Hunting in South Carolina

Hunting in South Carolina

South Carolina offers a wide variety of hunting opportunities across the state's Lowcountry, coastal marshes, pine forests, swamps, farmland and Piedmont. With a long hunting season and a diverse mix of wildlife, it's a destination worth considering for hunters looking to get into the Southern woods.

Whitetail deer are one of South Carolina's most popular game animals, with opportunities ranging from traditional stand hunting in the Lowcountry to hunting agricultural fields, hardwood bottoms and pine country farther inland. Wild turkey is another major draw, with South Carolina's spring gobbler season attracting hunters looking for a challenging public or private-land hunt.

South Carolina is also known for its wild hog hunting. Hogs can be found across much of the state and provide hunters with opportunities to hunt throughout much of the year. Waterfowl hunters can pursue ducks and geese across the state's rivers, lakes, swamps and coastal marshes.

Other opportunities include small game, dove, quail and, in specific areas and seasons, alligator. With its mild climate and variety of habitats, South Carolina can offer hunting opportunities at times of year when many other states are between big-game seasons.

Whether you're after a Southern whitetail, a spring gobbler, a pile of hogs or a Lowcountry waterfowl hunt, South Carolina gives hunters plenty of reasons to spend time in the field.

South Carolina Tags & Licenses

South Carolina hunting licenses and permits are administered by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR). Hunters generally need a valid hunting license along with any required tags, permits or stamps for the species they plan to hunt.

South Carolina's deer hunters must obtain the appropriate deer tags and follow the regulations for the game zone where they are hunting. Deer regulations, season dates, bag limits and tagging requirements can vary by Game Zone, so hunters should confirm the rules for the specific property they plan to hunt.

Turkey hunters must have the appropriate hunting license and turkey permits. South Carolina manages turkey hunting with specific season dates, bag limits and tagging requirements, so hunters should review the current regulations before planning a spring hunt.

Additional permits or stamps may be required for migratory birds and waterfowl, including applicable state and federal waterfowl requirements. Hunters pursuing alligators must participate in South Carolina's alligator management program and obtain the appropriate permit.

Nonresident hunters can purchase South Carolina licenses and permits, although fees and requirements vary by species.

South Carolina hunting regulations, season dates, bag limits and permit requirements can change from year to year. Hunters should always review the current SCDNR regulations before planning a hunt or traveling to South Carolina.

Species You Can Hunt in South Carolina

Whitetail Deer

Turkey

Hog

Gator