What a South Carolina nonresident freshwater license covers
A nonresident freshwater fishing license from South Carolina lets you fish in freshwater lakes, rivers, and streams throughout the state if you do not live there. The license covers rod-and-reel fishing for species like bass, catfish, crappie, and bream in inland waters — it does not cover saltwater fishing, which requires a separate license, or tidal freshwater areas, which have their own rules.
South Carolina issues licenses for different time periods: a full calendar year (January through December), a 14-day temporary license, or a 3-day temporary license. You can buy any of these online through the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources website, by phone, or at authorized retailers across the state. The license is not transferable — only the person whose name appears on it can fish under that license.
You will need your Social Security number or a valid ID number to purchase. If you are under 16, you do not need a license to fish in freshwater, but anyone 16 and older must have one before casting a line.
Key Takeaways
- Nonresident freshwater licenses are sold for one year, 14 days, or 3 days, with prices varying by duration and purchased through the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources website or authorized retailers.
- The license covers freshwater only — saltwater and tidal freshwater fishing require separate licenses with different rules.
- You must carry your license while fishing and show it to a wildlife officer if asked.
- Children under 16 do not need a license to fish in freshwater, but anyone 16 or older must have one.
- Certain species have daily catch limits and size restrictions that apply regardless of license type, so check current regulations before you fish.
How to buy a nonresident freshwater license online
The fastest way to get a license is through the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources website at dnr.sc.gov. Look for the "Licenses and Permits" section and select the nonresident freshwater option. You will enter your name, address, date of birth, and Social Security number or ID number, then choose your license duration and pay the fee.
Once you complete payment, you receive a confirmation email with your license number. Print the email or save it to your phone — you must have proof of your license with you while fishing. Some anglers screenshot the confirmation and carry it on their phone; others print it out. Either way, you need to show it to a wildlife officer if stopped.
The online purchase is available 24 hours a day. If you buy a 3-day or 14-day license, the clock starts the day you purchase it, so time your buy accordingly if you are planning a specific trip.
Buying a license by phone or at a retailer
You can also call the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources to purchase a license over the phone. Have your Social Security number or ID number ready, along with a credit or debit card. A staff member will process your order and email or mail your license confirmation.
Authorized retailers — including sporting goods stores, bait-and-tackle shops, and some Walmart locations — sell licenses in person. Bring a valid ID and your Social Security number or ID number. The retailer will print your license on the spot. This option works well if you prefer to handle the transaction face-to-face or need a license the same day.
License types and how long they last
| License Type | Duration | When to Buy |
|---|---|---|
| Annual | January 1 through December 31 | If you plan to fish multiple times throughout the year |
| 14-Day | Starts the day you purchase it | If you are visiting for two weeks or less |
| 3-Day | Starts the day you purchase it | If you are visiting for a long weekend or short trip |
The 3-day and 14-day licenses are popular with visitors who do not want to pay for a full year. If you buy a 14-day license on a Monday, it expires 14 days later on a Sunday. The same applies to the 3-day license — it runs for exactly three calendar days from the purchase date.
An annual license is the better value if you plan to return to South Carolina multiple times in a year or fish more than a few times during your visit. Compare the cost of a 3-day license times the number of trips you expect to make against the annual price to decide which makes sense for you.
What to bring and carry while fishing
Always carry your license with you when you fish. A wildlife officer can stop you at any time and ask to see it. If you cannot produce it, you may face a citation. Keep your printed license or phone screenshot easily accessible — in your tackle box, wallet, or phone case.
You also need to follow South Carolina's fishing regulations, which include daily catch limits and minimum size requirements for certain species. Bass, for example, have a 5-fish daily limit with a 12-inch minimum size. Catfish have different limits depending on the species. These rules apply to everyone with a nonresident license, so check the current regulations on the Department of Natural Resources website before you go.
Some waters have additional restrictions — certain lakes may be catch-and-release only, or closed during specific seasons. The Department of Natural Resources website lists these by location, so look up your intended fishing spot ahead of time.
Where nonresident licenses are valid in South Carolina
Your nonresident freshwater license is valid statewide in all inland freshwater waters — lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds managed by the state. This includes popular destinations like Lake Marion, Lake Moultrie, the Santee River, and the Congaree River. It does not cover private ponds or lakes unless you have the landowner's permission.
Tidal freshwater areas — the lower portions of rivers where saltwater and freshwater mix — have separate rules and may require a saltwater license depending on where exactly you are fishing. If you are unsure whether a specific location is freshwater or tidal, contact the Department of Natural Resources or check their website for that water body.
National forests and state parks in South Carolina honor the nonresident freshwater license, though some have additional day-use fees or parking requirements. Call ahead or check the specific park or forest website to confirm what else you might need.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a separate license for saltwater fishing in South Carolina?
Yes. A nonresident freshwater license does not cover saltwater or tidal waters. If you want to fish in the ocean or coastal areas, you need a separate nonresident saltwater license. The two licenses are sold independently and have different regulations and catch limits.
Can I fish with multiple rods if I have one nonresident license?
South Carolina allows two rods per person for freshwater fishing. Your single license covers both rods, but you are responsible for monitoring both lines and following the daily catch limit for each species. If you fish with more than two rods, you need additional licenses.
What happens if I lose my license or it gets wet?
Contact the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources with your license number and they can issue a replacement. If you bought it online, you can also print another copy of your confirmation email. Keep a photo or screenshot on your phone as a backup.
Can I buy a nonresident license if I own property in South Carolina but live out of state?
Yes. Nonresident status is based on where you live, not where you own property. If your primary residence is outside South Carolina, you purchase a nonresident license regardless of property ownership in the state.
Are there any exemptions from needing a nonresident freshwater license?
Children under 16 do not need a license. Active-duty military members may have different options — check with the Department of Natural Resources for current military discounts or exemptions. Otherwise, anyone 16 and older fishing in freshwater needs a valid license.