Smallmouth bass fishing rules in NC

Most public waters: 14-inch minimum; 5 daily (up to 2 may be under 14 inches). Exceptions: Lake Chatuge — no minimum, 10 combined (with largemouth/Alabama/spotted bass); New River Alleghany Co. portion — none 14–22 inches, only 1 over 22 inches, 5 combined; Lake Santeetlah — no minimum, no limit for fish under 14 inches, only 5 combined with largemouth may be over 14 inches. Rules mirror largemouth bass at most waters.