Myrtle Beach Fishing Charters
Myrtle Beach fishing charters offer everything from shallow inshore creeks to deep sea runs offshore, putting anglers on redfish, flounder, kings, and mahi with ease.
Top Rated Charters in Myrtle Beach
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Myrtle Beach, SC Fishing Guide
Myrtle Beach sits at the convergence of South Carolina’s inshore estuaries and the deep water of the Atlantic, giving local captains a broad range of options year-round. Inshore fishing is especially popular for half-day trips, with creeks, marshes, and tidal rivers in places like Murrells Inlet and Hog Inlet producing consistent action for redfish, speckled trout, and flounder. These sheltered zones are ideal for families, light tackle anglers, and anyone looking to avoid long runs.
Just offshore, nearshore reefs and artificial structures start within 5 to 10 miles and hold species like black sea bass, Spanish mackerel, and weakfish. Full-day offshore charters often push 30–60 miles out to reach ledges and Gulf Stream waters, where trolling for mahi, tuna, wahoo, and sailfish becomes the focus in warmer months. Grouper and snapper bottom fishing is also common on these longer trips, especially from late spring through fall.
The Grand Strand’s geography makes access easy, with most trips launching from marinas in Little River, Murrells Inlet, or directly out of Myrtle Beach. Captains tailor the experience based on the season, tide, and target species. Inshore guides may work grass lines with popping corks and live shrimp or pitch soft plastics into oyster pockets. Offshore, it’s often a mix of trolling, vertical jigging, and deep drop rigs depending on the target zone.
Myrtle Beach inshore fishing heats up in spring and stays solid into the fall, while offshore action peaks May through September. Whether you’re after a shallow-water slam or chasing pelagics beyond the break, there’s a fishery here to match.
Fishing Seasons in Myrtle Beach
Spring
As waters warm into the 60s, redfish and speckled trout begin feeding aggressively in the creeks and marshes. Flounder start showing up by April, especially near the jetties and inlet mouths. Nearshore reefs come alive with Spanish mackerel and black sea bass. Offshore, tuna and wahoo kick off the season for trolling crews. It’s a transitional time with a strong mixed bag for inshore and nearshore charters alike.
Summer
Summer is prime time across all depths. Inshore waters fill with bait, and you’ll find slot redfish, trout, and big flounder feeding early and late around structure and moving water. King mackerel move in thick nearshore and on the beaches, often caught trolling live menhaden. Offshore trips focus on mahi, sailfish, wahoo, and bottom species like grouper. Full-day Gulf Stream runs are popular when weather permits.
Fall
Fall brings the best inshore fishing of the year, with redfish schooling up in shallow creeks and trout feeding hard ahead of winter. Flounder action remains solid through October. Nearshore, kingfish and Spanish mackerel stay hot into November. Offshore trips transition toward bottom fishing again, with gag grouper and vermilion snapper being top targets. Cooler temps and lighter crowds make this a favorite time for locals.
Winter
While offshore trips are more limited due to weather, inshore fishing stays viable. Redfish pod up on sunny mudflats and can be sight-fished on calm days. Trout are still catchable in deeper holes near structure. Nearshore reefs hold black sea bass and porgies, though most trips this time of year are shorter and closer to shore. Winter can be slower, but still offers opportunity for the right crew.
Gamefish in Myrtle Beach
- Redfish – 18–30" Found in creeks, marshes, and near oyster bars year-round; fished with live bait under corks or artificial lures on flats.
- Spotted Seatrout – 14–22" Caught in deeper holes and grass lines; best on soft plastics and shrimp under popping corks, especially spring and fall.
- Flounder – 15–25" Targeted near inlets, jetties, and docks; fished with mud minnows or finger mullet on Carolina rigs or jigs.
- Black Sea Bass – 12–18" Hold on nearshore reefs and wrecks; caught with squid or cut bait on bottom rigs.
- King Mackerel – 10–30 lbs Caught trolling live bait or spoons nearshore and around bait pods; peak in summer and fall.
- Spanish Mackerel – 2–5 lbs Common near beaches and reefs; taken trolling Clark spoons or casting to surface schools.
- Mahi-Mahi – 10–30 lbs Found in Gulf Stream waters 40+ miles out; caught trolling ballyhoo or pitching to floating debris.
- Wahoo – 20–60 lbs Trolled offshore with high-speed lures or rigged baits; best in spring and early summer.
- Sailfish – 30–60 lbs Caught trolling offshore during peak summer months; often seen free-jumping near weed lines.
Myrtle BeachFishing FAQs
What’s the best time of year to fish in Myrtle Beach?
Spring through fall offers the best variety, with summer being peak season for both inshore and offshore charters. Redfish, flounder, and kings are especially active during this time.
Do Myrtle Beach charters include fishing licenses?
Yes, most Myrtle Beach fishing charters carry a blanket license that covers all anglers onboard. You won’t need to buy anything extra.
Where do most fishing charters depart from?
Captains typically launch from Little River, Murrells Inlet, or marinas right in Myrtle Beach. Your captain will confirm the launch spot based on the trip plan.
How far do offshore trips go from Myrtle Beach?
Nearshore trips may stay within 5–15 miles, while full-day offshore runs can go 30 to 60+ miles depending on the target species.
Is inshore fishing in Myrtle Beach good for beginners?
Absolutely. Inshore waters are calm and accessible, making them great for kids, families, and new anglers. There’s steady action with redfish, trout, and flounder.
What should I bring on my Myrtle Beach fishing charter?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, snacks, and drinks. Most charters provide rods, reels, tackle, bait, and ice. Ask your captain about specific needs.
Can we keep the fish we catch?
Yes, most species can be kept if they meet size and bag limits. Your guide will help with filleting and packaging, often back at the dock.
Are there half-day and full-day options available?
Yes, Myrtle Beach charters commonly offer 4-hour, 6-hour, and full 8–10 hour trips depending on whether you want inshore or offshore action.
What kind of gear is used for deep sea fishing here?
For offshore trips, expect heavy trolling gear, electric reels for bottom fishing, and conventional rods for jigging. All tackle is typically included in the charter.
