Shellfish & Clamming
North Carolina Shellfish License 2026
Requirements, fees, and regulations for harvesting clams, oysters, and mussels in North Carolina. North Carolina has extensive shellfish resources including oysters, hard clams, and bay scallops. Both recreational and commercial licenses are administered by the Division of Marine Fisheries.
Clam Season Open
Oyster Available
2026 License Quick Facts
Verified 2026
Recreational Fee
$18.00
Coastal recreational fishing license required; commercial shellfish dealer license separate.
Commercial Fee
$200.00
Commercial license
Daily Limit
1 bushel oysters; 1 bushel hard clams per person per day
Per harvester
Clam Season
Open
Check current closures
Shellfish Species
Shellfish Available in North Carolina
Species availability depends on coastal habitat, water quality, and active management programs.
Clams ✓
Oysters ✓
Mussels
Step-by-Step
How to Get a Shellfish License in North Carolina
1
Verify Open Areas
Before purchasing a license, check that shellfish beds in your target area are currently open. NC Division of Marine Fisheries maintains an up-to-date list of approved harvesting areas. Water quality closures can occur quickly after rain events.
2
Purchase Your License
Purchase online at NC Division of Marine Fisheries, or in person at authorized license agents throughout North Carolina.
Recreational fee: $18.00.
3
Know Your Limits
Daily limit in North Carolina: 1 bushel oysters; 1 bushel hard clams per person per day.
Size minimums also apply - undersized shellfish must be returned to the water. Keep your license on your person while harvesting.
4
Harvest Responsibly
Use appropriate gear (clam rakes, oyster tongs) and handle shellfish carefully to minimize disturbance to the surrounding habitat. Replace any rocks or substrate you disturb and never harvest from closed or unclassified waters.
Requirements
North Carolina Shellfish License Requirements
NC Coastal Recreational Fishing License required for all harvesters 16+. Harvest only from open areas per NCDMF proclamation.
Important Notes
North Carolina-Specific Information
Oyster season typically October 1 – March 31 in most counties.
Source: NC Division of Marine Fisheries (www.ncwildlife.org).
Requirements verified 2026. Always confirm current water quality closures and regulations directly with NC Division of Marine Fisheries before harvesting.