Description: Stingrays have bodies that are flattened and oval or rhomboid in shape. The tail is long and possesses a venoumous spine that is used for self-defense. There are four stingrays in the family Dasyatidae found in North Carolina waters, with the Atlantic Stingray being the most common. 

Size: Some stingray species can reach over 6 feet in width, but most are less than 2 feet when encountered. 

Sometimes confused with: skates

Habitat: Stingrays are bottom-dwelling fish that inhabitat estuarine and coastal marine waters.

Eating habits: Stingrays feed on marine worms, crustaceans, clams, and small fish. 

Fishing Tips: Stingrays are commonly caught while bottom fishing for other species using natural bait. 

N.C. Saltwater Fishing Tournament

No award given for this species.

Regulations

Persons engaged in recreational fishing in North Carolina coastal waters are required to possess a Coastal Recreational Fishing License in accordance with G.S. 113-174.2.

Current Proclamations

Recreational Size and Bag Limits

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