Quick answer: Anglers age 16 or older generally need a South Carolina fishing license. Freshwater and saltwater are separate privileges. Current annual freshwater prices are $10 for residents and $35 for nonresidents; annual saltwater prices are $15 for residents and $75 for nonresidents. Details below were verified with South Carolina DNR in September 2026.
South Carolina fishing license cost
Freshwater license prices
| License | Resident | Nonresident |
|---|---|---|
| Annual freshwater | $10 | $35 |
| 14-day freshwater | $5 | $11 |
| Three-year freshwater | $30 | $105 |
Saltwater license prices
| License | Resident | Nonresident |
|---|---|---|
| Annual saltwater | $15 | $75 |
| Short-term saltwater | $10 for 14 days | $10 for 1 day |
| Seven-day saltwater | Not listed | $35 |
| Three-year saltwater | $45 | Not listed |
Annual recreational licenses are valid for one year from purchase, while three-year products are valid for three years from purchase. Select the water type carefully because a freshwater license does not replace a saltwater license.
Freshwater or saltwater: which license do you need?
Freshwater fishing
A freshwater fishing license is generally required on South Carolina public freshwater. A privately owned pond is a common exception. A license is still required at a commercial pay pond unless that pond has the appropriate SCDNR permit.
Saltwater fishing
A saltwater fishing license is generally required when harvesting marine resources such as finfish, oysters, clams, shrimp and crab. SCDNR lists exemptions for fishing from a licensed public pier or while under hire on a licensed saltwater charter vessel, plus limited no-hook crabbing methods. Review the current saltwater rules for the exact activity.
Who needs a South Carolina fishing license?
Residents and nonresidents age 16 or older generally need the applicable freshwater or saltwater license. Children under 16 normally do not need a recreational fishing license unless they take fish commercially or use nongame fishing devices.
For recreational resident privileges, SCDNR generally requires South Carolina domicile and qualifying proof such as an unexpired state driver’s license or ID. The agency lists a 30-day residency period for recreational licenses. Full-time students and certain military personnel can qualify for resident privileges under specific documentation rules.
Common exemptions and special licenses
- Youth under age 16 are generally exempt from the recreational license requirement, with exceptions for commercial activity and nongame devices.
- A South Carolina resident age 64 or older who has met the residency requirement may apply for a $9 senior lifetime license that includes freshwater and saltwater fishing privileges.
- Qualifying residents with disabilities can apply for no-cost disability fishing privileges with required documentation.
- Active-duty South Carolina residents home on leave may qualify for exemptions under SCDNR’s military rules.
- Fishing on a licensed saltwater charter vessel while under hire is listed as a saltwater-license exemption for passengers.
Georgia and South Carolina reciprocal waters
South Carolina and Georgia recognize either state’s valid freshwater sportfishing license on specified shared waters. The agreement covers designated channels of the Savannah, Tugaloo and Chattooga rivers and named impoundments including Thurmond, Russell, Hartwell, Yonah, Tugaloo, Stevens Creek and New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam.
The agreement does not extend to tributary streams. Size limits, catch limits and other regulations can differ, so confirm which state’s rules apply to your location and activity.
How to buy a South Carolina fishing license
- Use the official Go Outdoors South Carolina licensing system.
- Create or locate your customer profile.
- Choose freshwater, saltwater or both based on the waters you will fish.
- Have state-issued identification and required personal information available.
- Download or print the license and carry the same identification used for purchase.
SCDNR also sells licenses through agency offices and authorized vendors. Its online system allows anglers to purchase, renew and view licenses and permits.
Do you need a license on a guided trip?
For freshwater trips, clients should expect to carry their own freshwater license unless a specific exemption applies. For saltwater, SCDNR lists an exemption when fishing under hire on a properly licensed saltwater charter vessel. Confirm the vessel and trip type with the operator before deciding what to buy.
Plan a South Carolina fishing trip
Explore the South Carolina fishing hub, review fishing near Anderson, or learn about Lake Hartwell, one of the reciprocal-border waters covered by the Georgia and South Carolina agreement.
For guided opportunities, meet Captain Fisher Fleming. Confirm whether your trip is freshwater or saltwater first; South Carolina makes that distinction much more important than the color of your favorite lure.
South Carolina fishing license FAQs
How much is a South Carolina nonresident fishing license?
A nonresident freshwater license currently costs $35 annually or $11 for 14 consecutive days. A nonresident saltwater license costs $75 annually, $35 for seven days or $10 for one day.
What age requires a fishing license in South Carolina?
A recreational fishing license is generally required at age 16. Youth under 16 are normally exempt unless involved in commercial activity or using nongame fishing devices.
Does South Carolina have one license for fresh and saltwater?
No. Freshwater and saltwater are separate privileges. Residents can buy packages that include multiple privileges, but anglers should confirm exactly what the selected product covers.
Can I use a Georgia fishing license on Lake Hartwell?
Yes, a valid Georgia or South Carolina freshwater sportfishing license is recognized on Lake Hartwell under the reciprocal agreement. The agreement does not cover tributary streams.
Do I need a saltwater license on a South Carolina charter boat?
SCDNR lists an exemption for people fishing under hire on a licensed saltwater charter vessel. Confirm the vessel’s status and your activity with the operator.
How long is an annual South Carolina fishing license valid?
Annual recreational licenses are valid for one year from the date of purchase.
Official South Carolina license sources
- SCDNR resident license prices
- SCDNR nonresident license prices
- SCDNR general license requirements
- Official South Carolina online licensing system
License fees, exemptions and regulations can change. Verify current requirements with SCDNR before fishing.