Two species of fish have been chosen to represent the state of North Carolina, one adopted in 1971 and the other in 2005. One is the only freshwater fish native to North Carolina, while the other may be illegal to sell. Both fish are native to the state of North Carolina, with one found in mountainous areas and another along coastal waterways. One is a fairly common and popular fish for local fishermen, while one has fairly strict legislation on the purchase / sale of this (thanks to its federally protected status).
In 1971, the North Carolina General Assembly designated the Red Drum Channel Bass as the official saltwater fish of the state. Found primarily along coastal waters, bass (also known as Redfish, Spottail Bass, or simply Red) can weigh up to 75 pounds. In 2007, due to declining numbers, President George W. Bush made the fish a federally prohibited species, which means you cannot sell one caught in federal waters. However, those caught in state waters are legal to sell. So if you’re fishing these with the intention of selling the meat (which a lot of people do), consider who owns the water you’re in!
They are known to the locals as channel bass, spottail bass, and redfish. At a mature age, these fish can grow up to 100 pounds and be 5 feet long! The Outer Banks of North Carolina are home to legendary tales of the red drum, and it is what most people searching the waters seek.
In 2005, the North Carolina General Assembly adopted the Southern Appalachian brook trout as the official freshwater trout of the state. Trout was chosen because it is the only freshwater fish species native to North Carolina. Because it tends to thrive in colder waters, it is often found in the mountains of North Carolina. The locals call these fish “specks,” “speckled trout,” or “brookies.” You will know these fish by their distinctive color: an olive green top with dark green markings on their backs and tails that look like worms.
Anglers like this because they have particularly delicate meat and excellent flavor, plus they are generally quite willing to eat artificial or natural baits. For the most part, they don’t grow larger than 6 inches and weigh no more than half a pound.
Do you think it’s a bit unusual for North Carolina to have one official state fish (and two at that)? This is just the beginning. Check out the rest of the state symbols of North Carolina, including the official drink, official dance, bird, reptile, dog, and more of the state of North Carolina. Here’s a look at all of the state symbols for North Carolina.
