RCGL Gill Nets

Mesh Size – Minimum is 2 ½ inches stretch mesh. Some areas require larger mesh or have a maximum mesh size, if unsure call DMF.

Yardage – For an individual, the maximum length is 100 yards, for nets set from shore, a pier or a vessel. Two or more RCGL holders aboard a vessel are allowed to set a maximum of 200 yards and can possess aboard a vessel no more than 200 yards of net less than 5 ½ inches and no more than 200 yards 5 ½ inches or greater. If a person is under 16 years of age, accompanied by a parent, grandparent or guardian who holds a RCGL, they are allowed the maximum of 200 yards.

Marking Requirements – Two solid yellow buoys and one solid hot pink buoy at each end of the net (see buoy requirements).

Attendance – Must be immediately adjacent to the net (either in a vessel, in the water or on shore) and immediately available to work the net and no more than 100 yards from the net at all times (not in a building or structure). Effective April 1, 2009, during the months of June through October, all unattended gill nets 5 ½ inches stretched mesh or greater must be set a minimum of 10 feet from any point on the shoreline. (Shoreline is defined as the mean high water line or marsh line, whichever is most seaward).

North and east of the Emerald Isle (Hwy. 58) Bridge in Carteret County attendance of gill nets less than 5 ½ inches stretched mesh is required at all times. Attendance of gill nets 5 ½ inches stretched mesh or greater is required from one hour after sunrise to one hour before sunset.

South and west of the Emerald Isle (Hwy. 58) Bridge in Carteret County to the South Carolina line attendance of gill nets is required at all times.

Other Requirements – For more regulations, please see the latest proclamation titled LARGE MESH GILL NETS: INTERNAL COASTAL WATERS at http://portal.ncdenr.org/web/mf/proclamations.