Striped Bass Regulations in South Carolina (2026)

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

Size limit

26 in minimum

Bag limit

3 per person

Season

Possession prohibited: June 16 - Sept. 30 except in lower reach of…

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Recreational Striped Bass rules in South Carolina

Where: Saltwaters except the lower reach of the Savannah River (see printed page 30) (all waters)
Size limit: 26 inch TL except in lower reach of the Savannah River (27 inch TL; see page 30 for details.)
Bag limit: Possession prohibited: June 16 - Sept. 30; 3 fish per person per day: Oct. 1 - June 15 except in lower reach of the Savannah River (2 per person per day year round; see page 30 for details.)
Season: Possession prohibited: June 16 - Sept. 30 except in lower reach of the Savannah River (2 per person per day year round; see page 30 for details.)

May only be taken by rod & reel.
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.
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 § 50-5-1556

Official source

Quick answers

What is the striped bass size limit in South Carolina?

26 inch TL except in lower reach of the Savannah River (27 inch TL; see page 30 for details.).

How many striped bass can I keep in South Carolina?

Possession prohibited: June 16 - Sept. 30; 3 fish per person per day: Oct. 1 - June 15 except in lower reach of the Savannah River (2 per person per day year round; see page 30 for details.).

When is striped bass season in South Carolina?

Possession prohibited: June 16 - Sept. 30 except in lower reach of the Savannah River (2 per person per day year round; see page 30 for details.). Whether it is open on a specific day can change by emergency rule — check today's status in the app.

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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.