South Carolina state waters, out to 3 miles
'Whiting' in the SC table = kingfishes (Menticirrhus).
SC DNR 2026 · checked · the official rulebook is the final word
Often mistaken for
Gulf kingfishPlain silver, no bars. Tell them apartKeep the wrong fish and its rule applies.
South Carolina state record
SCDNR Saltwater Game Fish Records · checked 2026-08-23
How to tell it
Dark diagonal bars forming a V at the shoulder, a long first dorsal spine, and a single chin barbel. More on the northern kingfish page: every state’s rule, the records, and how anglers catch it.
Northern kingfish in other states3 rulebooks
Questions anglers ask5
What is the size limit for northern kingfish in South Carolina?
No size limit.
How many northern kingfish can you keep in South Carolina?
50/day aggregate. Aggregate: Croaker, Spot & Whiting (50-fish aggregate).
When is northern kingfish season in South Carolina?
Open year-round.
What is the South Carolina record northern kingfish?
2 lb 12 oz, Georgetown (1976).
How current is this South Carolina northern kingfish 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.
In the appPoint the camera at a northern kingfish in South Carolina and this rule is on the screen before you take the picture. No signal needed.
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