The waters around Charleston are a maze of salt marshes, creeks, and artificial reefs, all bustling with fish. Charleston fishing charters make the most of all of this, tailoring trips to every spot and species around. From family angling to hardcore sportfishing, you’ll find it all with a warm Lowcountry welcome.
Most Charleston fishing guides specialize in inshore trips targeting Red and Black Drum, Spotted Seatrout, and Flounder. The bite is best in the cooler months, but all these fish are available year-round. You can catch them with live bait, lures, or on the fly, depending on your skill level.
It’s not all about the inshore action. Spring through fall, you can find a ton of big fish farther out. King Mackerel and Cobia hunt around nearshore structure. Wahoo and Mahi Mahi patrol offshore. These trips focus on trolling, but you can also bottom fish for tasty Red Snapper and Amberjack.
Inshore charters stay in sheltered waters close to town, so they’re great for kids and families. Nearshore trips fish open water, but they’re fine for beginners and older kids. Both are available as half or full days. Offshore adventures last the whole day and are best for seasoned anglers. Charters run out of Charleston, as well as nearby Mount Pleasant and Folly Beach.
Rules & Regulations
Fishing licenses are included on saltwater fishing charters in South Carolina. In freshwater, you need a license for everybody age 16 and up. Striped Bass are closed for harvest June 1 to September 30, and saltwater Catfish species are closed year-round. It’s also illegal to gig for Redfish and Trout from December 1 through the end of February.