So the only way to get a non resident permit is to own property in SC ?
Correct. There is an exception for active duty military who are on PCS orders in the state. There is no exemption for military spouses, though, so unless the military spouse establishes SC residency, or unless the spouse has a permit from their state of residency, or unless she owns real estate, SC effectively prohibits military spouses from carrying weapons openly or concealed for the duration of their spouse's service in the state. Sucks for spouses from Illinois, California, or other states which don't issue permits (perhaps a good reason to establish residency in SC). Tourists are totally SOL.
Also if I purchase a fishing licence are you good to conceal in the vehicle or on your person?
16-23-20 exceptions, section 4 ? Going fishing or returning from fishing.
You can carry if actively engaged in fishing or traveling to and from fishing or hunting. Here's the statute:
"It is unlawful for anyone to carry about the person any handgun, whether concealed or not, except as follows, unless otherwise specifically prohibited by law:
(4) licensed hunters or fishermen who are engaged in hunting or fishing or going to or from their places of hunting or fishing while in a vehicle or on foot;"
I am personally unaware of any case law on the issue. I would not push it. I'd say while actively engaged in fishing you're ok; while walking DIRECTLY to and from your vehicle with your fishing gear, you're ok; but that's about it, by a strict reading of the narrow exemption. I would not stop for lunch, I would not get ice cream. Carry from the fish to the car, and then in the car.
Additionally,
it looks like carrying weapons may be illegal in Myrtle Beach.
"Sec. 16-49. - Same—Carrying concealed or unconcealed weapon.
It shall be unlawful for any person to carry, either concealed or not, any pistol, dirk, slingshot, metal buckler, razor or other deadly weapon used for the infliction of injury to the person or property. Upon conviction thereof besides such penalty as may be imposed by the court, the defendant shall forfeit the weapon to the city."
The second clause "used for the infliction..." looks like it might imply some sort of evil intent is required for the charge to stick, but who knows what the local case law and LEO attitudes are. The state pre-emption statute should cover you and nullify this sort of ordnance, but there's nothing to say that you won't be arrested by local law enforcement and spend a night in jail before getting bailed out. Nice vacation. The bottom line appears to be that neither South Carolina nor Myrtle Beach wants your firearm to accompany your tourism dollars. Sorry. The gun laws in SC are in serious need of updating.