Can I Keep?Blue Marlin Regulations in North Carolina (2026)
Recreational blue marlin rules in North Carolina saltwater, as published by the NC Department of Environmental Quality, Division of Marine Fisheries. Last checked November 7, 2026.
Size limit
99" LJFL
Bag limit
1 per vessel per trip, either blue or white marlin
Can I keep it today? Check your harbor & date
Recreational Blue Marlin rules in North Carolina
- Where
- All waters
- Size limit
- 99" LJFL
- Bag limit
- 1 per vessel per trip, either blue or white marlin
- (g) In state or federal waters, federal permit required for Highly Migratory Species, tunas, billfishes, swordfish and sharks (excluding Atlantic bonito, little tunny (false albacore), and blackfin tuna): https://hmspermits.noaa.gov/ 978-281-9370. Prior to removal from vessel, all billfishes, swordfish and bluefin tuna must be reported at NC HMS reporting stations. See the DMF website for more details. For seasons, bag limits, size limits or closures for tunas, billfishes, and sharks contact NMFS Highly Migratory Species Division 800-894-5528.
Quick answers
What is the blue marlin size limit in North Carolina?
99" LJFL.
How many blue marlin can I keep in North Carolina?
1 per vessel per trip, either blue or white marlin.
Compare Blue Marlin limits in other states →
More offshore & pelagic in North Carolina
- Bluefish
- Cobia
- Dolphin
- King Mackerel
- Prohibited Sharks
- Sailfish
- Sharks
- Spanish Mackerel
- Spiny Dogfish
- Tuna: Bluefin, Bigeye and Yellowfin
- Wahoo
- White Marlin
All North Carolina saltwater fishing regulations →
Source: NC Department of Environmental Quality, Division of Marine Fisheries. Most anglers need a North Carolina saltwater license or registry: get one here.