You can enjoy deep sea fishing North Myrtle Beach anywhere from 10-75 miles offshore. This technique includes a range of possibilities, from nearshore reef fishing to a wild chase in the Gulf Stream and Blue Water. Whether you are in it for a record-breaking trophy or a delicious self-caught dinner, deep sea fishing is one of the most exciting ways to experience North Myrtle Beach.
What to Catch and When to Target it
The height of Gulf Stream fishing lasts from March through November. At this time of year, the waters are warm and you can find especially large fish while casting lines 30 miles out and beyond. On a full day trip, you are likely to reel in Black Seabass, Vermillion Snapper, Silver Snapper, Triggerfish, Porgies, Grunts, and Amberjack.
Many pelagic fish in the Gulf Stream are also at their peak season during this time of year. While fishing out here you can expect to catch Mahi Mahi, Barracuda, Cobia, large Spanish Mackerel, King Mackerel, and Bonita.
If you are dedicated to landing some big game fish, try heading out to the Blue Water. These trips take you 60+ miles from shore, where you can focus exclusively on trolling for Sailfish, Marlin, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, and Tuna. Blue Water trips are usually 12 hours minimum.
What are my trip options?
A full day Gulf Stream trip that takes you around 30 miles offshore will cost about $900. This trip lasts between nine and 12 hours, depending on the charter operator.
Extended day trips (12+ hours) take you 45 miles out and beyond, where you can fish either the Gulf Stream or the Blue Water. These trips are usually $1,450 and above.
If you are looking for a deep sea fishing experience that involves a shorter boat ride and a lower price tag, consider nearshore reef fishing. You will see a number half day “deep sea fishing” trips in North Myrtle Beach which keep you within 10-15 miles of shore. On these charters, you can reel in a hefty portion of Porgies, Spanish Mackerel, Sharks, and small Black Seabass.
Half day trips lasts four to five hours and you can expect to pay $500-$600. You may have the possibility of trolling for Barracuda, Amberjack, Mackerel, and other species near the reefs, as well.
A ¾ day trip will take you slightly farther from shore (up to 20 miles), giving you a chance to target a wider variety of bottom fish as well as larger specimens. These trips usually cost $550-$700 for a private charter.
How to Fish
You can target pelagic game fish such as Wahoo, Mahi Mahi, Barracuda, Sailfish, Marlin, and Tuna by trolling with either live bait or artificial lures. Bottom fishing and vertical jigging are the methods of choice when fishing for Snapper, Grouper, Triggerfish, and other species near wrecks and reefs.
