Blueline tilefishin North Carolina
Caulolatilus microps
The rule in North Carolina
Federal rule (South Atlantic federal waters). North Carolina lists no rule of its own for blueline tilefish, so the council's rule applies in state waters too.
Closes Sep 1, 2026.
Counts toward an aggregate limit: 3-grouper/tilefish aggregate.
SAFMC / NOAA SERO 2026· checked Closed
North Carolina state record
17 lb 1.9 oz, Offshore of Nags Head, 2023. NCDMF State Saltwater Records · checked 2026-08-22
How to tell it
Blue line under the eye on a long tan body; deep mud bottom. More on the blueline tilefish page: every state’s rule, the records, and how anglers catch it.
Blueline tilefish in other states
In the app
Point the camera at a blueline tilefish in North Carolina and this rule is on the screen before you take the picture. No signal needed.
Get the appBlueline tilefish in North Carolina: the questions
What is the size limit for blueline tilefish in North Carolina?
No size limit.
How many blueline tilefish can you keep in North Carolina?
2 per person per day within 3-grouper aggregate. It counts toward an aggregate: 3-grouper/tilefish aggregate.
When is blueline tilefish season in North Carolina?
May 1 – Aug 31 (closed Sep 1 – Apr 30). As of Sep 21, 2026 it is closed.
What is the North Carolina record blueline tilefish?
17 lb 1.9 oz, Offshore of Nags Head (2023).
How current is this North Carolina blueline tilefish rule?
Source: SAFMC / NOAA SERO 2026, last checked Sep 16, 2026. A watchman re-reads the agency's pages nightly. Rules change mid-season by proclamation; the official rulebook is the final word.