Bluefin Tuna Regulations in South Carolina (2026)

Where

Ocean

Bag limit

NOAA Fisheries has adjusted the Atlantic Bluefin tuna daily retention limits which applies to vessels permitted in the Highly Migratory Species Angling category and the HMS Charter/Headboat category. Visit https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/bulletin/bluefin-tuna-angling-category-daily-retention-limit-adjustment for detailed information regarding bag limits prior to fishing.

• See https://hmspermits.noaa.gov for for-hire vessel bag and size limits.
• All recreationally caught Atlantic billfish and Bluefin tuna landed must be reported to NMFS within 24 hours of landing at the dock.
• Federal Highly Migratory Species Permit required to fish for these species except for the Other Tunas. Check current federal regulations by calling 1-888-USA-TUNA (1-888-872-8862) or checking https://hmspermits.noaa.gov/.
• SCDNR 2026-2027 South Carolina Hunting & Fishing guide (Rules & Regulations), printed page 52 (PDF page 54), table "BILLFISH & ATLANTIC TUNAS", section "ATLANTIC TUNAS".

Official source