Red Snapper Regulations in South Carolina (2026)

Lutjanus campechanus

Recreational red snapper 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

20-inch TL in state waters

Bag limit

2 per person per day in state waters

Season

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

Can I keep it today? Check your harbor & date

Recreational Red Snapper rules in South Carolina

Where: State waters (0-3 miles) (ocean)
Size limit: 20-inch TL in state waters
Bag limit: 2 per person per day in state waters
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 "PORGIES AND SNAPPERS".
Statutory basis (S.C. Code of Laws, https://www.scstatehouse.gov/code/t50c005.php): S.C. Code § 50-5-2730(B)(2)

Official source

Where: Federal waters (ocean)
Season: Possession prohibited in federal waters

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 "PORGIES AND SNAPPERS".

Official source

Quick answers

What is the red snapper size limit in South Carolina?

20-inch TL in state waters (for the first listed area; other areas may differ — see above).

How many red snapper can I keep in South Carolina?

2 per person per day in state waters (for the first listed area; other areas may differ — see above).

When is red snapper 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 Red Snapper 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.