Red Drum Regulations in South Carolina (2026)

Sciaenops ocellatus

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

Size limit

18-inch to 25-inch TL

Bag limit

1 per person

Season

May not be harvested by gig Dec. 1 - Feb. 28

Can I keep it today? Check your harbor & date

Recreational Red Drum rules in South Carolina

Where: State waters (all waters)
Size limit: 18-inch to 25-inch TL
Bag limit: 1 per person per day (state waters) not to exceed 2 per boat per day Possession prohibited in federal waters.
Possession: not to exceed 2 per boat per day
Season: May not be harvested by gig Dec. 1 - Feb. 28

May only be taken by rod & reel and gig.
May not be harvested by gig Dec. 1 - Feb. 28
When fishing for gamefish (including red drum, cobia, and tarpon) with large hooks (4/0 or larger) and natural bait, non-offset/non-stainless circle hooks are required. There are no restrictions on hook type when using hooks less than 4/0 or artificial lures.
May not be harvested from federal waters.
SCDNR 2026-2027 South Carolina Hunting & Fishing guide (Rules & Regulations), printed page 48 (PDF page 50), table "FINFISH: INSHORE & OFFSHORE", section "INSHORE FINFISH".
Statutory basis (S.C. Code of Laws, https://www.scstatehouse.gov/code/t50c005.php): S.C. Code § 50-5-1705(D); S.C. Code § 50-5-1710(B)(3)

Official source

Quick answers

What is the red drum size limit in South Carolina?

18-inch to 25-inch TL.

How many red drum can I keep in South Carolina?

1 per person per day (state waters) not to exceed 2 per boat per day Possession prohibited in federal waters..

When is red drum season in South Carolina?

May not be harvested by gig Dec. 1 - Feb. 28. Whether it is open on a specific day can change by emergency rule — check today's status in the app.

Compare Red Drum limits in other states →

More inshore 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.