Can I Keep?Oysters Regulations in South Carolina (2026)
Recreational oysters rules in South Carolina saltwater, as published by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. Last checked November 7, 2026.
Can I keep it today? Check your harbor & date
Recreational Oysters rules in South Carolina
- Where
- Public or state shellfish grounds (bays & inshore)
- Bag limit
- Possession Limit: 2 US bushels per person per day from public or state shellfish grounds; No boat, vehicle, or boat/vehicle combination may contain more then 3 personal limits regardless of the number of people on the boat or in the vehicle
- Season
- Typically closed May 16 - Sept. 30; may be shortened or extended by SCDNR. Call 843-953-9300 for season dates.
- A person may recreationally harvest shellfish (oysters and/or clams) no more than 2 days per 7 day period.
- SCDNR 2026-2027 South Carolina Hunting & Fishing guide (Rules & Regulations), printed page 53 (PDF page 55), table "CRUSTACEANS & SHELLFISH REGULATIONS", section "CRAB, LOBSTER AND SHELLFISH".
- Statutory basis (S.C. Code of Laws, https://www.scstatehouse.gov/code/t50c005.php): S.C. Code § 50-5-960(A); § 50-5-985(A)
Quick answers
How many oysters can I keep in South Carolina?
Possession Limit: 2 US bushels per person per day from public or state shellfish grounds; No boat, vehicle, or boat/vehicle combination may contain more then 3 personal limits regardless of the number of people on the boat or in the vehicle.
When is oysters season in South Carolina?
Typically closed May 16 - Sept. 30; may be shortened or extended by SCDNR. Call 843-953-9300 for season dates.. Whether it is open on a specific day can change by emergency rule — check today's status in the app.
Compare Oysters limits in other states →
More clams, oysters & scallops 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.