S.C. Code Ann. § 50-13-1635: Release of aquatic species and nonindigenous fish into waters.

(A) Except bait lost incidental to fishing or fish released into the waters from which they were taken, it is unlawful to intentionally release any aquatic species, regardless of the stage of its life cycle, into the waters of this State without a permit from the department.

(B) It is unlawful to use any nonindigenous fish as bait that is not already established in the water body being fished except the following minnows: fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas), golden shiners (Notemigonus crysoleucas), and goldfish, including "black salties" (Carassius auratus). Magistrates court retains concurrent jurisdiction of this offense.

(C) A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not less than five hundred dollars nor more than one thousand dollars or up to thirty days in jail, or both. In addition to the criminal penalties, the court may order a civil penalty sufficient to cover costs for eradication.