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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.
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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.