Tag: south carolina

Big Alligator in South Carolina

Big South Carolina Alligator

When hunters usually think about alligator hunting the state of South Carolina does not immediately come to mind, but this state is apparently home to some really big alligators. Well, at least there was one big alligator in South Carolina. It’s probably more like 1 less big alligator because I know the marshes and rivers out there probably have some more big reptiles that need to be tamed.

The big male alligator featured in these photos was actually harvested in 2009 in South Carolina. This big male went 14 feet in length and weighed in at a scale-stressing 1,000 pounds. Now that is a bunch of fried alligator tail and one hell of an alligator hide! I guess you know it’s a big alligator when you need a tractor with a front-end loader to pick it up.

South Carolina has a limited alligator hunting season with conservative harvest. In the United States, the American alligator is doing quite well and many states along the Gulf Coast also hunt alligator. The photos below were taken at an alligator meat processing and taxidermy in Charleston, South Carolina.

South Carolina Gator Hunting Timeline

If you plan on going alligator hunting in South Carolina, there is a lot of things you need to plan for. As with all other hunting trips, it’s easier said than done, but a good gator hunt is well worth it! For those that plan on applying for the South Carolina public alligator hunts, below is a timeline that will help you out.

Between May 1 to June 15 you can apply online by 11:59 p.m. on June 15 to participate in their public alligator hunting program. This starts online annually beginning on May 1 and there is no added benefit in trying to apply as early as possible. It’s a lottery systems so getting your name in the hat early will not help your chances of being selected for a hunt.

Starting in July, hunters will begin to be notified of their alligator hunt application status. Hunters that are selected will have until October 1 to purchase their permit and alligator harvest tag. You must return to the online application system and purchase your alligator tag and permit for $100. Continue reading South Carolina Gator Hunting Timeline

Alligator Hunting Tips for South Carolina

Hunting is rarely easy. If it was easy to find what you’re looking for then why would they bother to call it hunting at all? However, like any type of hunt, there are some things that you can do to increase your chances of being success on your next alligator hunt. First, purchase your gator hunting equipment and become familiar with it before you take to the field.

Obtain maps of the zone where you were plan on hunting and familiarize yourself with the area. You are entering the alligator’s natural habitat, so learn how gators think and where they will be. Determine who will accompany you on the hunt (i.e. select a guide if desired) and ensure that everyone that plans on going with you has appropriate hunting licenses and/or tags. Continue reading Alligator Hunting Tips for South Carolina