South Carolina law sets fishing limits and deer tag rules

The law limits a person's red drum catch to one fish per day. The limit applies to red drum a person takes or has in their possession, and to the total on a boat. A boat may have no more than two red drum in one day. This provision took effect July 1, 2026.

Anglers must use a nonoffset, nonstainless steel circle hook when using natural bait with a handheld hook and line. The rules cover taking or trying to take saltwater gamefish in South Carolina waters. The hook must be size 4/0 or larger. Saltwater gamefish caught by other methods must be returned to the water immediately. Gigging is allowed during legal periods. This provision took effect July 1, 2026.

The law sets deer tag allotments and fees for resident and nonresident hunters. The provisions cover South Carolina resident and nonresident deer hunters, including people under 16 and lifetime or gratis license holders. Residents who buy a hunting license and big game permit receive three antlerless deer tags and three unrestricted antlered deer tags; certain young, lifetime, and gratis license holders may request them. Residents may buy additional tags. Nonresidents pay fees based on tag type and number. This section took effect when the governor approved it on May 19, 2026.

The law bars taking or possessing red drum shorter than 18 inches or longer than 25 inches. The size limits apply to red drum, also called channel bass or spottail bass. This provision took effect July 1, 2026.