Cape Fear River

Boat Ramps: 9
Access Points: 9
Species: 25

The Cape Fear River is a large coastal plain stream that begins at the confluence of the Deep and Haw rivers near Moncure, North Carolina. Flowing approximately 312 kilometers (202 miles) before reaching the Atlantic Ocean at Bald Head Island, the river provides diverse fishing opportunities along its course. The Cape Fear is characterized by varying habitats including rock ledges, riffles, pools, and a tidal estuary where the river meets the ocean. With its rich biodiversity and scenic landscapes, the river attracts both novice and experienced anglers year-round, offering excellent opportunities to catch a variety of freshwater and saltwater species depending on location.

North Carolina licenses and regulations4 to check before you go

Species & education

Learn what type of fish are at Cape Fear River and what's needed to catch them.

Fishing spots, boat ramps & amenities

Learn how to get on Cape Fear River. Uncover great fishing access points, boat ramps, and all the facilities you need for an unforgettable day on the water. Some locations shown may border or include private property. Always check property boundaries and applicable regulations before visiting. onWater's Public & Private Land layer can help you plan your access with confidence.

Know where you can legally fish on Cape Fear River

See public and private land boundaries along the water, turn on private parcels with owner details to know where permission is required, and find land-trust parcels that offer permitted fishing access.

North Carolina licenses and regulations

North Carolina Boating Regulations

When using any type of watercraft to access a body of water, it is important to follow all federal, state, and local rules and regulations. These rules and regulations include boat permitting and licensing, invasive species inspections and stamps, life jacket and PFD rules, motor size and horsepower restrictions, noise limitations, restrictions on personal watercraft, and many more. Visit the web link below for the most current rules and regulations for this body of water.

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North Carolina Fishing License

Youth under age 16 are exempt from the requirements of any fishing license and trout privilege license.

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North Carolina Fishing Regulations

This river has a variety of species and regulations, including potential floating and/or watercraft restrictions. Because this river is specially managed for species, seasons, angling methods, and watercraft, it is strongly encouraged you check all federal, state, and local regulations before fishing. Visit any of the links below, inquire locally, or contact a local fly shop to learn current regulations and restrictions.

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North Carolina Stream Access Laws

If a boater can float the water, it is navigable and can be used for recreation. Navigable waters are in the public trust, including streambeds. If the navigable water is tidal, public use extends to all waters that cover an average high tide.

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Take Cape Fear River with you

The onWater Fish app keeps this water's access points, species and conditions in your pocket, with the tools you use once you're there.

Use the map without signal
Download the map around Cape Fear River to use it offline when coverage drops.
Log your catches here
Keep a private fishing journal for Cape Fear River to find where and when fish are biting for you.

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