Fishing is a popular pastime in South Carolina, with anglers enjoying the state’s diverse waterways, from freshwater lakes and rivers to the Atlantic coast. However, before casting a line, it’s essential to obtain a valid fishing license. In South Carolina, fishing licenses are required for anyone 16 years of age and older, whether they are residents or non-residents of the state.
Resident Fishing License Fees in South Carolina
South Carolina residents can purchase fishing licenses for freshwater, saltwater, or a combination of both. The cost of a resident fishing license varies depending on the type and duration of the license. Here are some of the most common resident fishing license options and their prices for 2024:
- 14-Day Freshwater Fishing License: $5.00
- Annual Freshwater Fishing License: $10.00
- 3-Year Freshwater Fishing License: $30.00
- 14-Day Saltwater Fishing License: $5.00
- Annual Saltwater Fishing License: $10.00
- 3-Year Saltwater Fishing License: $30.00
- Annual Freshwater Fishing & Hunting Combination License: $25.00
- 3-Year Freshwater Fishing & Hunting Combination License: $75.00
- Lifetime Fishing & Hunting License (for residents 64 and older): $9.00
To qualify as a resident, an individual must be domiciled in South Carolina for at least 30 days and provide proof of residency when obtaining their license. This can be done by presenting a valid South Carolina driver’s license or identification card.
Non-Resident Fishing License Fees in South Carolina
Non-residents, or anyone who does not meet the residency requirements, can also enjoy fishing in South Carolina by purchasing a non-resident fishing license. The cost of a non-resident fishing license is higher than that of a resident license, and the options vary based on the type and duration of the license. Here are some of the most common non-resident fishing license options and their prices for 2024:
- 14-Day Freshwater Fishing License: $11.00
- Annual Freshwater Fishing License: $35.00
- 3-Year Freshwater Fishing License: $105.00
- 1-Day Saltwater Fishing License: $10.00
- 7-Day Saltwater Fishing License: $35.00
- Annual Saltwater Fishing License: $75.00
- 3-Year Saltwater Fishing License: $105.00
Non-residents are not eligible for lifetime licenses in South Carolina, and fishing and hunting licenses must be purchased separately.
Where to Purchase a South Carolina Fishing License
Obtaining a South Carolina fishing license is a straightforward process. Anglers can purchase their licenses online through the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources website, by visiting a local license vendor, or by mailing in a fishing license application. When purchasing a license online, anglers will need to provide their Social Security number and, if applying for a resident license, proof of residency.
Additional Permits and Tags
In addition to a fishing license, anglers may need to purchase additional permits or tags depending on the type of fishing they plan to engage in. For example, to use special fishing equipment for non-game freshwater fish, anglers will need to obtain the necessary tags and permits. The cost of these additional permits and tags varies for residents and non-residents:
| Non-Game Freshwater Fishing Permits & Tags | Cost for Residents | Cost for Non-Residents |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Jug Permit | $5.00 | $50.00 |
| Annual Set Hook Permit | $5.00 | $50.00 |
| Annual Eel Pot Tag | $5.00 | $50.00 |
| Annual Gill Net Tag (except for Herring and Shad) | $5.00 | $50.00 |
| Annual Hoop Net Tag | $10.00 | $50.00 |
| Annual Trap Tag | $5.00 | $50.00 |
| Annual Trotline Tag | $2.50 | $50.00 |
It’s important to note that the use of gear like eelpots, jugs, and trotlines may be limited to certain days of the week or times of the year, so anglers should familiarize themselves with the related regulations before using these devices.
Conclusion
Fishing in South Carolina is an enjoyable and rewarding experience, but it’s essential to obtain the proper licenses and permits before casting a line. By understanding the cost of fishing licenses and the additional requirements for specific types of fishing, anglers can ensure they are fishing legally and contributing to the conservation of the state’s aquatic resources. Whether you are a resident or non-resident, there are various fishing license options available to suit your needs and budget.