Hidden Cove Marina is located on the Cooper River in Moncks Corner, SC, just downstream of Lake Moultrie – part of the Santee Cooper lake system. This prime location means visitors have easy freshwater access through the Pinopolis Lock up into Lake Moultrie and Lake Marion, as well as a navigable path downriver toward Charleston. Whether you’re planning a fishing trip, a hunting excursion, or simply a fun day of boating, it’s important to know the key South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) rules and safety requirements that apply in this area. Below, we break down essential fishing, hunting, and boating regulations and safety tips to help you stay legal and safe on the water. (And don’t worry – we’ll keep it friendly, informative, and practical!)

Fishing Regulations around Hidden Cove Marina (Lake Moultrie Area)

Fishing is one of the most popular activities for Hidden Cove visitors. Lake Moultrie and connected waters are renowned for bass, catfish, crappie, and even striped bass. To keep these fisheries thriving, SCDNR has set specific regulations for sizes, bag limits, and seasons:

• License Requirement: Anyone age 16 or older must have a valid South Carolina freshwater fishing license to fish these waters. Licenses are affordable and available to both residents and visitors – for example, an annual freshwater license costs $10 for SC residents (and $35 for non-residents). You can purchase licenses online through SCDNR or at approved retailers (bait shops, sporting goods stores). Always carry your license while fishing.

• Creel & Size Limits: South Carolina enforces daily catch limits and minimum size limits for game fish. Know the limits for the species you’re targeting. Some key regulations for the Lake Moultrie/Lake Marion region include:

  • Largemouth Bass: Limit of 5 bass per person per day, with a 14-inch minimum size on Lakes Marion and Moultrie. (All black bass must be landed with head and tail fin intact.)

  • Striped Bass (Rockfish): In the Santee Cooper lake system (including Lakes Marion/Moultrie and the Cooper River), striped bass are off-limits in the hot summer – no harvest June 16 through September 30 (closed season). The rest of the year (Oct 1 – June 15), you may keep up to 3 striped or hybrid bass per day ≥26 inches in size. (In other words, stripers are managed with a seasonal closure to protect them during summer heat.)

  • Catfish: Lake Moultrie is famous for giant catfish. Statewide, anglers can keep 25 catfish per day, but only 2 of those can exceed 32 inches in length. This trophy catfish rule ensures a few big ones are left to fight another day!

  • Crappie & Bream: A generous mix of panfish swim in these waters. Crappie (popular in spring) have a 20 fish daily limit with an 8-inch minimum size, and bream/bluegill have high creel limits (typically 30 or more) with no minimum size statewide. While you might not memorize every number, always check current SCDNR size and creel limits for your target species – regulations can change to protect the fishery.

• Special Local Rules: Certain areas of the Santee Cooper lakes have unique regulations. For example, the Hatchery WMA (Wildlife Management Area) on upper Lake Moultrie is closed to fishing on Saturday mornings during waterfowl season. Also, the immediate area below the Pinopolis Dam (in the Tailrace Canal) is a designated fish sanctuary where no fishing is allowed near the powerhouse discharge. Pay attention to posted signs on the water indicating any no-fishing zones or special restrictions.

• Fishing Methods & Etiquette: Only rod-and-reel or pole methods can be used for game fish (no nets or traps for bass, etc.). You may fish with up to 4 rods per person (unlimited if everyone in the boat has a license). If you’re fishing with live bait, remember it’s illegal to use certain game fish as bait (except bream) and never dump unused bait into the water – invasive species are a big concern. As a courtesy, keep a reasonable distance from other anglers and docks, and obey any “No Wake” zones (more on those below) so your boat wake doesn’t rock someone who’s anchored and fishing.

Bottom line for fishing: Have your license, know the limits, and respect the resource. Lake Moultrie and its connected rivers offer fantastic fishing, but it’s up to all of us to follow the rules so the fish populations remain healthy. When in doubt, check the SCDNR Freshwater Fishing regulations online or pick up a current regulations booklet – it will list seasons, limits, and any updates for the year.

Hunting Regulations and Licensing in the Area

If you’re a hunter visiting Hidden Cove Marina, you’ll be glad to know the surrounding Berkeley County offers opportunities for outdoor hunting adventures. From waterfowl hunting on portions of Lake Moultrie to deer and small game in nearby forests (like Francis Marion National Forest or SCDNR-managed lands), there’s a lot to explore. However, hunting in South Carolina comes with its own set of rules and required permits. Here are the essential hunting regulations and requirements to be aware of:

• Hunting License & Hunter Education: All hunters must have a valid South Carolina hunting license in their possession while hunting. A standard state hunting license is quite inexpensive for residents (about $12 annually) and available to non-residents as well (short-term 3-day or 10-day licenses are offered for visitors). If you were born after June 30, 1979, you are required to pass a Hunter Education Course before you can buy a license. (The course can be taken online or in person and only needs to be completed once in your lifetime.) Make sure you carry proof of your license (a paper copy or a digital copy on your phone) whenever hunting.

• Game Zones & Seasons: Hidden Cove is in Game Zone 6 (coastal plain region). South Carolina’s hunting seasons vary by game species and zone. Deer season, for example, generally runs from mid-August into January in this zone, while turkey season is in the spring. Small game (squirrels, rabbits, etc.) and migratory bird seasons (dove, ducks) have specific dates and bag limits. Always check the current SCDNR hunting season dates for Game Zone 6 before heading out – rules can change annually. Bag limits (how many animals you can take) also apply (e.g. typically 5 deer total, 3 turkeys in spring, etc., with more specifics depending on tags and zone). The key is: know what’s in season and the daily limit for your game.

• Required Permits & Tags: In addition to the base hunting license, certain activities require additional permits or tags:

  • Big Game Permit & Tags: To hunt deer, turkey, or bear, you must have a state Big Game Permit (added to your license) and carry the appropriate tags for those animals. In South Carolina, deer and turkey tags are issued each year (a set number of buck tags, doe tags, turkey tags, etc. per hunter). You must tag any deer or turkey immediately upon harvest. (Bonus tip: make sure to wear the required blaze orange while deer hunting on public land for safety – it’s the law in SC on WMA lands and recommended everywhere during hunting season.)

  • Wildlife Management Area (WMA) Permit: If you plan to hunt on any public WMA lands (these are areas managed by SCDNR for public hunting), you’ll need a WMA Permit in addition to your license. Around Lake Moultrie, portions of the lakeshore and certain nearby properties (like Bonneau Ferry WMA or Francis Marion National Forest lands) are WMAs. The WMA permit comes with a small fee for residents and non-residents. Note: hunting on private lands (with landowner permission) does not require a WMA permit – only the base license and whatever tags/permits for the game you're hunting.

  • Migratory Birds & Waterfowl: For duck hunting or other migratory birds (doves, geese, etc.), additional requirements apply. All migratory bird hunters must have a free Migratory Bird Permit (HIP) each year (this is basically registering with the Harvest Information Program when you get your license). For waterfowl (ducks and geese), you’ll also need a South Carolina Migratory Waterfowl Permit (often called the State Duck Stamp) and a Federal Duck Stamp. The federal stamp is purchased separately (often at the post office or online) and must be signed across the face to be valid. Don’t forget to have these if you plan to set out decoys on Lake Moultrie for a dawn duck hunt – game wardens will check!

  • Other tags/permits: If alligator hunting is on your bucket list, that’s a whole separate lottery system and permit. Similarly, trapping furbearers or hunting hogs at night have special rules. Those are beyond the scope of a general visit to Hidden Cove, but just be aware special activities require special permits.

• Hunter Etiquette & Safety: Always observe all safety regulations. This includes wearing blaze orange on public land during open deer season (even if you’re not deer hunting), only taking safe shots with a proper backstop, and respecting property boundaries. Never discharge a firearm near developed areas – South Carolina law prohibits shooting within 300 yards of a residence when hunting without permission, for example. Around the lake, be mindful of homes along the shore and other recreationists. If waterfowl hunting from a boat or blind, know the laws for shooting hours (generally 30 minutes before sunrise until sunset for ducks) and use only approved non-toxic shot. And absolutely no loaded firearms in a boat under power – wait until you’re stationary and the engine is off before loading up for a waterfowl hunt.

In short, hunting in the Lowcountry can be fantastic, but you must get the right licenses/permits and follow the rules. SCDNR publishes an annual Hunting Rules & Regulations booklet (available online and at license vendors) – it’s a great idea to read up on the specific game you want to hunt. When you have all your paperwork in order and respect the seasons and limits, you’ll have a safe, legal, and enjoyable hunting experience around Hidden Cove.

Boating Safety Rules and Regulations

Hidden Cove Marina is all about fun on the water, but with that comes a responsibility to boat safely. South Carolina’s boating laws (enforced by SCDNR officers) are designed to keep everyone – boaters, paddlers, swimmers, and anglers – safe. Before you launch your boat or personal watercraft at Hidden Cove, make sure you’re following these key boating safety rules:

• Life Jackets (PFDs): Everyone on board must have an approved life jacket available, and children must wear them in certain situations. South Carolina law requires a U.S. Coast Guard-approved wearable life jacket for each person on any vessel. Jackets should be in good condition and the right size for each person. Boats 16 feet and longer must also have a throwable flotation device (Type IV, like a cushion or ring buoy) on board. Critically, any child under 12 years old must wear a life jacket at all times when on a boat less than 16 feet long (such as johnboats, small fishing boats) while underway. Regardless of boat size, it’s strongly recommended (and just good common sense) for kids to wear a life jacket whenever the boat is moving, and for adults to wear them too, especially in a small boat or whenever conditions get rough. Also note: if you’re operating a personal watercraft (PWC) like a Jet Ski, everyone on the PWC must wear their life jacket at all times – no exceptions.

• “No Wake” Zones and Speed Limits: Around marinas and docks – including Hidden Cove Marina’s docks – maintaining idle speed and no wake is both courteous and the law. South Carolina boating law says you must operate at idle speed (no wake) when within 50 feet of a dock, pier, anchored or moored boat, or person in the water on Lake Moultrie and most other waters. (On some bigger lakes like Lake Murray, the rule is 100 feet from docks – but for Lake Moultrie and the Tailrace Canal by Hidden Cove, use the 50-foot rule). Hidden Cove Marina explicitly enforces its own No Wake Zone in the marina basin – when you’re coming in or out, go slow and leave no wake. Large wakes near docks can cause damage and endanger people loading boats, so take it very seriously. In narrow channels like the Cooper River/Tailrace Canal, be mindful to keep wakes low, especially if passing smaller boats or kayaks. In general, operate at a safe speed for conditions. The lake has no blanket speed limit, but “safe and responsible” is the guiding principle – if you cause a big wake or can’t stop in time to avoid a collision, you’re going too fast. Tip: When in doubt, slow down – nobody ever got a ticket for going too slow in a no-wake area!

• Boater Education & Operator Requirements: If you are a younger boater, pay close attention: South Carolina requires that any boat operator under 16 years old who is driving a boat or PWC with a 15 horsepower motor or greater must have completed an approved Boating Safety Course, or be accompanied by an adult. In fact, as of 2025, this effectively means most teenagers (born in July 2007 or later) need to have a boater education card to operate on their own. The boating safety course can be taken online or in a classroom and covers navigation rules, safety procedures, etc. Even if you’re not required by law, taking a boater safety course is a great idea for all boaters. It may also earn you an insurance discount. Another rule to note: personal watercraft (Jet Ski) operators must be at least 16 years old, unless a 14-15 year-old has passed the safety course and is with an adult. Also, PWCs may only be operated during daylight hours (not at night), and they must have the engine emergency kill-switch lanyard attached to the operator when underway.

• Boat Registration & Permits: All motorized boats in SC must be titled and registered with SCDNR to legally operate on public waters. If you’re bringing your own boat to Hidden Cove, make sure your registration is current and the registration numbers and decal are properly displayed on your hull. South Carolina requires any mechanically propelled watercraft (including jet skis and motorized dinghies) on navigable waters to have a current registration in the owner’s name. Keep your registration card on the boat. For visitors bringing a boat from out-of-state: you can use an out-of-state registered boat on SC waters for up to 60 days, but after that it must be registered in SC. If you purchase a boat while in SC, you have 60 days to get it registered and titled. Also, note that boat trailers need to be licensed through the DMV – ensure your trailer tag is up to date for the trip to the marina.

• Required Equipment: Beyond life jackets, state law requires certain safety equipment on boats. Make sure you have:

  • Fire Extinguisher: At least one Coast Guard-approved fire extinguisher is required on motorboats if you have enclosed fuel compartments (most boats over 16ft will need one). Check that yours is charged and accessible.

  • Navigation Lights: If you’ll be out at night or early morning, your boat must have working navigation lights (red/green bow lights and a white stern light) and use them from sunset to sunrise. It’s a good idea to carry a flashlight or spotlight as well for extra safety or in case of an emergency.

  • Whistle or Horn: All vessels are required to carry a sound-producing device like a horn or whistle. Even small jon boats and PWCs need a whistle attached to the operator’s life jacket – it’s invaluable for signaling or calling for help.

  • Throwable Flotation: As mentioned, boats 16ft+ need a Type IV throwable (and it must be immediately accessible, not tucked away). While not required on smaller boats, having a throw cushion or ring buoy handy on any boat is smart.

  • Emergency Kill Switch: If your boat has a kill-switch lanyard (engine cutoff), use it. Some newer boats have wireless kill switches or other tech – the key is to have a safety cutoff to stop the engine if the driver is ejected. On PWCs, it’s legally required to attach the lanyard to the operator

  • Other Good Practices: Carry a cell phone or VHF radio, a first aid kit, and an anchor with line. Know how to use your equipment – for instance, practice throwing the life cushion to someone in the water.

• Alcohol and Boating: It’s worth emphasizing that boating under the influence (BUI) is illegal in South Carolina, just like drunk driving. The sun, wind, and waves can amplify alcohol’s effects on your body. SCDNR officers conduct BUI patrols, especially on weekends and holidays. If you’re found operating a boat while intoxicated, you can be arrested and face hefty fines, possible jail time, and loss of boating privileges. Keep the cooler filled with water and soft drinks – save the celebratory adult beverages for when you’re back on dry land. Safety first: a designated sober skipper is the way to go.

• General Navigational Rules: Follow the “rules of the road” on the water. Keep to the right side of channels, and when approaching another boat head-on, each should turn right (pass port side to port side). Power boats should yield to sailboats, paddle craft, or boats engaged in fishing/anchored (though everyone should avoid collisions). Maintain a proper lookout – the lakes are big, but hazards like stumps, shallow areas, or even floating logs exist (especially if water levels change). If you’re unfamiliar with Lake Moultrie or the river, pick up a navigation map and go slow in new areas. The Santee Cooper lakes have marked channels (red and green buoys) – if you venture outside them, be cautious of shallow spots. And always give a wide berth to large barges or commercial vessels in the canal; they can’t maneuver quickly.

• Anchoring and Swimming: If you anchor out in a cove to swim or relax, display an anchor light (white light visible 360°) at night. Avoid anchoring in the middle of navigation channels. Swimming off the boat is fun, but never in busy areas or near the marina channel. Also, do not swim around boat ramps or docks where boats are maneuvering – it’s both unsafe and often illegal to swim in marina basins. In the Cooper River, be aware of current (it can be surprisingly strong near the Pinopolis Dam when water is flowing). And of course, no swimming in the lock or within 600 feet of the dam for safety.

Finally, know that SCDNR officers and other law enforcement are out there on the waters. They can conduct a safety inspection or address violations. Treat them with respect – their primary concern is safety and resource protection. If you have the required gear and are operating safely, an encounter with an officer will likely just be a friendly chat. 👍

Obtaining Your Fishing & Hunting Licenses (Made Easy)

Getting the proper licenses and permits may sound daunting, but South Carolina has made it quite convenient. Here’s how you can obtain the licenses you’ll need for fishing or hunting during your visit:

• Online via SCDNR: The fastest way is to use the Go Outdoors SC portal on the SCDNR website to buy licenses and permits. You can purchase your fishing license, hunting license, big game permit, WMA permit, and even apply for hunt draw lotteries all in one place. Simply create an account, select the licenses you need, and check out with a credit card. You can then print your license or save an electronic copy. (Pro tip: take a photo of your license and tags with your phone as a backup.)

• In Person (Local Vendors): Many local bait & tackle shops, outdoor retailers (like Walmart, Academy Sports), and even some convenience stores serve as licensed agents that sell SCDNR hunting and fishing licenses. If you prefer a face-to-face transaction or need last-minute paperwork, this is a great option. Just bring a photo ID (and hunter education card if getting a hunting license and you’re under the age requirement). The vendor will issue you a license on the spot. Hidden Cove visitors might find nearby vendors in Moncks Corner or around Charleston. The SCDNR website has a list of license sales locations if you need to find one.

• By Phone: SCDNR offers a phone purchase line (1-866-714-3611 for licenses), though online is usually quicker. If you call, have your personal info and payment method ready. They will give you a confirmation number to use until your official license arrives by mail or email.

• What You’ll Need to Buy: Be prepared to provide your driver’s license or ID number, date of birth, and social security number when purchasing a license (required by law for all hunting/fishing license buyers for identification). If buying online or by phone, you’ll also give this info and payment details. Resident licenses are only for SC residents – if you’re from out of state, you’ll be buying a non-resident license. (If you’ve recently moved to SC, you need to live in the state 30 days to qualify as a resident for license purposes.)

• Short-Term vs Annual: Decide what license duration fits your visit. Fishing licenses are offered as 14-day short-term or annual (as well as 3-year). Hunting licenses can be 3-day or 10-day short-term (for non-residents) or annual. For instance, a non-resident coming for a long weekend could buy a 3-day hunting license and any needed permits for that period. Keep in mind, short-term licenses still require any additional permits/tags if you’re hunting big game or waterfowl. If you plan multiple trips to SC or will stay awhile, an annual license might be more cost-effective.

• Fishing on a Charter or Guided Trip: If you’re fishing with a licensed charter captain or guide, your fishing license may be covered under their license (many guides have a blanket license for clients – you should ask to be sure). But generally, if you’re just renting a boat or fishing on your own, you’ll need your own individual license.

• Boat Registration: While not a “license,” if you bring your own boat to Hidden Cove, remember to handle your boat registration as mentioned in the boating section. If your boat is already registered in your home state and you’re visiting for less than 60 days, you’re fine. But if you’re a new SC resident or keeping the boat here, you’ll need to apply for SC registration/title through SCDNR’s boat titling office. This involves a form, fee, and proof of ownership. Hidden Cove’s marina staff can likely point you in the right direction if you need local DMV or SCDNR offices for boat registration help.

The good news is that all these transactions – licenses, permits, boat decals – are made to be user-friendly these days. SCDNR’s online system (GoOutdoorsSC.com) is mobile-friendly and secure. And whenever you purchase a license, you’re directly contributing to conservation funding that keeps the fish and wildlife populations healthy. So it’s a win-win: you get legal and SCDNR gets support to maintain the resources!

Important Disclaimer: Stay Updated!

Regulations can change, and while we’ve provided the latest information, it’s crucial to double-check current laws before you head out. This blog post is for general guidance and may not cover every nuance or recent change in the rules. Always refer to the official SCDNR website and publications for the most up-to-date regulations and information. You can find detailed rules, license info, and any emergency announcements on SCDNR’s site, or by contacting SCDNR or local law enforcement. When in doubt, reach out to SCDNR – they are there to help and can clarify any questions about the law.

Legal disclaimer: This is an informational overview for outdoor recreationists and is not an exhaustive legal document. It does not supersede any official regulations. Hidden Cove Marina and the author assume no liability for reliance on this summary. It’s each visitor’s responsibility to know and obey the law. When you obtain your license, read the included regulations, and if you’re unsure about something (like boundary lines, specific size limits, etc.), ask an SCDNR officer or consult the official regulations online.

We hope this guide helps you prepare for a safe and enjoyable adventure at Hidden Cove Marina! 🙌 By following these SCDNR rules and safety requirements, you’ll not only stay on the right side of the law but also help protect the natural resources that make this area so special. Now get out there and have fun – hook a big fish, watch a beautiful sunset from your boat, or bag that trophy buck – all with the peace of mind that you’re doing things the right way. Tight lines, happy hunting, and boat safe!