Hilton Head Island Fishing Charters

The average price for a private 4 hour Hilton Head Island fishing trip is US $523, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you US $1,141 based on prices on FishingBooker.com.

Which fishing charters in Hilton Head Island are good for families?

Fishing charters in Hilton Head Island that received great reviews from families are:

What are the top fish species I can catch in Hilton Head Island?

The top 3 fish species targeted on guided fishing trips in Hilton Head Island are:

What are the top fishing techniques in Hilton Head Island?

The top 3 fishing techniques in Hilton Head Island are:

What are the top types of fishing in Hilton Head Island?

The top 3 types of fishing in Hilton Head Island are:

Do Hilton Head Island fishing charters provide rods, reels and tackle?

Many fishing charters in Hilton Head Island provide rods, reels and tackle. Some of the top rated are:

Who are the best rated captains in Hilton Head Island?

According to customer reviews on FishingBooker.com, some of the best rated charter captains in Hilton Head Island are:

Who are the top awarded captains in Hilton Head Island?

Who are the top awarded captains in Hilton Head Island?

What fishing trips are offered by fishing charters in Hilton Head Island?

Some of the fishing trips offered by fishing charters in Hilton Head Island are:

2-hour fishing trips – US $369
3-hour fishing trips – US $467
4-hour fishing trips – US $596
5-hour fishing trips – US $690
6-hour fishing trips – US $917
8-hour fishing trips – US $1,350
10-hour fishing trips – US $1,600

Fishing in Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is all about fun in the sun, known for its beaches, golf courses, and of course, fishing. Hilton Head fishing charters can put you on a ton of different species. Every trip’s unique, and the best one for you depends on your group’s age, experience, and interests. Here are the most popular options.

Inshore Fishing Charters: Fun for Everyone

Inshore charters are perfect for families and complete beginners. You’ll stay in the shallows, close to land and away from the waves. The fishing grounds are on your doorstep, so even half days offer plenty of action. Head out, catch some fish, and be back in time for lunch.

The inshore favorites on Hilton Head Island are Redfish, Seatrout, and Flounder. These guys put up a good fight and make a great meal. The shallows aren’t just for beginners, though. You can also find serious game fish like Tarpon – ideal for fly fishing types.

Reef Fishing Charters: Catch a Feast

Want to load up on big, tasty fish? Bottom fishing is for you. You head out, drop some baits, and pull in some dinner. Reef fishing trips usually last 6–8 hours and are ideal for novices and older kids. You’ll be in open water, but you don’t need much experience.

So, what can you catch? A lot! Red Snapper is the main prize, but the reefs also hold Grouper, Triggerfish, and hard fighters like Cobia and Amberjack. You can even troll for King Mackerel on the way out if you have enough time.

Deep Sea Fishing Charters: Test Your Skills

The deep sea fishing hilton head has access to is enough to put anyone through their paces. These are all-day adventures for experienced anglers. Trips start at eight hours, but they can last up to 12 if you want to reach the biggest fish out in the Gulf Stream.

For seasoned sport fishers, it’s well worth the journey. Tuna, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, Sailfish, Sharks, and even Marlin live in these remote waters. You can also deep drop for huge Snapper, Grouper, and Seabass. Whatever you hook, you’re in for a workout.

Shark Fishing Charters: The Local Speciality

Hilton Head’s speciality is Shark fishing. These are short, catch-and-release trips. They’re designed for anglers who want a slice of the action but don’t have time for a standard half day trip. Shark fishing charters are only two or three hours long, but they’ll get you on a huge mix of big, toothy fish.

What you target depends on your experience. There are over 50 Shark species around Hilton Head Island, after all. Kids will love landing small Bonnetheads and Blacktips. Pros can test their skills against Bulls and Tiger Sharks.

Hilton Head fishing charters really let you get the most of these waters. Local captains spend their lives honing their skills and finding the best fishing spots. Throw in a dozen different fish to target, and you get the perfect fishing trip – whatever that means to you.

Hilton Head Island

4.8 / 5

Based on 28642 reviews by FishingBooker anglers

Hilton Head Island Fishing Seasons

January

Winter is your chance to experience the best inshore fishing around! You can pole the flats for Redfish, hit the nearshore wrecks for Sheepshead and Black Seabass, or catch a Speckled Trout with artificials.

February

At this time of year you will see Redfish flocking to the flats by the hundreds. This is a great time to sight fish for them. You are also likely to catch Sheepshead, Seabass, Flounder, and more on the wrecks.

March

In March you can expect cool and clear waters inshore, where there's still plenty of Redfish to be found. Other species will start heading inshore soon. For now you can enjoy catching a variety of critters on the wrecks.

April

It's spring and inshore fishing is hot! Casting lures and live bait could land you anything from Redfish, Speckled Trout, and Flounder to small Sharks. Cobia, Spanish Mackerel, and large Sharks are entering the sounds.

May

May is a great time to get out in Port Royal Sound, where you'll find Cobia ranging from 30-60+ lbs! You will also see more of this fish on the offshore wrecks, along with King Mackerel, Spadefish, and Barracuda.

June

In summer you could catch anything! Tarpon have made their entrance in Port Royal Sound and the backwaters, where you will also find large Cobia. Farther from shore you can target big game fish and Sharks.

July

Close to shore you might catch anything from Redfish, Tarpon, or Tripletail to a massive Shark. A trip to the Gulf Stream gives you a chance to target Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, Tuna, and Sailfish.

August

The summer hype continues, with great fishing everywhere from the beach to the Gulf Stream. Whether you are looking for the catch of a lifetime or something tasty to cook for dinner, now is the time to get on the water.

September

You can still enjoy great offshore fishing, trolling for Barracuda, King Mackerel, and Sharks. In the Gulf Stream you’ll have luck fishing for Mahi Mahi, Tuna, Wahoo, and more.

October

Autumn marks the beginning of Hilton Head’s iconic inshore fishing season. Tarpon are replaced by Bull Redfish weighing up to 40 lbs. Inshore you will also find Flounder, Sheepshead, and Speckled Trout.

November

This is the best time to catch some eating fish! In the sound and on the wrecks you can target Bull Redfish, or stay closer to shore and fish for Speckled Trout, Flounder, and Shrimp.

December

Fishing for Redfish doesn’t get better than this. You can sight fish for Reds inshore or head out to the wrecks for the rest of the Bull Redfish and Flounder, Seabass, Snapper, and Grouper.

Hilton Head Island Fishing Calendar

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Featured photos from Hilton Head Island

Cobia, Black Sea Bass, Vermilion Snapper, Spade Fish, 1 African Pompano, and 1 Amberjack.

Late spring , early summer Cobia fishing.

King and Cobia Deep Sea Fishing Hilton Head

Sheeps with other reef fish (all delicious)

What anglers said about fishing in Hilton Head Island

Yes Your guide will explain everything needed for any angler. Experienced or not.

5.0 / 5

Yes Your guide will explain everything needed for any angler. Experienced or not.

Southern Summers Charters

Go out with David and CJ on the Salty Mistress and you will not be disappointed.

5.0 / 5

Go out with David and CJ on the Salty Mistress and you will not be disappointed.

Above & Below Charters

Great fishing experience but fish Size was not good to fillet and bring home.

5.0 / 5

Great fishing experience but fish Size was not good to fillet and bring home.

Performance Fishing Charters

We have been skunked in April before. You need to be open to catch multiple species and be locked into one type of fish...

5.0 / 5

We have been skunked in April before. You need to be open to catch multiple species and be locked into one type of fish...

Gone Fishing Charters

You may have to go out a little farther (30-35 miles) to really get on the fish in the early spring, but it’s worth it.

5.0 / 5

You may have to go out a little farther (30-35 miles) to really get on the fish in the early spring, but it’s worth it.

Above & Below Charters

It was very chilly in the morning so come prepared with warm clothes. It wasn’t peak fishing season, but our captain was able to get us on some wonderful fish!

5.0 / 5

It was very chilly in the morning so come prepared with warm clothes. It wasn’t peak fishing season, but our captain was able to get us on some wonderful fish!

Captain Buddy’s

Seasonal. Redfish, Cobia, Tarpon, Snapper, Jacks, King Fish, Triple Tail, Sharks

5.0 / 5

Seasonal. Redfish, Cobia, Tarpon, Snapper, Jacks, King Fish, Triple Tail, Sharks

Mighty Mako Sportfishing Charters Villa Rica, Georgia

If fishing inshore or nearshore, bring bug repellant as the gnats can be a bit much to deal with.

5.0 / 5

If fishing inshore or nearshore, bring bug repellant as the gnats can be a bit much to deal with.

Captain Buddy’s

Weather is a little unpredictable in February but this has to be expected. You have to be open minded to the fact that the fish may not necessarily be in abundance of catching. But that is pretty normal in a sport like this considering the weather/temperature this time of year! I would still recommend it though, because why not? Especially if you want to enjoy the time on a boat and doing something you love.

5.0 / 5

Gone Fishing Charters

Dress in layers because it can be cold on the water. Ware tennis shoes and sun glasses. Captain provided us fresh bait and did the baiting of the hooks.

5.0 / 5

Dress in layers because it can be cold on the water. Ware tennis shoes and sun glasses. Captain provided us fresh bait and did the baiting of the hooks.

Hilton Head Inshore Charters

Definitely dress appropriately! It was 65 degrees the day we went out and if I hadn’t had a windbreaker I woulda froze lol. You WILL catch fish! Fishing is fishing though and you may or may not catch fish right away! The scenery alone is worth going on a trip in my opinion. The fishing was more of a fast paced style fishing. Like crappie or bass fishing.

5.0 / 5

Southern Summers Charters

Base your expectations on the season. We targeted red drum and sheepshead because that's what we knew we'd be able to catch at the end of January early February and that's exactly what we caught. In abundance!

5.0 / 5

Hilton Head Inshore Charters

Weather can be unpredictable (as expected), but if you are flexible with dates/times, it is worth the effort.

5.0 / 5

Weather can be unpredictable (as expected), but if you are flexible with dates/times, it is worth the effort.

Captain Buddy’s

I suppose it's the same any month - you are somewhat at the mercy of the weather and the tides. Had we fished during a different period that day, our catch might have been much different. We had fun and made memories for a lifetime. That's a good day in my book.

5.0 / 5

Pole Cat Charters

Communicate with your captain ahead of time it helps you be prepared. Our captain did a great job.

5.0 / 5

Communicate with your captain ahead of time it helps you be prepared. Our captain did a great job.

Southern Summers Charters

Captain Matt Crowe has been handling a boat, and fishing these waters since he was 8 years old. If you are going inshore he is the man. He has been guiding for 8 years, and can show serious anglers or a family out for a fun time. He can make it fun, educational, and interesting, and you will catch some fish. Take picture. This area is beautiful. Red fish, speckled trout, flounder, black drum, sharks, what ever you want in the way of an adventure.

5.0 / 5

Southern Roots Fishing Charters Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Dress for the weather we came prepared and it was a good thing. Chilly in the am.

5.0 / 5

Dress for the weather we came prepared and it was a good thing. Chilly in the am.

Captain Buddy’s

Trust the process, be patient and be ready to catch fish! Captain Alick knows the water.

5.0 / 5

Trust the process, be patient and be ready to catch fish! Captain Alick knows the water.

Fish Bluffton Dialed In

We had unfavorable weather, but we made the best of it, and still had a great time!

5.0 / 5

We had unfavorable weather, but we made the best of it, and still had a great time!

Reel McCoy Charters

Craig was wonderful, knowledgeable, and helpful with our group. He made our fun experience even more fun. We had a blast and hope we made his day a little more fun as well. Don’t miss out on one of the best excursions in the Hilton Head area

5.0 / 5

Gone Fishing Charters

How did anglers rate fishing charters in Hilton Head Island?

Southern Roots Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Hilton Head Island

5.0 / 5

(8 reviews)

Going out of Harbour Town was a bonus, and we caught over a dozen good sized fish, including red and black drum, sheepshead, flounder, stingray, and a bonnet head shark. Saw gators and dolphins as well. Matt is a great guide. Trip is highly recommended.

Todd W.

Captain Buddy’s
Fishing charter in Hilton Head Island

5.0 / 5

(728 reviews)

The trip was wonderful - Captain Jay was friendly, helpful, knowledgeable, and the trip was overall just a fun time. Caught probably a dozen sharks in three hours!

Brian H.

Family Shark Fishing & Dolphin Discoveries 1
Fishing charter in Hilton Head Island

5.0 / 5

(217 reviews)

Absolutely thrilling half-day fishing tour! We reeled in multiple sharks, creating unforgettable memories for both kids and adults. The guide ensured everyone's safety while making sure the excitement never waned. A must-do experience for families seeking adventure on the water!

Jeff C.

Southern Summers Charters
Fishing charter in Hilton Head Island

5.0 / 5

(227 reviews)

Went on a 4 hour inshore trip with my wife and 3 year old. Captain Rodney was so great with us, and understanding of our son’s curiosity - patient, knowledgeable, and put us on the fish. We caught lots of fish, and he made sure we got good photos to remember the day. As a bonus, he found us an alligator and several dolphins while heading to and from the fishing spots!

Aaron V. N.

Sea Deez Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Hilton Head Island

5.0 / 5

(97 reviews)

I’ve chartered a number of fishing trips, Sea Deez is a top notch outfitter! Andy and crew are master guides that don’t disappoint!

Sid B.

Aqua Excursions
Fishing charter in Hilton Head Island

5.0 / 5

(385 reviews)

Capt. Kurt is real friendly and a great guide. He did everything to get me on fish. We did catch a nice fish and he kept doing whatever necessary to add more. But it is fishing not catching. He as all the necessary equipment and very knowledgeable about the area. He offered to take us out again but we must leave the next day. I would highly recommend a trip with Capt. Kurt.

Bill P.

Captain Buddy’s
Fishing charter in Hilton Head Island

5.0 / 5

(728 reviews)

Captain Jay was fantastic. We caught lots of sharks, great fights. He was great company as well.

Gordon K.

Gone Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Hilton Head Island

5.0 / 5

(35 reviews)

Capt. Craig was excellent, very informative, talkative, super nice, very patient and accommodating. Had a great time with a group of three people (last minute change). Would do it again without thinking about it. He clean and filleted our catch, which was excellent. 10 out of 10.

Jose R. R.

Still Playin Charters
Fishing charter in Hilton Head Island

5.0 / 5

(70 reviews)

Took my family fishing , we had a great time!! Andrew is a great captain and put us right on the fish.

Adam H.

Captain Buddy’s
Fishing charter in Hilton Head Island

5.0 / 5

(728 reviews)

Easily the kindest Georgia Bulldog fan I’ve encountered lol go Vols Overall just fun to be around. We where fortunate to be on some nice fish right from the jump, saw a bunch of dolphins and rays jumping and finished in off with a legendary bull red

Joseph B.

Reel McCoy Charters
Fishing charter in Hilton Head Island

5.0 / 5

(89 reviews)

This guy is great! Caught a bunch of fish, the whole family had fun. I can’t wait to come back and do it again!

Christopher C.

Captain Buddy’s
Fishing charter in Hilton Head Island

5.0 / 5

(728 reviews)

Capt Jay was awesome! Extremely knowledgeable and friendly! Will book again next time I am in Hilton Head!

Jerry R.

Gone Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Hilton Head Island

5.0 / 5

(35 reviews)

Amazing fishing trip with extremely experienced captain and extremely knowledgeable about the fishing on Hilton head island.

Josh F.

Southern Summers Charters
Fishing charter in Hilton Head Island

5.0 / 5

(227 reviews)

Capt. Rodney showed us a great time fishing around Hilton Head Island! He was very professional, friendly, and knowledgeable. We started our trip by catching a few redfish in one of the creeks and then poked out into the sound to try for cobia and other species. It was a great time on the water and would highly recommend Southern Summers Charters! Thanks for a great morning Capt!

Theo A.

Gone Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Hilton Head Island

5.0 / 5

(35 reviews)

We had a great afternoon with captain Craig. Everyone caught fish & even caught a bull shark ! Would definitely recommend

Stephen B.

Still Playin Charters
Fishing charter in Hilton Head Island

5.0 / 5

(70 reviews)

Andrew was very knowledgeable and a great Captain. We caught plenty of fish, but the smile on my 5 year old boy said it all. He certainly caught the most. We will look to book with Andrew on our next trip to the island.

Nick R.

Captain Buddy’s
Fishing charter in Hilton Head Island

5.0 / 5

(728 reviews)

Captain Buddy was great! Buddy is very knowledgeable about his craft, as well as the eco system and geographical area. We all caught fish and enjoyed the “fight” of the fish! We will definitely book again with Captain Buddy the next time we are in the area.

Catherine S.

Aqua Excursions
Fishing charter in Hilton Head Island

5.0 / 5

(385 reviews)

What a wonderful experience we had with Captain Kurt Jeter!! He was very prompt, knowledgeable of all things fishing, and just a great guy!! We booked the 4 hour fishing trip with him and we spent almost the entire time fishing!! Very little down time and my husband caught a huge Redfish!! We could not have been more thrilled and we will certainly recommend him to anyone looking for a fun fishing experience in the back country!! We will see you again in June sir!! Thanks again!!

Jeff S.

Captain Buddy’s
Fishing charter in Hilton Head Island

5.0 / 5

(728 reviews)

Our third year in a row hitting the water with Capt. Buddy. Has been great with the kids and have gotten on fish each trip. Less than ideal weather today but got a couple of great redfish. My son had a blast getting a bonnethead shark and a ray. Great time each year!

Daniel K.

Southern Summers Charters
Fishing charter in Hilton Head Island

5.0 / 5

(227 reviews)

Caption Rodney was very knowledgeable and really made our time out there with him enjoyable by being kind, funny, and respectful. He will make shore you are on fish and teach you along the way.