Fishing is a popular pastime in South Carolina, with anglers enjoying the state’s diverse waterways from freshwater streams and rivers to the Atlantic coast. However, before casting a line, it’s essential to obtain a valid fishing license. In South Carolina, anyone 16 years of age and older is required to have a fishing license, regardless of residency status.
Resident Fishing License Costs
For South Carolina residents, there are several options for obtaining a fishing license. To qualify as a resident, an individual must be domiciled in the state for at least 30 days and provide proof of residency when purchasing the license. Military personnel and dependents stationed in South Carolina for 30 days or longer, or who are domiciled in the state, are also eligible for resident privileges. Additionally, full-time students enrolled in a South Carolina educational institution can obtain a resident fishing license with a valid student ID.
The cost of a resident fishing license varies depending on the duration and type of license. In 2024, the prices are as follows:
Duration Type of License Price
3 Year Freshwater Fishing License $30.00
Annual Freshwater Fishing License $10.00
14-day Freshwater Fishing License $5.00
Annual Commercial Freshwater License $50.00
Residents can also purchase additional permits and tags for using nongame devices in freshwater bodies, such as jug permits, set hook permits, eel pot tags, gill net tags, hoop net tags, trap tags, and trotline tags. The cost of these permits ranges from $2.50 to $10.00 for residents in 2024.
Nonresident Fishing License Costs
For non-residents, the cost of a fishing license depends on the duration and type of license, as well as the species being targeted. In 2024, the prices for non-resident fishing licenses are as follows:
Duration Type of License Price
3 Year Freshwater Fishing License $105.00
Annual Freshwater Fishing License $35.00
14-day Freshwater Fishing License $11.00
Annual Commercial Freshwater License $1000.00
Non-residents also need to purchase additional permits and tags for using nongame devices in freshwater bodies, similar to residents. However, the cost for non-residents is $50.00 for each permit in 2024.
It’s important to note that non-residents are not eligible for lifetime fishing licenses in South Carolina. Additionally, fishing and hunting licenses must be purchased separately for non-residents.
Obtaining a South Carolina Fishing License
There are several ways to obtain a South Carolina fishing license in 2024:
Online: The easiest way to purchase a license is through the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources website. Applicants will need their Social Security number and, for resident licenses, proof of residency such as an unexpired South Carolina driver’s license or identification card.
In-Person: The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources maintains a list of local license vendors by city and county where licenses can be purchased.
Mail: Anglers can mail in a fishing license application to obtain their license.
Once a license is obtained, it must be kept in possession while engaging in fishing activities. Failure to have a valid license can result in fines and penalties.
Reciprocal License Agreement
South Carolina has a reciprocal license agreement with Georgia that allows anglers with a valid freshwater fishing license from Georgia to fish in certain waters in South Carolina. These waters include all channels of the Savannah River, from its mouth to the confluence of the Tugaloo and Seneca rivers, and the Chattooga River to the boundary line between Georgia and North Carolina.
Fishing Laws and Regulations
In addition to obtaining a valid fishing license, anglers in South Carolina must adhere to the state’s fishing laws and regulations. These regulations are designed to protect fish populations and ensure the sustainability of South Carolina’s aquatic resources. It’s essential for anglers to familiarize themselves with the regulations, including size limits, bag limits, and seasonal restrictions, before engaging in fishing activities.
Responsible fishing practices, such as catch-and-release and proper fish handling techniques, are also crucial for preserving South Carolina’s fishing resources. By following the state’s fishing laws and regulations and practicing responsible fishing, anglers can ensure that they can continue to enjoy the state’s abundant fishing opportunities for years to come.