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Recently Booked Fishing Charters Near Charleston, Sc
Deep Sea, Inshore, Jetty, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Charleston
4 HR Inshore/Harbor/Reef Fishing
Flats, Inshore, River Fishing Charter in Charleston
Reds On The Fly And Light Tackle
Most Popular Types of Trips in Charleston
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Red Snapper Fishing Charters Near Charleston, Sc
Deep Sea Fishing Charters Near Charleston, Sc
Deep Sea Fishing Charter in North Charleston
Offshore Trolling With Captain TJ
Inshore Fishing Charters Near Charleston, Sc
Inshore, Nearshore, River Fishing Charter in Mount Pleasant
Half Day Charleston Adventure
Flats, Inshore, River Fishing Charter in Mount Pleasant
Captain Justin's Inshore Special
River Fishing Charters Near Charleston, Sc
Flats, Inshore, River Fishing Charter in Mount Pleasant
Captain Justin's Inshore Special
More Fishing Charters Near Charleston, Sc
Fuel is included in the price! Come aboard with Captain Johnston for an exciting day fishing the Charleston nearshores! The nearshore waters of Charleston are home to plenty of fish-rich reefs and wrecks that are great for picking up some prized Atlantic fish. On this 6 hour trip, Captain Johnston will motor you out into the Charleston Harbor jetties or some nearshore reefs and wrecks where you'll be targeting Redfish, Blacktip Sharks, Bonnethead Sharks, and maybe even Tarpon in the summer months, and Redfish, Speckled Trout, Flounder and more in the colder months. You'll be fishing with light tackle and choosing from a selection of live bait or artificial lures. Captain Johnston has years of experience in these waters and he's sure to get your rod set up with what the fish are biting! Captain Johnston will provide all rods, reels, tackle, live bait, lures and fishing licenses. All you need to bring is sunglasses, sunscreen, and any food or drinks you might want out on the water. Come get some tasty fish with Captain Johnston in the Charleston nearshores! Read More
Hop aboard with Captain Brent for a fun filled day of deep sea fishing where you will create memories that will last a lifetime! The day starts early at the boat landing in Charleston. After loading up and departing from the dock you will make your way out through the Charleston Harbor where you will see many historic landmarks such as the Charleston Battery, Ft. Moultrie, and Ft. Sumter, to name a few. Pushing out from the harbor, you will travel on a 20-60 mile voyage into the Atlantic Ocean where you will have the opportunity to take in the breathtaking beauty of the sun rising above the horizon. You can expect to hook into the likes of Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, Blackfin Tuna, Sailfish, and Marlin on this offshore adventure. The 27' Pathfinder is powered by a 425hp Yamaha engine that will power you out offshore. Connect via Bluetooth to the onboard JL Audio sound system, queue up your favorite playlist, and settle in for a 1-2 hour ride out to the fishing grounds. You are welcome to get as involved as you would like with your adventure as well. Whether you'd rather lounge until the reel starts screaming or if you want your hand on the rod the whole time, Captain Brent can make it happen! He is an expert in both trolling and deep dropping, so you can customize our fishing experience. Beyond superior service and luxurious amenities, Captain Brent also provides the best rods, reels, tackle, bait, and fishing licenses you could possibly need for a successful day out on the water. Bottled water is provided as well as plenty of ice to keep your catch, food, and beverages cold. It is recommended that you bring a cooler to take fish home after the trip is over but please leave it in your vehicle as the boat has sufficient onboard coolers and fish box storage. All you need to bring onboard is your favorite lunch, snacks, drinks, sun protection, a towel, a camera, and good vibes! Otherwise, Captain Brent will take care of the rest to make the most of your Charleston offshore adventure! Read More
Fishing trips are along the beaches, bridges and rock jetties. On these trips, Captain Jeremy will take you out to target huge sharks and Big Bull Red Fish that frequent the coast during the summer and fall months. Some of the sharks we encounter on this trip are Bonnetheads, Black Tip, Sand, Bull, Nurse, Lemon sharks and more! The Bull Red Drum we target on this trip are much bigger than the redfish we catch in the creeks. These fish can weigh upwards of 30lbs and are a hard-fighting fish and lots of fun to catch. Captain Jeremy will provide rods, reels, tackle, licenses, tackle, bait, an ice cooler, and bottled water. Feel free to bring your own equipment as well as any food and drinks of your choice. Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat. Read More
Flats, Inshore, Nearshore, River Fishing Charter in Charleston
Bull Redfish & Monster Sharks
Come aboard with Captain Chris for a nearshore adventure on the beautiful waters off the coast of Charleston, South Carolina. He guides his 26’ Center Console expertly while helping you search for a fresh catch. This trip runs for 4 hours and is a great opportunity to get out on the water with family and friends, since Captain Chris’ luxurious boat can accommodate up to 6 people. It is also equipped with a GPS, fish finder, live bait well, and outriggers designed for trolling in search of Bluefish, Cobia, Flounder, King Mackerel, and Redfish. Who knows, you might even get lucky and find a Blacktip Shark! Captain Chris is an experienced guide who will navigate the cerulean waters expertly, providing as much or as little assistance as you want. Whether you have been fishing all your life or are looking to learn, this trip is an amazing experience among the bountiful reefs. Read More
Head out with Captain Johnston for an exciting day of fishing the scenic South Carolina reefs! The offshore reefs of Charleston are home to plenty of species of fish that are sure to keep you entertained for hours. On this 8-hour trip, Captain Johnston will bring you 30 miles offshore where you'll post up in the reefs and go after some prized Atlantic fish such as Amberjack, Barracuda, Black Seabass, Cobia, Goliath Grouper, King Mackerel, Red Snapper, Spadefish, Spanish Mackerel, and Triggerfish. You'll be targeting these fish using various methods such as bottom fishing, heavy tackle, light tackle and trolling. Whether you want to fish with a rod in your hands or relax while the boat does most of the work, Captain Johnston will have you covered. He has years of experience in these waters and he's sure to get your rod set up with what the fish are biting! You'll be aboard Captain Johnston's 35' Everglades center console with a capacity for 6 anglers. Powered by three 300 HP Mercury engines, she'll shred through the offshore waters with ease to take you to where the fish are biting! This vessel comes equipped with a GPS, Fishfinder, Live Bait Well, Fighting Chair, Outriggers, on board Bathroom and Ice Box to store your catches. Captain Johnston will even clean any tasty keepers for you to take home! Captain Johnston will provide all rods, reels, tackle, live bait, lures and fishing licenses. All you need to bring is sunglasses, sunscreen, and any food or drinks you might want out on the water. Head out to the deep waters with Captain Johnston! Read More
Hop on board with Captain Will for a fishing get away on John's Island! The waters in and surrounding Charleston Harbor provide the perfect habitat for targeting inshore game species on light tackle, like Redfish, Black Drum, Flounder, Sheepshead, and Spanish Mackerel. Protected from the winds and waves generally associated with offshore fishing trips, these inshore fishing charters are perfect for those who are new to boating and fishing. On this half or full-day trip, you will fish the many creeks, oyster beds, rivers, and inlets of Charleston Harbor where you'll be going after some Black Drum, Black Seabass, Gag Grouper, Hogfish, Redfish, Spadefish, and Spanish Mackerel. You can go after these fish using techniques such as bottom fishing, jigging, live bait, and trolling. Whatever fish you want to catch, just let Captain Will know and he'll get you set up with the best method and provide some expert instruction to make sure you get one on your line! You’ll be fishing aboard a 26' Skeeter bay boat that can fit up to 4 anglers. Powered by a 300 HP Suzuki engine, she'll have no problem traversing the inshore John's Island waters. This vessel is equipped with GPS, Fishfinder, a Live Bait Well, a Wireless Trolling Motor, and an Ice Box to store your catches. Captain Will will even clean any keepers for you to take home. Captain Will provides all rods, reels, tackle, fishing licenses, water, and snacks. All you need to bring is sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, a hat, and any food or drinks you might need on the water. Have a blast with Captain Will! Read More
Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Charter in Charleston
What are the best fishing charters in Charleston?
Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 67 trips in Charleston, and the most popular trips in the area are Inshore fishing - 24’ Blazer Bay guided by Johnston, Charleston Deep Sea Offshore guided by Darius, and 4 HR Inshore/Harbor/Reef Fishing guided by Chris.
Our guides in Charleston are rated a 4.83 out of 5 based on 2546 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.
All guides on Captain Experiences are licensed, insured, and 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.
Other popular cities nearby for booking a charter include Mount Pleasant, Folly Beach and North Charleston.
Looking for kid friendly charters / fishing lessons in Charleston? Check out our beginner and family friendly charters in Charleston.
What types of fishing charters are common in Charleston?
Deep Sea fishing is the most popular in Charleston as well as inshore fishing, river fishing, and nearshore fishing.
The most commonly sought after species in Charleston are: 1. redfish, 2. speckled trout, 3. cobia, and 4. flounder.
The most common fishing techniques in Charleston are bottom fishing, light tackle fishing, and live bait fishing but heavy tackle fishing and trolling are popular as well.
How much do Charleston fishing charters cost?
in Charleston prices can range anywhere from about $525 to $1,835, but the average price for a half day trip in Charleston is $598. The average price for a full day trip in Charleston is $1,295.
What month is best for fishing in Charleston?
The most popular season for fishing in Charleston is summer, and most anglers book their trips 12 days in advance.
Do I need a Charleston fishing license and what are the bag limits in Charleston?
If you’re thinking about a saltwater trip, you’re in luck! Our saltwater fishing tours in Charleston don’t require you to purchase a fishing license – your group is covered by your boat’s captain. For freshwater trips, you’ll still need to purchase a license. See here for more information on fishing licenses, bag limits, and fishing season regulations in Charleston. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations.
Charleston, SC Fishing Charter Overview
Seasonality is not an issue for our Charleston fishing guides when fishing in South Carolina's Lowcountry. The vast biodiversity, water types, and relatively temperate climate means the bite is on year-round. Whether fishing Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant or on a deep sea fishing charter out of Charleston, SC, hooking up is not an issue- the only question is the size of your rod-bending fish that comes aboard to keep you company!
View All Mount Pleasant Deep Sea Fishing Charters
Charleston Fishing Charters Inshore
Year round on fishing charters from Charleston SC, Black Drum can be found swimming alongside their smaller Redfish cousins. In the heat of summer, migrating Tarpon make their way into the bays and sounds in pursuit of schooling Menhaden and other baitfish. While Charleston isn't necessarily known for its Tarpon fishing, experienced guides know that trophies are out there. With a little patience and a bit of luck, 100+ pound Tarpon can be caught in the waters around Charleston.
One of the many prized species of Charleston inshore fishing charters is the Redfish. Cruising winding creeks and rivers on a skiff, stalking schooling Reds is some of the most peaceful fishing out there... until you get a bite.
There is no shortage of Redfish on Charleston fishing trips, and your captain will provide rigs and bait to use when targeting these violent eaters. Your Damn Good Guide will have the lowdown on the best techniques to use depending on the season and conditions. Many guides use shrimp or baitfish hooked up to a cork and jig head to target hungry bull Reds, or a soft plastic baitfish imitation. Another popular way to entice a Red is by using a spoon with a soft plastic tail to make more of a disturbance in the water. The inshore waters where Reds reign supreme are dark, muddy and full of silt. You'll need a lot of color and noise to draw attention to your bait.
Bottom fishing for flounder is productive in the spring, summer and fall. Caught year round, but especially in the colder months between fall and spring, Speckled Trout, or "Specks" can be found waiting in ambush along grass lines and oyster beds.
In the spring, Sheepshead can be found in the flats during high tide, or perusing the rocky bottomed areas near piers, jetties and bridges. Sheepshead are known as bait stealers so make sure you have your bait hooked well.
Charleston Fly Fishing
Another popular way to target Reds is on the fly. The best fly fishing in Charleston SC is done in the maze of intertidal creeks and flats that surround the city. Fly fishing allows anglers to exploit productive skinny waters that Redfish feed in. The darkness of the brackish inshore water means that sight fishing is a must. Redfish are more than happy to help you out with this as they crawl across shallow mud flats, through Spartina grass fields and up small creeks that branch out from the deeper water. Visible "tailing" Reds are easily recognizable as they prowl the shallows in search of fiddler crabs, shrimp, or anything else that moves.
The location, technique and fly choice depends on a multitude of factors ranging from seasonality and temperature patterns, to wind speed and water clarity. Your Damn Good Charleston fly fishing guide will know what to do. A 7 to a 9 weight Fly rod will suffice, and you'll have a lot of flies to choose from. Crab imitations, poppers, Clouser minnows and everything in-between; Reds will devour them all.
Nearshore Fishing Charters in Charleston
The waters within 10 miles of the Charleston coast contain some of the most productive fishing in South Carolina. Nearshore fishing is generally done in waters around 100 feet deep. Fishing closer to shore means less money spent on gas, and more time spent on the fish.
Artificial reefs and other seafloor structures provide an oasis for dozens of species of gamefish. Hard fighting species like Cobia, Goliath Grouper, King Mackerel, Amberjack, Snapper, Barracuda and smaller reef species can be found hunting baitfish in these nearshore waters year round. Depending on target species and season, you can expect to use live or artificial bait to troll, cast, or bottom fish. These trips are ideal for taking the family out for a fun day on the water, but make no mistake, there are monster fish lurking in the shallows. From 300 pound Goliath Grouper, to surprisingly strong Triggerfish, nearshore trips are perfect for anglers who want to switch it up and catch a variety of fish, or target specific species. There is no telling what you'll hook up to!
Hop around shallow wrecks and artificial reefs for fantastic shark fishing out of Charleston, SC, or head further offshore to troll or fish deep structure. Much like the inshore fishing, there is no shortage of biodiversity in the saltwater fisheries off the Charleston coast.
Offshore Fishing Charters in Charleston
Offshore fishing charters from Charleston SC usually go more than 10 miles off the shore in waters deeper than 100 feet. Generally, offshore fishing involves targeting a variety of trophy Pelagic species around deep structure or open water. Some trips require a couple hour commute out to the prime fishing waters, while others last for multiple days.
A staple of Charleston deep sea fishing is the Wahoo fishing out of Charleston, SC. Battling a mature Wahoo is like trying to reel in a torpedo that continually changes direction. These streamlined predators commonly reach 3 to 5 feet long, weigh 50-80 pounds, and can swim up to 60 miles per hour- and Charleston offshore fishing offers an unbeatable opportunity to get after them!
They're also one of the tastiest fish in the sea. Starting in the spring, Wahoo and other popular gamefish like mahi-mahi, tuna, and the occasional Sailfish invade the deep waters off of Charleston. These fish are often caught while trolling at multiple different depths using outriggers, planing boards and artificial lures imitating bait fish or squid.
Another great strategy is to find large seaweed islands, often called "paddies", which fish use for protection and food. One of the most exciting things as an offshore fisherman is finding one of these floating oases and drawing out a massive gamefish. One well placed cast is all you need to land the fish of a lifetime!
Popular Types of Fishing In Charleston
Charleston fishing charters offer a variety of options for anglers of all levels. The most common types of fishing charters in Charleston include inshore, nearshore, and offshore fishing. Inshore fishing is perfect for those who want to stay close to shore and catch species such as redfish, trout, and flounder. Nearshore fishing takes you a bit further out and allows you to catch species such as king mackerel, cobia, and tarpon. Offshore fishing is for the more adventurous angler and takes you out to the Gulf Stream where you can catch species such as tuna, mahi-mahi, and billfish.
Some of the most common fish to catch in Charleston include redfish, trout, flounder, sheepshead, black drum, king mackerel, cobia, tarpon, tuna, mahi-mahi, and billfish. Charleston fishing charters often visit landmarks such as Fort Sumter and the Ravenel Bridge, providing a unique perspective of the city while you fish. So, whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, there's a Charleston fishing charter that's perfect for you.
The Best Places To Fish In Charleston
Charleston, South Carolina is a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts. With its diverse waterways and abundant marine life, there are plenty of great spots to cast a line. Here are some of the best places to fish in Charleston, whether you're looking to go on a fishing charter or just fish from the shore:
1. Folly Beach Pier - This iconic pier offers great fishing opportunities for both beginners and experienced anglers, with a variety of fish species to catch.
2. Charleston Harbor - The harbor is home to a wide range of fish, including redfish, trout, and flounder. Fishing charters are available for those who want to explore the deeper waters.
3. Kiawah Island - This barrier island is known for its pristine beaches and excellent fishing. You can fish from the shore or book a fishing charter to explore the nearby creeks and marshes.
4. Wando River - The Wando River is a popular spot for catching redfish, trout, and sheepshead. Fishing charters are available for those who want to venture further out into the river.
5. Cooper River - This river is home to some of the biggest fish in the area, including catfish, bass, and striped bass. Fishing charters are recommended for those who want to navigate the river's strong currents.
6. Isle of Palms Pier - This pier offers great fishing opportunities for both beginners and experienced anglers, with a variety of fish species to catch. Fishing charters are also available for those who want to explore the deeper waters.
7. Bulls Bay - Bulls Bay is a remote area that offers excellent fishing for redfish, trout, and flounder. Fishing charters are recommended for those who want to explore the area's hidden creeks and marshes.
Other Things To Do In Charleston
While Charleston fishing charters are a popular attraction, there are plenty of other things to do in this charming city. Take a stroll through the historic district and admire the beautiful architecture, or visit the Charleston City Market for unique souvenirs and local goods. For a taste of the Lowcountry, indulge in some delicious seafood at one of the many restaurants in the area. If you're looking for some outdoor fun, head to Folly Beach for a day of sun and sand, or explore the beautiful gardens at Magnolia Plantation and Gardens. For history buffs, a visit to Fort Sumter National Monument is a must-see. And don't forget to take a sunset sail on the harbor for breathtaking views of the city skyline.
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Top Targeted Fishing Species in Charleston
- Almaco Jack
- Amberjack
- Barracuda
- Black Drum
- Black Seabass
- Blackfin Tuna
- Blacktip Shark
- Blue Marlin
- Bluefish
- Bonnethead Shark
- Bull Shark
- Cobia
- Flounder
- Gag Grouper
- Goliath Grouper
- Hogfish
- Jack Crevalle
- Kingfish
- Ladyfish
- Mahi Mahi
- Red Snapper
- Redfish
- Sailfish
- Scup
- Sheepshead
- Spadefish
- Spanish Mackerel
- Speckled Trout
- Tarpon
- Triggerfish
- Vermillion Snapper
- Wahoo
- White Marlin
- Yellowfin Tuna
Top Fishing Techniques in Charleston
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How are fishing conditions in Charleston?
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