South Carolina Fishing License Guide (2026)

South Carolina requires a fishing license for anyone 16 years or older. The Palmetto State offers separate freshwater ($10) and saltwater ($15) licenses, plus a free Gratis license for seniors 64+. Popular fishing includes Lake Murray, Santee Cooper (world-class catfish), and the Grand Strand coastline.

Official SC Website →
16+
Min Age
Yes
Free Days
$10
Resident/yr
$35
Non-Res/yr

💰 License Costs (2026)

Resident Licenses

License Type Price
Annual Resident Freshwater
 $10
Annual Resident Saltwater
 $15
Combination License (Hunt + Fish)
Hunting + freshwater fishing + big game
 $25
Lifetime Resident Combo
 $500

Non-Resident Licenses

License Type Price
Annual Non-Resident
 $35
14-Day Non-Resident
 $11
1-Day Non-Resident
 $5

Senior & Special Licenses

License Type Price
Gratis License (64+)
FREE — freshwater + saltwater for SC residents 64+
 $0
See the complete South Carolina cost breakdown →

📍 Where to Buy

🌐

SCDNR Online Purchase ↗

Instant digital license — SCDNR portal
📞

Phone Purchase

📞 (803) 734-3886
SCDNR Columbia headquarters
🏪

Retail Locations

Walmart, Bass Pro Shops, local bait shops, Academy Sports
Explore all South Carolina purchase options →

📅 Timing & Free Fishing Days

Free Fishing Days 2026

Jun
6
Free Fishing Day
All waters · All regulations still apply. No license needed for residents or visitors.

License Validity

South Carolina fishing licenses are valid for 365 days from date of purchase.

Full South Carolina free fishing days schedule →

👤 Age Requirements & Exemptions

👶

Under 16 Exemption

Children under 16 do not need a fishing license in South Carolina.

👴

Gratis License (64+)

SC residents 64+ can get a completely free Gratis license covering freshwater and saltwater. See our senior fishing license guide.

🎖️

Military Stationed in SC

Active duty military stationed in SC qualify for resident rates. See our military veterans fishing license guide.

Full South Carolina exemptions guide →

⚖️ Penalties for Fishing Without a License

$50–$ 500
Fine Range
misdemeanor
Offense Type

Misdemeanor with fines $50-$500 for first offense. Repeat violations increase penalties.

Learn more about South Carolina fishing penalties →

🔧 How to Get Your License

  1. 1

    Visit the Official Portal

    Go to SCDNR Online Licensing ↗

  2. 2

    Select Your License Type

    Choose between resident/non-resident, duration, and water type based on your needs.

  3. 3

    Complete Payment & Download

    Pay online and receive your digital license instantly. You may also print a physical copy.