South Carolina Red Snapper Season Expanded to 62 Days Following NOAA Approval

Big news for South Carolina anglers—red snapper season just got a major upgrade.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA Fisheries) has officially approved Exempted Fishing Permits (EFPs) for South Atlantic states including South Carolina, allowing more localized management of red snapper seasons.

For South Carolina, that means one thing:

RED SNAPPER SEASON IS ON!

For the first time in years, anglers will have an extended opportunity to target one of the most sought-after offshore species in a 62 day season.

What Has Changed?

Instead of relying solely on federal season estimates, this new approach allows states to manage their own recreational genuine red snapper access under NOAA-approved guidelines. South Carolina’s EFP includes the following state management measures for red snapper recreational harvest:

• Recreational Red Snapper Fishing Season: July 1 through August 31, 2026
• Bag Limit:
  • 1 red snapper per person per day
  • The bag limit for a captain and crew on charter or headboat trip is zero
• Minimum Size Limit: 20 inches total length (matching current state regulations)

What This Means for Fishing in Murrells Inlet

This is a game-changer.

Red snapper has traditionally meant very short, high-pressure openings and has left us praying for good weather—but a full 62-day season creates real opportunities to plan, book, and actually enjoy the experience.

At Crazy Sister Marina, we’re already gearing up.

Our Red Snapper Trips Are LIVE

In addition to our 8-Hour Continental Shelf trips every Wednesday and our regular 11-Hour Gulf Stream trips every Friday and Sunday in July & August, all of which are great trips for reeling in a beautiful and tasty red snapper, we’ve added two additional types of trips to our schedule to maximize opportunities for getting offshore and provide our anglers with a variety of types of trips to do so.

⚓ Semi-Private Red Snapper Saturdays (Head Boat)

🕒 11 Hours | Saturdays in July & August | Max 50 Anglers

Our fan-favorite semi-privates are BACK for a limited time! This offshore trip combines the thrill of targeting Red Snapper with the full Gulf Stream fishing experience—plus bottom fishing for other in-season species and nonstop action throughout the day.

🌊 10 Hour Semi-Private Red Snapper Trips – Party Time (40’ Sportfish)

📅 Tuesdays & Thursdays in July & August | Max 12 Anglers

Looking for a more personal, premium offshore experience? With just 12 anglers onboard, you’ll get more space, more time on the rail, and hands-on attention from the crew—perfect for serious fishing without the crowds.

Why You Should Book Early

Even with 62 days, access is still limited:

• Only 1 fish per person per day
• Peak dates (especially Saturdays) will fill quickly
• Weather windows and demand will tighten availability

 If red snapper is on your bucket list, this is your moment. Be sure to book your trip today!

For a deeper dive into the full announcement and to see the approved EFPs for neighboring states like Georgia, North Carolina, and Florida, be sure to read the full article from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration here.