Only holders of South Carolina fishing licenses are permitted to fish within the state. Issued by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), licenses to fish are categorized according to the angler's residency status and whether they intend to fish in the state's inland or coastal waters. In addition, certain groups of anglers in South Carolina are eligible for license discounts upon presentation of the necessary paperwork. Furthermore, the DNR offers a variety of fishing education opportunities to both amateur and professional anglers seeking to improve their knowledge about the sport. Explore the below sections to learn more about types of fishing permits and how to get a fishing license in South Carolina:
Before fishing in South Carolina's bodies of water, anglers older than 15 years of age are required to obtain a state-issued fishing license. Licenses to fish vary depending on factors such as: the angler’s residency status, the longevity of the license and whether or not the angler is fishing for recreational or commercial purposes. After providing their Social Security Number, applicants interested in getting fishing licenses in South Carolina can choose from two general categories:
Applicants who meet South Carolina's residency requirements can purchase a resident fishing license after submitting proof of residency. A resident is an individual who has been residing in the state for 365 consecutive days before his or her application. Full-time students enrolled in a South Carolina college and military members stationed in SC are also granted resident privileges for licensing purposes. The following resident fishing licenses are available for purchase:
In addition, the department offers the following resident fishing licenses free of charge:
Visiting fishermen must obtain the appropriate non resident fishing license in order to fish in South Carolina's waters. The Department of Natural Resources offers non-resident fishing permits at slightly more expensive rates than resident licenses to fish. The following non resident fishing permits are available to state visitors:
To buy an SC fishing license, interested applicants can choose from several purchasing methods:
The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources offers numerous fishing education opportunities to anglers of all ages and expertise levels through the Aquatic Education Program. The AEP of the SCDNR is implemented through various sub-programs such as:
The family fishing clinics are family-centered workshops organized in various ponds throughout the state. To register for the clinics, visit the SCDNR's website and choose the appropriate workshop for you and your family. The following fishing skills will be covered:
Trout in the Classroom helps educators teach students about the state's aquatic ecosystem and its fish population. After the application approval, schools will receive fishing tanks and fish eggs to use in their curriculum. The practical lessons will allow students to raise and care for fish while engaging in activities within subjects such as: mathematics, sociology and art.
Various state-based fishing clubs and organizations are open to both experienced anglers and novice fishermen. If you are looking for fishing companions, an opportunity to fish in group tournaments or to support the state fishing conservation policies, join one or several of South Carolina's fishing associations:
The only women's saltwater fishing club in the state, the Carolina Lady Anglers is open to women anglers of all ages. The club provides a relaxing environment, where members can share fishing experiences and learn from one another. Offering fishing courses for various skill levels, the club's mission includes:
Founded by anglers with interests in saltwater fishing and the marine ecosystem, the Greenville Saltwater Sportfishing Club aims to bring together avid fishermen who wish to improve their fishing technique and conserve South Carolina's coastal waters and marine fishing heritage. Potential club members can benefit from the following activities:
