What You Pay for a South Carolina Fishing License

A South Carolina fishing license costs between $11 and $151 depending on how long you want it and whether you fish in freshwater, saltwater, or both. A three-day freshwater license is the cheapest option at $11. A one-year license that covers both freshwater and saltwater fishing costs $151 for residents. Non-residents pay more — a one-year combination license runs $151, but a seven-day non-resident license is $61.

You buy licenses through the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources website, by phone at 803-734-3888, or at authorized vendors around the state — mostly bait and tackle shops, sporting goods stores, and some Walmart locations. The license arrives by email if you buy online, or as a paper card if you buy in person. You do not need to print anything if you buy online; the email receipt counts as proof.

Certain people do not need a license at all. Children under 16 fish free. Residents 65 and older fish free. You also do not need a license if you fish on your own property, or if you are a resident fishing in a public fishing area on designated free fishing days — South Carolina holds several each year.

Key Takeaways

  • Resident one-year licenses cost $151 for both freshwater and saltwater combined, or $61 for freshwater only.
  • Non-residents pay the same $151 for a one-year combination license, but can buy shorter licenses like a seven-day pass for $61.
  • Children under 16 and residents 65 and older do not need to purchase a license.
  • You can buy online through the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources website and receive your license by email within minutes.
  • Paper licenses from vendors and online licenses are both legal proof — you do not need to print anything.

Resident Freshwater and Saltwater License Prices

Residents have two main choices: freshwater only or a combination license that covers both freshwater and saltwater. A one-year freshwater license costs $61. A one-year combination license costs $151. If you want a shorter commitment, a 14-day freshwater license is $26, and a 14-day combination license is $51.

The three-day freshwater license at $11 is the entry point if you want to try fishing without a big investment. There is no three-day saltwater or combination option — saltwater fishing requires at least a 14-day license or the full year.

Residents also have the option of a lifetime license, which costs $500 for freshwater only or $1,000 for combination. If you plan to fish regularly for many years, the lifetime license breaks even around age 50 or so, depending on how often you buy annual licenses.

Non-Resident License Prices and Time Options

Non-residents pay the same price as residents for a one-year combination license ($151), but have more flexibility with shorter-term options. A seven-day combination license costs $61. A 14-day combination license costs $76. A three-day freshwater license is $11, and a 14-day freshwater license is $26 — the same as resident rates for those short periods.

Non-residents cannot buy a one-year freshwater-only license; the shortest saltwater option is seven days. If you are visiting for a week or less, the seven-day pass at $61 is usually the best value. If you are staying longer but not the full year, the 14-day option at $76 gives you two weeks of both freshwater and saltwater access.

Where to Buy and How to Get Your License

The fastest way to buy is online at scdnr.sc.gov. You enter your information, choose your license type, pay by credit or debit card, and receive your license by email within minutes. You can fish when ready — the email is your proof. No printing required.

If you prefer to buy in person, call 803-734-3888 to find an authorized vendor near you. Most bait and tackle shops, sporting goods retailers, and some Walmart locations sell licenses. Buying in person takes a few minutes and you walk out with a paper card. Some vendors may charge a small processing fee on top of the license price.

You can also call the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources directly at 803-734-3888 to buy over the phone. They accept credit cards and mail the license to you, which takes several business days.

Who Does Not Need a License

Children under 16 can fish anywhere in South Carolina without a license, as long as they follow all other fishing rules and seasons. Residents who are 65 or older also fish free. You still need to follow catch limits and seasonal closures — the license exemption only means you do not pay.

Residents fishing on their own private property do not need a license. If you own land with a pond or stream, you can fish there without buying one. You still cannot fish on someone else's private property without permission, and you still must follow state catch and season rules.

South Carolina also designates certain days each year as free fishing days for everyone. On those days, anyone can fish without a license in public areas. The state announces these dates on the Department of Natural Resources website. These days are usually spread across the year and give people a chance to try fishing without cost.

Saltwater Stamp and Special Endorsements

If you buy a freshwater-only license and later decide to fish in saltwater, you cannot just add a stamp — you have to buy a new license that includes saltwater access. There is no separate saltwater stamp you can purchase to upgrade a freshwater license. Plan ahead if you think you might want both.

Some special fishing methods require additional endorsements beyond the base license. A trout stamp costs $15 and is required if you want to keep trout in freshwater. A saltwater endorsement for specific species may also explore depending on what you are targeting. Check the Department of Natural Resources website or call 803-734-3888 to confirm whether your planned fishing method needs an extra endorsement.

How Long Your License Lasts

Short-term licenses run from the date you buy them. A three-day license is good for three calendar days starting the day you purchase it. A seven-day license is good for seven calendar days. A 14-day license is good for 14 calendar days. A one-year license is good for one year from the date of purchase.

Annual licenses do not follow a calendar year — they follow your purchase date. If you buy a one-year license on March 15, it expires on March 15 the following year. This means you can buy at any time and get a full year from that point.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license to fish in a private pond on someone else's property?

You need the owner's permission to be on the property, but you still need a valid South Carolina fishing license to fish there. The only exception is your own private property. If you are invited to fish on someone else's land, bring your license.

Can I buy a license for just one day?

No. The shortest license available is three days for $11. If you only want to fish one day, you still have to buy the three-day license. There is no one-day option.

What happens if I fish without a license?

Fishing without a valid license is a violation of South Carolina law. Penalties include fines and possible confiscation of your fishing equipment. If you are unsure whether you need one, call 803-734-3888 to confirm before you go.

Can I use my email receipt as proof of my license?

Yes. If you buy online, the email receipt is your legal proof of license. You do not need to print it. Have your phone or email available when you fish so you can show it if a game warden asks.

Is there a discount for seniors or military?

Residents 65 and older fish free and do not need to buy a license at all. South Carolina does not offer a separate military discount on fishing licenses, but military members who are residents 65 or older may have access to for the free senior license.