WILMINGTON, N.C. — Watermen and state officials say North Carolina's oyster season hasn't been especially productive, and they blame it on unfavorable tide schedules, rainy weather and a simple lack of resources.

The StarNews of Wilmington reports (http://bit.ly/10FKk9r) the season opened on Oct. 15 and runs through March 31, though it can close early if population levels decline before then.

Typically, fishermen take to the water on opening day to explore oyster beds regardless of weather. However, high water levels have made it difficult to reach the shellfish.

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