SC Fishing Without a License — Penalties, Wardens & Creel Limits (2026)

SC fishing penalties: $50-$250 + massive $150+ court processing fees! Report poachers to 1-800-922-5431. Crappie limit is 20.

Fishing without a valid SC fishing license carries strict penalties enforced by SCDNR Law Enforcement.

ViolationFine RangeNotes
No fishing license$50 – $250Plus mandatory court costs ($150+)
Fishing closed marine waters$100 – $500Strictly enforced on oyster beds and marine sanctuaries
Over bag limit$100+Plus strict resource replacement fees per fish

Key Creel Limits

SpeciesDaily LimitNotes
Largemouth Bass5No length limit statewide (local lake rules vary!)
Striped Bass (Lakes)Varies strictlyUsually 3-5, strict seasonal slot limits in effect
Red Drum (Spottail Bass)2Slot: 15" to 23" (Marine)
Spotted Seatrout1014" minimum (Marine)
Crappie208" minimum

Call the Operation Game Thief hotline: 1-800-922-5431.

An SC freshwater license is just $10. Get yours.