Environment (Conservation)

HB 442 creates a four-year pilot program (2025-2029) to restore recreational summer flounder and red snapper fishing in North Carolina. It directs the Fisheries Division to allow a seasonal fishing window from May 15 to July 31 each year with a daily limit of one fish per person (no seasonal limit), while ensuring released fish don’t count toward catch limits. The bill aims to address North Carolina’s stricter rules compared to neighboring states like South Carolina, which have boosted recreational fishing tourism. The Division must annually report to legislative committees on fish population conservation progress and potential future limit increases.