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
The water you are in decides. the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council writes the rule past the line.
SAFMC / NOAA SERO 2026 · checked 2026-09-16
How to tell it
Olive hind, dark saddles on the back, big blotchy spots. More on the rock hind page: every state’s rule, the records, and how anglers catch it.
Rock hind in other states9 rulebooks
Questions anglers ask4
What is the size limit for rock hind in South Carolina?
No size limit.
How many rock hind can you keep in South Carolina?
Within 3-grouper aggregate. Aggregate: 3-grouper/tilefish aggregate.
When is rock hind season in South Carolina?
Open year-round.
How current is this South Carolina rock hind 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 rock hind in South Carolina and this rule is on the screen before you take the picture. No signal needed.
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