It’s no secret that Charleston is one of the nation’s most enjoyable cities to visit. The historic and cultural hub of the Carolinas has much more to offer than just old buildings and museums, however. This place is home to some of the best fishing grounds on the entire East Coast. And, thanks to the many fishing piers around Charleston, these bountiful spots are right at your doorstep.
Mount Pleasant Pier
Address: 71 Harry M. Hallman Jr. Blvd, Mount Pleasant
Working hours:
- January – March: 7 A.M. – 10 P.M.
- April – September: 6:00 A.M. – 10:00 P.M.
- October – December: 7:00 A.M. – 10:00 P.M.
Stretching out into Cooper River, the 1,250′ Mount Pleasant Pier offers scenic views of Charleston Harbor and the surrounding area. Thanks to the towering Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge nearby, the pier has plenty of shade during the day.
Entering the pier, you’ll pass through Memorial Waterfront Park, a perfect venue for a family picnic.
The base of the pier is home to a café and gift shop, where you can get your fill of made-to-order sandwiches, ice cream, and refreshing beverages. Between all the swings, picnic tables, and rocking chairs, the pier has plenty of space for relaxation and leisure.
When it comes to wetting your fishing line, you’ll have no shortage of elbow room, either. The pier tackle shop will cover all your bait and tackle needs, as well as rods and reels for rent or sale. Mount Pleasant offers great variety as far as fish species go. Depending on the season, you’ll have Flounder, Cobia, Black Seabass, and Sheepshead to wrestle, with Speckled Trout and Red Drum biting pretty much year-round.
Mount Pleasant Pier is home to the traditional Cast Off Fishing Tournament. With four events scheduled each year, the tournament has become a beloved tradition for local and visiting anglers. You can check this year’s tournament schedule here.
You won’t need a license to fish from the pier, but there is a $7 fee for adults and a $4 fee for children. The parking slots at the entrance to the park allow you to park for only 15 minutes at a time. Thankfully, there’s ample parking space within walking distance of the pier.
Folly Beach Pier
Address: 101 E Arctic Avenue, Folly Beach
Working hours:
- January – February: 8 A.M. – Sunset
- March: 7 A.M. – Sunset
- April – October: 6 A.M. – 10 P.M.
- November: 7 A.M. – Sunset.
- December: 8:00 A.M. – Sunset
Jutting just over a 1,000 feet into the Atlantic, Folly Beach Pier is one of coastal South Carolina’s signature attractions. The pier is located on Folly Island, or as locals like to call it, the “Edge of America.” One look at the wild beauty against the open ocean, and you’ll realize how apt the moniker is. The best part is, the “Edge” is just 15 minutes from downtown Charleston.
The 25-foot-wide pier offers plenty of space to cast your line. If that’s not enough, there’s a 7,500 square-foot diamond-shaped platform at the end. The pier boasts a tackle shop for all your gear needs, as well as disabled-accessible restrooms.
Fishing-wise, this is the place to be. Newbies will have a field day with Red Drum and Speckled Trout. If you’re up for a challenge, there are Kingfish, Cobia, and Sharks to catch as well. If you’re feeling competitive, make sure to visit during one of the monthly fishing tournaments on the pier.
When you get tired of reeling, pull up a chair and enjoy a fresh seafood snack at Pier 101. And if you want to burn those calories, jump straight into the ocean – the beach is just a few steps away!
Charleston Waterfront Pier
Address: 176 Concord St., Charleston
Working hours: Sunrise to sunset.
If you’re looking to do some pier fishing smack in the center of town, look no further than Charleston Waterfront Pier. Wide riverside walking paths dotted with shaded benches and well-kept greenery are a Charleston staple. Add to that the Pineapple Fountain, and you’ve got a truly mesmerizing backdrop to enjoy.
Looking out towards Cooper River, the pier provides unobstructed views of the Ravanel Bridge, Charleston Harbor, and even the awe-inspiring USS Yorktown in the distance.
Right in front (or below), the pier offers great Redfish and Flounder fishing. There’s even a tape ruler drawn on the pier to measure your catch.
Pickett Park Bridge
Address: Pitt Street, Mount Pleasant
Working hours: 24 hours
Located at the south end of Pitt Street, Picket Park Bridge was once the site of an old trolley crossing between Sullivan’s Island and the Old Village of Mount Pleasant.
Today, Picket Bridge is a popular recreational area for joggers, cyclists, and anglers. The park offers stunning views of the harbor and Fort Sumter on one side, and Ben Sawyer Bridge and Sullivan’s Island on the other.
The park’s walkway lined with palmetto trees is perfect for a relaxing stroll. As you go towards the end of the bridge, you’ll come across a variety of wild animals. From sea turtles and dolphins to ospreys and egrets, this place is a true wildlife reserve.
The bridge lies right next to the Intracoastal waterway, meaning you’ll have no shortage of fish on your line. The signature catch in this area isn’t a fish, however. It’s the Blue Crab, a local delicacy you can bring home for dinner.
Palmetto Islands County Park Fishing Pier
Address: 444 Needlerush Parkway, Mount Pleasant
Working hours:
- January – April: 8:00 A.M. – Sunset
- May – August: 8:00 A.M. – 8:00 P.M.
- September – December: 8:00 A.M. – Sunset
If you’re looking for a family-friendly getaway, be sure to stop by Palmetto Islands County Park. The park features countless opportunities for outdoor fun, as well as all the amenities you and the kids will need.
The Splash Island Waterpark, a summer playground with pools and toboggans, is perfect for a relaxing cool-down. The park boasts a volleyball court and a horseshoe pit, too. If you’re looking to do some exploration, however, hop on a bike and roam one of the park’s many paved trails. Better yet, rent a pedal boat or kayak and enjoy the views from the water.
But you know what’s even better than that? Throwing the fish you just pulled out of the water straight onto the grill. Head over to the creek and wet your line from the fishing dock. There are Redfish and Crab in these waters, and both are perfect for a family lunch in the park.
The park offers several picnic sites equipped with tables and grills, so all you have to do is catch your meal. Keep in mind that you’ll need a valid fishing license to fish in these tidal creeks.
Plenty More Where That Came From!
There are countless other docks and fishing piers around Charleston, and all are worthy of a cast or two. The fact that you can enjoy loads of other activities near these piers only adds to the appeal.
What about you? Have you ever fished from one of the fishing piers around Charleston before? Which one would you like to try next? Let us know in the comments below.
