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
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
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
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
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
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
Summer offshore trips can also target sailfish, king mackerel, Spanish mackerel, amberjack, and black sea bass. Source: SCDNR summer offshore fishing guide
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
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.
Fishing charters questions
- What is the difference between an inshore and offshore fishing charter?
- Inshore trips fish estuaries and coastal waters. Offshore trips reach deeper ocean water beyond the coast.
- Source: SCDNR marine habitat guides
- Which fish can an inshore charter target during summer?
- Summer inshore fish can include spotted seatrout, red drum, flounder, sheepshead, and Spanish mackerel.
- Source: SCDNR summer inshore fishing guide
- Which fish live in South Carolina offshore waters?
- Offshore surface waters support king and Spanish mackerel, wahoo, tuna, mahi-mahi, sailfish, marlin, and swordfish.
- Source: SCDNR offshore waters guide
- Can I book a fishing charter during winter?
- South Carolina offers year-round fishing, but weather, fish movement, and current rules affect each trip.
- Source: SCDNR fishing guide