Southern Kingfish Fishing in South Carolina
When southern kingfish are caught across South Carolina, season by season, from NOAA’s recreational catch survey (2024).
Southern Kingfish catch through the year
Recreational catch in South Carolina by two-month season. The peak window is highlighted.
Catch more southern kingfish
Seasonal catch, tides, and the day's conditions worth knowing for your spots, plus the occasional PATHR update. No spam.
Catching southern kingfish in South Carolina
Southern Kingfish catches in South Carolina run hardest around Mar-Apr, with the strongest two-month windows in Mar-Apr and Sep-Oct. Anglers keep about 78% of what they catch and release the rest. All of this comes from NOAA’s recreational catch survey, so it maps the season rather than any single day.
To turn the season into a trip, line the peak window up with the daily bite. Check the South Carolina fishing times for the solunar windows, the tide charts for moving water, and the sunrise and sunset times for first and last light.
Frequently asked
When is the best time to catch southern kingfish in South Carolina?+
Catches peak around Mar-Apr (March and April). The strongest two-month windows are Mar-Apr and Sep-Oct. This is based on NOAA's 2024 recreational catch survey, so it reflects the typical season rather than a live report.
Do anglers keep or release southern kingfish in South Carolina?+
Across South Carolina, about 78% of the southern kingfish caught are kept and 22% are released. That works out to roughly 1.1M kept and 307K released in 2024.
How many southern kingfish are caught in South Carolina?+
NOAA's survey estimated about 1.4M southern kingfish caught by recreational anglers in South Carolina in 2024, making it the #8 most-caught species in the state. Survey estimates, so read them as the shape of the season.
Where does this southern kingfish data come from?+
NOAA's Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP), 2024 estimates. Courtesy: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
You've got the seasons. Now put the water on your chart.
Pathr shows this spot live, the depth under your keel, the tide, wind, and traffic, on one nautical chart.
Love the free tools? Back us as a Founding member.
