South Carolina’s oyster season will close on Tuesday, May 15 according to S.C. Department of Natural Resources officials. Clam season will be extended another two weeks and close on Thursday, May 31.
Both seasons close at one-half hour after official sunset. Find out more about (PDF file) shellfish harvesting regulations>>> A Saltwater Recreational Fishing License is required to harvest oysters and clams. Find out more about the license by calling 1-888-434-7472.
Coastal waters will remain closed to recreational and commercial shellfish harvesting for clams and oysters until this fall. Shellfish harvesting season normally opens Sept. 16 of each year; however, depending on water temperatures and weather conditions, this opening date may change.
The S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control has requested that special attention be given to the harvest, handling and transportation of shellfish through the end of the season due to expected warm weather temperatures.