New Redfish Rules In South Carolina

If you enjoy fishing for red drum, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources wants you to be aware of the new changes to the fishery as of July 1, 2026. 

In 2024, the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission published its regional red drum stock assessment, which found that the southern Atlantic red drum population has declined to unsustainable levels and that reductions in harvest are needed to rebuild the population. The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) also conducted a state specific red drum stock assessment, which showed results similar to the regional study. These changes are the result of years’ worth of effort by SCDNR staff, the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, neighboring state agencies, and partners to analyze the data, engage anglers, and develop a plan to rebuild the population and ensure a quality fishery.  

“Red drum management in the Palmetto State has consistently been a story about wise stewardship, and the recreational angling community has demonstrated again and again that acting in the long-term interest of the resource has always been the desired course,” said Tombo Milliken, Government Relations Committee chairman for Coastal Conservation Association South Carolina (CCA SC). “This is what collaborative conservation looks like. The passage of S. 961 represents a true team-oriented approach and sends a strong message that South Carolina can balance access, tradition, and management supported by science.”