Yes, spearguns are legal in North Carolina for recreational and commercial use under state wildlife regulations, but compliance with specific statutes and local ordinances is mandatory. The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) governs their use, requiring adherence to size, licensing, and harvesting restrictions. Violations may result in penalties, including fines or revocation of fishing privileges.
Key Regulations for Spearguns in North Carolina
- Size and Power Limits: Spearguns must not exceed 54 inches in length, including the spear, and must not be powered by compressed gas or explosives. Electric spearguns are prohibited under NCWRC Rule 15A NCAC 03M .0202.
- Licensing Requirements: A valid North Carolina fishing license is required for recreational use. Commercial divers must obtain a separate permit from the NCWRC, per NC Gen. Stat. § 113-168.1.
- Harvest Restrictions: Spearguns may only be used for non-game species (e.g., finfish) in designated coastal waters. Harvesting game species (e.g., red drum, striped bass) is prohibited without a specific permit, as outlined in NCWRC’s 2024-2025 Fisheries Management Plan.
Local ordinances in coastal counties (e.g., Carteret, Dare) may impose additional restrictions, such as seasonal closures or gear-specific bans. The NCWRC’s 2026 compliance review will further clarify enforcement priorities, particularly regarding speargun modifications and prohibited species targeting. Always verify current regulations with the NCWRC or local marine patrol before deployment.