Ready to tangle with some serious fish in Charleston's backyard? Our 4-hour afternoon inshore trip is your ticket to hooking into some of the Lowcountry's most sought-after species. We're talking redfish that'll make your drag sing, sea trout that'll test your finesse, and Atlantic sharpnose sharks that'll get your heart racing. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, our expert guides will put you on the fish and show you the ropes of Charleston's legendary inshore fishing scene.
As soon as we push off from the dock, you'll be surrounded by Charleston's stunning coastal beauty. We'll cruise through winding creeks, past oyster beds, and into prime fishing grounds where the big ones lurk. Our captains know these waters like the back of their hand, so you're in for a real treat. We provide top-notch gear, but the catching is up to you! Don't worry if you're new to this - we'll walk you through everything from baiting up to landing your catch. And for you experienced anglers, get ready to swap some fish stories and maybe learn a new trick or two.
Inshore fishing in Charleston is all about versatility. One minute we might be sight-casting to tailing redfish in the grass, the next we could be drifting live bait for trout along a deep channel edge. For those shark enthusiasts, we'll set up some heavier tackle and chum the water to bring those toothy critters in close. We'll mix it up based on the tides, weather, and what's biting best. Some days we'll be tossing soft plastics on light tackle, other times we might be soaking cut bait on the bottom. Whatever the fish are in the mood for, we've got the skills and gear to make it happen.
Our anglers have been lighting it up lately! Just last week, Jim from Ohio tangled with a 30-inch redfish that nearly spooled him before we could get it to the boat. Sarah and her kids from right here in Charleston had a blast catching sea trout one after another - I think the youngest one outfished us all! And let me tell you, when that 4-foot sharpnose shark hit the deck, I thought old Bill was gonna jump right off the boat with excitement. These waters are full of surprises, and that's what keeps folks coming back year after year.
Redfish: These copper-colored bruisers are the kings of the inshore scene. They love to cruise the shallows, often with their tails sticking right out of the water as they root for crabs. Redfish put up one heck of a fight, often making blistering runs and testing your drag system to the max. In the fall, we see some real giants move in - "bull reds" that can top 40 inches and 30 pounds. There's nothing quite like the thump of a big red inhaling your bait!
Sea Trout: If you're looking for a fish that'll keep you on your toes, sea trout are your target. These spotted beauties are known for their light strikes and acrobatic jumps. They school up around structure and drop-offs, and they're suckers for a well-presented live shrimp or artificial lure. The "gator" trout (over 20 inches) are prized catches, but even the smaller ones are a blast on light tackle. Plus, they're delicious if you're looking to bring home dinner.
Atlantic Sharpnose Shark: For those who want a real adrenaline rush, hooking into one of these toothy critters will do the trick. Sharpnose sharks are common in our inshore waters, especially during the warmer months. They're fast, they fight hard, and they'll test your tackle and your nerve. We practice catch and release with these guys, but not before getting some great photos. Don't worry - our guides know how to handle them safely, so you can get up close and personal with one of the ocean's apex predators.
Charleston's inshore fishing isn't just about what ends up on the end of your line - it's the whole package. As we drift along, you might spot dolphins playing in the wake or ospreys diving for their own catch. The salt marsh stretches as far as the eye can see, painted gold by the late afternoon sun. And let's not forget the history - we'll cruise past old rice plantations and maybe even catch a glimpse of Fort Sumter in the distance. It's a chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and tune into nature's rhythm. Plus, the fish are always biting somewhere, so you're almost guaranteed some action.
Look, I could go on all day about the fish we catch and the good times we have out here, but the best way to experience it is to come see for yourself. Our 4-hour afternoon trips are perfect for fitting some quality fishing into your Charleston visit without taking up the whole day. We've got room for two anglers, so bring a buddy or make it a special one-on-one trip. Remember, the deposit is non-refundable, so when you book, you're locked in for some serious fun.
Don't let another season slip by without wetting a line in Charleston's world-class inshore fishery. The fish are waiting, the boat is ready, and we've got the local know-how to put you on the action. So what are you waiting for? Grab your hat and sunscreen, and let's go catch some memories. Book your trip now, and get ready for an afternoon of Charleston fishing at its finest!
Sea trout, also called spotted seatrout, are a favorite among Charleston anglers. These silvery fish usually run 14-24 inches, with bigger ones pushing 5 pounds or more. You'll find them in our estuaries year-round, often hanging around grass flats, oyster bars, and deeper channels. They're most active at dawn and dusk, especially on moving tides. Trout fishing really heats up in fall when they school up before winter. Anglers love 'em for their aggressive strikes and tasty white meat. They're not the strongest fighters, but they make up for it with their willingness to bite. My go-to setup is a live shrimp under a popping cork - the noise attracts trout from a distance. Work it with sharp jerks, pausing in between. When you see that cork disappear, you're in for some fun!
Redfish are one of Charleston's most popular inshore targets, and for good reason. These copper-colored beauties average 20-30 inches but can grow much larger. You'll find them in shallow water - sometimes with their backs sticking out! Look for them around oyster beds, grass flats, and pilings in 1-4 feet of water. Fall is prime time as they school up, but you can catch them year-round. Anglers love redfish for their hard-fighting spirit and excellent table fare. They'll hit a variety of lures, but my favorite trick is using scented soft plastics on a jighead. Work it slowly along the bottom, especially on incoming tides. When you feel that telltale thump, set the hook and hold on tight - redfish are known for powerful, bulldogging runs that'll test your gear and your skills.
Atlantic Sharpnose Sharks are small but feisty, usually around 2-3 feet long. Don't let their size fool you - these little guys put up a great fight! You'll find them cruising the shallows near shore, especially in bays and estuaries. They're here year-round, but summer's when the action really heats up. Folks love targeting them because they're abundant, easy to hook, and give you a taste of shark fishing without the big game hassle. Just about any bait works, but fresh cut fish is my go-to. One tip: use a steel leader to prevent bite-offs. When you hook one, hang on tight - they're strong swimmers for their size. Landing them can be tricky, so I always keep a net and gloves handy. The rough skin and sharp teeth demand respect. Overall, Sharpnose are perfect for anglers wanting an exciting catch without the intimidation of larger sharks.
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