Author: Erin Warner
The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission’s Learn to Fish program is back for 2026, offering a full series of free fishing classes for new anglers to build confidence and explore North Carolina’s fishing opportunities.
Managed by Matt Reiger, statewide angler engagement coordinator, the program is designed to take you from your very first cast to confidently fishing for a variety of species across the state.
The Course Offerings
Introductory to Basic Fishing is the most comprehensive workshop in the series.
“It covers everything for someone who is just starting, including regulations, basic equipment, different line types, fish species that you may catch, how to cast, how to tie different knots and then we end up fishing for a good portion of that program as well,” says Matt.
You can also choose workshops that focus on a specific species or a particular skill, such as fly-casting.
One of the most popular courses in the series is Catfishing Basics. According to Matt, “It builds off everything that we've learned in the introductory class. We're using pretty much the same knots, but we're getting more advanced in our bait rigs.”
Matt’s favorite place to teach this course? Cashiers/Glenville Recreation Center in Jackson County. “It’s part of our Community Fishing Program, and we stock it with quite a few channel catfish during our warmer months,” he says. Not only does this mean more opportunities to catch fish, but it also ensures a productive learning environment for anglers.
Classes Held Across North Carolina
Matt hosts Learn to Fish programs statewide, including major cities such as Charlotte, Raleigh and Asheville.
“These programs happen all over the state from east of 95 all the way up into the mountains of North Carolina. And I try to fill in everywhere in between.”
Most classes are held at sites participating in N.C. Wildlife’s Tackle Loaner Program, giving new anglers a no-cost way to practice their skills.
“It includes rod, reel, all the line that you would need, various types of hooks, sinkers, artificial lures, pretty much everything you need except for live bait.”
The Moment It Clicks
Matt says one of his favorite parts of the program is seeing new anglers transition from watching demonstrations to applying skills on the water.
He loves witnessing the excitement when participants feel their first true bite, recognizing the difference between a fish tugging and a line snagged on rocks. Setting the hook for the first time and feeling the resistance of a fish is a milestone he never gets tired of seeing.
When asked about his personal favorite fish to hook, Matt shares, “American and hickory shad. These fish migrate up our coastal rivers in the springtime and can be caught in huge numbers if you find yourself out on the right day.”
Spotlight Story: The Jacksons of Bladen County
After retiring and moving to North Carolina, the Jackson couple wanted to start a new hobby. They purchased fishing gear but weren’t sure how to use it, so they brought it to a Learn to Fish class.
Matt helped them rig their personal equipment, and shortly after, the couple emailed photos of the fish they were catching thanks to the skills they learned.
Not Just for Beginners
Learn to Fish may be geared toward new anglers, but there’s plenty to learn at every skill level. Intermediate anglers can walk away with fresh gear recommendations, a deeper understanding of fish behavior and practical tips for reading and assessing habitat.
“I would challenge them [intermediate anglers] to get out of their comfort zone and try a different technique. Maybe try bass or crappie fishing,” encourages Matt.
2026 Learn to Fish Sign Up
Whether you’re a first-time angler or looking to expand your skills, the Learn to Fish program is your chance to explore the world of North Carolina fishing. Register for Learn to Fish Classes:
- Visit the Go Outdoors North Carolina Events Calendar
- Type Learn to Fish into the Event Name, Location, or Address input field.
