For the inhabitants of Murrells Inlet, fishing is a way of life. Described by the locals as ‘a small drinking town with a big fishing problem’ (get it?), this popular vacation spot has salt water running through its blood. Famous for its great air quality and miles of uninterrupted beaches (this is part of the Grand Strand after all), this is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. And when it comes to the fishing, South Carolina’s coastline seems determined to uphold its reputation as a favorite amongst anglers of all types and denominations.

Known For

Murrells Inlet seafood is famous as the best in South Carolina, and when you look at the fish species on offer, it’s not surprising. From the backwater creeks that are home to Redfish, Speckled Trout, and Flounder, to the favorite haunts of Bull Redfish around the jetties, you don’t need to go far to find a nice game fish that could well end up on your dinner table. And with a healthy collection of reefs and wrecks nearshore, you could be catching your fill of Sheepshead and more just four miles from the coastline. Further out, the Gulf Stream is home to a steady population of Wahoo during the winter months, with Blackfin Tuna, Sailfish, and Mahi Mahi also joining forces according to the season.

Join a local aboard a Murrells Inlet inshore fishing charter to see the beauty of the area at its best. Most trips will take you exploring in areas such as the peaceful Waccamaw River, a haven for wildlife such as Ospreys, Alligators, and Bald Eagles. These are some of the only waters along the coastline that are not connected to the Intracoastal Waterway or coastal waterways, making them unusually clean and healthy. Check out favorite fishing spots such as the shell bank at Main Creek, the tip of the North Jetty, Oaks Creek, and ‘Charlie’s Cut.’

The Marsh Walk is another favorite amongst locals and visitors alike. Pay a visit to the local restaurants and bars while enjoying some of the best views over the inlet: we’re struggling to think of a better way to end a long day on the water.

But there’s more than just inshore fishing available round here. Big game sportfishing addicts will also find that fishing Murrells Inlet has plenty to offer. Whether that means heading 60 miles out into the Gulf stream to find citation-sized Wahoo, Blackfin Tuna, and Sailfish, or staying within the 20 mile mark and hunting for Cobia, there’s no doubt that this is a fishery you won’t want to miss out on. Top offshore fishing spots include the Georgetown Hole, a ten-mile long ledge running perpendicular to the Gulf Stream and the coastline.

Rules & Regulations

Saltwater fishing licenses are essential for all anglers over 16 years old. Just like in the rest of South Carolina, licensed Murrells Inlet fishing charters cover fishing licenses for all anglers on board while under hire.

Types of Fishing

Murrells Inlet inshore fishing will take you on the hunt for Redfish, Speckled Trout, Flounder, Black Drum, and more. Trout is particularly good in the fall and early winter - target them by throwing topwater plugs and other artificial lures (DOA Shrimp and Matrix Shad are popular) or by floating live shrimp. Flounder is great from April through late fall and responds well to Gulp! Shrimp on Jigheads.

For a tasty meal, target Sheepshead over the nearshore reefs and wrecks from four to ten miles out. They will respond particularly well to fiddler crabs and barnacles - just be sure to set the hook right in their toothy mouths!

Murrells Inlet deep sea fishing mainly takes place about 60 miles offshore, where the water reaches 140-250 ft deep and the Gulf Stream brings rich bait and pelagics within fishable reach. Target species such as Wahoo and Tuna by trolling skirted ballyhoo over ledges in the seafloor.