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American Eel (freshwater) regulations in South Carolina

· Freshwater · 2026 season

American Eel (freshwater)
Is it a keeper? A american eel (freshwater) is a keeper today if it measures at least 9 inches, with a daily limit of 25.

American Eel (freshwater) size limit, season and daily limit

WhereSeasonSize limitDaily limit
SC freshwater (statewide; listed lakes differ)Open year-round9 inch minimum25 per person per day

Exact South Carolina Department of Natural Resources wording

Season
Open year-round
Size
9 inches min
Limit
25
Inland waters — as printed
“Statewide | American Eel | 9 inches min | 25”

Source: South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, captured 2026-10-01 (2026 season).

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About the american eel

American eel

Species of fish

The American eel is a facultative catadromous eel found on the eastern coast of North America. Freshwater eels are fish belonging to the elopomorph superorder, a group of phylogenetically ancient teleosts. The American eel has a slender, supple, snake-like body that is covered with a mucus layer, which makes the eel appear to be naked and slimy despite the presence of minute scales. A long dorsal fin runs from the middle of the back and is continuous with a similar ventral fin. Pelvic fins are absent, and relatively small pectoral fins can be found near the midline, followed by the head and gill covers. Variations exist in coloration, from olive green, brown shading to greenish-yellow and light gray or white on the belly. Eels from clear water are often lighter than those from dark, tannic acid streams.

Read more about American eel on Wikipedia →

Text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0. Regulations on this page come from South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, not Wikipedia.

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Frequently asked

What is the size limit for American Eel (freshwater) in South Carolina?

9 inch minimum in South Carolina state waters.

How many American Eel (freshwater) can you keep per day in South Carolina?

25 per person per day.

When is American Eel (freshwater) season in South Carolina?

Open year-round.

Is my American Eel (freshwater) a keeper today?

A american eel (freshwater) is a keeper today if it measures at least 9 inches, with a daily limit of 25.