The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission is reminding beach-bound anglers, particularly those headed to the coast for the popular and busy July 4 week, to purchase their saltwater fishing license before they leave home and avoid potential long lines at tackle and bait shops, sporting good stores and other wildlife service agent locations along the coast.

Anglers can purchase a license by: Calling the Wildlife Resources Commission at 1 (888) 248-6834. Hours of operation are 8 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week;

Going to the Wildlife Resources Commission’s Web site, ncwildlife.org and clicking on the yellow “Purchase License” button at the top left side of the page.

Visiting a local Wildlife Service Agent. Most are located in bait-and-tackle shops, hunting and sporting good stores and larger chain stores. Licenses can also be purchased at one of six Division of Marine Fisheries offices located along the coast.

For locations, visit the agency’s website, www.ncfisheries.net.

A Coastal Recreational Fishing License (CRFL) is required for anyone 16 years and older to fish recreationally in the state’s coastal fishing waters, which include sounds, coastal rivers and their tributaries out to three miles into the ocean. Recreational anglers who catch fish from three miles to 200 miles offshore also need this license in order to transport fish back to the shore.

Prices for the CRFL vary depending on residency, age, duration and type of license purchased. For residents, the annual cost for a CRFL is $15; for a 10-day license, $5.

For non-residents, the annual cost for a CRFL is $30; a 10-day license is $10.

For more information on the CRFL, including a comprehensive list of all available licenses, or to download a document of frequently asked questions, visit www.ncwildlife.org/license.

About the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission

Since 1947, the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission has been dedicated to the conservation and sustainability of the state’s fish and wildlife resources through research, scientific management, wise use, and public input.

The Commission is the state regulatory agency responsible for the enforcement of fishing, hunting, trapping and boating laws and provides programs and opportunities for wildlife-related educational, recreational and sporting activities. To learn more, visit www.ncwildlife.org. Get N.C. Wildlife Update – news including season dates, bag limits, legislative updates and more – delivered to your Inbox from the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission. Go to www.ncwildlife.org/enews.