South Carolina Hunting Seasons Information and Regulations
*All information listed below is disclosed based on research we have conducted. We do our best to ensure that all information is up to date and accurate. However, rules and regulations are changing every day. Please make sure to verify your state-specific regulations prior to your hunt.
Hunting season in South Carolina is diverse and expansive, with hunting seasons and hunting opportunities for a variety of game species. The state offers hunting opportunities year round and during specific hunting seasons. In addition to the regular hunting season, special hunts are also available which provide the opportunity to hunt specific game species outside of the normal hunting season. During these hunting seasons, hunting regulations and guidelines must be followed in order to ensure that hunting is conducted in a safe and respectful manner. Hunting licenses are required for hunting during hunting season and hunters should obtain appropriate permits or tags depending on the type of game they seek to hunt. With its abundant wildlife populations South Carolina offers excellent opportunities for hunting enthusiasts to enjoy their sport.
From hunting deer, turkey and waterfowl to hunting upland game birds and small game, South Carolina has something for every type of hunter. By following hunting regulations and guidelines, waterfowl hunting in South Carolina can be an enjoyable experience while also helping to conserve the state’s wildlife populations.
South Carolina Deer Seasons for Private Lands
| Youth Hunt | Aug. 13 Sept. 10 Sept. 24 Jan. 7 |
| Primitive Weapons | Oct. 1 – Oct. 10 |
| Archery | Sept. 15 – Jan. 1 |
| Gun Hunts | Aug. 15 – 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 – Oct. 30 |
| Party Dog Hunt | Oct. 24 – Oct. 30 |
*South Carolina has implemented strict regulations for bear hunting and requires all hunters to acquire a proper tag/permit before harvesting. Although most of the permits come at an expense, young hunters can get their tags free of charge! Nonresidents should anticipate more expensive permit fees in comparison to South Carolina residents. Visit the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources website for more information.
South Carolina Turkey Seasons for Public Lands
| Spring General Season | April 1 – May 10 |
| Spring Youth Hunt | Mar. 18 – Mar. 19 |
*Season dates vary by zone. For more information about hunting in your specific region, visit the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources website.
South Carolina Small Game Seasons for Public Lands
| Crow | Nov. 1 – Mar. 1 |
| Quail | Year-round on private land Sept. 1 – Sept. 15 Nov. 21 – Mar. 1 |
| Rabbit | Year-round on private land Sept. 1 – Sept. 15 Nov. 24 – Mar. 1 |
| Squirrel | Year-round on private land Sept. 1 – Sept. 15 Oct. 1 – Mar. 1 |
| Fox | Year-round on private land Sept. 1 – Nov. 23 Nov. 24 – Mar. 1 |
| Beaver | Year-round on private land Oct. 1 – Mar. 1 |
| Grouse | Nov. 24 – Mar. 1 |
| Raccoon and Opossum | Year-round on private land Sept. 1 – Mar. 1 |
*Season dates vary by zone. For more information about hunting in your specific region, visit the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources website.
South Carolina Crossbow Regulations
Crossbow Specific Regulations: The crossbow is considered officially to be a legal archery weapon in South Carolina, and so it can be used for hunting purposes whenever and wherever the use of any bow (recurve, long or compound) is allowed, which pretty much means all seasons. Depending on the type of game you want to hunt for with your crossbow, you’ll need a different set of permits; most larger game (deer, elk, bear) will require both a Big Game License as well as a Hunting Permit. For a full list of required licenses and permits depending on your activity, visit the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources website.
South Carolina Hunting License
If you are planning on turkey hunting during the 2023 turkey hunting season in South Carolina, it is important to be aware of the own regulations and requirements surrounding hunting licenses and permits.
To hunt turkey in South Carolina, hunters must have a hunting license, big game permit, and additional tags. Small game hunting only requires a hunting license. Additional tags or permits are also required for commercial fur trapping, nongame fish devices, shrimp baiting, migratory birds, deer, bear, turkey, and alligator hunting. It’s worth noting that a lottery is required for obtaining alligator tags.
If you were born after June 30, 1979, you must complete a Hunter Education Course before you can purchase a hunting license. Be sure to visit the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources website for more information on hunting regulations and requirements.
When stalking wild turkeys in South Carolina, it is also important to familiarize yourself with the specific hunting season dates and any additional regulations that may apply. Happy hunting!
If you want to check out the next state on our list, click here to see South Dakota.
Or, you can check out the last state on our list, Rhode Island.
