An image of a small child fishing.

Sport fishing is permitted year-round, unless otherwise posted, on 310 acres of various impoundments. Boat ramps are provided on larger lakes. Available species include largemouth bass, sunfish and catfish.

  • A South Carolina fishing license is required.
  • Martins Lake:  open for fishing Mar 1-Oct 31 annually.  Catch and release only.  Martins Lake is closed to all access Nov 1-Feb 28.
  • Mays and Honkers lakes:  the creel limit on largemouth bass is 5ive (5) fish per person per day.  All bass must be a minimum length of 12 inches.
  • Oxpen Lake is for youth-adult fishing only. A youth (under age 16) must be actively fishing and may be accompanied by no more than two adults. Adults are not allowed to fish unless accompanied by a youth.  The creel limit on channel catfish is five (5) fish per person per day.
  • Only boats with electric motors are permitted; gas motors are prohibited.
  • Swimming and wading are prohibited.
  • Fish baskets, nets, set hooks, trotlines, and bowfishing are prohibited. 
  • Drones, alcoholic beverages, camping, fires, fireworks, and littering are prohibited.
  • Visitors are permitted on the Refuge from one hour before sunrise until one hour after sunset.
Laws, rules, and regulations