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
Rectangular dark blotches plus bright yellow outer pectoral third. More on the yellowfin grouper page: every state’s rule, the records, and how anglers catch it.
Yellowfin grouper in other states11 rulebooks
Questions anglers ask4
What is the size limit for yellowfin grouper in South Carolina?
No size limit.
How many yellowfin grouper can you keep in South Carolina?
Within 3-grouper aggregate. Aggregate: 3-grouper/tilefish aggregate.
When is yellowfin grouper season in South Carolina?
Open year-round.
How current is this South Carolina yellowfin grouper 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 yellowfin grouper in South Carolina and this rule is on the screen before you take the picture. No signal needed.
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