The 2024-2025 shellfish harvesting season begins October 1

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – Oyster lovers, mark your calendars! The 2024-2025 season for the recreational harvest of shellfish, including clams and oysters, opens in South Carolina’s coastal waters on Tuesday, October 1 beginning a half-hour before sunrise. The season will remain open through May 15, 2025, unless unforeseen conditions prompt an early closure or extension.

As always, environmental factors like hurricanes, major rain events, or pollution spills could lead to temporary closures of shellfish beds. The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) will monitor the water quality, issuing updates to harvesters via its hotline at 1-800-285-1618 and on its website’s interactive map. Closures will also be announced through local newspapers and other media outlets.

Where to Harvest

Recreational harvesting is permitted on all Public and State Shellfish Grounds in approved water quality areas. South Carolina has 20 Public Shellfish Grounds and seven State Shellfish Grounds designated exclusively for recreational harvest. An additional 58 State Shellfish Grounds are open to both recreational and commercial harvesting.

To find your harvest location, recreational harvesters should consult updated maps of shellfish grounds, as designated areas change annually. Maps for the 2024-2025 season will be available on the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) website prior to the season’s opening. You can also request printed maps by calling (843) 953-9854 or writing to the SCDNR’s Shellfish Management Section.

Licensing and Limits

A Saltwater Recreational Fishing License is required to harvest oysters and clams. These licenses can be purchased online or at many fishing supply stores. Harvesters are limited to two U.S. bushels of oysters and one-half bushel of clams per day, with a maximum of two harvest days within a seven-day period. Clams must be at least one inch thick, and each boat or vehicle is limited to three personal harvest limits.

Conservation Practices

SCDNR encourages harvesters to “cull in place,” meaning you should break off dead shells and smaller oysters on the shoreline and leave them behind. This practice helps maintain the habitat for future generations of oysters.

Additionally, SCDNR urges everyone to recycle their oyster shells. Collected shells are used to restore shellfish grounds throughout the coastal region. For drop-off locations near you, visit the SCDNR website or call (843) 953-9397. Remember, all recycled shells in SCDNR receptacles are considered state property and may not be taken for personal use.

Commercial Harvesting

A commercial saltwater license, mandatory training, and additional permits are required for those interested in commercial harvesting. Contact the Marine Permitting Office at (843) 953-9301 for more details on how to get started.

With the oyster season just around the corner, now’s the time to prepare for a bountiful harvest while also ensuring that future generations can enjoy this coastal tradition.