No License Required

The South Carolina department of Natural Resources will conduct the first annual free hunting days this week.  This Friday and Saturday, state residents are allowed to hunt on public land or private land with permission, without at hunting license or state permit (including a Wildlife Management Area permit). However, hunters can only hunt animals currently in season and must still follow other state regulations like size limits. The move is a South Carolina initiative, and a hunter must still follow any federal requirements, including those for the Federal Migratory Bird Hunting & Conservation Stamp (better known as the “Federal Duck Stamp”) needed to hunt migratory waterfowl.Unlicensed hunters will only be able to target small game, doves, and other birds that are currently in season. Since deer season ends January 1, that animal will be considered off-limits. But there will be a youth deer hunt day on Jan. 5. Children 17 and under can hunt deer as long as they are accompanied by a licensed adult 21 years or older. Only the youth may take or attempt to take game that day. License requirements are waived for youth hunters on January 5.