Kiawah Island

4 Fishing Charters

Kiawah Island Fishing Charters

Search top fishing charters in Kiawah Island

Top Kiawah Island Destinations

Kiawah Island: 4 fishing charters available
Excellent
4.8 / 5
(52 reviews)
Wadmalaw Island
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $450
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(68 reviews)
Johns Island
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $450
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(182 reviews)
Seabrook Island
trips from $400
Excellent
4.7 / 5
(139 reviews)
Johns Island
trips from $495

Frequently Asked Questions about Fishing Charters in Kiawah Island

According to customer reviews, Stroupe Fishing Charters II, Lowcountry Inshore Charters, and Keen Eye Charters Inshore/Offshore are some of the most popular fishing charters in Kiawah Island. Full list of top fishing charters in Kiawah Island.

The average price for a private 4 hour Kiawah Island fishing trip is $578, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you $1,592 based on prices on FishingBooker.com.

Stroupe Fishing Charters II, Lowcountry Inshore Charters, and Keen Eye Charters Inshore/Offshore all received great reviews from families who booked fishing trips in Kiawah Island.

The most popular fish species you can target are Spotted Seatrout, Redfish, and Flounder. Top fishing techniques include Light Tackle, Bottom Fishing, and Trolling. Inshore fishing, nearshore fishing, and offshore fishing are commonly offered by local guides.

Kiawah Island is the perfect place to enjoy South Carolina’s great outdoors. With beautiful beaches, isolated inlets, and one of the East Coast’s best golf courses, it’s an ideal escape from the busy streets of nearby Charleston. And what better way to enjoy it than from the water? Kiawah Island fishing charters will give you an authentic Lowcountry angling experience with an endless cast of hard-fighting fish to catch. Spend a day in these stunning waters and you’ll head home with a huge smile and a trunkload of tasty fillets!

Known For

Kiawah Island is surrounded on all sides by fish. You can find Trout, Redfish, Black Drum, and more all year round in the local shallows. Head farther out, and you can add anything from Black Seabass to Blue Marlin to your list of potential catches. The island even has a decent Largemouth Bass fishery – It really doesn’t get more varied than this!
 
Most Kiawah Island fishing guides launch from nearby Folly Beach, just a mile up the coast. Large parts of the island itself are privately owned, and the local marina is mainly for resort members. Folly Beach has easy access to all of Kiawah’s fisheries, though, and is actually better placed for heading offshore.

Kiawah Island Fishing Spots

Drop a hook and a hunk of bread into any of the local waters and you’ll probably find something on the end of your line. Fish in any of these spots, though, and things hit a whole new level of awesome.
 

Kiawah River

Take a trip into the protected shallows of Kiawah River and you won’t believe the variety of fish on offer. Spotted Seatrout and Redfish (known locally as Spottail Bass) top the list, but you can also find Southern and Winter Flounder, Black Drum, Whiting, Tarpon, and several species of Shark. All this, just a putting stroke from the island’s resort.
 

Kiawah Reef

If you thought the shallows had all the action, just wait until you see what’s in store for you on the reefs! Kiawah Reef is just one of a score of reefs and wrecks littering the surrounding area. Depending on how deep you fish, you can expect anything from Black Seabass and Spadefish to Cobia, Snapper, Grouper, and Amberjack. You can also find pelagic fish like King Mackerel and Mahi Mahi hunting around more remote spots.
 

Gulf Stream

Kiawah Island deep sea fishing is good enough to stop even the most seasoned sportfisher in their tracks. Blue Marlin, White Marlin, and Sailfish all spend their summers in the deep waters offshore. Head out at night, and you can try your luck against one of the toughest fish in the sea – Swordfish. Throw in a variety of pelagic Sharks and a great Yellowfin Tuna bite, and it’s hard to resist making the long journey offshore. It is a long journey, though: the best action takes place anywhere from 40 to 70 miles out.
 

Beaches

If you don’t handle boats well or just don’t have the time to enjoy Kiawah fishing charters, you can find some big hookups from shore. The surf fishing Kiawah Island has to offer is a perfect way to snatch an hour’s angling while the family enjoys a day at the beach. Bluefish are common catches here, and you can even hook the big Trout and Bull Reds Kiawah Island is so good for.
 

Ponds

If you’re more the freshwater type, you’ll be pleased to hear that the island’s golf courses are dotted with ponds full of Largemouth Bass and Bluegill. Many of these are also home to alligators, though, so only fish from ponds with proper docks.

Need to Know

So you’re sold on fishing around Kiawah Island. Good for you, you won’t regret it! Here are a few last tips to make your trip even easier, because we’re nice like that.
 

Local Laws

You don’t need a fishing license aboard registered South Carolina charter boats, but you will need one to fish from shore or in the island’s ponds. You should be aware that most ponds are only accessible to anglers renting in the Vanderhorst Plantation.
 

Budget

An inshore charter will cost you around $400-$450 for a half day or $700-$850 for a full day. Boats fishing the reefs are bigger and burn more fuel, so they cost a little more. Offshore charters start at around $1,400 for an 8-hour trip, with extended 12-hour or overnight charters on offer if you’re after the biggest Billfish out there.
 

Getting There

Kiawah Island is well under an hour’s drive from Charleston, and just over 2 hours from Savannah, GA or Columbia, SC. Once you’re on the island, there are paved cycle tracks and bike rental points if you feel like getting some exercise. You can also rent kayaks easily if you want to explore the surrounding waters.
 
Whether you’re visiting the island for its beaches, its golf, or for the fishing itself, you won’t be disappointed wetting a line here. With dozens of major species and every important habitat within reach, there’s a trip to suit any taste. What’s more, most of the accommodation on the island is self-catered. So avoid the overpriced restaurants and have a great time catching some delicious dinner instead!
Kiawah Island
Excellent
4.1 / 5
Based on 26681 reviews by FishingBooker anglers

January

January is the coldest month of the year, with average temperatures in the low 50s during the day. That doesn’t bother the local reef fish, though, who bite harder than ever this time of year.

February

Forget the February blues – Hit the local reefs and wrecks to land Black Seabass, Snapper, Amberjack, and more, or explore the shallows on the hunt for monster Redfish and Spotted Seatrout.

March

The spring season slowly gets going in March, with the first few King Mackerel showing up offshore. The reefs are still red hot, with Amberjack, Snapper, Grouper, Spadefish, and Seabass biting hard.

April

Don’t be an April fool – get out on the water for your chance to catch a huge range of tasty bottom fish! The inshore bite is just as good, with Spottail Bass, Spotted Seatrout, and Sheepshead.

May

The Cobia migration rolls into town, bringing amazing drift fishing with it. Shark season is officially underway, too, with Bulls, Bonnetheads, and Blacktips showing up in the shallows.

June

Bluewater anglers have been waiting all year for the start of Billfish season, and it’s finally here! Alongside Blue and White Marlin, you can expect great catches of Mahi Mahi and Wahoo offshore.

July

There are big fish in every depth of water in July. Marlin, Sailfish, Mahi Mahi, and more put deep sea enthusiasts through their paces while Tarpon strain both lines and wits in the shallows. Fish on!

August

This is your last chance to take on South Carolina’s Billfish. As if that wasn’t enough, huge numbers of Yellowfin Tuna explode onto the scene this time of year, making for endless bluewater fun.

September

Yellowfin Tuna get even better as the summer draws to a close. Inshore, Trout and Redfish are back on form and Sharks are still gnawing on big wire leaders in the shallows.

October

The big game battles of summer are almost over, but you can still find Yellowfin Tuna, Mahi Mahi, and even Sailfish offshore if you’re lucky. The inshore action’s as good as ever, so you won’t get bored!

November

Can’t face the thought of another turkey this year? Hit the reef and pull in some delicious Snapper or Amberjack instead! Kiawah River fishing is also fantastic, with big bull Reds, Trout, and more.

December

Head to Charleston for a variety seasonal events in December, or escape the crowds to spend your day battling big fish around the inlets and nearshore reefs. Happy holidays indeed!

Kiawah Island Fishing Calendar

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May is a little tough for some species of fish but Captain Chris will get you on fish. So knowledgeable of the area, tides, fish and when and where to find them.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
May is a little tough for some species of fish but Captain Chris will get you on fish. So knowledgeable of the area, tides, fish and when and where to find them.
Wendy  B.
Wendy B. Charlotte, NC

Lowcountry Inshore Charters
Lowcountry Inshore Charters
Fishing charter in Johns Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(68 reviews)
Grandsons ages 6 and 8 had a wonderful time will have many fond memories of Capt Rob and catching their first salt water fish. John M
John  M.
John M. Crossville, TN
Lowcountry Inshore Charters
Lowcountry Inshore Charters
Fishing charter in Johns Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(68 reviews)
Captain Rob was great with my 11 and 13 year old boys. He was very patient with them and also taught them some tips and tricks they can use.
Stephanie  D.
Stephanie D. Knoxville, TN
Stroupe Fishing Charters II
Stroupe Fishing Charters II
Fishing charter in Wadmalaw Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(52 reviews)
We had an awesome morning fishing with Captain Zach. Very personable, friendly and knowledgeable! I would definitely go out with him again and recommend if you are in the Kiawah area looking for a fishing trip that you look him up! Thanks for a great day Captโ€™n!
Sean  R.
Sean R. Palmyra, PA
Marlin Dog Marine
Marlin Dog Marine
Fishing charter in Johns Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(139 reviews)
Fun morning - Great weather. 13 fish caught but no keepers. Lovely time on the river.
Susie  S.
Susie S. Augusta, GA
Keen Eye Charters Inshore/Offshore
Keen Eye Charters Inshore/Offshore
Fishing charter in Seabrook Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(182 reviews)
Had a great time with captain Chris today. He was an excellent guide. He made the best of waters and hard headed fish.
Garrett  M.
Garrett M. Catoosa, OK
Keen Eye Charters Inshore/Offshore
Keen Eye Charters Inshore/Offshore
Fishing charter in Seabrook Island
Excellent
4.7 / 5
(182 reviews)
Everything went as expected. The capt. was ingaging and friendly with good information on the area we (four of us) were fishing. The equip and boat were clean and in good working order. The weather was perfect. My wife was the only person on board that caught any fish and they were very small, but that is fishing. My wife and I were with friends that we had not seen in awhile, so all in all, a great day on the water. We had a great time.
Joe  W.
Joe W. Peachtree Corners, Georgia
Keen Eye Charters Inshore/Offshore
Keen Eye Charters Inshore/Offshore
Fishing charter in Seabrook Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(182 reviews)
Caught a 12lb red fish. Was unexpected as not typically found due to bottlenose dolphin impact on red fish. Wife and I enjoyed our time listening and learning about the fishery in the river.
Jonathan  F.
Jonathan F. United States
Keen Eye Charters Inshore/Offshore
Keen Eye Charters Inshore/Offshore
Fishing charter in Seabrook Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(182 reviews)
Caught a several fish and the trip helped me to forget work and enjoy my vacation. Trout for fish tacos.
Michael  A.
Michael A. Longmont, CO
Lowcountry Inshore Charters
Lowcountry Inshore Charters
Fishing charter in Johns Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(68 reviews)
I brought my wife, my son and my wife's friend out with Captain Ron. The first spot he gave us popping corks with live bate that resulted in 2 keeper Redfish within 20 minutes. He made sure everyone knew the rules of the boat, while being extremely gracious and teaching as he went. He's a charmer for sure, and he also knows his business. When the girls caught their black tip sharks he helped set up and bring in, he gave them that first catch everyone remembers.
David  M.
David M. Hampstead, NC
Keen Eye Charters Inshore/Offshore
Keen Eye Charters Inshore/Offshore
Fishing charter in Seabrook Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(182 reviews)
Wow. Blown away by the experience of doing the charter with captain Chris. He was so patient and understanding with our son who is very new to fishing. The boat is clean and Captain Chris knew which places to go. Our son was able to catch 3 sharks! Definitely will be doing again.
Machell  K.
Machell K. Oviedo, FL
Keen Eye Charters Inshore/Offshore
Keen Eye Charters Inshore/Offshore
Fishing charter in Seabrook Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(182 reviews)
Cpt Chris is awesome and the trip is well worth it and then some. We had a wonderful time.
Bernardine  D.
Bernardine D. Charleston, SC
Keen Eye Charters Inshore/Offshore
Keen Eye Charters Inshore/Offshore
Fishing charter in Seabrook Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(182 reviews)
While the weather wasn't ideal, Captain Chris made our morning very enjoyable, and we will definitely be back on board with him in the near future!
Justin  G.
Justin G.
Keen Eye Charters Inshore/Offshore
Keen Eye Charters Inshore/Offshore
Fishing charter in Seabrook Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(182 reviews)
Had a great time. Two 9 year olds with us who enjoyed reeling in fish who fought. Thank you Cap'n Keen.
Edward  E.
Edward E. Johns Island, South Carolina
Keen Eye Charters Inshore/Offshore
Keen Eye Charters Inshore/Offshore
Fishing charter in Seabrook Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(182 reviews)
Went out this morning with two adults and two kids for a three hour trip. Captain Chris was very nice, knowledgeable, and extremely helpful. We caught six or seven sharks and a bunch of trout/redfish. Couldnโ€™t recommend booking with him more. Will definitely be back.
Brian  G.
Brian G. Johns Island, South Carolina
Keen Eye Charters Inshore/Offshore
Keen Eye Charters Inshore/Offshore
Fishing charter in Seabrook Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(182 reviews)
We had an 11 year old who was afraid of boats. Chris was very patient and helpful working with him.
Jennifer  R.
Jennifer R. Granville, OH
Lowcountry Inshore Charters
Lowcountry Inshore Charters
Fishing charter in Johns Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(68 reviews)
Fantastic day on the water. Captain Rob new the water better then the fish. If going to Kiawah he is the one to go out fishing with.
Christopher  B.
Christopher B. Hume, VA
Stroupe Fishing Charters II
Stroupe Fishing Charters II
Fishing charter in Wadmalaw Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(52 reviews)
Great time. Capt. Zach is a great guy and very hospitable. I definitely, would recommend it.
Ryan  M.
Ryan M. Johns Island, SC
Keen Eye Charters Inshore/Offshore
Keen Eye Charters Inshore/Offshore
Fishing charter in Seabrook Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(182 reviews)
We had a great time and caught so many fish! The fish were biting, and despite some seasickness we ended our trip with several bags of fish to take home. Chris was great, very knowledgeable of the area, and easy going. We canโ€™t wait for our next trip!
David  T.
David T. Grand Rapids, MI
Lowcountry Inshore Charters
Lowcountry Inshore Charters
Fishing charter in Johns Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(68 reviews)
A great morning to go fishing. The weather was ideal We caught fish continuously once we reached our fishing spot. The fish bit almost as soon as our bait hit the bottom. We also saw 2 leatherback turtles or saw the same turtle twice. (We saw a leatherback turtle on the way out and saw one on the way back.) We also saw a loggerhead turtle. We caught our limit of sea trout. We caught a large red fish that was too large to keep as it was larger than the slot limit.
Mike  M.
Mike M.
Keen Eye Charters Inshore/Offshore
Keen Eye Charters Inshore/Offshore
Fishing charter in Seabrook Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(182 reviews)
Chris was a great guide. He is very knowledgeable and fun - my friend and I and our 2 boys had a great time! Definitely would recommend!
Jeff  K.
Jeff K. Johns Island, South Carolina