Compare inshore and offshore fishing trips
Inshore charters fish estuaries and coastal waters. These habitats hold red drum, spotted seatrout, flounder, and other saltwater fish. Source: SCDNR estuary guide (opens in a new tab)
Offshore trips travel beyond the coast into deeper water. SCDNR lists mackerel, wahoo, tuna, mahi-mahi, sailfish, marlin, and swordfish among offshore surface species. Source: SCDNR offshore waters guide (opens in a new tab)
Ask the captain how travel time, sea conditions, and trip length differ. Share the group's experience and tolerance for ocean motion.
Plan an inshore trip by season
South Carolina offers fishing throughout the year. Water temperature and fish movement change the available species and suitable trip plan. Source: SCDNR fishing guide (opens in a new tab)
Spring and fall inshore trips can target red drum. Summer targets can include spotted seatrout, red drum, flounder, and sheepshead. Source: SCDNR summer inshore fishing guide (opens in a new tab)
Adult red drum move offshore as water cools in late fall. They return toward nearshore water as temperatures rise in spring. Source: SCDNR red drum life history (opens in a new tab)
Plan an offshore trip by season
Early spring and summer offshore trips can target tuna, mahi-mahi, and wahoo as warm currents move these fish closer to shore. Source: SCDNR offshore pelagic fish guide (opens in a new tab)
Summer offshore trips can also target sailfish, king mackerel, Spanish mackerel, amberjack, and black sea bass. Source: SCDNR summer offshore fishing guide (opens in a new tab)
Late fall and winter offshore trips can target black drum, red drum, flounder, and cobia after these fish move into deeper water. Source: SCDNR offshore waters guide (opens in a new tab)
Ask the captain which species fit your date and trip length. Check current limits and closures before keeping any fish.
Request a seasonal fishing charter
Give the provider your date, group size, preferred trip length, and target species. State whether you prefer protected water or an offshore trip.
Review the fishing charter guide and license and packing guide before the trip.
Guides for fishing charters
Who needs a captain fishing license near Surfside Beach, SC
Who needs a captain fishing license on a charter near Surfside Beach, SC? The owner or operator buys the annual charter vessel license.
Town rules
Beach access and pier rules
Plan where to fish outside the 300-foot exclusion around the Surfside Beach pier.