The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) will enforce Delayed Harvest Trout Waters rules on 33 waters starting Oct. 1. The rules require catch-and-release only from Oct. 1 through June 5, 2026. Anglers may use only artificial lures with a single hook, without bait or attractants.
Stocking Efforts Aim to Boost Fishing
NCWRC will stock Delayed Harvest Trout Waters with high trout densities to increase anglers’ chances of catching fish. The program waters display diamond-shaped black-and-white signs to identify catch-and-release areas. Anglers should note that Helene storm damage may change stocking locations and limit access along some streams.
Hatchery Repairs and Renovations Underway
Helene damaged the Armstrong State Fish Hatchery, which NCWRC expects to fully repair by mid to late October. Renovations at Bobby N. Setzer State Fish Hatchery are paused until Armstrong Hatchery work finishes. NCWRC plans to resume Setzer renovations in December, with completion projected in approximately two years.
