Ready for a different kind of fishing adventure? Saltbreak Charters is serving up something special with our 3-hour night fishing trips right here in Charleston. When the sun goes down, the big fish come out to play. We're talking monster redfish, sneaky sea trout, and toothy sharks that'll make your heart race. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time wetting a line, our night charters offer a whole new perspective on inshore fishing. So grab a buddy, 'cause we've got room for two, and let's hit the water after dark!
Picture this: You're gliding through Charleston's inshore waters under a blanket of stars. The city lights twinkle in the distance, but out here, it's just you and the fish. Our captains know these waters like the back of their hand, day or night. We'll take you to the honey holes where the predators are on the prowl. You'll feel the thrill of a rod bend in the dark, not knowing if you've hooked into a bull red or a toothy shark until it breaks the surface. And let me tell you, there's nothing quite like the fight of a big fish when you can barely see it. We provide all the gear, including lights to help you land your catch. Just bring your sense of adventure and maybe a light jacket – it can get a bit chilly out there, even in Charleston.
Alright, let's talk tactics. Night fishing is a whole different ballgame. We'll be using a mix of live bait and artificial lures, depending on what's biting. Expect to do some casting around structure – that's where the predators like to ambush their prey. We might drift with the current, anchoring up in prime spots where the fish are feeding. Our boats are rigged with special lighting that attracts bait fish, which in turn brings in the big boys. You'll learn to rely more on feel than sight, sensing those subtle bites in the dark. Don't worry if you're new to this – our guides will walk you through every step, from casting to fighting fish in the night. And for you experienced anglers, get ready to test your skills in a whole new way. Night fishing separates the rookies from the pros, but either way, you're in for a good time.
Charleston's inshore waters come alive at night, and we're targeting some of the most exciting species out there. Let's break it down:
Sea Trout: These guys are like the ninjas of the night fishing world. They're sneaky, fast, and boy do they put up a fight. Sea trout love to hunt in the shallows after dark, often in schools. When you hook one, it's all about quick, sharp runs and head shakes. They average 2-3 pounds, but don't be surprised if you land a gator trout pushing 5 pounds or more. The best part? They're delicious if you want to take some home for dinner.
Redfish: Now we're talking about the bulldogs of the inshore world. Redfish, or red drum if you're feeling fancy, are the prize many anglers are after. At night, the big ones come out to play. We're talking about bull reds that can top 40 inches and put up a fight that'll leave your arms burning. They love to cruise the flats and hang around structure, looking for an easy meal. When a big red takes your bait, hold on tight – it's gonna be a wild ride.
Atlantic Sharpnose Shark: For those looking for some real tooth-and-nail action, we've got sharks. The Atlantic Sharpnose is common in our waters and offers an exciting catch for anglers of all levels. These guys usually run 2-3 feet long, but don't let their size fool you – they're all muscle and attitude. Hooking into one of these in the dark adds a whole new level of excitement to your fishing trip. Just remember, we practice catch and release with our shark friends to keep the population healthy.
Look, I could go on all day about the joys of night fishing in Charleston, but nothing beats experiencing it for yourself. Whether you're looking to scratch that fishing itch, try something new, or just enjoy a unique night out on the water, our 3-hour night charters hit the spot. We keep our groups small – just you and a buddy – to ensure you get the most out of your trip. Remember, the fish don't sleep, and neither should you! Give us a call at Saltbreak Charters and let's get you hooked up with a night fishing adventure you won't forget. Just a heads up, we require a deposit to hold your spot, and it's non-refundable. But trust me, once you're out there reeling in fish under the stars, you'll be glad you locked it in. See you on the water!
Atlantic sharpnose sharks are small but feisty, usually 2-3 feet long. You'll find them in the shallows year-round, especially in bays and near beaches. They're not picky eaters, so most any cut bait will do. Summer is peak season when they come inshore to pup. Anglers love their fast runs and acrobatic jumps - pound for pound, they fight as hard as much bigger sharks. Use a wire leader and circle hook to prevent cutoffs. A local tip: chum with some oily fish to get them fired up. Just be careful handling them - those teeth are razor sharp! While not good eating, they make for exciting catch-and-release action, especially for kids or newbies looking to tangle with their first shark.
Redfish are shallow water bruisers, often found in just 1-4 feet of water. They love to hang around oyster beds, grass flats, and dock pilings. Most run 20-30 inches, but trophy bulls over 40 inches aren't uncommon. Fall is prime time as reds school up to spawn. They put up a stubborn fight, often making big runs and head-shaking jumps. The copper color and signature tail spot make for great photos too. For best results, fish a live shrimp under a popping cork around grass edges. When you see their backs or tails out of the water, that's the time to make a precise cast. Just be ready for an explosive strike - these guys hit hard!
Sea trout are elusive night feeders that put up a great fight. They typically range from 14 to 24 inches and love shallow grass flats. Look for them in 1-4 feet of water around oyster beds and creek mouths. Fall and spring are prime seasons as water temps cool. Anglers enjoy their acrobatic jumps and delicate white meat. To land one, try a slow retrieve with a soft plastic shrimp imitation. Keep your drag loose - these guys are known for sudden bursts of speed. A local trick is to fish the tide changes, when sea trout are most active chasing bait. The thrill of seeing that silver flash in your headlamp beam makes night fishing for specks unforgettable.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Mercury
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 250