Fishing Gear
Charter boats provide rods and tackle — but serious anglers bring their own. Here's what to look for.
South Carolina's Finest Fishing Village
Inshore, offshore, and everything in between — Murrells Inlet's fishing fleet is ready to put you on fish.
Murrells Inlet has been a commercial and sport-fishing hub for generations. The inlet's unique geography — where tidal creeks, marsh flats, and open ocean converge — creates ideal conditions for a remarkable diversity of fish species year-round. The local charter fleet operates out of multiple docks along the Marsh Walk and surrounding waterways.
Target redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and black drum in the tidal creeks, grass flats, and estuaries of the inlet. Great for beginners and families — half-day trips are perfect for kids.
Half-day from ~$400–$600
Head 20–40 miles offshore for Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, cobia, and amberjack. The Gulf Stream runs remarkably close to the SC coast, making these productive half or full-day trips.
Full-day from ~$1,200–$1,600
Bottom fish the wrecks and natural ledges for grouper, snapper, and sea bass. Trolling for mahi-mahi, wahoo, and tuna when the dolphin fish run. The most serious fishing Murrells Inlet has to offer.
Full-day from ~$1,600–$2,400
Spanish mackerel arrive. Redfish and speckled trout are excellent inshore. Cobia begin their annual migration up the coast — sight-casting for cobia is thrilling. Flounder pick up.
Peak season for offshore trolling — mahi-mahi, wahoo, and sailfish. King mackerel dominate near-shore. Inshore: redfish, flounder, and jack crevalle. Shrimp are in the creeks.
Best month for trophy redfish on the flats. Flounder are running hard to their offshore spawning grounds. King mackerel make a fall run. Offshore bottom fishing is excellent for grouper and snapper.
The inlet never really sleeps. Black drum and puppy drum are the top inshore target. Offshore: deep grouper and snapper bottom fishing on good weather days. Fewer crowds, sometimes best value charters.
Charter boats provide rods and tackle — but serious anglers bring their own. Here's what to look for.
