Myrtle Beach State Park explicitly allows crabbing from its fishing pier. That makes it a clearer choice than attempting to use an unverified private dock or bridge shoulder.
State park fishing pier
The pier fee covers the required fishing license for pier users, according to South Carolina State Parks. Confirm current hours, pier condition, admission and equipment rules before traveling; storm repairs can change access.
What you can keep
Legal blue crabs and permitted stone-crab claws may be retained under current state rules. Measure every crab and release undersized or egg-bearing crabs as required. Ignore old versions of this page that said crabs could not be kept or included unrelated claims about beach clothing.
Practical setup
Handlines and collapsible gear are easier to control on a shared public pier than unattended pots. Keep gear away from anglers, swimmers and pilings, and ask pier staff where crabbing equipment may be deployed.
Myrtle Beach State Park pier and activities · Current gear and license rules · Current size and catch limits
Official sources checked August 13, 2026.