South Carolina Hunting Seasons & Licensing: What You Need To Know

If you're a resident or nonresident of South Carolina and want to go hunting, it's important to familiarize yourself with the hunting seasons and licensing requirements.

In this blog post, we will provide an overview of the different hunting seasons in SC and what you need to do in order to obtain a license.

We will also discuss the different types of licenses available, as well as how to apply for them. So whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-time hunter, read on for all the information you need!

Hunting In South Carolina

South Carolina is a great state for hunting. There are many different types of game to be found here, including deer, turkey, quail, dove, and waterfowl. The state also has a variety of hunting regulations in place to ensure that hunting is safe and sustainable.

Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, hunting in South Carolina is an enjoyable experience. There are many different types of game to be found here, including deer, turkey, quail, dove, and waterfowl. The state also has a variety of hunting regulations in place to ensure that hunting is safe and sustainable.

One of the great things about hunting in South Carolina is that there are hunting opportunities for everyone. If you're an experienced hunter, you'll find plenty of challenging game to pursue. And if you're new to hunting, the state's plentiful game and relatively lenient hunting regulations make it a great place to start.

South Carolina is divided up into four distinct hunting zones (in the past, the state was divided into six areas). The hunting seasons for each zone are detailed out to the right. Seasons in each zone may overlap and details for each can be found below.

South Carolina is a hidden gem of hunting ground. The southern hospitality, scenery around the foothills of the mountains, and fantastic views of the Atlantic Ocean make this state a great destination for any hunter.

Whether you're looking to hunt for sport or sustenance, South Carolina has something to offer. So get out there and enjoy the great hunting that this state has to offer!

South Carolina Deer Seasons for Private Lands

Youth Hunt	Aug. 14, Sept. 11, Sept. 25**
Primitive Weapons	Oct. 1-10
Archery Only	Aug. 15-Sept. 30
Gun Hunts	Sept. 1-Jan. 1**

**Hunting dates may further differ in specific wildlife management areas (WMAs) within a zone. Visit the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources website for more information.

South Carolina Bear Hunts for Public Lands

Still Hunt (No dogs)	Oct. 17-23**
Party Dog Hunt	Oct. 24-30**

Bear hunting is heavily regulated in South Carolina, and hunters must obtain specific bear tags/permits to harvest a bear — while most permits have a fee, youth bear hunters can obtain a tag for free. Nonresidents should expect to pay higher bear permit fees than South Carolina residents.

South Carolina Turkey Seasons for Public Lands

Spring General Season	Apr. 1-30
Spring Youth Hunt	Mar. 26

South Carolina turkey bag limites vary by region and hunter age. Residents are generally able to harvest more turkey than nonresidents.

South Carolina Small Game Seasons for Public Lands

Crow	Nov. 1-March 1
Quail	March 2-March 1, 2021**
Rabbit	March 2-March 1, 2021**
Squirrel	March 2-March 1, 2021**
Fox	March 2-March 1, 2021**
Beaver	Open Season
Grouse	Nov. 25-March 1
Raccoon and Opossum	March 16-March 1**

How To Get A Hunting License In South Carolina?

Depending on your age, you may be required to have the Hunter Education Certificate in order to legally buy a license or permit to hunt.

Complete the South Carolina hunter education certification requirements.
Choose the correct license type.
Buy the license through the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources website or a South Carolina–approved agent.

South Carolina License Expiration

Hunting licenses may be good for one or three years from the date of purchase. South Carolina residents are able to purchase a lifetime hunting license.

Where to Buy a South Carolina Hunting License

Visit the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources website.
Call 1-866-714-3611.
Visit a South Carolina Department of Natural Resources office or an approved license agent.

**Season dates vary by location and hunting with or without dogs. For more information, be sure to check the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources website.

Bag limits, special seasons and hunting regulations for South Carolina hunting seasons vary based on animal and seasons. For more information on obtaining licenses, permits and regulations, visit the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources website.