Black Sea Bass Regulations in South Carolina (2026)

Centropristis striata

Recreational black sea bass rules in South Carolina saltwater, as published by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. Last checked November 7, 2026.

Limits differ by area — the summary below is the first published rule; see every rule underneath.

Size limit

13-inch TL

Bag limit

7 per person per day

Season

There are no closed seasons in state waters (out to 3 miles offshore).

Can I keep it today? Check your harbor & date

Recreational Black Sea Bass rules in South Carolina

Where: State waters (0-3 miles) (ocean)
Size limit: 13-inch TL
Bag limit: 7 per person per day
Season: There are no closed seasons in state waters (out to 3 miles offshore).

Recreational, for-hire, and commercial fishermen are required to use dehooking tools and to possess a descending device that is ready for use when fishing for or possessing snapper-grouper species. They are also required to use non-stainless, non-offset circle hooks when fishing with hook and line and natural baits for snapper-grouper species.
SCDNR 2026-2027 South Carolina Hunting & Fishing guide (Rules & Regulations), printed page 50 (PDF page 52), table "SNAPPER-GROUPER COMPLEX", section "SEABASS".
Statutory basis (S.C. Code of Laws, https://www.scstatehouse.gov/code/t50c005.php): S.C. Code § 50-5-2730(B)(1)

Official source

Where: Federal waters (ocean)
Size limit: 13-inch TL
Bag limit: 7 per person per day

Recreational, for-hire, and commercial fishermen are required to use dehooking tools and to possess a descending device that is ready for use when fishing for or possessing snapper-grouper species. They are also required to use non-stainless, non-offset circle hooks when fishing with hook and line and natural baits for snapper-grouper species.
SCDNR 2026-2027 South Carolina Hunting & Fishing guide (Rules & Regulations), printed page 50 (PDF page 52), table "SNAPPER-GROUPER COMPLEX", section "SEABASS".

Official source

Quick answers

What is the black sea bass size limit in South Carolina?

13-inch TL (for the first listed area; other areas may differ — see above).

How many black sea bass can I keep in South Carolina?

7 per person per day (for the first listed area; other areas may differ — see above).

When is black sea bass season in South Carolina?

There are no closed seasons in state waters (out to 3 miles offshore).. Whether it is open on a specific day can change by emergency rule — check today's status in the app.

Compare Black Sea Bass limits in other states →

More reef fish in South Carolina

All South Carolina saltwater fishing regulations →

Source: South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. Most anglers need a South Carolina saltwater license or registry: get one here.