South Carolina state waters, out to 3 miles
No closed seasons in SC state waters; federal seasons differ.
SC DNR 2026 · checked · the official rulebook is the final word
Past 3 miles: federal waters Different rule
Closed for the rest of 2026 after the recreational ACL was met.
SAFMC / NOAA SERO 2026 · checked 2026-09-16
South Carolina state record
SCDNR Saltwater Game Fish Records · checked 2026-08-23
How to tell it
Blue-gold flanks with yellow spots and the odd head crest. More on the golden tilefish page: every state’s rule, the records, and how anglers catch it.
Golden tilefish in other states14 rulebooks
Questions anglers ask5
What is the size limit for golden tilefish in South Carolina?
No size limit.
How many golden tilefish can you keep in South Carolina?
1/day, within 3-grouper aggregate. Aggregate: 3-grouper/tilefish aggregate.
When is golden tilefish season in South Carolina?
Open year-round.
What is the South Carolina record golden tilefish?
28 lb 3.2 oz, Charleston, SC (2020).
How current is this South Carolina golden tilefish rule?
Source: SC DNR 2026, last checked Sep 20, 2026. A watchman re-reads the agency's pages nightly. Rules change mid-season by proclamation; the official rulebook is the final word.
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