Fishing on Hilton Head Island: Rules, licenses & the best places to catch fish
Wondering what the “reel” scoop is for fishing on Hilton Head?
From licenses, types of fish you can catch, places to go and other rules to get hooked up on, it can be hard to decipher what’s allowed.
With the sunshine creeping in and boat weather approaching soon, it’s never a bad idea to brush up on the rules for fishing in South Carolina, no matter if you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time visitor.
Here is what to keep in mind before heading out on the water this year.
Fishing rules and regulations on Hilton Head Island
General fishing rules
According to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, all anglers aged 16 and over must have a South Carolina fishing license to fish in state waters. You can fish from a boat, pier, or beach, but a license is required for all forms of sport fishing.
Where do I need a license to fish: A Freshwater Fishing License is required unless you are fishing in a privately owned pond. A Saltwater Fishing License is required when harvesting marine resources, including fin fish, oysters, clams, shrimp and crab, unless you are fishing on a licensed public fishing pier or fishing on a licensed charter vessel for hire.
How to obtain a license: You can purchase a license online from the South Carolina Department of Resources here.
Resident license: For South Carolina residents, a freshwater fishing license costs $10 and a saltwater license costs $15, both are valid for 365 days, covering fishing, shrimping, crabbing and shellfish harvesting.
Rules for minors: Children under the age of 16 are not required to purchase a hunting or fishing license unless they are engaged in commercial activity or using any nongame fish devices, according to the SCDNR.
Fishing regulations in Hilton Head
If you are planning to fish at the beach, make sure to pay attention to all signs you see and any designated swimming areas, as fishing in these areas is prohibited. You’ll know you’re in a designated swimming area when you see signs or a lifeguard.
Fishing within 3 miles of the Hilton Head Island shoreline follows South Carolina state regulations.
These regulations include these guidelines (specifically when harvesting blue crab without a fishing license and do not relate to hook and line fishing):
You can use three or fewer drop nets.
You can use three or fewer fold-up traps.
You can use three 3 or fewer handlines with no hooks and a single bait per line.
These rules also extend to the fishing of fin fish, oysters, clams, shrimp and crab.
Once you go beyond that, federal regulations apply.
Species restrictions:
Sharks and stingrays: Fishing for sharks and stingrays from shore is prohibited at all times. If one is caught by accident, you must release it quickly back into the sea.
Endangered species: Hilton Head Island is home to endangered loggerhead sea turtles (active from May to October). Avoid using fishing lines or bait near turtle nesting areas to protect hatchlings.
Fish species & limits
The Hilton Head is home to a variety of species of fish. Here are the most commonly caught species inshore and their regulations for catching:
Redfish: 2 per person, per day; 6 per boat. 15”–23” tail length.
Trout: 10 per person, per day; 14” minimum tail length.
Sheepshead: 10 per person, per day; 14” minimum tail length. There is a boat limit of 30 fish.
Flounder: 5 per person, per day; 10 per boat. 15” minimum tail length. There is a boat limit of 20 fish.
Black Drum: 5 per person, per day; 14”–27” tail length.
If you’re worried about the kind of fish you’ve caught, you can check the “total length” to make sure it’s okay to keep it.
To check, it’s recommended you squeeze the tail to get an accurate measurement, similar to how you squeeze a lemon.
Upon a squeeze, if the fish’s tail is only the slightest bit past the legal length, release it. If you’re ever unsure or can’t tell, it’s best to release the fish.
Fishing locations on Hilton Head Island
Hilton Head offers many public places for fishing. Here are some of the top public locations you can visit.
Fishing equipment rentals
Forgot a fishing pole? That’s no problem.
Hilton Head Island has several outdoor outfitters where you can rent fishing equipment and purchase bait.
Here are a few:
If you are visiting, you can also reach out to your resort or rental company to ask about the closest outfitter.
Best time to fish on Hilton Head Island
Hilton Head is known for its practically perfect fishing weather all year round, but with different seasons, there are different catching opportunities.
Here is what you can expect during these seasons:
Spring: Cobia, Spanish Mackerel and Bluefish
Summer: Tarpon, King Mackerel and Jack Crevalle come inshore. Redfish can be found in marshes during high tide.
Fall & Winter: Redfish Trout, and Flounder
For more information and guidance on fishing rules and licenses, please visit the SCDNR Fishing License and Guidelines webpage.
This story has been updated to include saltwater fishing license information.
This story was originally published March 5, 2025 at 6:00 AM.
