NC H353

Designates red drum, spotted sea trout, and striped bass as coastal game fish in North Carolina.

Prohibits taking these species in coastal fishing waters by any method other than hook-and-line fishing.

Prohibits the purchase, sale, barter, exchange, or possession of these designated species for commercial purposes.

Establishes mitigation payments to licensed commercial fishermen demonstrating financial losses from the designation, including average annual income from these species (2008-2010) paid annually in 2012-2014 and the 2010 value of exclusive fishing gear paid in 2012.

Limits total mitigation payments to $1,000,000 and makes the act effective July 1, 2011.