Damn Good Nearshore Fishing Charters In Charleston Harbor

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Recently Booked Nearshore Fishing Charters In Charleston Harbor

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Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty, River in North Charleston

Besting Charleston's Beasts

100% (3)
24 ft 1 - 12 People From $350
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty in Charleston

Inshore Aboard Sportsman Bay Boat

100% (3)
23 ft 1 - 10 People From $500
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, River in Mount Pleasant

Half Day Charleston Adventure

100% (9)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $525
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore, Jetty in Charleston

8 HR Offshore Reef/Harbor/Jetties

100% (3)
33 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty in Charleston

4 HR Inshore/Harbor/Jetties Fishing PM

100% (3)
33 ft 1 - 12 People From $700
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore, Jetty in Charleston

6 HR Reef/Nearshore/Jetties/Harbor

100% (3)
33 ft 1 - 12 People From $1,100

Top Types of Nearshore Trips in Charleston Harbor

Top Species for Nearshore Fishing in Charleston Harbor

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More Nearshore Fishing Charters In Charleston Harbor

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

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6 HR Reef/Nearshore/Jetties/Harbor

100% (3)
33 ft 1 - 12 People From $1,100
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty in Charleston

4 HR Inshore/Harbor/Jetties Fishing PM

100% (3)
33 ft 1 - 12 People From $700
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore, Jetty in Charleston

8 HR Offshore Reef/Harbor/Jetties

100% (3)
33 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,600
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Fishing in Destin
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Inshore, Nearshore, River in Mount Pleasant

Half Day Charleston Adventure

100% (9)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $525
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Inshore Aboard Sportsman Bay Boat

100% (3)
23 ft 1 - 10 People From $500
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty, River in North Charleston

Besting Charleston's Beasts

100% (3)
24 ft 1 - 12 People From $350
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Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

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Charleston Jetty Trip

100% (6)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $600
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Fishing in Destin
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Inshore Fishing - 24’ Blazer Bay

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24 ft 1 - 6 People From $500
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Fishing in Destin
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100% (1)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $600
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Fishing in Destin
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Charleston Inshore Action

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26 ft 1 - 5 People From $550
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Jetty, River, Flats in Mount Pleasant

4hr Inshore

100% (6)
23 ft 1 - 6 People From $550
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

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Charleston Inshore Excursion

100% (3)
24 ft 1 - 2 People From $350
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Fishing in Destin
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Charleston Low Country Adventure

NEW
1 - 4 People From $600
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17 ft 1 - 2 People From $450
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23 ft 1 - 5 People From $400
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Folly Beach Inshore Fishing

100% (5)
20 ft 1 - 5 People From $550
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All Day Offshore Fishing

100% (3)
33 ft 1 - 12 People From $2,500
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
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Fishing in Destin
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18 ft 1 - 2 People From $525

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Everything to Know About Booking a Charleston Harbor nearshore fishing charter

What are the best nearshore fishing charters in Charleston Harbor?

The best nearshore fishing charters in Charleston Harbor are:

Why should I book a nearshore fishing charter in Charleston Harbor with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 8 nearshore trips in Charleston Harbor, and the most popular trips in the area are 4 HR Inshore/Harbor/Jetties Fishing AM guided by Chris, 4 HR Inshore/Harbor/Jetties Fishing PM guided by Chris, and 6 HR Reef/Nearshore/Jetties/Harbor guided by Chris.

Our guides in Charleston Harbor are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 3786 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Looking for kid friendly nearshore guides / fishing lessons in Charleston Harbor? Check out our beginner and family friendly nearshore guides in Charleston Harbor.

What types of nearshore fishing charters are common in Charleston Harbor?

The most commonly sought after species for nearshore fishing are: 1. black seabass, 2. redfish, 3. speckled trout, 4. bonnethead shark, and 5. cobia.

The most common fishing techniques in Charleston Harbor are bottom fishing, drift fishing, and cut bait fishing but live bait fishing and artificial lure fishing are popular as well.

How much do Charleston Harbor nearshore fishing charters cost?

Prices for nearshore fishing in Charleston Harbor can range anywhere from about $600 to $2,200, but the average price for a half day trip for nearshore fishing in Charleston Harbor is $1,028. The average price for a full day trip for nearshore fishing in Charleston Harbor is $1,792.

Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?

Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.

Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.

Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.

What month is best for nearshore fishing in Charleston Harbor?

The most popular season for nearshore fishing in Charleston Harbor is summer, and most anglers book their trips 16 days in advance.

Do I need a Charleston Harbor fishing license and what are the bag limits in Charleston Harbor?

See here for more information on fishing licenses in Charleston Harbor, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in Charleston Harbor. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in Charleston Harbor.

What is nearshore fishing in Charleston Harbor all about?

Nearshore fishing in Charleston Harbor, located along the coast of South Carolina, offers anglers seasonal opportunities to target a variety of species in its productive waters. The fishing seasons in Charleston Harbor vary throughout the year, influenced by factors such as water temperature, baitfish migrations, and spawning patterns of target species.

During the spring months, from March to May, anglers can often find species like speckled trout, redfish, and flounder actively feeding in the harbor. These fish move into shallow waters and around oyster beds to feed after the winter months, making them accessible to anglers using live bait such as shrimp or mullet, or artificial lures like soft plastics and topwater plugs.

Summer, from June to August, brings warmer waters and a variety of fishing opportunities in Charleston Harbor. Species such as tarpon, Spanish mackerel, and king mackerel become more prevalent as they follow baitfish schools closer to the shoreline. Anglers often use trolling techniques with live bait or artificial lures to target these fast-moving fish around buoys, jetties, and along the harbor entrance channels.

In the fall, from September to November, Charleston Harbor experiences a transition period where water temperatures begin to cool. This season is excellent for targeting species like redfish and sheepshead, which become more active as they prepare for winter. Anglers continue to use techniques such as drift fishing or bottom fishing with live bait or jigs around structure-rich areas like docks, bridges, and rocky shorelines to maximize their chances of a successful catch.

Understanding these seasonal patterns and adjusting fishing techniques accordingly can greatly enhance anglers' success rates in Charleston Harbor. Consulting with local fishing guides or joining fishing communities can provide valuable insights into current fishing conditions and productive spots throughout the year. Conservation efforts also play a crucial role in maintaining the harbor's ecosystem and ensuring sustainable fishing opportunities for future generations of anglers to enjoy in this historic and picturesque coastal area.

What are the most popular months to go nearshore fishing in Charleston Harbor?

Nearshore fishing in Charleston Harbor, located along the coast of South Carolina, offers anglers seasonal opportunities to target a variety of species in its productive waters. The fishing seasons in Charleston Harbor vary throughout the year, influenced by factors such as water temperature, baitfish migrations, and spawning patterns of target species.

During the spring months, from March to May, anglers can often find species like speckled trout, redfish, and flounder actively feeding in the harbor. These fish move into shallow waters and around oyster beds to feed after the winter months, making them accessible to anglers using live bait such as shrimp or mullet, or artificial lures like soft plastics and topwater plugs.

Summer, from June to August, brings warmer waters and a variety of fishing opportunities in Charleston Harbor. Species such as tarpon, Spanish mackerel, and king mackerel become more prevalent as they follow baitfish schools closer to the shoreline. Anglers often use trolling techniques with live bait or artificial lures to target these fast-moving fish around buoys, jetties, and along the harbor entrance channels.

In the fall, from September to November, Charleston Harbor experiences a transition period where water temperatures begin to cool. This season is excellent for targeting species like redfish and sheepshead, which become more active as they prepare for winter. Anglers continue to use techniques such as drift fishing or bottom fishing with live bait or jigs around structure-rich areas like docks, bridges, and rocky shorelines to maximize their chances of a successful catch.

Understanding these seasonal patterns and adjusting fishing techniques accordingly can greatly enhance anglers' success rates in Charleston Harbor. Consulting with local fishing guides or joining fishing communities can provide valuable insights into current fishing conditions and productive spots throughout the year. Conservation efforts also play a crucial role in maintaining the harbor's ecosystem and ensuring sustainable fishing opportunities for future generations of anglers to enjoy in this historic and picturesque coastal area.

What techniques are popular for nearshore fishing in Charleston Harbor?

Nearshore fishing in Charleston Harbor, located along the South Carolina coast, offers anglers a variety of techniques and species to target in its rich and diverse waters. One popular method is bottom fishing, where anglers anchor or drift near structures such as rock piles, wrecks, and artificial reefs. This technique is effective for targeting species like black sea bass, flounder, and sheepshead using cut bait such as squid, shrimp, or mullet. Adjusting the weight of the sinker and the depth of the bait can help anglers reach different layers of the water column where fish are actively feeding.

Another favored technique in Charleston Harbor is trolling, particularly effective for covering larger areas and targeting species such as Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, and cobia. Anglers troll using spoons, plugs, and live bait rigs behind a moving boat, adjusting the speed and depth to entice fish. Trolling allows anglers to mimic the movement of baitfish and locate schools of predatory fish that patrol the harbor's channels, shipping lanes, and drop-offs.

For those who prefer a more interactive approach, sight fishing and casting to visible fish around shallow flats, grass beds, and tidal creeks is popular in Charleston Harbor. Anglers use light tackle rods and reels to present artificial lures such as jigs, soft plastics, and topwater plugs to species like redfish, speckled trout, and flounder. This method requires stealth and patience as anglers quietly maneuver through the harbor's shallow waters, sight-casting to cruising fish and reacting quickly to strikes. Understanding tidal movements, wind direction, and the behavior of target species are crucial for successful nearshore fishing adventures in Charleston Harbor.

What species are popular for nearshore fishing in Charleston Harbor?

Nearshore fishing in Charleston Harbor offers a diverse range of species that anglers can target throughout the year. During the warmer months, from spring through early fall, species like Spanish mackerel and king mackerel are abundant. These fish are known for their strong fights and are popular targets among both recreational and sport fishermen. Additionally, you'll find cobia cruising the nearshore waters, especially during their migration periods. These powerful fish provide an exciting challenge for anglers due to their size and fighting ability.

As the seasons transition into fall and winter, Charleston Harbor sees an influx of species like redfish and speckled trout. These fish move closer to shore, making them accessible targets for anglers casting from boats or even from piers and jetties. Redfish, also known as red drum, are prized for their strength and are a staple catch in the area. Speckled trout, on the other hand, are known for their delicate flavor and can be found in the shallower waters around oyster beds and grassy flats. These colder months provide a more relaxed pace of fishing with excellent opportunities to reel in these prized inshore species.

Throughout the year, Charleston Harbor also offers the chance to catch flounder, sheepshead, and black drum nearshore. Flounder are bottom-dwelling fish that blend perfectly with their sandy surroundings, requiring skillful presentation of bait or lures to entice them. Sheepshead, with their prominent teeth and striped bodies, are often found near structures like docks and rock piles, making them a fun challenge for anglers looking to test their finesse. Black drum, similar in appearance to redfish but with distinct characteristics, provide another exciting option for those exploring the diverse nearshore habitats of Charleston Harbor.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Hayden was great! He helped our party out every step of the way. I definitely recommend you giving this trip a go! A lot of fun!

    Sean R. | December 11, 2024

    Trip: 4 HR Inshore/Harbor/Jetties Fishing PM

  • ★★★★★
    10/10 if we could put him up there , went out for a bachelor party and had a great time with Carlo. We had to cut the day short for some people and take them back to the dock but Carlo offer to take the rest of us back out for a couple more hours after. Definitely be using him every time we go out, not to mention we caught some of the biggest drum and sheep head inshore we’ve seen.

    Justin A. | August 4, 2024

    Trip: Besting Charleston's Beasts

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great time and caught lots of different fish. Would definitely recommend!

    Rhett E. | July 8, 2024

    Trip: 6 HR Reef/Nearshore/Jetties/Harbor

  • ★★★★★
    Adrian was such a fantastic guide- we got on fish immediately and caught multiple species. He has a deep knowledge of the area and has an excellent personality for the guide service. We had such a fun time, cannot wait to get back and highly recommend using his service!

    Andrew P. | July 2, 2024

    Trip: Half Day Charleston Adventure

  • ★★★★★
    Great captain! Carlo wants his guests to succeed! Great experience!

    Ed P. | June 27, 2024

    Trip: Besting Charleston's Beasts

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great time with Capt Hayden! He was professional, easy going, and made us feel comfortable right out of the gate. We made some life long memories and was definitely the best part of our guy trip! Thank You!

    Marc A. | June 27, 2024

    Trip: 4 HR Inshore/Harbor/Jetties Fishing AM

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Carlo was fantastic! He was very knowledgeable and friendly. Add to that the fact that we all caught a variety of fish and two of us had only been fishing once before in our lives, and you have a perfect day. Thank you!

    Peta S. | June 7, 2024

    Trip: Besting Charleston's Beasts

  • ★★★★★
    He got us on the fish in short order and we caught a nice variety. He has a good personality for this type of work.

    Benjamin G. | May 22, 2024

    Trip: Half Day Charleston Adventure

  • ★★★★★
    Adrian was just awesome! He kept us up to date on weather and was flexible with date/time to make sure we went out at the best time. He got there early to make sure we were all set with plenty of bait and extra rods and reels ready to go. He even had an extra hat and sunglasses for our 16 yo who forgot his. He knew the best fishing spots and locations at each spot. He could cast within inches of his intended target, was very knowledgeable about the fish, and helped us release the sting ray and gar we accidentally caught. Very pleasant, hard working and very experienced! You can’t go wrong with Adrian!

    Cynthia B. | August 9, 2023

    Trip: Half Day Charleston Adventure

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great time. Captain Adrian was knowledgeable and interactive. One of our best trips.

    John A. | June 4, 2023

    Trip: Half Day Charleston Adventure

  • ★★★★★
    We had an incredible day fishing with Captain Adrian! He was awesome lining up the best time of day to fish ahead of time thru great communication. While we didn't expect to catch a bunch since we were early in the season, we caught a BUNCH of fish - completely lost count it was such a good day - all catch and release. Adrian did a great job keeping our lines in the water from baiting hooks to fixing a few snags to getting fish off the hooks. Adrian was awesome! Highly recommend!! What a great day...

    Ben F. | February 23, 2023

    Trip: Half Day Charleston Adventure

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Adrian was awesome!!! We caught a bunch of fish had an incredible time on the water. Highly recommended!!!

    Paul B. | May 30, 2022

    Trip: Half Day Charleston Adventure

Other Types of Fishing in Charleston Harbor

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See All Nearshore Trips in Charleston Harbor