South Carolina 2026-27 Hunting Season Dates
Quick answer
South Carolina's 2026-27 firearm deer season opens between September 1, 2026 and October 11, 2026 depending on zone; the last zone closes January 1, 2027.
Archery deer season opens between August 15, 2026 and October 17, 2026 depending on zone; the last zone closes January 1, 2027.
Duck season runs Nov 21-28, 2026, and Dec 12, 2026-Jan 31, 2027.
The tables below keep the rest of the listed seasons together by species, with source links back to South Carolina DNR.
- firearm deer
- opens Sep 1-Oct 11, 2026 by zone
- archery deer
- opens Aug 15-Oct 17, 2026 by zone
- duck
- Nov 21-28, 2026 and Dec 12, 2026-Jan 31, 2027
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Key seasons by species
How to read South Carolina's seasons
Deer game zones run on different calendars
South Carolina divides the state into deer game zones with notably different opening dates and a famously long season in parts of the Lowcountry. Read the rows below by game zone rather than as one statewide window.
Confirm zone boundaries, either-sex days, and WMA-specific rules with the official South Carolina DNR source.
We summarize official agency information and link to the source for verification. Regulations can change, and zone details matter. Always confirm final dates, bag limits, permits, and legal requirements with South Carolina DNR before hunting.
Deer
159 listed rowsWhite-tailed Deer
Archery & Gun
Aug. 15-Sept. 14 buck only. Baiting permitted on private lands.
Zone: Game Zone 3 - Private Lands
White-tailed Deer
Gun
Sept. 1-14 buck only. Baiting permitted on private lands.
Zone: Game Zone 4 - Private Lands
White-tailed Deer
Archery
Zone: Old Island HP WMA, Beaufort County
White-tailed Deer
Archery
Zone: Cartwheel Bay Heritage Preserve WMA, Horry County
White-tailed Deer
Archery
Zone: Porcher & Hall WMA except Cross Station Special Use Area, Moultrie Hunt Unit
White-tailed Deer
Archery
Archery Only.
Zone: Ditch Pond Heritage Preserve WMA, Aiken/Barnwell County
White-tailed Deer
Archery
Hunting and camping by special permit. Islands: Ashe, Beet, Warren, Big, Otter, North & South Williman Islands and Buzzard Island.
Zone: St. Helena Sound HP WMA, Beaufort and Colleton Counties
White-tailed Deer
Archery Only
No Small Game Hunting.
Zone: Henderson Heritage Preserve WMA, Aiken County
White-tailed Deer
Archery
Zone: Meyer Lake HP WMA, Jasper County
White-tailed Deer
Archery
Archery Only. All deer must be tagged. All deer must be reported via SC Game Check.
Zone: Wambaw WMA - Seewee Special Use Area (no dogs), Francis Marion National Forest
White-tailed Deer
Archery
Hunting is allowed on the mainland only.
Zone: Santee Coastal WMA, Charleston County
White-tailed Deer
Archery
No deer hunting with dogs. Hatchery is closed to fishing each Saturday morning during waterfowl season and all day the last Saturday of waterfowl season.
Zone: Hatchery WMA, Berkeley County
| Season | Dates | Status |
|---|---|---|
| White-tailed DeerStill Gun · Greenfield WMA, Moultrie Hunt Unit | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerArchery · Santee Island WMA, Georgetown County | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerArchery · Dungannon Heritage Preserve WMA, Charleston County | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerArchery · Victoria Bluff HP WMA, Beaufort County | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerArchery · Tillman Sand Ridge HP WMA, Jasper CountyAll reptiles and amphibians are protected. | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerStill Gun · Wee Tee WMA, Williamsburg & Georgetown Counties | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerStill Gun · Game Zone 3 - WMA | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerStill Gun · Oak Lea WMA, Clarendon CountyNo man drives. | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerGun · Game Zone 2 - Private LandsNo pursuit with dogs in Game Zone 2. Baiting permitted on private lands. | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerGun · Game Zone 1 - Private LandsNo pursuit with dogs in Game Zone 1. Baiting permitted on private lands. | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerStill Gun · Bobwhite Hills WMA | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerStill Gun · McBee WMA, Chesterfield County | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerStill Gun · Game Zone 2 - WMA | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerStill Gun · Game Zone 4 - Other WMAs | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerStill Gun · Santee WMA, Francis Marion National ForestNo still hunting during scheduled dog drive hunts. | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerStill Gun · Longleaf Pine Heritage Preserve WMA, Lee County | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerStill Gun · Northampton WMA, Francis Marion National ForestNo still hunting during scheduled dog drive hunts. | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerStill Gun · Wambaw WMA, Francis Marion National ForestNo still hunting during scheduled dog drive hunts. No buckshot. | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerStill Gun · Hellhole WMA, Francis Marion National ForestNo still hunting during scheduled dog drive hunts. | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerStill Gun · Liberty Hill WMA, Kershaw County | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerStill Gun · Edisto River WMA, Dorchester CountyHunting allowed on Sundays Oct. 15-Jan. 31. No waterfowl hunting on Sunday. | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerStill Gun · Sand Hills State Forest WMA, Chesterfield CountyNo man drives allowed. | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerStill Gun · Waccamaw River Heritage Preserve WMA, Horry County | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerStill Gun · Lewis Ocean Bay Heritage Preserve WMA, Horry County | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerStill Gun · Little Pee Dee Heritage Preserve (HP) River Complex, Horry & Marion Counties | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerStill Gun · Woodbury WMA, Marion County | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerStill Gun · Game Zone 1 - WMANo deer hunting on Long Creek Tracts on or after Thanksgiving. | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerStill Gun · Manchester State Forest (MSF) WMA, Sumter CountyClosed on Oct. 31, Nov. 20-21 & Dec. 18-19. No man drives. | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerPrimitive Weapons · Santee Cooper WMA, Orangeburg County | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerPrimitive Weapons · Santee Dam WMA, Clarendon County | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerStill Gun · Marsh WMA, Marion County | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerPrimitive Weapons · Hickory Top WMA, Clarendon County | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerPrimitive Weapons · Pee Dee Station Site WMA, Florence County | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerStill Gun · Great Pee Dee Heritage Preserve WMA, Darlington County | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerStill Gun · Crackerneck WMA, Aiken CountyNo buckshot or dogs allowed. All individuals must sign in and out at gate. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerStill Gun · Waterhorn WMA, Francis Marion National ForestFridays and Saturdays only. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerDog Drive Hunt · Hellhole WMA, Francis Marion National ForestBuck only. No still hunting and no rifles. Dates: Nov. 7 and Dec. 5. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerStill Gun · Crackerneck WMA, Aiken CountyNo buckshot or dogs allowed. All individuals must sign in and out at gate. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerYouth Only Dog Hunt · Hellhole WMA, Francis Marion National ForestBuck only. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerDog Drive Hunt · Wambaw WMA, Francis Marion National ForestBuck only. No deer hunting with dogs east of HWY 17. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerStill Gun · Crackerneck WMA, Aiken CountyNo buckshot or dogs allowed. All individuals must sign in and out at gate. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerYouth Only Dog Hunt · Woodbury WMA, Marion CountyOnly youth 17 years and younger may carry a gun and hunt, must be accompanied by an adult 21 years or older. Shotguns with buckshot only. Antler restrictions not applicable. Hunting between 8:00 am and 2:00 pm only. Dates: Nov. 21 and Dec. 12. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerYouth Only Dog Hunt · Wambaw WMA, Francis Marion National ForestBuck only. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerStill Gun · Manchester State Forest (MSF) WMA, Sumter CountyClosed on Oct. 31, Nov. 20-21 & Dec. 18-19. No man drives. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerStill Gun · Crackerneck WMA, Aiken CountyNo buckshot or dogs allowed. All individuals must sign in and out at gate. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerDog Drive Hunt · Northampton WMA, Francis Marion National ForestBuck only. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerYouth Only Dog Hunt · Northampton WMA, Francis Marion National ForestBuck only. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerDog Drive Hunt · Santee WMA, Francis Marion National ForestBuck only. | Upcoming |
Showing 60 of 159 listed deer rows, open and upcoming seasons first. See all 159 South Carolina deer seasons →
Turkey
Wild Turkey
Youth Hunt Weekend - Private Lands
Youth 17 and younger. No license or tags required. Adult may call or guide. Limit 1 gobbler counts toward season limit.
Zone: Statewide Private Lands
Wild Turkey
Youth Hunt
Youth age 17 & younger. Dates: Mar. 27 and May 8, 2027. Excluded WMAs: Crackerneck (Mar. 27 Only), Keowee, Santee Cooper, Santee Coastal Reserve, Hatchery Waterfowl Area, Bonneau Ferry. Private Lands: March 27-28 and May 8-9, 2027.
Zone: All WMAs normally open to turkey hunting (except exclusions)
Wild Turkey
Youth Hunt Day - WMA
Youth hunt day on WMAs. Excludes Crackerneck (March 27 only allowed there too), Keowee, Santee Cooper, Santee Coastal Reserve, Bonneau Ferry, and Hatchery Waterfowl Area WMA.
Zone: Statewide WMA
Wild Turkey
Spring General
Residents and nonresidents: 2 gobblers per season. Bearded hens not legal. Tags required. Harvest must be reported.
Zone: Statewide Private Lands
Wild Turkey
Spring General - WMA
Some WMAs open Thurs-Sat only, some Fri-Sat only, some Saturdays only. Limits vary by WMA (1 or 2). See WMA list for specifics.
Zone: Statewide WMA Lands
Wild Turkey
Youth Hunt Weekend - Private Lands
Youth 17 and younger. No license or tags required. Adult may call or guide. Limit 1 gobbler counts toward season limit.
Zone: Statewide Private Lands
Wild Turkey
Youth Hunt Day - WMA
Youth hunt day on WMAs. Excludes Crackerneck WMA, Keowee WMA, Santee Cooper WMA, Santee Coastal Reserve, Bonneau Ferry, and Hatchery Waterfowl Area WMA.
Zone: Statewide WMA
Wild Turkey
General
dates not listed
Exact dates not listed in the current data.
Turkey tags cost $25 resident/$125 nonresident. Full season dates not included in the extracted pages; see Turkey Regulations pages 62-65 of full guide.
Zone: Statewide
Bear
Black Bear
General
dates not listed
Exact dates not listed in the current data.
Bear tag cost $25 resident/$100 nonresident. Youth 15 and under obtain tags at no cost. Full season dates not included in the extracted pages; see Alligator & Bear Regulations page 66 of full guide.
Zone: Statewide
Black Bear
Still Hunt (No Dogs)
Tag required. Harvest must be reported by midnight on day of harvest.
Zone: Game Zone 1 - Private Lands
Black Bear
Still Hunt (No Dogs)
No Sunday hunting for bear on WMA. Tag required.
Zone: Game Zone 1 - WMA
Black Bear
Still Hunt (No Dogs)
Private land only in Greenville, Oconee, Pickens counties south of GZ1 and all of Anderson and Spartanburg. Season closes 24 hours after quota met.
Zone: Game Zone 2 - Private Lands
Black Bear
Still Hunt (No Dogs)
Tagging & Reporting required.
Zone: Wee Tee WMA, Williamsburg & Georgetown Counties
Black Bear
Dog Hunt
Tag required. Harvest must be reported by midnight on day of harvest.
Zone: Game Zone 1 - Private Lands
Black Bear
Still Hunt (No Dogs)
Tagging & reporting required. Horseback riding prohibited during all big game hunts including turkey.
Zone: Lewis Ocean Bay Heritage Preserve WMA, Horry County
Black Bear
Dog Hunt - WMA
Hogs also allowed during dog bear hunts. No Sunday hunting for bear on WMA.
Zone: Game Zone 1 - WMA
Black Bear
Still Hunt (No Dogs)
Tagging & Reporting required.
Zone: Little Pee Dee Heritage Preserve (HP) River Complex, Horry & Marion Counties
Black Bear
Still Hunt (No Dogs)
Tagging & reporting required.
Zone: Cartwheel Bay Heritage Preserve WMA, Horry County
Black Bear
Still Hunt (No Dogs)
Tagging & Reporting required.
Zone: Waccamaw River Heritage Preserve WMA, Horry County
Black Bear
Still Hunt (No Dogs)
On private land only bears may be hunted over unprocessed bait. Season closes 24 hours after quota met. On WMA, weapons limited to those allowed for current deer season.
Zone: Game Zone 4 - Florence, Georgetown, Horry, Marion, Williamsburg counties
Waterfowl
15 listed rowsDucks - Extended Falconry Season
Falconry
Falconry extended season for ducks, coots and mergansers. Also Dec. 1-11, 2026.
Zone: Statewide
Ducks - State Youth Day
Youth
Legal species: Ducks, mergansers, coots. Youth 17 and younger, accompanied by adult 21+. Youth 16-17 must possess Migratory Bird Permit and Federal Waterfowl Stamp.
Zone: Statewide
Canada Geese
General
Canada Geese multiple segments.
Zone: Statewide
Ducks (including Sea Ducks) and American Coots
General
No open season on Harlequin Ducks. Two segments: Nov. 21-28 and Dec. 12-Jan. 31. Non-toxic shot required.
Zone: Statewide
White-fronted Geese & Snow Geese
General
Multiple segments.
Zone: Statewide
Ducks - Extended Falconry Season
Falconry
Second segment of falconry extended season for ducks, coots and mergansers.
Zone: Statewide
Canada Geese
General
Zone: Statewide
Ducks (including Sea Ducks) and American Coots
General
Second segment. Non-toxic shot required. No open season on Harlequin Ducks.
Zone: Statewide
White-fronted Geese & Snow Geese
General
Zone: Statewide
Ducks/Geese - Federal Youth Days
Youth/Veteran
Federal Youth Days Feb. 6 and Feb. 13. Legal species: Ducks, geese, mergansers, coots, gallinules. Also Veteran/Active Duty Military days. Youth 17 and younger accompanied by adult 18+.
Zone: Statewide
Ducks/Geese - Federal Youth Days
Youth/Veteran
Federal Youth Day and Veteran/Active Duty Military Day. Legal species: Ducks, geese, mergansers, coots, gallinules.
Zone: Statewide
Canada Geese
Late Season
Late goose season.
Zone: Statewide
| Season | Dates | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Canada GeeseSeptember Season · StatewideSeptember Canada Goose season. | Closed | |
| Early Teal (Blue & Green Winged)General · StatewideShooting hours: Sunrise until Sunset. | Closed | |
| White-fronted Geese & Snow GeeseLate Season · Statewide | Upcoming |
Dove
Mourning Dove
General
Second segment of mourning dove season.
Zone: All Game Zones
Mourning Dove
General
Third segment of mourning dove season.
Zone: All Game Zones
Mourning Dove
General
Three segments: Sept. 5-Oct. 3, Nov. 13-28, Dec. 18-Jan. 31. Dates from migratory bird season chart.
Zone: All Game Zones
Quail
55 listed rowsBobwhite Quail
Dogs Only (Pre-season)
Dogs only, no guns during this period.
Zone: All Game Zones - Private Lands
Bobwhite Quail
Youth Day
Statewide youth day for quail. Youth age 17 & younger.
Zone: All Game Zones - Private Lands
Bobwhite Quail
Gun & Dogs
Guns and dogs allowed. WMA: Sept. 1-14 dogs only, Nov. 23-Mar. 1 guns & dogs.
Zone: All Game Zones - Private Lands
Northern Bobwhite Quail
General
Shooting hours end 30 minutes before official sunset. Quail hunters must pick up and return data cards at kiosk.
Zone: Oak Lea WMA, Clarendon County
Northern Bobwhite Quail
General
Shooting hours end 30 minutes prior to official sunset. Specific hunt days only.
Zone: Palachucola WMA, Hampton & Jasper Counties
Northern Bobwhite Quail
General
Shooting hours end 30 minutes prior to official sunset. Specific hunt days only.
Zone: Hamilton Ridge WMA, Hampton County
Northern Bobwhite Quail
General
Specific hunt days only.
Zone: Marsh WMA, Marion County
Northern Bobwhite Quail
General
Shooting hours end 30 minutes prior to official sunset. Specific hunt days only.
Zone: Webb WMA, Hampton County
Northern Bobwhite Quail
General
Shooting hours end 30 minutes prior to official sunset. Specific hunt days only.
Zone: Webb WMA, Hampton County
Northern Bobwhite Quail
General
Shooting hours end 30 minutes prior to official sunset. Specific hunt days only.
Zone: Hamilton Ridge WMA, Hampton County
Northern Bobwhite Quail
General
Shooting hours end 30 minutes before official sunset. Quail hunters must pick up and return data cards at kiosk.
Zone: Oak Lea WMA, Clarendon County
Northern Bobwhite Quail
General
Shooting hours end 30 minutes prior to official sunset. Specific hunt days only.
Zone: Palachucola WMA, Hampton & Jasper Counties
| Season | Dates | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Northern Bobwhite QuailLottery Hunt · Bobwhite Hills WMAHunters selected by drawing. | dates not listed | Closed |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailLottery Hunt · McBee WMA, Chesterfield CountyQuail hunts by lottery only. See page 90. | dates not listed | Closed |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Marsh WMA, Marion CountySpecific hunt days only. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Palachucola WMA, Hampton & Jasper CountiesShooting hours end 30 minutes prior to official sunset. Specific hunt days only. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Hamilton Ridge WMA, Hampton CountyShooting hours end 30 minutes prior to official sunset. Specific hunt days only. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Marsh WMA, Marion CountySpecific hunt days only. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Oak Lea WMA, Clarendon CountyShooting hours end 30 minutes before official sunset. Quail hunters must pick up and return data cards at kiosk. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Webb WMA, Hampton CountyShooting hours end 30 minutes prior to official sunset. Specific hunt days only. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Marsh WMA, Marion CountySpecific hunt days only. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Palachucola WMA, Hampton & Jasper CountiesShooting hours end 30 minutes prior to official sunset. Specific hunt days only. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Hamilton Ridge WMA, Hampton CountyShooting hours end 30 minutes prior to official sunset. Specific hunt days only. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Webb WMA, Hampton CountyShooting hours end 30 minutes prior to official sunset. Specific hunt days only. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Oak Lea WMA, Clarendon CountyShooting hours end 30 minutes before official sunset. Quail hunters must pick up and return data cards at kiosk. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Webb WMA, Hampton CountyShooting hours end 30 minutes prior to official sunset. Specific hunt days only. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Palachucola WMA, Hampton & Jasper CountiesShooting hours end 30 minutes prior to official sunset. Specific hunt days only. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Hamilton Ridge WMA, Hampton CountyShooting hours end 30 minutes prior to official sunset. Specific hunt days only. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Marsh WMA, Marion CountySpecific hunt days only. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Oak Lea WMA, Clarendon CountyShooting hours end 30 minutes before official sunset. Quail hunters must pick up and return data cards at kiosk. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Marsh WMA, Marion CountySpecific hunt days only. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Palachucola WMA, Hampton & Jasper CountiesShooting hours end 30 minutes prior to official sunset. Specific hunt days only. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Oak Lea WMA, Clarendon CountyShooting hours end 30 minutes before official sunset. Quail hunters must pick up and return data cards at kiosk. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Webb WMA, Hampton CountyShooting hours end 30 minutes prior to official sunset. Specific hunt days only. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Hamilton Ridge WMA, Hampton CountyShooting hours end 30 minutes prior to official sunset. Specific hunt days only. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Hamilton Ridge WMA, Hampton CountyShooting hours end 30 minutes prior to official sunset. Specific hunt days only. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Webb WMA, Hampton CountyShooting hours end 30 minutes prior to official sunset. Specific hunt days only. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Oak Lea WMA, Clarendon CountyShooting hours end 30 minutes before official sunset. Quail hunters must pick up and return data cards at kiosk. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Palachucola WMA, Hampton & Jasper CountiesShooting hours end 30 minutes prior to official sunset. Specific hunt days only. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Marsh WMA, Marion CountySpecific hunt days only. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Oak Lea WMA, Clarendon CountyShooting hours end 30 minutes before official sunset. Quail hunters must pick up and return data cards at kiosk. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Palachucola WMA, Hampton & Jasper CountiesShooting hours end 30 minutes prior to official sunset. Specific hunt days only. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Webb WMA, Hampton CountyShooting hours end 30 minutes prior to official sunset. Specific hunt days only. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Marsh WMA, Marion CountySpecific hunt days only. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Hamilton Ridge WMA, Hampton CountyShooting hours end 30 minutes prior to official sunset. Specific hunt days only. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Hamilton Ridge WMA, Hampton CountyShooting hours end 30 minutes prior to official sunset. Specific hunt days only. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Oak Lea WMA, Clarendon CountyShooting hours end 30 minutes before official sunset. Quail hunters must pick up and return data cards at kiosk. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Webb WMA, Hampton CountyShooting hours end 30 minutes prior to official sunset. Specific hunt days only. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Palachucola WMA, Hampton & Jasper CountiesShooting hours end 30 minutes prior to official sunset. Specific hunt days only. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Marsh WMA, Marion CountySpecific hunt days only. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Palachucola WMA, Hampton & Jasper CountiesShooting hours end 30 minutes prior to official sunset. Specific hunt days only. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Marsh WMA, Marion CountySpecific hunt days only. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Hamilton Ridge WMA, Hampton CountyShooting hours end 30 minutes prior to official sunset. Specific hunt days only. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Oak Lea WMA, Clarendon CountyShooting hours end 30 minutes before official sunset. Quail hunters must pick up and return data cards at kiosk. | Upcoming | |
| Northern Bobwhite QuailGeneral · Webb WMA, Hampton CountyShooting hours end 30 minutes prior to official sunset. Specific hunt days only. | Upcoming |
Grouse
Ruffed Grouse
General
Grouse season is Game Zone 1 only, both private and WMA lands.
Zone: Game Zone 1 Only
Rabbit
Cottontail Rabbit
Dogs Only (Pre-season)
Dogs only, no guns.
Zone: All Game Zones - Private Lands
Cottontail Rabbit
Gun & Dogs
WMA: Sept. 1-14 dogs only, Nov. 26-Mar. 1 guns & dogs. Rabbit boxes allowed on private land during gun season.
Zone: All Game Zones - Private Lands
Cottontail Rabbit
Youth Day
Statewide youth day for rabbit.
Zone: All Game Zones - Private Lands
Rabbit
Youth Hunt
Youth age 17 & younger.
Zone: Private Lands Only
Squirrel
Gray & Fox Squirrel
Gun & Dogs
WMA: Sept. 1-14 dogs only, Oct. 1-Mar. 1 guns & dogs.
Zone: All Game Zones - Private Lands
Gray & Fox Squirrel
Dogs Only (Pre-season)
Dogs only, no guns.
Zone: All Game Zones - Private Lands
Gray & Fox Squirrel
Youth Day
Statewide youth day for squirrel.
Zone: All Game Zones - Private Lands
Squirrel
Youth Hunt
Youth age 17 & younger.
Zone: Private Lands Only
Furbearer
72 listed rowsBeaver
General
Year-round on private land. WMA season Oct. 1-Mar. 1. Coyotes and beaver may be hunted during daylight hours year-round on private lands.
Zone: All Game Zones - Private Lands
Fox
Dogs Only
Dogs only, no guns. WMA: Sept. 2-Nov. 25 dogs only, night only.
Zone: All Game Zones - Private Lands
Raccoon & Opossum
Gun & Dogs
WMA: Mar. 16-31, July 1-Sept. 15 dogs only night only; Sept. 16-Mar. 15 guns & dogs night only. Check specific WMA for exclusions.
Zone: All Game Zones - Private Lands
Raccoon & Opossum
General
On Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset.
Zone: Webb WMA, Hampton County
Raccoon & Opossum
General
On Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset.
Zone: Palachucola WMA, Hampton & Jasper Counties
Raccoon & Opossum
General
On Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset.
Zone: Hamilton Ridge WMA, Hampton County
Raccoon & Opossum
General
On Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset.
Zone: Webb WMA, Hampton County
Raccoon & Opossum
General
On Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset.
Zone: Hamilton Ridge WMA, Hampton County
Raccoon & Opossum
General
On Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset.
Zone: Palachucola WMA, Hampton & Jasper Counties
Raccoon & Opossum
General
On Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset.
Zone: Webb WMA, Hampton County
Raccoon & Opossum
General
On Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset.
Zone: Palachucola WMA, Hampton & Jasper Counties
Raccoon & Opossum
General
On Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset.
Zone: Hamilton Ridge WMA, Hampton County
| Season | Dates | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Palachucola WMA, Hampton & Jasper CountiesOn Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset. | Upcoming | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Hamilton Ridge WMA, Hampton CountyOn Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset. | Upcoming | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Palachucola WMA, Hampton & Jasper CountiesOn Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset. | Upcoming | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Webb WMA, Hampton CountyOn Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset. | Upcoming | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Hamilton Ridge WMA, Hampton CountyOn Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset. | Upcoming | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Webb WMA, Hampton CountyOn Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset. | Upcoming | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Palachucola WMA, Hampton & Jasper CountiesOn Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset. | Upcoming | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Hamilton Ridge WMA, Hampton CountyOn Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset. | Upcoming | |
| FoxGun & Dogs · All Game Zones - Private LandsWMA: Nov. 26-Mar. 1 guns & dogs, night only. | Upcoming | |
| Other Furbearers (Bobcat, Otter, Mink, Muskrat, Skunk, Weasel)General · All Game Zones - Private & WMA LandsBobcat and Otter require CITES tags if commercially harvested. Commercial trapping season Dec. 1-Mar. 1. | Upcoming | |
| Commercial Fur TrappingCommercial Trapping · All Game ZonesCommercial Fur Harvest License required. $25 resident, $200 nonresident. Bobcat/Otter CITES tags required if sold. Annual harvest report due April 15. | Upcoming | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Palachucola WMA, Hampton & Jasper CountiesOn Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset. | Upcoming | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Webb WMA, Hampton CountyOn Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset. | Upcoming | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Hamilton Ridge WMA, Hampton CountyOn Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset. | Upcoming | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Webb WMA, Hampton CountyOn Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset. | Upcoming | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Hamilton Ridge WMA, Hampton CountyOn Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset. | Upcoming | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Palachucola WMA, Hampton & Jasper CountiesOn Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset. | Upcoming | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Palachucola WMA, Hampton & Jasper CountiesOn Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset. | Upcoming | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Webb WMA, Hampton CountyOn Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset. | Upcoming | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Hamilton Ridge WMA, Hampton CountyOn Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset. | Upcoming | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Webb WMA, Hampton CountyOn Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset. | Upcoming | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Hamilton Ridge WMA, Hampton CountyOn Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset. | Upcoming | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Palachucola WMA, Hampton & Jasper CountiesOn Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset. | Upcoming | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Hamilton Ridge WMA, Hampton County | Upcoming | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Palachucola WMA, Hampton & Jasper Counties | Upcoming | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Webb WMA, Hampton County | Upcoming | |
| FurbearersTrapping · StatewideTrapping and Commercial Fur Harvest License required ($25 resident/$200 nonresident). License has reporting requirements. Expires June 30, 2027. WMA Raccoon Dog Training Season expanded from 5.5 months to 9 months on most WMA lands per Regulation 123-40 changes. Full season dates not included in the extracted pages. | dates not listed | Closed |
| RaccoonYouth Day · All Game Zones - Private LandsStatewide youth day for raccoon. | Closed | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Edisto River WMA, Dorchester CountyRefer to chart on page 68. | dates not listed | Closed |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Santee Island WMA, Georgetown County | dates not listed | Closed |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Donnelley WMA, Colleton CountyRefer to chart on page 68. | dates not listed | Closed |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Waccamaw River Heritage Preserve WMA, Horry County | dates not listed | Closed |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Santee Cooper WMA, Orangeburg CountyRefer to chart on page 68. | dates not listed | Closed |
| Raccoon & OpossumDogs Only (Pre-season) · All Game Zones - Private LandsDogs only, no guns. | Closed | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Hamilton Ridge WMA, Hampton CountyOn Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset. | Closed | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Palachucola WMA, Hampton & Jasper CountiesOn Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset. | Closed | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Webb WMA, Hampton CountyOn Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset. | Closed | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Webb WMA, Hampton CountyOn Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset. | Closed | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Hamilton Ridge WMA, Hampton CountyOn Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset. | Closed | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Palachucola WMA, Hampton & Jasper CountiesOn Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset. | Closed | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Palachucola WMA, Hampton & Jasper CountiesOn Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset. | Closed | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Webb WMA, Hampton CountyOn Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset. | Closed | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Hamilton Ridge WMA, Hampton CountyOn Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset. | Closed | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Hamilton Ridge WMA, Hampton CountyOn Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset. | Closed | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Palachucola WMA, Hampton & Jasper CountiesOn Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset. | Closed | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Webb WMA, Hampton CountyOn Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset. | Closed | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Hamilton Ridge WMA, Hampton CountyOn Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset. | Closed | |
| Raccoon & OpossumGeneral · Palachucola WMA, Hampton & Jasper CountiesOn Saturdays prior to Dec. 15, hunters may not enter the WMA prior to 1 hour after official sunset. | Closed |
Showing 60 of 72 listed furbearer rows, open and upcoming seasons first. Full list at South Carolina DNR →
Small Game
41 listed rowsSmall Game including raccoon and opossum
General
No fox squirrel hunting. No small game hunting during scheduled deer hunts.
Zone: Bluefield WMA, Moultrie Hunt Unit, Berkeley County
Other Small Game
General
No fox squirrel hunting.
Zone: Palachucola WMA, Hampton & Jasper Counties
Other Small Game
General
No fox squirrel hunting.
Zone: Great Pee Dee Heritage Preserve WMA, Darlington County
Other Small Game
General
No fox squirrel hunting.
Zone: Little Pee Dee Heritage Preserve (HP) River Complex, Horry & Marion Counties
Other Small Game
General
Gates will open at 6:00 am. No fox squirrel hunting.
Zone: Donnelley WMA, Colleton County
Other Small Game
General
No fox squirrel hunting.
Zone: Woodbury WMA, Marion County
Other Small Game
General
No fox squirrel hunting. No fox hunting.
Zone: Wee Tee WMA, Williamsburg & Georgetown Counties
Other Small Game
General
No fox squirrel hunting.
Zone: Webb WMA, Hampton County
Other Small Game
General
No fox squirrel hunting. Dates: Nov. 26-29, Dec. 15-Mar. 1.
Zone: Hamilton Ridge WMA, Hampton County
Other Small Game
General
No fox squirrel hunting.
Zone: Edisto River WMA, Dorchester County
Other Small Game
General
No fox squirrel hunting.
Zone: Waccamaw River Heritage Preserve WMA, Horry County
Other Small Game
General
Zone: Santee Island WMA, Georgetown County
| Season | Dates | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Other Small GameGeneral · Marsh WMA, Marion CountyNo fox squirrel hunting. | Upcoming | |
| Other Small GameGeneral · Pee Dee Station Site WMA, Florence CountyNo fox squirrel hunting. | Upcoming | |
| Other Small GameGeneral · Hamilton Ridge WMA, Hampton CountyNo fox squirrel hunting. | Upcoming | |
| Other Small GameGeneral · Webb WMA, Hampton CountyNo fox squirrel hunting. | Upcoming | |
| Other Small GameGeneral · Palachucola WMA, Hampton & Jasper CountiesNo fox squirrel hunting. | Upcoming | |
| Other Small GameGeneral · Coosawhatchie WMA, Jasper CountyIncludes raccoons & opossum. | Upcoming | |
| Other Small Game including raccoon and opossumGeneral · McBee WMA, Chesterfield CountyNo fox squirrel hunting. | Upcoming | |
| Small GameGeneral · Lynchburg Savanna Heritage Preserve WMA, Lee CountySmall game only - no deer or turkey hunting. No fox squirrel hunting. | dates not listed | Closed |
| Small GameGeneral · Hickory Top WMA, Clarendon CountyNo fox squirrel hunting. | dates not listed | Closed |
| Small GameGeneral · Santee Cooper WMA, Orangeburg CountyNo fox squirrel hunting. | Upcoming | |
| Small GameGeneral · Manchester State Forest (MSF) WMA, Sumter County | Upcoming | |
| Small GameGeneral · Cartwheel Bay Heritage Preserve WMA, Horry CountyNo fox squirrel hunting. | Upcoming | |
| Small GameGeneral · Santee Dam WMA, Clarendon CountyNo fox squirrel hunting. | Upcoming | |
| Small GameGeneral · Bobwhite Hills WMANo fox squirrel hunting. | Upcoming | |
| Small Game including raccoon and opossumGeneral · Oak Lea WMA, Clarendon CountyNo fox squirrel hunting. No small game hunting during scheduled quail hunts. | dates not listed | Closed |
| Small Game including raccoon and opossumGeneral · Liberty Hill WMA, Kershaw CountyNo fox squirrel hunting. | dates not listed | Closed |
| Small Game including raccoon and opossumGeneral · Longleaf Pine Heritage Preserve WMA, Lee CountyNo fox squirrel hunting. | Upcoming | |
| Small Game including raccoon and opossumGeneral · Dungannon Heritage Preserve WMA, Charleston CountyNo fox squirrel hunting. | Upcoming | |
| Small Game including raccoon and opossumGeneral · Ditch Pond Heritage Preserve WMA, Aiken/Barnwell CountyNo fox squirrel hunting. | Upcoming | |
| Small Game including raccoon and opossumGeneral · Tillman Sand Ridge HP WMA, Jasper CountyNo fox squirrel hunting. | Upcoming | |
| Small Game including raccoon and opossumGeneral · Santee Coastal WMA, Charleston CountyNo fox squirrel hunting. | Upcoming | |
| Small Game including raccoon and opossumGeneral · Greenfield WMA, Moultrie Hunt UnitNo fox squirrel hunting. | Upcoming | |
| Small Game including raccoon and opossumGeneral · Lewis Ocean Bay Heritage Preserve WMA, Horry CountyNo fox squirrel hunting. | Upcoming | |
| Small Game including raccoon and opossumGeneral · Meyer Lake HP WMA, Jasper CountyNo fox squirrel hunting. | Upcoming | |
| Small Game including raccoon and opossumGeneral · Wateree River HP WMA, Richland CountyNo fox squirrel hunting. | Upcoming | |
| Small Game including raccoon and opossumGeneral · North Dike WMA, Moultrie Hunt UnitSandy Beach Waterfowl Area open for raccoon hunting Feb. 9-28. | Upcoming | |
| Small Game including raccoon and opossumGeneral · Porcher & Hall WMA except Cross Station Special Use Area, Moultrie Hunt UnitShotguns only. No fox squirrel hunting. | Upcoming | |
| Small Game including raccoon and opossumGeneral · Victoria Bluff HP WMA, Beaufort CountyNo fox squirrel hunting. Shotguns only. | Upcoming | |
| Small Game Raccoon, Opossum & FoxGeneral · Woodbury WMA, Marion County | dates not listed | Closed |
Big Game
34 listed rowsFeral Hog
With Dogs
See Reg. 2.16 on page 90.
Zone: Palachucola WMA, Hampton & Jasper Counties
Feral Hog
With Dogs
See WMA Reg. 2.16 on page 90.
Zone: Webb WMA, Hampton County
Feral Hog
Still Gun (No Dogs)
No Buckshot. Refer to Reg. 2.16 on page 90.
Zone: Francis Marion National Forest - All Hunt Units
Feral Hog
With Dogs
See Reg. 2.16 on page 90.
Zone: Hamilton Ridge WMA, Hampton County
Feral Hog
With Dogs
Refer to Reg. 2.16 on page 90.
Zone: Manchester State Forest (MSF) WMA, Sumter County
Feral Hog
Still Gun
Refer to Reg. 2.16 on page 90.
Zone: Great Pee Dee Heritage Preserve WMA, Darlington County
Feral Hog
Still Gun
Refer to Reg. 2.16 on page 90.
Zone: Marsh WMA, Marion County
Feral Hog
Still Gun
Refer to Reg. 2.16 on page 90.
Zone: Santee Coastal WMA, Charleston County
Feral Hog
Still Gun
Refer to Reg. 2.16 on page 90.
Zone: Waccamaw River Heritage Preserve WMA, Horry County
Feral Hog
Still Gun
Refer to Reg. 2.16 on page 90. Gate opens at 5:00 AM.
Zone: Donnelley WMA, Colleton County
Feral Hog
Still Gun
Refer to Reg. 2.16 on page 90.
Zone: Wee Tee WMA, Williamsburg & Georgetown Counties
Feral Hog
Still Gun
Refer to Reg. 2.16 on page 90.
Zone: Woodbury WMA, Marion County
| Season | Dates | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Feral HogWith Dogs · Waccamaw River Heritage Preserve WMA, Horry CountyRefer to Reg. 2.16 on page 90. | dates not listed | Closed |
| Feral HogWith Dogs · Woodbury WMA, Marion CountyRefer to Reg. 2.16 on page 90. Handguns only. | dates not listed | Closed |
| Feral HogWith Dogs · Wee Tee WMA, Williamsburg & Georgetown CountiesRefer to Reg. 2.16 on page 90. | dates not listed | Closed |
| Feral HogWith Dogs · Marsh WMA, Marion CountyRefer to Reg. 2.16 on page 90. Handguns only. | dates not listed | Closed |
| Feral HogWith Dogs · Little Pee Dee Heritage Preserve (HP) River Complex, Horry & Marion CountiesRefer to Reg. 2.16 on page 90. | dates not listed | Closed |
| Feral HogStill Gun · Hamilton Ridge WMA, Hampton CountySee Reg. 2.16 on page 90. | Closed | |
| Feral HogStill Gun · Little Pee Dee Heritage Preserve (HP) River Complex, Horry & Marion CountiesRefer to Reg. 2.16 on page 90. | Upcoming | |
| Feral HogWith Dogs · Samworth WMA, Georgetown County (impoundments only)Refer to Reg 2.16 on page 90. Impoundments only. | Upcoming | |
| Feral HogStill Gun · Manchester State Forest (MSF) WMA, Sumter CountyRefer to Reg. 2.16 on page 90. | Upcoming | |
| Feral HogWith Dogs · Hickory Top WMA, Clarendon CountyRefer to Reg. 2.16 on page 90. | Upcoming | |
| Feral HogWith Dogs · Santee Dam WMA, Clarendon CountyRefer to Reg. 2.16 on page 90. | Upcoming | |
| Feral HogWith Dogs · Santee Delta WMA, Georgetown CountyRefer to Reg. 2.16 on page 90. | Upcoming | |
| Feral HogWith Dogs · Francis Marion National Forest - All Hunt UnitsHog hunts with dogs. Dates vary: Mar. 15-20 and May 17-22. Refer to Reg. 2.16 on page 90. | Upcoming | |
| Feral HogWith Dogs · Little Pee Dee Heritage Preserve (HP) River Complex, Horry & Marion CountiesRefer to Reg. 2.16 on page 90. Dates vary: Mar. 19-26 and July 20-Aug. 15. | Upcoming | |
| Feral HogWith Dogs · Donnelley WMA, Colleton CountyRefer to Reg. 2.16 on page 90. Gate opens at 5:00 AM. | Upcoming | |
| Feral HogWith Dogs · Santee Coastal WMA, Charleston CountyRefer to Reg. 2.16 on page 90. | Upcoming | |
| Feral HogWith Dogs · Marsh WMA, Marion CountyRefer to Reg. 2.16 on page 90. Handguns only. Dates vary: Mar. 19-26 and July 20-Aug. 15. | Upcoming | |
| Feral HogWith Dogs · Great Pee Dee Heritage Preserve WMA, Darlington CountyRefer to Reg. 2.16 on page 90. | Upcoming | |
| Feral HogWith Dogs · Waccamaw River Heritage Preserve WMA, Horry CountyRefer to Reg. 2.16 on page 90. Dates vary: Mar. 19-26 and July 20-Aug. 15. | Upcoming | |
| Feral HogWith Dogs · Wee Tee WMA, Williamsburg & Georgetown CountiesRefer to Reg. 2.16 on page 90. Dates vary: Mar. 19-26 and July 20-Aug. 15. | Upcoming | |
| Feral HogWith Dogs · Woodbury WMA, Marion CountyRefer to Reg. 2.16 on page 90. Handguns only. Dates vary: Mar. 19-26 and July 20-Aug. 15. | Upcoming | |
| Feral HogWith Dogs · Francis Marion National Forest - All Hunt UnitsHog hunts with dogs. Refer to Reg. 2.16 on page 90. | Upcoming |
Migratory Birds
Crow
General
WMA season Nov. 2-Mar. 1. Electronic calls permitted statewide on private and WMA land.
Zone: All Game Zones - Private Lands
Marsh Hens/Rails, Common Moorhens & Purple Gallinules
General
Second segment of rail/marsh hen season.
Zone: Statewide
Common Snipe
General
Zone: Statewide
Woodcock
General
Zone: Statewide
Brant
General
Zone: Statewide
Marsh Hens/Rails, Common Moorhens & Purple Gallinules
General
Two segments: Sept. 10-15 and Sept. 26-Nov. 28.
Zone: Statewide
Migratory Birds (general)
General
dates not listed
Exact dates not listed in the current data.
Migratory Bird Permit (HIP) required for hunters age 16 and older. Hunters 64+ with lifetime/Senior/Gratis license not required to obtain permit. Full season dates not included in the extracted pages; see Migratory Birds pages 72-87 of full guide.
Zone: Statewide
Migratory Waterfowl (ducks, geese, brants)
General
dates not listed
Exact dates not listed in the current data.
Requires state hunting license, Migratory Bird Permit (HIP), Migratory Waterfowl Permit ($15.50), and Federal Duck Stamp ($30). Full season dates not included in the extracted pages; see Migratory Birds pages 72-87 of full guide.
Zone: Statewide
Coyote
Coyote
General (Daylight)
No closed season. Use of bait and electronic calls legal on private lands. Night hunting allowed on registered property. Coyotes may be hunted with or without bait. Commercial trapping Dec. 1-Mar. 1. Noncommercial trapping Dec. 1-Mar. 1.
Zone: All Game Zones - Private Lands
Other
59 listed rowsBlueline Tilefish
Closed Season - Federal Waters
Closed Sept. 1, 2026 - Apr. 30, 2027 in federal waters. 2 per person per day in federal waters when open, 3 per person per day in state waters. Included in the 3 grouper aggregate daily bag limit.
Zone: Federal Waters
Clams
Open Season
Typically closed May 16 - Sept. 30; may be shortened or extended by SCDNR. Call 843-953-9300 for season dates. Size limit 1-inch minimum thickness. A person may recreationally harvest shellfish no more than 2 days per 7 day period.
Zone: South Carolina Saltwater
Feral Hogs
General
No closed season. Hunting license required. Bait and electronic calls legal on private lands. Night hunting allowed on registered property. Trapping year-round without license on private lands. Cannot transport live hogs.
Zone: All Game Zones - Private Lands
Gag & Black Grouper
Closed Season - Federal Waters
Gag closed Aug. 2, 2026 - Apr. 30, 2027 in federal waters. Black Grouper closed Jan. 1 - Apr. 30, 2027 in federal waters. Maximum of 1 gag or black grouper (but not both) per person/day. Two fish vessel limit in federal waters. 24-inch TL. Bag limit for captain and mates on for-hire trip is zero.
Zone: Federal Waters (Gag: Aug. 2, 2026 - Apr. 30, 2027; Black: Jan. 1 - Apr. 30, 2027)
Gill Net (Nongame Fish)
Gill Net Season for Nongame Fish
Season for taking nongame fish (other than American shad and herring) in freshwaters with a gill net is from Nov. 1 to Mar. 1, on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays only.
Zone: Freshwaters of South Carolina (where authorized)
Golden Tilefish
Open Season
Closed season not explicitly listed but open Mar. 21 - Dec. 31, 2026. Included in 3 grouper aggregate bag limit.
Zone: Federal Waters
Oysters
Open 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 no more than 2 days per 7 day period.
Zone: South Carolina Saltwater
Shrimp
Shrimp Baiting
2026 Shrimp baiting season Sept. 11 (Noon) - Nov. 9 (Noon). Participants must have a shrimp baiting license. No more than 10 poles per license per day.
Zone: South Carolina Saltwater
Shrimp (without bait)
Open Season
Closed Dec. 16 - Apr. 30. 12 dozen dead or live shrimp allowed per boat during closed season.
Zone: South Carolina Saltwater
Snowy Grouper
Closed Season - Federal Waters
Closed June 7, 2026 - Apr. 30, 2027 in federal waters. Included in the 3 grouper aggregate daily bag limit with one fish vessel limit.
Zone: Federal Waters
Striped Bass / Hybrid Bass
Open Season - Saluda River Middle Reach
Oct. 1 - May 31: 21 inches, 5 fish. June 1 - Sept. 30: any length, unlawful to take, attempt to take, or possess more than 5.
Zone: Saluda River (Middle Reach) - All waters from backwaters of Lake Murray at SC Hwy 395 upstream to Lake Greenwood Dam
Striped Bass / Hybrid Bass
Open Season - Coastal Rivers (Ashepoo, Ashley, Black, Combahee, Edisto, etc.)
Oct. 1 - June 15: 26 inches min, 3 fish. June 16 - Sept. 30 closed.
Zone: Ashepoo River; Ashley River; Back River (Jasper and Berkeley Counties); Black River; Black Mingo Creek; Bull Creek and Little Bull Creek; Combahee River; Cooper River system; Coosawhatchie River; Cuc…
| Season | Dates | Status |
|---|---|---|
| AlligatorGeneral · StatewideNonresident alligator hunting fee $200. Must possess alligator harvest tag and permit or accompany permit holder. Full season dates not included in the extracted pages; see Alligator & Bear Regulations page 66 of full guide. | dates not listed | Closed |
| American Shad / Herring (Skimbow Net)Open Season - Skimbow Net · Freshwaters of South CarolinaAmerican shad and herring may be harvested by skimbow net from February through April. Skimbow net may only be used from a boat and only for recreational fishing. | Upcoming | |
| CobiaClosed Season - State Waters South of 032 31.0 N · State waters south of 032 degrees 31.0' N latitude (Jeremy Inlet, Edisto Island)Closed May 1 to May 31 in state waters south of 032 degrees 31.0' N latitude. Outside closure: 1 per person per day, no more than 3 per boat per day in state waters south of that line; 1 per person per day no more than 6 per boat per day in federal waters and state waters north of that line. Size limit 36-inch FL. | Closed | |
| Coney, Graysby, Red Hind & Rock HindClosed Season - Federal Waters · Federal WatersClosed Jan. 1 - Apr. 30 in federal waters. Included in the 3 grouper aggregate daily bag limit. | Upcoming | |
| Greater AmberjackClosed Season - Federal Waters · Federal WatersClosed April 1-30 in federal waters. 1 per person per day, 28-inch FL when open. | Closed | |
| Lake Edwin B. Johnson FishingClosed Season · Lake Edwin B. Johnson (Spartanburg County)Closed to Boating and Fishing until July 1, 2027. | through Jul 1, 2027 | Closed |
| Red DrumGigging Closed Season · South Carolina SaltwaterRed Drum may not be harvested by gig Dec. 1 - Feb. 28. Open season by rod & reel: 1 per person per day (state waters), not to exceed 2 per boat per day. 18-inch to 25-inch TL. Possession prohibited in federal waters. | Upcoming | |
| Red GrouperClosed Season - Federal Waters · Federal WatersRed Grouper closed Jan. 1 - May 31 in federal waters. Included in the 3 grouper aggregate daily bag limit. 20-inch TL. | Upcoming | |
| Red PorgyClosed Season - Federal Waters · Federal WatersClosed Jan. 1 - April 30 and July 1 - Dec. 31 in federal waters. 1 per person per day when open. 14-inch TL. | Upcoming | |
| Scamp & Yellowmouth GroupersClosed Season - Federal Waters · Federal WatersClosed Jan. 1 - Apr. 30 in federal waters. Maximum of 1 scamp or yellowmouth grouper (but not both) per person/day in federal waters. In state waters, the bag limit is 3. 20-inch TL. | Upcoming | |
| Spotted SeatroutGigging Closed Season · South Carolina SaltwaterSpotted Seatrout may not be harvested by gig Dec. 1 - Feb. 28. Open season: 10 per person per day, 14-inch TL, by rod & reel and gig. | Upcoming | |
| Star Fort Pond FishingOpen Season · Star Fort Pond (Greenwood County)Open Wed., Fri., & Sat., April 1 - Nov. 1. Hours: 1/2 hour before official sunrise to 1/2 hour after official sunset. Paddle or electric trolling motor only. | Closed | |
| Striped / Hybrid / White BassAll Seasons - Savannah River (Lower) · Savannah River (Lower) - confluence with Atlantic Ocean upstream to Lake J. Strom Thurmond Dam27 inches min. Bag limit: 2. | dates not listed | Closed |
| Striped Bass (Saltwater)Closed Season · South Carolina Saltwater (except lower reach of Savannah River)Possession prohibited June 16 - Sept. 30. Open Oct. 1 - June 15: 3 fish per person per day, 26-inch TL (except lower reach Savannah River: 2 per person per day year round, 27-inch TL). May only be taken by rod & reel. | Upcoming | |
| Striped Bass / Hybrid BassAll Seasons - Lake Hartwell Tailwater · Lake Hartwell TailwaterOnly 1 fish over 34 inches. Bag limit: 2. | dates not listed | Closed |
| Striped Bass / Hybrid BassAll Seasons - Lake Russell · Lake RussellOnly 1 fish larger than 34 inches. Bag limit: 2. | dates not listed | Closed |
| Striped Bass / Hybrid BassAll Seasons - Lake Hartwell & Lake Thurmond · Lake Hartwell & Lake ThurmondOnly 3 fish over 26 inches. Bag limit: 10. | dates not listed | Closed |
| Striped Bass / Hybrid BassOpen Season - Santee River System (includes Saluda River Lower Reach) · Santee River system; includes Saluda River (Lower Reach)Oct. 1 - June 15: striped bass between 23 and 25 inches may be harvested except that one fish may be greater than 26 inches. June 16 - Sept. 30 closed except for Lower Reach Saluda River where catch and release is allowed with hook gap restrictions. | Open | |
| Striped Bass / Hybrid BassOpen Season - Lake Murray · Lake MurrayOct. 1 - May 31: 21 inches min, 5 fish. June 1 - Sept. 30: any length, unlawful to take, attempt to take, or possess more than 5. | Open | |
| Striped Bass / Hybrid BassClosed Season - Coastal Rivers · Ashepoo River; Ashley River; Back River; Black River; Black Mingo Creek; Bull Creek; Combahee River; Cooper River system; Coosawhatchie River; Cuckholds Creek; Edisto River; Horseshoe Creek; ICW (Hor…Closed June 16 - Sept. 30 in these water bodies. | Upcoming | |
| TrotlinesTrotline Seasonal Restriction · Freshwaters of South CarolinaFrom Oct. 2 to Mar. 31, trotlines may be left in the water 24 hours per day at any depth. From Apr. 1 to Oct. 1, no trotline is permitted in any waters from one hour after official sunrise to one hour before official sunset, unless the trotline is sunk to the bottom or a minimum depth of four feet below the surface. | Open | |
| Trout (Brook, Brown, Rainbow)Open Season - South Saluda River (SCDNR WMA areas) · South Saluda River (adjacent to SCDNR WMA areas)Open 1 hour before sunrise to 1 hour after sunset. No tackle restrictions. | dates not listed | Closed |
| Trout (Brook, Brown, Rainbow)Open Season - Whitewater River · Whitewater River (Oconee County)Unlawful to use or possess any lure or bait except single hook artificial lures. | dates not listed | Closed |
| Trout (Brook, Brown, Rainbow)Catch and Release Only - Lower Saluda River (I-20 bridge to Stacey's Ledge) · Lower Saluda River from the east bound I-20 bridge downstream to Stacey's LedgeCatch and Release Only. No tackle restrictions specified. | dates not listed | Closed |
| Trout (Brook, Brown, Rainbow)Open Season - Matthews Creek (above Asbury Drive Bridge) · Matthews Creek (from Asbury Drive Bridge at Asbury Methodist Camp upstream including all tributaries and headwaters)Unlawful to use or possess any lure or bait except single hook artificial lures. | dates not listed | Closed |
| Trout (Brook, Brown, Rainbow)Catch and Release Only - Middle Saluda (Hugh Smith Road Bridge to Jones Gap footbridge) · Middle Saluda (from Hugh Smith Road Bridge upstream to the foot-bridge at Jones Gap State Park)Open daily from 1 hour before sunrise to 1 hour after sunset. Catch and Release only. Unlawful to use or possess any lure or bait except artificial lures. | dates not listed | Closed |
| Trout (Brook, Brown, Rainbow)Open Season - Matthews Creek (below Asbury Drive Bridge) · Matthews Creek (downstream from Asbury Drive Bridge to confluence with South Saluda River)No tackle restrictions. | dates not listed | Closed |
| Trout (Brook, Brown, Rainbow)Open Season - Eastatoe Creek Heritage Preserve portion · Eastatoe Creek (portion on Eastatoe Creek Heritage Preserve)Unlawful to use or possess any lure or bait except artificial lures. Bag limit: 5. | dates not listed | Closed |
| Trout (Brook, Brown, Rainbow)Open Season - Middle Saluda (foot bridge to US Hwy 176) · Middle Saluda (from foot bridge at Jones Gap State Park Office upstream to US Hwy 176 in Greenville County)Unlawful to use or possess any lure or bait except single hook artificial lures. | dates not listed | Closed |
| Trout (Brook, Brown, Rainbow)Open Season - Lower Saluda River · Lower Saluda River (confluence with Broad River upstream to Lake Murray Dam)Only 1 fish may be more than 16 inches. No tackle restrictions. | dates not listed | Closed |
| Trout (Brook, Brown, Rainbow)Open Season - Lake Jocassee · Lake JocasseeOct. 1 - May 31: 15 inches, but only 1 fish more than 20 inches, bag limit 3. Jun. 1 - Sept. 30: Any length, unlawful to take, attempt to take, or possess more than 3. Unlawful to use or possess corn, cheese, fish eggs or imitations of them. | Open | |
| Trout (Brook, Brown, Rainbow)Catch and Release Only - Chattooga River · Chattooga River (Hwy 28 to Reed Creek)Nov. 1 - May 14: Catch and Release only. Unlawful to use or possess any lure or bait except single hook artificial lures. May 15 - Oct. 31: 5 fish. | Open | |
| Trout (Brook, Brown, Rainbow)Catch and Release Only - Eastatoe Creek (Lake Keowee to Roy Jones Road) · Eastatoe Creek (Lake Keowee to Roy Jones Road)Nov. 1 - May 14: Catch and Release only. Unlawful to use or possess any lure or bait except single hook artificial lures. May 15 - Oct. 31: 5 fish. | Open | |
| Trout (Brook, Brown, Rainbow)Catch and Release Only - Cheohee Creek (Piedmont Forestry Center portion) · Cheohee Creek (portion through Piedmont Forestry Center) - Open Mon, Wed, Sat or as postedNov. 1 - May 14: Catch and Release only. Unlawful to use or possess any lure or bait except single hook artificial lures. May 15 - Oct. 31: 5 fish. | Open | |
| Trout (Brook, Brown, Rainbow)Catch and Release Only - Corbin Creek · Corbin Creek (from confluence with Howard Creek upstream to SC Hwy 130)Nov. 1 - May 14: Catch and Release only. Unlawful to use or possess any lure or bait except single hook artificial lures. May 15 - Oct. 31: 5 fish. | Open | |
| Trout (Brook, Brown, Rainbow)Catch and Release Only - Devils Fork Creek · Devils Fork CreekNov. 1 - May 14: Catch and Release only. Unlawful to use or possess any lure or bait except single hook artificial lures. May 15 - Oct. 31: 5 fish. | Open | |
| Trout (Brook, Brown, Rainbow)Catch and Release Only - Howard Creek · Howard Creek (from confluence with Corbin Creek upstream to confluence with Limberpole Creek)Nov. 1 - May 14: Catch and Release only. Unlawful to use or possess any lure or bait except single hook artificial lures. May 15 - Oct. 31: 5 fish. | Open | |
| Trout (Brook, Brown, Rainbow)Catch and Release Only - Chauga River · Chauga River (SC Hwy 290 [Cassidy Bridge Road] upstream to Bone Camp Creek)Nov. 1 - May 14: Catch and Release only. Unlawful to use or possess any lure or bait except single hook artificial lures. May 15 - Oct. 31: 5 fish, no tackle restrictions. | Open | |
| Trout (Brook, Brown, Rainbow)Open Season - Chattooga River · Chattooga River (Hwy 28 to Reed Creek)May 15 - Oct. 31: 5 fish, no bait/tackle restrictions. | Upcoming | |
| Trout (Brook, Brown, Rainbow)Open Season - Eastatoe Creek (Lake Keowee to Roy Jones Road) · Eastatoe Creek (Lake Keowee to Roy Jones Road)May 15 - Oct. 31: 5 fish, no bait/tackle restrictions. | Upcoming | |
| Trout (Brook, Brown, Rainbow)Open Season - Corbin Creek · Corbin Creek (from confluence with Howard Creek upstream to SC Hwy 130)May 15 - Oct. 31: 5 fish, no bait/tackle restrictions. | Upcoming | |
| Trout (Brook, Brown, Rainbow)Open Season - Devils Fork Creek · Devils Fork CreekMay 15 - Oct. 31: 5 fish, no bait/tackle restrictions. | Upcoming | |
| Trout (Brook, Brown, Rainbow)Open Season - Cheohee Creek (Piedmont Forestry Center portion) · Cheohee Creek (portion through Piedmont Forestry Center) - Open Mon, Wed, Sat or as postedMay 15 - Oct. 31: 5 fish, no bait/tackle restrictions. | Upcoming | |
| Trout (Brook, Brown, Rainbow)Open Season - Chauga River · Chauga River (SC Hwy 290 [Cassidy Bridge Road] upstream to Bone Camp Creek)May 15 - Oct. 31: 5 fish, no bait/tackle restrictions. | Upcoming | |
| Trout (Brook, Brown, Rainbow)Open Season - Howard Creek · Howard Creek (from confluence with Corbin Creek upstream to confluence with Limberpole Creek)May 15 - Oct. 31: 5 fish, no bait/tackle restrictions. | Upcoming | |
| WreckfishClosed Season - Federal Waters · Federal WatersClosed Jan. 1 - June 30 and Sept. 1 - Dec. 31 in federal waters. 1 per vessel per day when open. | Upcoming | |
| Yellowfin GrouperClosed Season - Federal Waters · Federal WatersClosed Jan. 1 - Apr. 30 in federal waters. Included in the 3 grouper aggregate daily bag limit. | Upcoming |
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South Carolina Hunting Season FAQ
When does deer season start in South Carolina?
Archery deer season opens between August 15, 2026 and October 17, 2026 depending on zone; the last zone closes January 1, 2027. Firearm deer season opens between September 1, 2026 and October 11, 2026 depending on zone; the last zone closes January 1, 2027. Dates can differ by zone and permit; confirm with South Carolina DNR.
When is South Carolina's firearm deer season?
Firearm deer season opens between September 1, 2026 and October 11, 2026 depending on zone; the last zone closes January 1, 2027. Check zone and permit details with South Carolina DNR before hunting.
When does spring turkey open in South Carolina?
Spring turkey season runs Apr 3-May 3, 2027 (Statewide Private Lands). Youth and other special hunts, where listed, open earlier.
Do I need a license to hunt in South Carolina?
Yes. Hunters generally need the appropriate South Carolina hunting license, and some seasons may require tags, permits, stamps, or zone-specific authorizations. Confirm final requirements with South Carolina DNR.