🎣 Flounder Season 2025: What NC Anglers Need to Know Before You Cast

After a long wait, North Carolina’s 2025 recreational flounder season is officially open, and coastal anglers are already gearing up to hit the water. Whether you’re fishing in the backwaters of Wrightsville Beach or drifting the inlets near Oak Island, this short season is your chance to bring home one of the state’s favorite inshore catches — but it comes with tight regulations and limited dates.

Here’s everything you need to know before you launch.

📅 2025 Flounder Season Dates and Regulations

As announced by the NC Division of Marine Fisheries, the 2025 Southern Flounder season for recreational hook-and-line and gigging is:

🗓️ Flounder season will open Sept. 1 at 12:01 a.m. and close Sept. 14 at 11:59 p.m.
🎣 Limit: 1 flounder per person, per day
📏 Minimum size: 15 inches total length (from the tip of the snout to the tip of the tail)

These rules apply in coastal waters and joint fishing waters, whether you’re fishing from a boat, a pier, or in the surf. Giggers, hook-and-line anglers, and spear fishers are all under the same limit.

Enforcement is strict. If you’re targeting multiple species, be prepared to release undersized or extra flounder quickly and safely to avoid fines or fish mortality.

📍 Where to Fish for Flounder in Coastal NC

North Carolina’s coastline is packed with prime flounder spots — but timing, tide, and technique are everything. Some local favorites this time of year include:

• Wrightsville Beach Inlets & Marsh Creeks

• Masonboro and Carolina Beach area docks

• Shallotte River & Lockwood Folly

• Sneads Ferry and the New River

Look for drop-offs, oyster beds, and structure where flounder lie in ambush. Live mullet, mud minnows, and soft plastic jigs are always solid choices.

⚓ Is Your Boat (and Gear) Protected This Season?

Whether you're fishing solo or with your crew, marine insurance plays a critical role in protecting more than just your boat:

• 🛥️ Gear protection for your rods, electronics, and tackle

• 🚤 Coverage for trailer transport mishaps

• 🌊 Liability in case of on-water accidents

• 🔄 Damage from submerged hazards like oyster beds or sandbars

Before you head out, take a moment to review your marine policy. If you’ve added electronics, a trolling motor, or upgraded your boat this year, your coverage may need an update.

🧭 Final Cast

Flounder season may be short — but it’s one of the most anticipated windows on the NC coast. Stay informed, fish smart, and enjoy the experience responsibly.

👉 If you have questions about your boat insurance or need a policy tune-up before your next trip, Wells Marine Insurance is here to help.

Get a quick review or quote today!
📞 You can also reach out directly to Jason Riley, our Wells Marine Manager, at 910-251-5426.