South Carolina Fishing License Cost: What You Need to Know
South Carolina’s freshwater lakes and coastal waters offer excellent fishing year‑round. Whether you’re casting in Lake Murray or chasing red drum off the coast, you’ll need a valid license. This guide breaks down 2025 fees, explains where to buy, shares money‑saving tips, and covers compliance basics.
1. Resident vs. Nonresident Rates
Residents
- 3‑Year Freshwater Fishing License: 30.00 USD
- Annual Freshwater Fishing License: 10.00 USD
- 14‑Day Freshwater Fishing License: 5.00 USD
- 3‑Year Saltwater Fishing License: 45.00 USD
- Annual Saltwater Fishing License: 15.00 USD
- 14‑Day Saltwater Fishing License: 10.00 USD
Nonresidents
- 3‑Year Freshwater Fishing License: 105.00 USD
- Annual Freshwater Fishing License: 35.00 USD
- 14‑Day Freshwater Fishing License: 11.00 USD
- Annual Saltwater Fishing License: 75.00 USD
- 7‑Day Saltwater Fishing License: 35.00 USD
- 1‑Day Saltwater Fishing License: 10.00 USD
Anglers under age 16 fish free. Lifetime disability licenses are available at no cost.
2. Gear Endorsements & Add‑Ons
Additional tags are required for certain devices (annual fees):
- Jug Permit: 5 USD (residents) / 50 USD (nonresidents)
- Set Hook Permit: 5 USD / 50 USD
- Eel Pot Tag: 5 USD / 50 USD
- Gill Net Tag: 5 USD / 50 USD
- Hoop Net Tag: 10 USD / 50 USD
- Trap Tag: 5 USD / 50 USD
- Trotline Tag: 2.50 USD / 50 USD
3. Where to Buy Your License
- Online: Skip the line—get your South Carolina fishing license online and print it immediately.
- In‑Person: Visit county wildlife offices or authorized retailers.
- By Phone: Call SCDNR at (843) 953‑9301.
4. Money‑Saving Strategies
- Multi‑Year Licenses: The 3‑year options offer the lowest per‑year cost.
- Short‑Term Passes: 14‑day licenses start at just 5 USD for residents (11 USD for nonresidents).
- Free Junior Licenses: Kids under 16 fish free—great for family outings.
5. Penalties for Fishing Without a License
Fishing without a valid license is a misdemeanor. Fines range from 100 USD to 500 USD, plus additional gear‑related fees. Always carry your license to avoid citations.
6. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can one license cover both freshwater and saltwater?
A: No. You must hold separate licenses for freshwater and saltwater fishing.
Q: Are commercial charter operators required to get a different license?
A: Yes. Commercial vessel licenses carry higher fees and reporting requirements.
Q: How soon can I fish after purchasing online?
A: Immediately. You can download and print your license as soon as payment processes.