South Carolina state waters, out to 3 miles
Rod and reel only; federal HMS permit required; federal landing limits apply.
SC DNR 2026 · checked · the official rulebook is the final word
South Carolina state record
SCDNR Saltwater Game Fish Records · checked 2026-08-23
How to tell it
The sail says it all; lights up neon when hot. More on the sailfish page: every state’s rule, the records, and how anglers catch it.
Questions anglers ask5
What is the size limit for sailfish in South Carolina?
63 in lower-jaw fork length. Measured as fork length: snout to the fork of the tail.
How many sailfish can you keep in South Carolina?
No bag limit. Counts toward the Billfish aggregate.
When is sailfish season in South Carolina?
Open year-round.
What is the South Carolina record sailfish?
75 lb, Georgetown (1968).
How current is this South Carolina sailfish 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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