No Saltwater License Required for Pier Fishing
In South Carolina, you do not need a fishing license to fish from a licensed public fishing pier like Pier 14. The pier's license covers all anglers. You only need a license if you fish from the surf, a boat, or a private dock.
General Pier Rules
- All fish must be measured immediately upon catch. Undersized fish must be released promptly.
- Use circle hooks when fishing with natural bait to reduce gut-hooking and improve survival of released fish.
- Do not leave fishing lines unattended. Keep your area clean and dispose of all line and tackle properly.
- Pier 14 charges a daily fishing fee (typically $8-$10). Rod rentals and bait are available at the tackle shop.
- Cobia have specific federal regulations — check NOAA for current season dates before keeping.
Species Size & Bag Limits
Red Drum
Min Size
15" min, 23" max (slot limit)
Daily Limit
3 per person
Season
Year-round
Only fish within the slot may be kept. Must be measured total length (mouth closed, tail pinched).
Flounder
Min Size
16" minimum
Daily Limit
5 per person
Season
Year-round (check for seasonal closures)
Measured as total length. Regulations may change — check SCDNR for current season dates.
Spanish Mackerel
Min Size
12" fork length
Daily Limit
15 per person
Season
Year-round
Measured from tip of snout to fork of tail. Generous limit makes these great for sharing.
Sheepshead
Min Size
14" total length
Daily Limit
10 per person
Season
Year-round
No closed season in SC. One of the most popular pier species.
Black Drum
Min Size
14" min, 27" max (slot limit)
Daily Limit
5 per person
Season
Year-round
Slot limit applies. Fish over 27" must be released.
Bluefish
Min Size
No minimum size
Daily Limit
15 per person
Season
Year-round
Handle with care — bluefish have very sharp teeth.
King Mackerel
Min Size
24" fork length
Daily Limit
3 per person
Season
Year-round
The trophy catch of pier fishing. Fork length measurement.
Spot
Min Size
No minimum size
Daily Limit
No limit
Season
Year-round
No size or bag limit in SC. Great for kids and beginners.
Whiting
Min Size
No minimum size
Daily Limit
No limit
Season
Year-round
No restrictions. Excellent eating fish.
Pompano
Min Size
No minimum size
Daily Limit
No limit
Season
Year-round
No restrictions in SC, but highly prized — keep only what you'll eat.
Regulations are sourced from the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) and are current as of 2026. Regulations can change — always verify at dnr.sc.gov before your trip.