South Carolina Legislature Leads With Science & Foresight for Red Drum
This morning, the South Carolina Senate Fish, Game and Forestry Committee held a hearing on Senate Bill 961,
Support South Carolina’s Bold Step to Protect Red Drum. Sign Our Letter of Support for S. 961!
Red drum are more than just a prized catch for South Carolina anglers. They’re a cornerstone of the state’s coastal heritage, a vital part of Lowcountry culture, and a powerhouse in the recreational fishing economy. These iconic fish draw thousands of visitors each year, supporting guides, charters, tackle shops, and local businesses with millions in annual economic impact.
South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SC DNR) and Senator George E. Campsen III deserve our appreciation for leading with science and foresight. Through Senate Bill 961 (S. 961), introduced February 26, 2026, they propose forward-thinking changes to safeguard red drum for the long term:
These measures reflect SC DNR’s deep understanding of red drum biology: their long lifespan (up to 40 years), the importance of larger spawners for recruitment, and the need for precautionary limits amid unknowns in stock dynamics. By prioritizing escapement of subadults and protecting the spawners, this bill gives red drum the best shot at returning to abundant, healthy levels—ensuring sustainable fishing for recreational anglers while maintaining the state’s tradition of responsible fishing.
ASGA fully endorses S. 961 as a model of proactive conservation that balances enjoyment today with prosperity tomorrow. We commend SC DNR for their leadership and the Senate Fish, Game and Forestry Committee for advancing this critical legislation. You can review our Official Letter of Support for S.961 by clicking here.
Your voice can help make it happen. We’ve drafted a formal letter of support to Chairman Campsen and the committee ahead of their hearing this Wednesday. Adding your name strengthens our collective call for passage and shows widespread angler backing.
Sign on here:
Join the American Saltwater Guides Association in supporting S.961 for red drum management in South Carolina.
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Together, we can conserve red drum and keep South Carolina’s fisheries strong. Thank you for standing with us—your signature and your voice matter more than you may realize.
This morning, the South Carolina Senate Fish, Game and Forestry Committee held a hearing on Senate Bill 961,
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9 Responses
I wouldn’t be opposed to a catch and release for all redfish for the next two years before these proposed new limits take place. These new limits also could include catching release for all redfish on guided trips.
We support this cause!
I support all that is outlined in the proposal to protect the Red Drum species.
Thank you for this science-informed proposal.
I support all efforts to save the red drum species. All South Carolinians should be concerned about the threats to our beautiful wetlands and marshes and our coastal heritage represented by the red drum.
I support this initiative to protect red fish.
I believe a change in regulation is needed for South Carolina. As a guide I can attest to the decline in winter spawning grounds. We have to take a step back and do what’s best for the fishery before it’s too late.
Thank you all for the support! Please sign our letter! We appreciate you all.
Fully support appropriate science-driven regulations to ensure a sustainable fish and wildlife populations, including these regulations to sustain the spot tail population.