 in
White Perch1 lb12 in
Bowfin10 lbs22 in
Common Carp20 lbs34 in
Blue Catfish30 lbs41 in
Channel Catfish10 lbs30 in
Flathead Catfish30 lbs41 in
White Catfish4 lbs21 in
Bullhead Catfish (any species)2 lbs15 in
Crappie (black or white)2 lbs16 in
Freshwater Drum12 lbs28 in
Muskellunge20 lbs41 in
Chain pickerel4 lbs26 in
Redfin pickerel10 oz12 in
American Shad3 lbs16 in
Hickory Shad2 lbs13 in
Bluegill1 lb11 in
Flier6 oz8 in
Green Sunfish1 lb9 in
Pumpkinseed14 oz10 in
Redbreast1 lb11 in
Redear (shellcracker)1 lb11 in
Roanoke Bass1 lb11 in
Rock Bass1 lb11 in
Warmouth1 lb11 in
Brook Trout (hatchery supported or wild)2 lbs16 in
Brown Trout (hatchery supported or wild)2 lbs; 8 oz18 in
Rainbow Trout (hatchery supported or wild)2 lbs; 8 oz18 in
Kokanee Salmon2 lbs14 in
Walleye5 lbs23 in
Yellow Perch1 lb14 in
Longnose Gar10 lbs48 in