New Slot Tag Option for Alligator Lottery Hunts

May 15, 2025

Additional Hunting Opportunities Added to the Alligator Hunting Season. Please, read carefully so there is no confusion.

Beginning in 2025, additional size-restricted tags are being added to the public alligator hunting season.

These additional tags will likely shorten wait times for those interested in hunting a restricted size of alligator. This restricted “Slot Tag” will permit the hunter to take one alligator between 4 and 8 feet in total length.

This tag option will be added to the available lottery choices. The traditional “any size” tags will still be issued with no changes from last year. (greater than 4’ as always).

Slot Tag Device Restrictions: Those hunting with a Slot Tag, may not use harpoons, bows, or any other device that propels a dart, arrow, spear, gig, or anything designed to embed into the alligator as you may have to release an alligator above the slot size limit. Slot Tag hunters are restricted to snatch hooks, handheld snares, and ropes.

This change will increase hunter opportunities while trying to manage pressure on larger alligators in the population. Remember, it takes a long time (over 30 years) for an alligator to reach trophy size and it’s our responsibility to maintain a healthy size and age distribution across the alligator’s range in South Carolina.

Applicants will only be chosen for one tag, and any accumulated preference points will revert to zero when chosen, regardless of if it is a traditional or size-restricted slot tag. If you don't want a size-restricted slot tag, then do not select one at the time of application. There will be an additional 400 Slot Tags available (100 per hunt unit) for the upcoming season.

Your online hunt selections will be:

• Southern Coastal
• Middle Coastal
• Midlands
• Pee Dee
• Southern Coastal 4’-8’ Slot Tag
• Middle Coastal 4’-8’ Slot Tag
• Midlands 4’-8’ Slot Tag
• Pee Dee 4’-8’ Slot Tag