McMaster relaxes boat landing closures for fishing season, but don’t take it for granted
Some good news for Horry County’s fishers and boaters: Gov. Henry McMaster reconsidered his order that closed all public boat landings.
But for the ramps to stay open, everyone will need to take social distancing seriously.
McMaster said at his Thursday news conference that boat landings will re-open to allow citizens to enjoy the fishing season and spring weather.
He emphasized that boaters need to stay isolated and distant from each other for the ramps to stay open. So you shouldn’t plan a boat party anytime soon.
“Do the things we asked you to do before and we will be fine,” McMaster said.
South Carolina Senator Stephen Goldfinch, R-Murrells Inlet, said he asked the governor to reconsider his stance on the boat landings being closed. Both members of the senate caucuses for the Republican and Democratic parties supported allowing people to safely get back on the water, he said.
Goldfinch said boaters need to make it a priority to follow the rules. The CDC is asking people to limit social interactions, keep your hands/belongings clean and wear face masks/gloves.
“Fishing is how we have always done social distancing regardless of the virus,” Goldfinch said. “Better enforcement of the guidelines and social distancing order can take care of the problem without punishing those of us are being responsible.”
This story was originally published April 16, 2020 at 5:05 PM.
