CAROLINA BEACH, N.C. (WWAY) -- Labor Day was more than just a holiday for the federal government, but also for anglers in the Cape Fear as it also marked the return of on of North Carolina's most anticipated outdoor activities.

Monday was the start of recreational flounder season, which runs for two weeks until September 14. People are allowed to keep one fish per person per day during that time so long as it is a minimum of 15 inches long.

After not having a flounder season at all in 2024, area cousins Tony Talman and Wells Gray wasted no time hopping on the former's boat and trying to reel in a keeper.

"It's big for everybody down here," Talman said. "Especially when the flounder comes in. Everybody wants to fish for them. Sometimes it's better to go for other stuff, but you got to get on them while you can. They only give us two weeks, so you got to put as many days in as you can no matter how bad or good they are."

Going out together as family made the occasion even more special.

"It means a lot," Gray said. "We've spent several years fishing together for flounder. It's always a fun time. The show can carry on. Even if it's bad weather, it's still fun."

The pair started by fishing along the banks of the Cape Fear River early Monday morning. After not getting a bite for two hours, they decided to relocate to the Intercoastal Waterway.

After setting up along a dock, Talman managed to reel in a flounder just over 13 inches long and released it.

He and Gray then caught two pinfish and two red drums between them before returning to the Cape Fear River.

After that, Gray reeled in a flounder slightly smaller than the first. It was also released soon after.

Then on one of the last casts of the day, Talman managed to catch a 16-inch flounder that he was able to keep. He says he plans on eating it within a day or two.

Talman, who also runs Reel Teal Charters, adds that he has caught and released around 185 flounder this year prior to Monday's start to the season.