King Mackerel (also known as Kingfish, King) in North Carolina. Minimum legal size, daily bag limit, possession limit, slot rule — verified against the NCDMF guide, 2026.
In North Carolina, the minimum legal size for King Mackerel is 24 in and the daily bag limit is 3. A slot limit applies: none — 24" fork length (FL) minimum. There is no closed season in NC.
none — 24" fork length (FL) minimum
No closed season
Statewide. For seasons/limits defer to SAFMC + the most recent Mackerel DMF proclamation. STATE coastal and joint waters (internal + 0-3 mi). Federally managed by SAFMC; same 24" FL min / 3 fish bag applies in the South Atlantic.
These limits are pulled from the NCDMF recreational size and bag limits. Last verified June 2026.
Always check the official guide before keeping any fish. Regulations change. North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries updates its guide annually and occasionally mid-year. Fines for over-bag or undersized fish are significant.
North Carolina requires a Coastal Recreational Fishing License (CRFL) for anyone aged 16 or older fishing coastal or joint waters — there is no general shoreline exemption. NC fishing licences.
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