Anglers, get your fishing gear ready. The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) will soon stock more than 60,000 trout from its Bobby N. Setzer fish hatchery into 40 small lakes and ponds as far east at Edgecombe County.
Between Nov. 25 and Dec. 19, NCWRC staff will stock brook, brown and rainbow trout to provide seasonal angling opportunities to the public. All fish stocked will be 10 inches or larger. Anglers may harvest up to seven trout per day in the impoundments. There are no bait restrictions and no minimum size limits. Requirements include a fishing license, which may be purchased online or by calling (833) 950-0575, Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. or visiting a local Wildlife Service Agent.
“The Wildlife Commission is committed to providing fishing opportunities for the public and given the damage Armstrong Fish Hatchery sustained as a result of Hurricane Helene, fisheries staff are pleased to be able to make this happen in addition to fall Delayed Harvest stockings,” said NCWRC Fish Production Supervisor David Deaton.
The stocking schedule with locations and dates is posted on NCWRC’s website and is subject to change, therefore it is recommended reviewing the schedule prior to planning a fishing trip. For more information on trout fishing in North Carolina, visit NCWRC’s trout fishing webpage.