reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 11 - Protection Of Game › Section 50-11-2600. Definitions.

For purposes of this article:
(1) "Fox and coyote hunting enclosure" and "enclosure" mean a structure that restricts the free movement of foxes and coyotes into or out of an area.
(2) "Enclosure operator" means the owner, manager, or operator of an enclosure. Only one operator is allowed for each enclosure in addition to the owner.
(3) "Owner" means the person that owns the property enclosed, or one that leases the property with an agreement with the enclosed lands owner to retain possession of the improvements to the property.
HISTORY: 2003 Act No. 23, Section 1.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 11 - Protection Of Game › Section 50-11-2605. Coyote and fox purchase and release.

It is unlawful to buy, sell, transfer, possess, or release a live coyote, coyote-hybrid, or fox within the State except as permitted by the department pursuant to this title.
HISTORY: 2003 Act No. 23, Section 1.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 11 - Protection Of Game › Section 50-11-2610. Enclosure permits.

(A) The department is authorized to issue fox and coyote hunting enclosure permits to an enclosure operator pursuant to the terms and provisions of this article. There is no charge for the permit. For purposes of this article a permit year is from May sixteenth of one year to May fifteenth of the next year.
(B) An operating permit is valid only for one enclosure; additional permits are required to operate more than one enclosure. It is unlawful for a person to submit false information to the department when making application for a permit provided for in this article. Intentional misrepresentation of information submitted on the application results in the denial or revocation of the enclosure permit.
(C) It is unlawful to operate or hunt fox or coyote within a fox or coyote hunting enclosure that is not permitted pursuant to the provisions of this article.
HISTORY: 2003 Act No. 23, Section 1; 2005 Act No. 82, Section 10.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 11 - Protection Of Game › Section 50-11-2620. Obtaining foxes and coyotes to stock enclosures.

(A) Foxes and coyotes for stocking hunting enclosures may be obtained only from a South Carolina licensed trapper and must be lawfully taken within this State during the regular trapping season.
(B) Foxes and coyotes for stocking hunting enclosures may be obtained only by the owner or enclosure operator of a permitted enclosure. Foxes and coyotes may be released only into an enclosure that is permitted by this title by the owner or enclosure operator of the permitted enclosure.
(C) The owner and enclosure operator shall record all fox and coyote purchases, transfers, and releases into the hunting enclosures daily on a form provided by the department. These forms must be retained and made available for reasonable inquiry by department employees. No later than April fifteenth the owner and enclosure operator shall furnish the department all of the daily register forms for the permit period. It is unlawful for a person to fail to report to the department as required by this section.
HISTORY: 2003 Act No. 23, Section 1.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 11 - Protection Of Game › Section 50-11-2630. Sales of live foxes or coyotes by trappers; records of sales.

(A) A commercial fur license permits a trapper to possess, sell, barter, or exchange live foxes or coyotes taken by the trapper. The possession, sale, barter, or exchange is lawful only during the trapping season and for thirty days following the closing date of the trapping season.
(B) Live foxes or coyotes may be sold or transferred only to an owner or enclosure operator of a permitted enclosure by the trapper who took the animal.
(C) A trapper shall maintain accurate records on a daily basis of all sales, purchases, transfers, or exchanges on the furbearer harvest record forms provided by the department. These forms must be retained and made available for reasonable inquiry by department employees. A trapper shall furnish the department all of the daily forms and the fur harvest report for the previous year no later than April fifteenth. It is unlawful for a person to fail to report to the department as required by this section.
HISTORY: 2003 Act No. 23, Section 1.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 11 - Protection Of Game › Section 50-11-2640. Importing foxes and coyotes.

(A) It is unlawful to bring, import, or cause to have imported a live coyote or fox into this State, except those brought into the State and kept in captivity by permit from the department for exhibition purposes. It is unlawful to release a coyote in this State except as authorized by this title.
(B) A person who violates a provision of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not less than one thousand dollars nor more than five thousand dollars or imprisoned not more than one year. A conviction for a second offense occurring within five years of a first offense conviction is punishable by a fine of five thousand dollars or imprisonment for two years. For a second offense conviction within five years of the date of a first conviction, the enclosure and associated property is ineligible permanently for an enclosure permit.
(C) A commercial fur license held by a person convicted of a second offense within five years of a first conviction must be suspended for five years.
(D) Each animal taken or possessed in violation of this section constitutes a separate offense.
HISTORY: 2003 Act No. 23, Section 1; 2012 Act No. 257, Section 10, eff June 18, 2012.
Effect of Amendment
The 2012 amendment added subsection (D).
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 11 - Protection Of Game › Section 50-11-2650. Penalties for violation of article.

Except as otherwise provided, a person who violates a provision of this article is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be:
(1) for a first offense, fined not less than fifty dollars nor more than five hundred dollars or imprisoned not more than thirty days;
(2) for a second offense within two years of a conviction for the first offense, fined five hundred dollars or imprisoned not more than thirty days; and
(3) for a third or subsequent offense within two years of a conviction for the second offense, fined not less than one thousand dollars nor more than five thousand dollars or imprisoned for not more than six months.
HISTORY: 2003 Act No. 23, Section 1.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 12 - Interstate Wildlife Violator Compact › Section 50-12-10. Short title.

This chapter may be cited as the "Interstate Wildlife Violator Compact".
HISTORY: 2011 Act No. 12, Section 1, eff April 12, 2012.
Editor's Note
2011 Act No. 12, Sections 2 and 3, provide as follows:
"SECTION 2. The Department of Natural Resources is authorized to take all actions necessary to prepare for the implementation of this act including, but not limited to, the promulgation of regulations.
"SECTION 3. This act takes effect one year after approval by the Governor, except Section 2 takes effect upon approval by the Governor."
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 12 - Interstate Wildlife Violator Compact › Section 50-12-30. Appointment of Compact Administrator; implementation; regulations; amendments.

(A) The Director of the Department of Natural Resources shall appoint the Compact Administrator for South Carolina. The Compact Administrator shall serve at the pleasure of the Director of the Department of Natural Resources.
(B) The Department of Natural Resources must deny, suspend, or revoke the license, privilege, or right of any person to hunt, fish, trap, possess, or transport wildlife in this State to the extent that the license, privilege, or right has been denied, suspended, or revoked by another compact member under the provisions of this chapter.
(C) The Department of Natural Resources shall promulgate regulations necessary to carry out the purposes of this chapter.
(D) Any proposed amendment to the compact must be submitted to the General Assembly as an amendment to this act. In order to be endorsed by the State of South Carolina as provided by subsection (B) of Article IX of the compact, a proposed amendment to the compact must be enacted into law.
HISTORY: 2011 Act No. 12, Section 1, eff April 12, 2012.
Editor's Note
2011 Act No. 12, Sections 2 and 3, provide as follows:
"SECTION 2. The Department of Natural Resources is authorized to take all actions necessary to prepare for the implementation of this act including, but not limited to, the promulgation of regulations.
"SECTION 3. This act takes effect one year after approval by the Governor, except Section 2 takes effect upon approval by the Governor."
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-20. Scope of chapter.

This chapter governs the freshwaters of this State.
HISTORY: 2012 Act No. 113, Section 1, eff July 1, 2012.
Editor's Note
Prior Laws: Former Section 15-13-20, was entitled "Lawful methods of catching fish in certain lakes and Boyd's Mill Pond in Game Zone No. 2" and was derived from 1962 Code Section 28-572; 1952 Code Section 28-572; 1942 Code Section 1790-5; 1941 (42) 113; 1949 (46) 573; 1950 (46) 2037, 2345; 1952 (47) 2179; 1955 (49) 186; 1993 Act No. 181, Section 1263; repealed by 2008 Act No. 286, Section 11.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-25. Omitted by 2012 Act No. 113, Section 1, eff July 1, 2012.

Editor's Note
Former Section 50-13-25 was entitled "Catch and size limits for bass and other fish in Slade Lake; fishing season; equipment and other restrictions; penalties" and was derived from 2000 Act No. 244, Section 1; 2004 Act No. 178, Section 1.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-30. Penalties for violation of chapter.

Unless otherwise provided, a person convicted of a violation of this chapter is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not less than twenty-five dollars nor more than five hundred dollars or imprisoned for up to thirty days, or both. The magistrates court retains jurisdiction of offenses in this chapter.
HISTORY: 2012 Act No. 113, Section 1, eff July 1, 2012.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-40. Consent to inspection of creels.

Fishing in the freshwaters constitutes consent to inspection of creels at any time by a law enforcement officer.
HISTORY: 1962 Code Section 28-594.2; 1961 (52) 136; 1993 Act No. 181, Section 1263; 1976 Code Section 50-13-260; 2012 Act No. 113, Section 1, eff July 1, 2012.
Effect of Amendment
The 2012 amendment renumbered and rewrote this section.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-50. Unlawful use or possession of fishing devices or gear designed to take fish.

(A) The possession or use on the freshwaters of this State of any device or gear designed or used to take fish not authorized by this chapter is unlawful.
(B) Taking species not authorized by this chapter is unlawful.
(C) Taking by any method not authorized by this chapter is unlawful.
(D) It is unlawful to leave a game fishing device unattended. A game fishing device left unattended is contraband.
(E) It is unlawful to use, place, set, or fish a device so as to constitute a hazard to boating or public safety.
(F) It is unlawful to anchor a seine and leave it unattended.
HISTORY: 2012 Act No. 113, Section 1, eff July 1, 2012.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-60. Unlawful possession of fish; penalties.

(A) It is unlawful for a person to possess more than the legal limit of fish in any one day on the freshwaters of this State.
(B) It is unlawful to possess any fish not of legal size.
(C) Except as otherwise provided, it is unlawful to possess any game fish without head and tail fin intact and, where a length limit is imposed on any species, it is unlawful to possess that species without head and tail fin intact.
(D) A person violating the provisions of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not less than fifty dollars nor more than five hundred dollars or imprisoned for up to thirty days, or both. Each fish illegally possessed is a separate offense.
HISTORY: 2012 Act No. 113, Section 1, eff July 1, 2012; 2013 Act No. 6, Section 2, eff March 22, 2013.
Editor's Note
Prior Laws: Former Section 50-13-60 was entitled "Department to declare closed season in streams on recommendation of county legislative delegations" and was derived from 1962 Code Section 28-577; 1952 Code Section 28-577; 1942 Code Section 1769-1; 1932 Code Section 1807; 1931 (37) 340; 1952 (47) 2179; 1955 (49) 463; 1993 Act No. 181, Section 1263.
Effect of Amendment
The 2013 amendment, in subsection (C), substituted "Except as otherwise provided, it" for "It".
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-65. Omitted by 2012 Act No. 113, Section 1, eff July 1, 2012.

Editor's Note
Former Section 50-13-65 was entitled "Closed season authorized on streams in Game Zone No. 1" and was derived from 1981 Act No. 121, Section 1; 1993 Act No. 181, Section 1263.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-70. Closed season for the temporary protection of a species.

Except as otherwise provided, there is no closed season for taking fish, however, when because of natural or other conditions fish are vulnerable to predation or are in distress and in the professional judgment of the department need temporary protection or in order to protect the public safety, the department may declare a closed season for taking any species until the condition has abated but the closed season may not be longer than ninety days. The department shall give notice of the closure by the most expeditious means. It is unlawful to take or possess the affected species during the closed season.
HISTORY: 2012 Act No. 113, Section 1, eff July 1, 2012.
Editor's Note
Prior Laws: Former Section 50-13-70 was entitled "Notice of season closed on recommendation of county legislative delegation" and was derived from 1962 Code Section 28-578; 1952 Code Section 28-578; 1942 Code Section 1769-1; 1932 Code Section 1807; 1931 (37) 340; 1952 (47) 2179; 1993 Act No. 181, Section 1263.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-80. Taking fish by snagging.

(A) It is unlawful to take fish by snagging. Nothing in this section prohibits the use of lures or baited hooks.
(B) It is unlawful to take trout by snagging.
HISTORY: 2007 Act No. 87, Section 1, eff June 14, 2007; 1976 Code Section 50-13-12; 2012 Act No. 113, Section 1, eff July 1, 2012; 2022 Act No. 137 (H.4907), Section 4, eff April 11, 2022.
Editor's Note
Prior Laws: Former Section 50-13-80 was entitled "Conduct which is prima facie evidence of violating season closed on recommendation of county legislative delegation" and was derived from 1962 Code Section 28-579; 1952 Code Section 28-579; 1942 Code Section 1769-1; 1932 Code Section 1807; 1931 (37) 340; 1952 (47) 2179; 1993 Act No. 181, Section 1263.
Effect of Amendment
The 2012 amendment renumbered and rewrote this section.
2022 Act No. 137, Section 4, in (A), in the first sentence, deleted "within one thousand feet downstream of a hydroelectric facility" following "snagging".
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-90. Repealed by 2008 Act No. 286, Section 11, eff June 11, 2008.

Editor's Note
Former Section 50-13-90 was entitled "Closed season on trout" and was derived from 1962 Code Section 28-580; 1961 (52) 136; 1993 Act No. 181, Section 1263.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-100 to 50-13-120. Omitted by 2012 Act No. 113, Section 1, eff July 1, 2012.

Editor's Note
Former Section 50-13-100 was entitled "Unlawful to possess trout during season closed on recommendation of county legislative delegation" and was derived from 1962 Code Section 28-581; 1961 (52) 136; 1966 (54) 2248; 1993 Act No. 181, Section 1263.
Former Section 50-13-110 was entitled "Lawful fishing for trout in Game Zone No. 1" and was derived from 1962 Code Section 28-582; 1952 (47) 2179; 1993 Act No. 181, Section 1263.
Former Section 50-13-120 was entitled "Black bass (largemouth) catch limits and requirements for Lake Marion, Lake Moultrie, and The Upper Santee River" and was derived from 2010 Act No. 144.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-200. Permissible numbers of game fishing devices.

It is unlawful to take freshwater game fish except by game fish devices. A fisherman only may use four game fishing devices. A fisherman fishing from a boat may use an unlimited number of game fishing devices if all persons in the boat sixteen years and older have valid fishing licenses.
HISTORY: 1981 Act No. 83, Section 1; 1993 Act No. 181, Section 1263; 1976 Code Section 50-13-11; 2012 Act No. 113, Section 2, eff July 1, 2012; 2013 Act No. 6, Section 3, eff March 22, 2013.
Editor's Note
Prior Laws: Former Section 50-13-200 was entitled "Night fishing in Bridge Lake in Dorchester County prohibited; exception" and was derived from 1962 Code Section 28-586; 1952 Code Section 28-586; 1942 Code Section 1808; 1938 (40) 1549; 1942 (42) 1482; 1993 Act No. 181, Section 1263.
Effect of Amendment
The 2012 amendment renumbered and rewrote the section.
The 2013 amendment substituted "in the boat sixteen years and older" for "in the boat older than sixteen years" in the third sentence.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-210. Daily possession limits for game fish.

(A) Except as otherwise provided, the daily possession limit for game fish is an aggregate of forty of which:
(1) not more than five may be largemouth, redeye (coosae), Bartram's bass, or smallmouth bass or their hybrids or any combination;
(2) not more than fifteen may be spotted bass or Alabama bass;
(3) not more than ten may be hybrid bass or striped bass or a combination;
(4) not more than ten may be white bass;
(5) not more than eight may be walleye or sauger or a combination;
(6) not more than five may be trout. However, on the lower reach of the Saluda River, only one trout out of the five possessed may be more than sixteen inches in total length. On Lake Jocassee not more than three trout may be taken;
(7) not more than twenty may be crappie;
(8) not more than fifteen may be redbreast; and
(9) not more than thirty may be other freshwater game fish species not listed in this section.
(B) On Lakes Hartwell, Keowee, Russell, (including the Lake Hartwell tail water), Thurmond, Tugaloo, Yonah, the Chattooga and Savannah Rivers and Stevens Creek Reservoir the daily possession limit for black bass is an aggregate of ten.
HISTORY: 2012 Act No. 113, Section 2, eff July 1, 2012; 2013 Act No. 6, Section 4, eff March 22, 2013; 2022 Act No. 137 (H.4907), Section 5, eff April 11, 2022.
Editor's Note
Prior Laws: Former Section 50-13-210 was entitled "Daily creel limits on game fish" and was derived from 1962 Code Section 28 590; 1952 Code Section 28 590; 1948 (45) 1756; 1952 (47) 2179; 1961 (52) 152; 1978 Act No. 625, Section 3; 1989 Act No. 192, Section 3; 1993 Act No. 181, Section 1263; 2003 Act No. 56, Section 1.
Effect of Amendment
The 2013 amendment, rewrote subsection (A)(6), adding the second sentence relating to the Saluda River.
2022 Act No. 137, Section 5, in (A), in (1), inserted "Bartram's bass," following "redeye (coosae),", and in (2), inserted "or Alabama bass" following "spotted bass".
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-220. Unlawful possession of crappie.

It is unlawful to possess crappie less than eight inches in total length.
HISTORY: 2012 Act No. 113, Section 2, eff July 1, 2012.
Editor's Note
Prior Laws: Former Section 50-13-220, was entitled "Daily creel limits on game fish; exception for striped bass or rockfish in certain waters" and was derived from 1962 Code Section 28-591; 1961 (52) 152; 1989 Act No. 192, Section 1; 1993 Act No. 181, Section 1263; repealed by 2008 Act No. 237, Section 5.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-221, 50-30-222. Omitted by 2012 Act No. 113, Section 2, eff July 1, 2012.

Editor's Note
Former Section 50-13-221 was entitled "Striped bass size and limits in clear freshwater bodies" and was derived from 2008 Act No. 237, Section 2; 2010 Act No. 193, Section 2.
Former Section 50-13-222 was entitled "Striped bass size and limits in Lake Rusell" and was derived from Act No. 193, Section 3.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-235. Repealed by 2008 Act No. 237, Section 5, eff May 21, 2008.

Editor's Note
Former Section 50-13-235 was entitled "Prohibition against taking of rockfish under certain conditions" and was derived from 1983 Act No. 131, Section 1; 1993 Act No. 181, Section 1263; 1995 Act No. 117, Section 1; 1996 Act No. 402, Section 1.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-236 to 50-13-237. Omitted by 2012 Act No. 113, Section 1, eff July 1, 2012.

Editor's Note
Former Section 50-13-236 was entitled "Creel and size limits on striped bass and black bass from Lake Murray" and was derived from 1989 Act No. 192, Section 2; 1990 Act No. 396, Section 1; 1993 Act No. 181, Section 1263; 2000 Act No. 401, Section 2; 2002 Act No. 214, Section 1; 2008 Act No. 237, Section 6.
Former Section 50-13-237 was entitled "Possession of striped bass in portion of Savannah River" and was derived from 2001 Act No. 71, Section 1; 2005 Act No. 86, Section 1.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-240. Unlawful possession of largemouth bass.

(A) It is unlawful to possess largemouth bass on Lakes Blalock, Greenwood, Jocassee, Marion, Monticello, Moultrie, Murray, Secession, Wateree, Wylie, and the middle reach of the Saluda River and the upper reach of the Santee River less than fourteen inches in total length.
(B) It is unlawful to possess largemouth bass on Lakes Hartwell, Keowee, Russell (including the Lake Hartwell tail water), Robinson (Greenville County), Thurmond, Tugaloo, Yonah, Stevens Creek Reservoir, the Chattooga, and Savannah Rivers less than twelve inches in total length.
HISTORY: 2012 Act No. 113, Section 2, eff July 1, 2012.
Editor's Note
Prior Laws: Former Section 50-13-240 was entitled "Effect on daily creel limits of reciprocal agreements with other states" and was derived from 1962 Code Section 28-594; 1961 (52) 152; 1993 Act No. 181, Section 1263.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-250. Unlawful possession of smallmouth bass.

It is unlawful to possess smallmouth bass less than twelve inches in total length, except on Lakes Hartwell, Russell (including the Lake Hartwell tail water), Thurmond, Tugaloo, Yonah, the Chattooga, and Savannah Rivers, and Steven Creek Reservoir where there is no length limit on smallmouth bass.
HISTORY: 2012 Act No. 113, Section 2, eff July 1, 2012; 2013 Act No. 6, Section 5, eff March 22, 2013.
Editor's Note
Prior Laws: Former Section 50-13-250 was entitled "Daily creel limit on trout" and was derived from 1962 Code Section 28-594.1; 1961 (52) 136; 1983 Act No. 125, Section 1; 1993 Act No. 181, Section 1263.
Effect of Amendment
The 2013 amendment added the text following "less than twelve inches in total length".
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-260. Season for possessing, taking, and retaining trout from specified waters in order to establish a catch and release fishery.

(A) In order to establish a "catch and release" fishery for trout it is unlawful to possess, take, and retain trout from November first of each year through May fourteenth of the following year inclusive on the following waters:
(1) that portion of the Chattooga River beginning at S.C. State Highway 28 upstream to its confluence with Reed Creek (Rabun County, GA);
(2) that portion of Cheohee Creek that runs through the Piedmont Forestry Center;
(3) Devils Fork Creek; Howard Creek from its confluence with Corbin Creek upstream to its confluence with Limberpole Creek; and Corbin Creek upstream from its confluence with Howard Creek to S.C. State Highway S-37-130 (Whitewater Road) in Oconee County;
(4) Chauga River from S.C. State Highway S-37-290 (Cassidy Bridge Road) upstream to its confluence with Bone Camp Creek in Oconee County; and
(5) Eastatoe Creek from the backwaters of Lake Keowee upstream to S.C. State Highway S-39-143 (Roy Jones Road) in Pickens County.
(B) Trout taken must be released immediately.
Repealed by 2018 Act No. 207, Section 3, effective June 30, 2025.
(C) In order to establish a year-round "catch and release" zone on the lower reach of the Saluda River, it is unlawful to take and retain trout from the eastbound I-20 bridge downstream to Stacey's Ledge.
HISTORY: 2012 Act No. 113, Section 2, eff July 1, 2012; 2013 Act No. 6, Section 6, eff March 22, 2013; 2018 Act No. 207 (S.1044), Section 1, eff July 1, 2018.
Editor's Note
Prior Laws: Former Section 50-13-260 was entitled "Creels may be searched" and was derived from 1962 Code Section 28-594.2; 1961 (52) 136; 1993 Act No. 181, Section 1263.
2018 Act No. 207, Sections 2 and 3, provide as follows:
"SECTION 2. The Department of Natural Resources shall make a study of the lower Saluda River trout fishery and make recommendations on any needed modifications to the fishery by November 1, 2023.
"SECTION 3. The provisions of this act are repealed on June 30, 2025."
Effect of Amendment
The 2013 amendment, in subsection (A)(5), substituted "Eastatoe Creek" for "Eastatoe River".
2018 Act No. 207, Section 1, added (C), relating to a year-round catch and release zone on the lower reach of the Saluda River.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-270. Season for unlawful possession of lure or bait in certain waters.

(A) From November first through May fourteenth inclusive, it is unlawful to use or possess any lure or bait except single hook artificial lures in the following waters;
(1) that portion of the Chattooga River beginning at S.C. State Highway 28 upstream to its confluence with Reed Creek (Rabun County, GA );
(2) that portion of Cheohee Creek that runs through the Piedmont Forestry Center;
(3) Devils Fork Creek; Howard Creek from its confluence with Corbin Creek upstream to its confluence with Limberpole Creek; and Corbin Creek upstream from its confluence with Howard Creek to S.C. State Highway S-37-130 (Whitewater Road) in Oconee County;
(4) Chauga River from S.C. State Highway S-37-290 (Cassidy Bridge Road) upstream to its confluence with Bone Camp Creek in Oconee County; and
(5) Eastatoe River from the backwaters of Lake Keowee upstream to S.C. State Highway S-39-143 (Roy Jones Road) in Pickens County.
(B) It is unlawful to use or possess any lure or bait except artificial lures in the following waters:
(1) Whitewater River;
(2) Matthews Creek from Asbury Drive Bridge at Asbury Methodist Camp upstream including all tributaries and headwaters;
(3) Middle Saluda River from the foot bridge at Jones Gap Natural Area Office upstream to U.S. Highway 176 in Greenville County; and
(4) Eastatoe Creek on Eastatoe Heritage Preserve in Pickens County.
(C) It is unlawful to use or possess corn, cheese, fish eggs, or imitations of them on Lake Jocassee.
HISTORY: 2012 Act No. 113, Section 2, eff July 1, 2012; 2013 Act No. 6, Section 7, eff March 22, 2013.
Editor's Note
Prior Laws: Former Section 50-13-270 was entitled "Creel limits not applicable to private ponds" and was derived from 1962 Code Section 28-594.3; 1959 (51) 296; 1993 Act No. 181, Section 1263.
Effect of Amendment
The 2013 amendment, in subsection (B)(4), substituted "Eastatoe Creek" for "Eastatoe River".
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-271. Trout size and limits in Lake Jocassee.

On Lake Jocassee it is unlawful to possess more than three trout. It is unlawful to possess trout less than fifteen inches in total length or possess more than one trout greater than twenty inches in total length. Provided, from June first through September thirtieth, there is no length limit but it is unlawful to take, attempt to take, or possess more than three trout.
HISTORY: 2012 Act No. 113, Section 2, eff July 1, 2012.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-280 to 50-13-285. Omitted by 2012 Act No. 113, Section 1, eff July 1, 2012.

Editor's Note
Former Section 50-13-280 was entitled "Limit on possession of game fish; exceptions" and was derived from 1962 Code Section 28-594.4; 1961 (52) 152; 1978 Act No. 625, Section 4; 1993 Act No. 181, Section 1263; 2003 Act No. 60, Section 3.
Former Section 50-13-285 was entitled "Penalties for exceeding limits" and was derived from 1985 Act No. 197, Section 1; 1993 Act No. 181, Section 1263; 2008 Act No. 237, Section 4.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-310. Game fish caught with nets or other nongame fishing devices must be returned to water.

A game fish taken by net or other nongame fishing device, except for landing nets (dip nets), must be returned immediately to the water from whence it came. A person violating the provisions of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not less than fifty dollars nor more than two hundred dollars or imprisoned for not more than thirty days. Any equipment used in committing the offense must be seized and disposed of as provided by law.
HISTORY: 1962 Code Section 28-639; 1952 Code Section 28-639; 1942 Code Sections 1770-3, 1770-6; 1932 Code Sections 1797, 1808; Cr. C. '22 Sections 771, 778; Cr. C. '12 Sections 756, 761; 1910 (26) 576; 1911 (27) 126; 1988 Act No. 477, Section 1; 1993 Act No. 181, Section 1263; 1976 Code Section 50-13-580; 2012 Act No. 114, Section 2, eff July 1, 2012; 2022 Act No. 137 (H.4907), Section 6, eff April 11, 2022.
Effect of Amendment
The 2012 amendment renumbered and rewrote the section.
2022 Act No. 137, Section 6, in the first sentence, inserted "except for landing nets (dip nets)," following "fishing device,".
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-315. Traps; inspection.

(A) A trap must not be:
(1) placed within six hundred feet of a public boat launching area;
(2) set so as to leave any part of the trap exposed at low water;
(3) unattended for more than three days.
(B) The department may inspect traps for compliance with this section at anytime. If the department finds any trap in violation of this chapter or contains only dead catch or excessive dead catch, the trap is contraband and must be seized and disposed of according to law.
HISTORY: 2012 Act No. 114, Section 2, eff July 1, 2012.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-320. Traps and eel pots; crab pots; crayfish traps; minnow traps.

(A) A trap or eel pot may be suspended above the bottom of the body of water in which they are used at a depth that does not create a hazard to watercraft.
(B) There is no restriction on the type of bait permissible in a trap or eel pot, except that game fish or any part of a game fish must not be used for bait.
(C) There is no closed season for fishing with a trap or eel pot in the freshwaters of this State in which the use of a trap or eel pot is permitted except temporary closure by the department.
(D) A trap or eel pot must not be placed within one hundred feet of the mouth of a tributary stream and a trap or eel pot must not be placed anywhere in the Diversion Canal connecting Lakes Marion and Moultrie nor placed within two hundred yards of a manmade structure in Lakes Marion and Moultrie.
(E) A crab pot or trap of like design must not be used in the freshwaters of this State unless permitted by regulation.
(F) All crayfish traps must be identified with the name and department customer identification number of the user. These traps only may be used in those bodies of water permitted under this chapter. A commercial fisherman may fish up to fifty crayfish traps. A recreational fisherman may fish up to five crayfish traps.
(G) All minnow traps must be identified with the name and department customer identification number of the user. A minnow trap may be fished with a recreational license only with a limit of five for each person and must not be fished for commercial purposes.
HISTORY: 1981 Act No. 170, Section 1; 1987 Act No. 68, Section 1; 1993 Act No. 181, Section 1263; 1976 Code Section 50-13-1165; 2012 Act No. 114, Section 2, eff July 1, 2012.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-325. Nongame gill nets; season; size and placement; sturgeon.

(A) The season for taking nongame fish other than American shad and herring in the freshwaters of this State with a gill net is from November first to March first inclusive. A gill net may be used or possessed in the freshwaters in which their use is authorized on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays only. A gill net used in the freshwaters must have a mesh size not less than four and one-half inches stretch mesh. A gill net measuring more than one hundred yards in length must not be used in the freshwaters and a gill net, cable, line or other device used for support of a gill net may not extend more than halfway across any stream or body of water. A gill net may be placed in the freshwaters on a first come first served basis but a gill net must not be placed within two hundred yards of another gill net. However, notwithstanding another provision of law, along the Little Pee Dee River upstream of Punch Bowl Landing, no net may be set within seventy-five feet of a gill net previously set, or drifted within seventy-five feet of another drifting net. Use or possession of a gill net at any place or time other than those prescribed in this subsection is unlawful.
(B) Nongame fish taken in shad nets lawfully fished during the open season for taking shad may be kept. A sturgeon caught must be returned immediately to the waters from where it was taken.
HISTORY: 1981 Act No. 170, Section 1; 1985 Act No. 51, Section 2; 1986 Act No. 505; 1990 Act No. 353, Section 1; 1993 Act No. 181, Section 1263; 1976 Code Section 50-13-1170; 2012 Act No. 114, Section 2, eff July 1, 2012; 2013 Act No. 17, Section 1, eff April 23, 2013; 2014 Act No. 154 (H.4541), Section 1, eff April 7, 2014.
Effect of Amendment
The 2012 amendment renumbered and rewrote the section.
The 2013 amendment, in subsection (A), added the second to last sentence, relating to the Little Pee Dee River.
2014 Act No. 154, Section 1, in subsection (A), in the second to last sentence, deleted reference to placing or setting a net within 75 feet of the confluence of a tributary.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-330. Hoop nets.

A hoop net may be used or possessed in the freshwaters where its use is authorized by this chapter. A hoop net must rest on the bottom of the body of water in which it is used and must not be suspended above the bottom. A hoop net must not be used within one hundred feet of the mouth of any tributary. Use or possession of a hoop net at any place or time other than those prescribed is unlawful.
HISTORY: 2012 Act No. 114, Section 2, eff July 1, 2012.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-335. Pump nets and skimbow nets.

A pump net may be fished from the bank or a shore based structure only and only for recreation. A skimbow net may be fished from a boat but only for recreation. These devices may be used only in those waters where authorized in this chapter.
HISTORY: 2012 Act No. 114, Section 2, eff July 1, 2012.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-340. Minnow seine.

It is unlawful to use or have in possession a minnow seine in the freshwaters of this State from ten o'clock p.m. to official sunrise.
HISTORY: 2012 Act No. 114, Section 2, eff July 1, 2012.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-350 to 50-13-370. Omitted by 2012 Act No. 113, Section 1, eff July 1, 2012.

Editor's Note
Former Section 50-13-350 was entitled "Unlawful to fish or trespass in private artificial ponds used to breed fish or oysters" and was derived from 1962 Code Section 28-601; 1952 Code Section 28-601; 1942 Code Section 1771-1; 1932 Code Section 1811; Cr. C. '22 Section 781; Cr. C. '12 Section 764; Cr. C. '02 Section 534; G. S. 1680; R. S. 414; 1872 (15) 161; 1993 Act No. 184, Section 246; 1993 Act No. 181, Section 1263.
Former Section 50-13-370 was entitled "Fishing restrictions not applicable to United States Commissioner of Fish and Wildlife and agents" and was derived from 1962 Code Section 28-602; 1952 Code Section 28-602; 1942 Code Section 1776; 1932 Code Sections 3424, 3425; Civ. C. '22 Sections 1040, 1041; 1917 (30) 192; 1931 (37) 328; 1952 (47) 2179; 1993 Act No. 181, Section 1263.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-385 to 50-13-400. Omitted by 2012 Act No. 113, Section 1, eff July 1, 2012; repealed by 2012 Act No. 114, Section 8, eff July 1, 2012.

Editor's Note
Former Section 50-13-385 was entitled "Minimum size for large mouth bass in Lake Wylie; penalties" and was derived from 2001 Act No. 3, Section 1; 2008 Act No. 286, Section 6; 2010 Act No. 144, Section 2.
Former Section 50-13-390 was entitled "Daily limit on Arkansas blue catfish" and was derived from 2007 Act No. 2, Section 1; 2010 Act No. 140, Section 2.
Former Section 50-13-400 was entitled "Lake Murray crappie creel and size limits" and was derived from 2009 Act No. 47, Section 2.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-510. Unlawful taking of freshwater mussels.

It is unlawful to take freshwater mussels (Bivalvia) without a permit from the department. A person violating this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not less than one hundred nor more than five hundred dollars. Provided, Asian clams (Corbicula spp.) may be taken without permit.
HISTORY: 2012 Act No. 114, Section 3, eff July 1, 2012.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-520. Unlawful taking of saltwater crabs.

Except as allowed by the department, it is unlawful to take saltwater crabs in the freshwaters of this State.
HISTORY: 2012 Act No. 114, Section 3, eff July 1, 2012.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-580. Omitted by 2012 Act No. 114, Section 2, eff July 1, 2012.

Editor's Note
Former Section 50-13-580 was entitled "Game fish caught with nets or similar devices must be returned to water" and was derived from 1962 Code Section 28-639; 1952 Code Section 28-639; 1942 Code Sections 1770-3, 1770-6; 1932 Code Sections 1797, 1808; Cr. C. '22 Sections 771, 778; Cr. C. '12 Sections 756, 761; 1910 (26) 576; 1911 (27) 126; 1988 Act No. 477, Section 1; 1993 Act No. 181, Section 1263.
Article 6
Protection of Nongame Fish
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-610. Application of article.

The provisions of this article apply to the use of nongame fishing devices and the taking of nongame fish in the freshwaters of this State except herring and American shad.
HISTORY: 1981 Act No. 170, Section 1; 1982 Act No. 461, Section 1; 1993 Act No. 181, Section 1263; 1976 Code Section 50-13-1110; 2012 Act No. 114, Section 4, eff July 1, 2012.
Editor's Note
Prior Laws: Former Section 50-13-610 was entitled "Lawful taking of fish in Game Zone No. 1" and was derived from 1962 Code Section 28-614; 1952 Code Section 28-614; 1942 Code Section 1789-7; 1938 (40) 1657; 1939 (41) 318; 1941 (42) 225; 1952 (47) 2179; 1993 Act No. 181, Section 1263; repealed by 2012 Act No. 113, Section 4.
Effect of Amendment
The 2012 amendment renumbered and rewrote this section.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-615. Nongame fishing devices and methods which may be used for taking nongame fish in freshwaters.

The following are the only lawful nongame fishing devices and methods that may be used for taking nongame fish in the freshwaters of this State and only in those waters in which these devices and methods are authorized:
(1) archery equipment;
(2) cast net;
(3) crayfish trap;
(4) eel pot;
(5) elver fyke net;
(6) gig;
(7) gill net;
(8) hand grabbing;
(9) hoop net;
(10) jug fishing device;
(11) minnow seine;
(12) minnow trap;
(13) pump net;
(14) seine;
(15) set hook;
(16) skimbow net;
(17) spear;
(18) trap;
(19) trotline.
HISTORY: 1981 Act No. 170, Section 1; 1982 Act No. 461, Sections 2, 3; 1984 Act No. 367, Section 2; 1993 Act No. 181, Section 1263; 1976 Code Section 50-13-1115; 2012 Act No. 114, Section 4, eff July 1, 2012.
Effect of Amendment
The 2012 amendment renumbered and rewrote the section.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-620. Floating markers for certain fishing devices; tags; penalty.

(A) A trotline, trap, eel pot, gill net, and hoop net must be marked with a white floating marker not less than a capacity of one quart and not more than a capacity of one gallon and must be made of solid, buoyant material that does not sink if punctured or cracked. A floating marker must be constructed of plastic, PVC spongex, plastic foam, or cork. A hollow buoy or float, including plastic, metal, or glass bottles or jugs, must not be used, except that a manufactured buoy or float specifically designed for use with nongame fishing devices may be hollow if constructed of heavy duty plastic material and approved by the department. The owner's name and department customer identification number must be legible on each of the white floating markers. Both commercial and recreational fishermen shall comply with provisions of this title pertaining to the marking and use of a nongame fishing device. A trotline must be marked on both ends. A commercial trotline must be marked at intervals of every fifty hooks. A commercial trotline which uses fifty or fewer hooks must be marked at intervals of twenty-five hooks. A recreational trotline must be marked at intervals of every twenty-five hooks. Each interval float must be "International Orange" in color.
(B) A tag issued for a nongame device must be attached to the device at all times. A permit and tag receipt must be kept on the person to whom issued while possessing or using a nongame fishing device.
(C) Each set hook must have an identification tag attached to it bearing the owner's name and department customer identification number.
(D) A device or part of it improperly marked, tagged, or identified is in violation and is contraband.
(E) A violation of this section is a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, is punishable as prescribed in this chapter.
(F) A trotline or any part of it may not remain in the freshwaters of this State more than twenty-four hours without inspection and removal of the fish taken on it.
HISTORY: 1988 Act No. 477, Section 2; 1992 Act No. 316, Section 1; 1993 Act No. 181, Section 1263; 1976 Code Section 50-13-1116; 2012 Act No. 114, Section 4, eff July 1, 2012; 2013 Act No. 6, Section 8, eff March 22, 2013; 2022 Act No. 137 (H.4907), Section 7, eff April 11, 2022.
Editor's Note
Prior Laws: Former Section 50-13-620 was entitled "Penalties applicable to violations in Game Zone No. 1" and was derived from 1962 Code Section 28-615; 1952 Code Section 28-615; 1942 Code Section 1789-9; 1938 (40) 1657; 1952 (47) 2179; 1993 Act No. 181, Section 1263; repealed by 2012 Act No. 113, Section 4.
Effect of Amendment
The 2012 amendment renumbered and rewrote the section.
The 2013 amendment rewrote subsection (A).
2022 Act No. 137, Section 7, added (F).
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-625. Taking nongame fish with lawful devices.

Nongame fish may be taken with any lawful game fishing device. A fisherman only may use four game fishing devices. A fisherman fishing from a boat may use an unlimited number of game fishing devices if all persons in the boat sixteen years and older have valid fishing licenses.
HISTORY: 2012 Act No. 114, Section 4, eff July 1, 2012; 2013 Act No. 6, Section 9, eff March 22, 2013.
Effect of Amendment
The 2013 amendment substituted "in the boat sixteen years and older" for "in the boat older than sixteen years" in the third sentence.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-630. Fishing devices prohibited from being used, placed, set, or fished constituting hazard to boating or public safety.

A fishing device authorized by this article must not be used, placed, set, or fished so as to constitute a hazard to boating or public safety.
HISTORY: 1981 Act No. 170, Section 1; 1993 Act No. 181, Section 1263; 1976 Code Section 50-13-1125; 2012 Act No. 114, Section 4, eff July 1, 2012.
Effect of Amendment
The 2012 amendment renumbered and rewrote this section.
2023 South Carolina Code of Laws › Title 50 - Fish, Game and Watercraft › Chapter 13 - Protection Of Fish › Section 50-13-635. Permissible fishing devices and methods for recreational fisherman of nongame fish.

A recreational fisherman may use the following fishing devices and methods for taking nongame fish but only in those waters in which the type and quantity are allowed:
(1) archery equipment;
(2) cast net;
(3) not more than five crayfish traps;
(4) not more than two eel pots;
(5) gig;
(6) one gill net not more than one hundred yards in length or not more than three gill nets, none of which exceeds thirty yards in length;
(7) hand grabbing;
(8) not more than one hoop net;
(9) not more than fifty jugs;
(10) minnow seine;
(11) not more than five minnow traps;
(12) not more than one pump net;
(13) not more than one seine;
(14) not more than fifty set hooks;
(15) not more than one skimbow net;
(16) spear;
(17) not more than two traps;
(18) not more than one trotline with fifty hooks maximum;
(19) any lawful game fishing device;
(20) landing net (dip net).
HISTORY: 2012 Act No. 114, Section 4, eff July 1, 2012; 2013 Act No. 6, Section 10, eff March 22, 2013; 2022 Act No. 137 (H.4907), Section 8, eff April 11, 2022.
Effect of Amendment
The 2013 amendment substituted "not more than" for "three to".
2022 Act No. 137, Section 8, added (20).