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<p><strong>S.C. Department of Natural Resources</strong></p>
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<p>Saltwater anglers fishing in South Carolina waters will begin paying more for their licenses beginning July 1. The change will affect both resident and non-resident recreational anglers, and saltwater charter fishing vessels.</p>
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<p>The increase in the license fee passed by state lawmakers and signed into law by Gov. Henry McMaster earlier this month was one part of a comprehensive legislative package aimed at addressing overfishing of flounder that also included changes to size and bag limits, and the establishment of a new stocking program designed to help rebuild the state's flounder population over time.</p>
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<p>For South Carolina residents, the cost of an annual saltwater recreational fishing license will increase from $10 to $15, bringing South Carolina’s saltwater recreational license fees for residents in line with neighboring states (Ga.: $15; N.C.: $16). This represents the first increase in the state's saltwater license fee in two decades.</p>
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