Black Drum (also known as Drum, Puppy Drum, Bull Drum) in South Carolina. Minimum legal size, daily bag limit, possession limit, slot rule — verified against the SCDNR guide, 2026.
In South Carolina, the minimum legal size for Black Drum is 14 in and the daily bag limit is 5 per person. A slot limit applies: Harvest slot 14–27 in (total length). There is no closed season in SC.
Harvest slot 14–27 in (total length).
No closed season
Atlantic / SC state waters State waters (within 3 nm). No federal-waters distinction noted for SC recreational.
These limits are pulled from the SCDNR saltwater size and catch limits. Last verified September 2026.
Always check the official guide before keeping any fish. Regulations change. South Carolina Department of Natural Resources updates its guide annually and occasionally mid-year. Fines for over-bag or undersized fish are significant.
South Carolina requires a Saltwater Recreational Fishing License for anyone aged 16 or older harvesting marine resources. SC saltwater licences.
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