South Carolina
Fishing
A resident fishing license in South Carolina costs $11 a year and a non-resident license $35, as of May 2026. This guide lists 5 top species (Largemouth bass, Striped bass, Red drum, Flounder, Crappie) and 4 notable waters, led by Santee Cooper Lakes and Lake Murray. South Carolina has saltwater access and no notable wild trout fishery; it earns a B grade here, shared with 5 other states.
Top Species
Resident License
Non-Resident License
Saltwater Access
Trout Streams
World-Class Distinction
Wildlife Agency
South Carolina fishing has a significant historical claim. The Santee Cooper Lakes — Lake Marion and Lake Moultrie — produced world-record freshwater catfish in the 20th century and still hold exceptional flathead and blue catfish. The two-lake system also holds striped bass that are landlocked and growing large. Lake Murray near Columbia is a consistently productive largemouth bass and crappie lake.
The coast delivers redfish, flounder, and spotted seatrout in the tidal marsh systems surrounding Charleston, Beaufort, and Hilton Head. Offshore access from Georgetown and Myrtle Beach puts anglers on king mackerel, cobia, and mahi-mahi in season.
Resident licenses cost $11. South Carolina is strong fishing value for a southeastern state. The Santee Cooper catfish fishing is a specific and underappreciated fishery. The crappie fishing on Santee and on Lake Murray in early spring is excellent. Charleston gives you immediate access to outstanding inshore marsh fishing.
The Santee Cooper lakes (Lake Marion and Lake Moultrie) are massive reservoirs known for striped bass, catfish, and crappie. South Carolina has affordable licenses ($11 resident) and excellent saltwater access along its extensive coastline.
Finding nearby venues...
Similar States
More on South Carolina
Also on South Carolina: the full South Carolina profile covers taxes, cost of living, crime and schools, and the county map lets you compare every county in the state. For related rules, read the South Carolina country music guide and the South Carolina gambling laws guide.
Compare
Full South Carolina profile
Taxes, cost of living, gun laws, gambling, nightlife and more.
Sources: State wildlife agencies, US Fish & Wildlife Service, Bassmaster, Field & Stream, In-Fisherman, Fly Fisherman magazine. License costs reflect annual resident/non-resident fishing license only; additional stamps (trout, salmon) may apply. Updated May 2026.