South Carolina, known as the Palmetto State, offers diverse fishing experiences for anglers of all skill levels. With its numerous freshwater lakes, miles of shoreline along the Atlantic Ocean, and various fish species, it’s no wonder that fishing enthusiasts flock to this East Coast destination.
Whether chasing largemouth bass on Lake Murray, fly fishing for trout on the Chattooga River, or reeling in a king mackerel off Myrtle Beach, South Carolina’s vast fishing opportunities promise an excellent time for all.
In this article best fishing in South Carolina we will explore some of the best fishing spots in the state and fishing tips and techniques to help you make your fishing trip to South Carolina fun and successful.
So grab your gear, and let’s head down to South Carolina!
Best Fishing Locations in South Carolina
Charleston Area Fishing
Charleston, located in South Carolina, is a renowned fishing destination owing to its vast marine resources and diverse aquatic ecosystems.
With an array of water bodies, from freshwater rivers to brackish creeks and the vast Atlantic Ocean, the region offers a diverse range of fishing options, attracting recreational and professional anglers worldwide.
Inshore Fishing
Inshore fishing in Charleston involves fishing in the local estuaries, tidal creeks, and nearshore reefs. This is usually done within sight of land and typically involves species such as redfish (red drum), spotted sea trout, flounder, and sheepshead.
The region’s diverse ecosystems and plentiful food supply make it a haven for these species.
Offshore Fishing
Offshore fishing involves heading further out to sea, often miles offshore, where larger species like Mahi Mahi, Tuna, Wahoo, King Mackerel, and several species of Sharks can be found.
Charleston’s offshore waters teem with these and other game species, making it an excellent location for deep-sea fishing adventures.
Charleston Harbor
Charleston Harbor is a large and versatile fishing spot with various species to catch, including red drum, black drum, and sea trout. Additionally, the harbor is a renowned spot for tarpon fishing, especially during the late summer months.
Best Times for Fishing
While fishing is productive throughout the year in Charleston, the best time is often during the summer. This is when most species are active and feeding, which significantly increases catch rates. In particular, the period from May to September is considered the peak fishing season.
Accessibility
Charleston’s many boat ramps and access points make getting out on the water simple and convenient.
There’s no shortage of launching points, from the harbor to the rivers and creeks. Additionally, a large number of local guides and charter services offer both inshore and offshore fishing excursions.
Below is a table highlighting some of the top fishing spots in the Charleston area, along with the notable species in each location:
| Best Fishing Spots | Notable Species |
|---|---|
| Charleston Harbor | Red Drum, Black Drum, Sea Trout, Tarpon |
| Folly Beach | Red Drum, Flounder, Spotted Sea Trout |
| Isle of Palms | Red Drum, Flounder, Spotted Sea Trout, Tarpon |
| Kiawah Island | Red Drum, Black Drum, Sea Trout, Flounder |
| Bulls Bay | Red Drum, Sea Trout, Flounder, Tarpon |
| Stono River | Red Drum, Sea Trout, Flounder, Sheepshead |
| Wando River | Red Drum, Sea Trout, Flounder, Black Drum |
| Edisto River | Red Drum, Sea Trout, Flounder, Catfish |
Myrtle Beach Hotspots
Myrtle Beach is another prime fishing spot on the Atlantic Coast. Its long pier, miles of coastline, and proximity to the Gulf Stream offer a wide range of fishing experiences, from pier and beach fishing to inshore and offshore adventures.
Pier and Beach Fishing
The Myrtle Beach fishing pier is a popular spot for anglers due to the variety of fish that can be caught. Common catches include King Mackerel and Spanish Mackerel, abundant in abundance in the warmer months.
Other species, such as Flounder, Sea Trout, and various types of Sharks, can also be hooked from the pier.
Offshore Fishing
Offshore fishing in Myrtle Beach offers the opportunity to catch larger fish, like Tuna, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, and Sailfish. The area’s proximity to the Gulf Stream means warm water species are more common and provide thrilling sportfishing adventures.
Charters are readily available to provide equipment, expertise, and a safe journey into offshore waters.
Inshore Fishing
Inshore fishing around Myrtle Beach can be very rewarding, with locations like the Intracoastal Waterway and Murrells Inlet being particularly productive. These areas are home to species such as Red Drum, Flounder, Black Drum, and Spotted Sea Trout.
Best Times for Fishing
While Myrtle Beach offers year-round fishing opportunities, the spring and fall seasons are often the most productive. This is when migratory species are most active and feed heavily.
Accessibility
With a range of charters and boat rentals available, and plenty of pier and shore fishing opportunities, accessibility to fishing in Myrtle Beach is excellent.
Myrtle Beach Area Marinas
- Myrtle Beach Yacht Club – Located in Little River, this marina offers full-service facilities and is known for its friendly and professional staff.
- Osprey Marina – Located on the Intracoastal Waterway, this marina offers a peaceful setting with full-service amenities.
- Coquina Yacht Club – This marina in Little River offers boating services and amenities.
- Grande Dunes Marina – Situated on the Intracoastal Waterway, Grande Dunes Marina offers various facilities and services.
- Barefoot Marina – Located in North Myrtle Beach, Barefoot Marina is a full-service marina that offers access to the Atlantic Ocean.
- Harbourgate Marina – This marina is located in North Myrtle Beach and provides comprehensive boating services.
- Crazy Sister Marina – Located in Murrells Inlet, a short drive south of Myrtle Beach, Crazy Sister Marina offers a variety of water activities, including fishing charters and boat rentals.
Here’s a table of the best fishing spots in Myrtle Beach and the notable species to catch:
| Best Fishing Spots | Notable Species |
|---|---|
| Myrtle Beach Fishing Pier | King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel, Flounder, Sea Trout, Sharks |
| Gulf Stream (Offshore) | Tuna, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, Sailfish |
| Intracoastal Waterway | Red Drum, Flounder, Black Drum, Spotted Sea Trout |
| Murrells Inlet | Red Drum, Flounder, Black Drum, Spotted Sea Trout |
| Cherry Grove Pier | King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel, Red Drum, Flounder |
| Apache Pier | King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel, Red Drum, Sea Trout |
Lake Jocassee
Lake Jocassee, situated in the mountains of South Carolina, is a gem of a location for freshwater fishing. Known for its deep, clear waters, this lake is a habitat for several fish species, including largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, brown trout, and rainbow trout.
Bass Fishing
Lake Jocassee offers excellent opportunities for bass fishing. Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass are abundant, particularly around rocky points, underwater structures, and drop-offs.
Trout Fishing
Lake Jocassee is renowned for its trout fishing. It’s one of the few lakes in the region where anglers can catch Brown Trout and Rainbow Trout. The lake’s deep, cool water and stocked trout population make it a premier destination for trout anglers.
Best Times for Fishing
Although Lake Jocassee offers year-round fishing, the best period is during the winter months. This is when trout are most active, and the bass are easier to find as they tend to concentrate in deeper water.
Accessibility
Devils Fork State Park
Address: 161 Holcombe Cir, Salem, SC 29676, United States
The park offers various amenities, including a boat ramp, a double-wide boat ramp, and a kayak/canoe ramp. They also provide rental services for kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards. In addition, Devils Fork State Park is the primary access point for divers who come to explore the clear waters of Lake Jocassee.
For larger boating needs, nearby Lake Keowee has more extensive marina services. It’s only a short drive away and can offer services like boat repair, storage, and more extensive rental options. It’s essential to check ahead for availability and services due to the popular nature of these outdoor activities in the area.
Lake Jocassee is an excellent fishing destination, given its diversity of fish species and the potential for catching state-record fish. Below is a table that includes the best spots for fishing in Lake Jocassee and the notable species to catch:
| Best Fishing Spots | Notable Species |
|---|---|
| Devils Fork State Park | Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout |
| Whitewater River Inlet | Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Smallmouth Bass |
| Thompson River Inlet | Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Brown Trout |
| Horsepasture River Inlet | Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Smallmouth Bass |
| Bad Creek Inlet | Largemouth Bass, Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout |
Lake Murray
Lake Murray, situated in central South Carolina, is renowned for its productive fishing and beautiful scenery. With various species, such as largemouth bass, striped bass, and white bass, it’s an ideal location for freshwater fishing.
Bass Fishing
Lake Murray is a haven for bass anglers. The lake’s largemouth bass population is sizeable, and these fish can be caught around structures like docks, fallen trees, and many islands. Striped and white bass are also prevalent in the lake and provide excellent sports for anglers.
Best Times for Fishing
The best time to fish Lake Murray is late spring and summer. During these times, bass are often more active and feed more aggressively, making them easier to catch.
Accessibility
Lake Murray is easily accessible through Dreher Island State Park, which provides boat ramps, fishing piers, and shoreline access. The park’s facilities make it a convenient boat and shore fishing launching point.
Lake Murray Marinas
- Lake Murray Marina at Marina Bay: Located at 1600 Marina Rd, Irmo, SC 29063, this marina offers boat rentals, a ship store, and a full-service restaurant.
- Dreher Island State Park: Situated at 3677 State Park Rd, Prosperity, SC 29127, the park provides boat ramps and campgrounds. However, it is not a traditional marina with slip rentals and boat services.
- SouthShore Marina: Located at 3072 Hwy 378, Leesville, SC 29070, SouthShore Marina offers boat slips, a ship store, and other amenities.
- Lighthouse Marina: This marina is at 1925 Johnson Marina Rd, Chapin, SC 29036. It provides boat services, a ship store, and other amenities.
- Liberty at the Lake Marina: Located at 1602 Marina Rd, Suite D, Irmo, SC 29063, this marina offers boat slips, a ship store, and a restaurant.
- Siesta Cove Marina: Located at 256 John Long Rd, Gilbert, SC 29054, Siesta Cove Marina provides a full-service marina with boat storage, boat repair services, and a campground.
- Buffalo Creek Marina: This marina, found at 849 Marina Way, Prosperity, SC 29127, offers boat services, storage, and a restaurant.
Below is a table that includes some of the best fishing spots on Lake Murray and the notable species to catch:
| Best Fishing Spots | Notable Species |
|---|---|
| Dreher Island State Park | Largemouth Bass, Striped Bass, White Bass |
| Saluda River (Upper Lake Murray) | Largemouth Bass, Striped Bass |
| Bear Creek | Largemouth Bass, White Bass |
| Hollow Creek | Largemouth Bass, Striped Bass |
| Little Saluda River | Largemouth Bass, White Bass, Striped Bass |
Lake Marion
Lake Marion, South Carolina’s largest lake, is a favorite destination for anglers due to its extensive waters and diverse fish species. From largemouth bass and striped bass to black crappie, the fishing opportunities are excellent.
Bass Fishing
Lake Marion is popular among bass anglers for its healthy populations of largemouth and striped bass. These species are found throughout the lake, especially around underwater structures, weed beds, and along the shoreline.
Crappie Fishing
The lake is also known for its excellent black crappie fishing. These fish can be caught throughout the year, but spring is the most popular time due to the spawning season, which brings crappie closer to the shore.
Best Times for Fishing
The summer months offer the best fishing, especially for bass. During this time, bass are generally more active and feed more aggressively. Nevertheless, every season provides unique fishing opportunities.
Accessibility
With numerous access points and miles of shoreline, it’s easy to find a good spot to fish on Lake Marion. Whether you’re fishing from a boat or the shore, there’s plenty of space to explore.
Lake Marion Marinas
- Lake Marion Resort Marina: Located at 510 Ragtime Trail Santee, SC 29142, this marina offers boat storage, fuel, bait, and tackle.
- Santee State Park: Situated at 251 State Park Rd, Santee, SC 29142, the park provides boat ramps and campgrounds. It isn’t a traditional marina with slip rentals but a popular spot for accessing the lake.
- Randolph’s Landing: Located at 1028 Randolph’s Landing Way, Manning, SC 29102, this marina offers a boat ramp, fishing pier, and bait shop.
- Mill Creek Marina is at 3498 State Park Rd, Santee, SC 29142. It provides boat slips, bait, tackle, and more.
- Packs Landing: Located at 9890 Packs Landing Rd, Pinewood, SC 29125, this marina offers a boat ramp, fishing pier, bait, and tackle.
Below is a table that includes some of the best fishing spots on Lake Marion and the notable species to catch:
| Best Fishing Spots | Notable Species |
|---|---|
| Santee State Park | Largemouth Bass, Striped Bass, Black Crappie |
| Jack’s Creek Marina | Largemouth Bass, Striped Bass |
| Taw Caw Creek | Largemouth Bass, Black Crappie |
| Potato Creek | Largemouth Bass, Black Crappie, Striped Bass |
| Wyboo Creek | Largemouth Bass, Black Crappie |
Hilton Head Island
Hilton Head Island is a beloved destination for saltwater anglers. Its vibrant inshore and offshore ecosystems make it an excellent place to catch various fish species.
Inshore Fishing
Inshore fishing around Hilton Head Island has abundant species like red drum, black drum, and sea trout. These species can be caught in the surrounding marshes, tidal creeks, and inlets which are teeming with marine life.
Offshore Fishing
For those looking to venture further into the Atlantic, offshore fishing provides opportunities to catch larger species like mackerel, cobia, and sharks. Offshore charter boats are available and ready to take anglers to these deeper waters for an exhilarating fishing experience.
Best Times for Fish
The best times to fish generally correspond to the tidal cycles. High tide is often the best for targeting species like red drum, while low tide can be productive for species like flounder. However, this can vary depending on the specific area and target species.
Accessibility
The island offers plenty of access points for fishing, including public piers, marinas, and boat launches. These facilities make it easy to experience both inshore and offshore fishing.
Hilton Head Island Marinas
- Harbour Town Yacht Basin: Located at 149 Lighthouse Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, this marina offers boat slips, fuel services, and access to various amenities such as shopping and dining. It is also known for its iconic lighthouse.
- Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina: Situated at 1 Shelter Cove Ln, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, Shelter Cove offers boat slips, charters, boat rentals, and waterfront dining options.
- Hilton Head Harbor RV Resort & Marina: Located at 43 Jenkins Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926, this marina provides boat slips, fuel services, and an RV resort for visitors.
- Broad Creek Marina: Located at 18 Simmons Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926, this marina offers boat slips, charters, kayak rentals, and waterfront dining options.
- Skull Creek Marina: Situated at 1 Waterway Ln, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926, this marina provides boat slips, fuel services, and access to a boat club.
- Palmetto Bay Marina: This marina, located at 86 Helmsman Way, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, offers boat slips, boat rentals, fishing charters, and various waterfront restaurants.
Below is a table that includes some of the best fishing spots on Hilton Head Island and the notable species to catch:
| Best Fishing Spots | Notable Species |
|---|---|
| Skull Creek | Red Drum, Black Drum, Sea Trout |
| Calibogue Sound | Red Drum, Sea Trout, Mackerel |
| May River | Red Drum, Black Drum, Sea Trout |
| Port Royal Sound | Cobia, Mackerel, Red Drum |
| Broad Creek Marina | Red Drum, Black Drum, Sea Trout |
Murrells Inlet
Inshore Fishing
Inshore fishing in Murrells Inlet is abundant with species like red drum and sea trout. These fish can be found in the inlet’s marshes, creeks, and other shallow waters. Inshore anglers often target these species using light tackle, making for a fun and challenging fishing experience.
Offshore Fishing
Offshore fishing offers a different type of angling experience. King Mackerel and Spanish Mackerel are the main targets for offshore anglers. These species are often found in deeper waters off the coast of Murrells Inlet and can put up a good fight, making them popular among sport fishermen.
Best Times for Fishing
Murrells Inlet provides year-round fishing, but the summer months are often the most productive. During this time, fish are more active and are often feeding more aggressively. Live bait such as shrimp or small baitfish can be particularly effective during this period.
Accessibility
Murrells Inlet is easily accessible and offers a variety of fishing opportunities. There are several marinas and boat ramps in the area that provide access to both inshore and offshore fishing.
Murrells Inlet Marinas
- Crazy Sister Marina: Located at 4123 US-17 BUS, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576, Crazy Sister Marina offers a variety of fishing charters, boat rentals, eco-tours, and water sports.
- Wacca Wache Marina: Situated at 1950 Wachesaw Rd, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576, this marina provides boat storage, a boat ramp, fuel, and a restaurant.
- Marlin Quay Marina: Found at 1508 S Waccamaw Dr, Garden City, SC 29576, Marlin Quay Marina offers fishing charters, a boat ramp, fuel, and a restaurant.
- Coopers Marina: Located at 3003 S Fraser St, Georgetown, SC 29440, it’s a short drive south of Murrells Inlet and offers boat slips, dry storage, a boat ramp, and fuel.
- Harbourgate Marina: Situated in North Myrtle Beach at 2120 Sea Mountain Hwy, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582, it’s about a 30-minute drive north of Murrells Inlet and offers boat slips, a boat ramp, fuel, and charters.
Below is a table that includes some of the best fishing spots in Murrells Inlet and the notable species to catch:
| Best Fishing Spots | Notable Species |
|---|---|
| Huntington Beach State Park | Red Drum, Sea Trout |
| Wacca Wache Marina | Red Drum, Sea Trout, King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel |
| Crazy Sister Marina | Red Drum, Sea Trout, King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel |
| Marlin Quay Marina | Red Drum, Sea Trout, King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel |
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Popular Fish Species in South Carolina
South Carolina offers a diverse range of fish species for fresh and saltwater anglers. This section will briefly cover some popular fish species in the state’s waters.
Freshwater Fish
In South Carolina’s freshwater lakes and rivers, anglers can find a variety of fish species, including largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, trout, catfish, and crappie.
- Largemouth bass are abundant in many of South Carolina’s lakes, such as Lake Murray, Lake Jocassee, and Lake Hartwell.
- Brown and rainbow trout are common in cold water streams and rivers like the Chattooga River.
- Crappie, both black and white, can be found in many freshwater lakes, including Lake Marion and Lake Moultrie. The state records for white and black crappie came from these lakes. White bass is another popular species among anglers and can be caught in the summer months in many of the state’s freshwater lakes.
Saltwater Fish
Saltwater fishing in South Carolina offers opportunities to catch a variety of fish species, such as redfish, flounder, mackerel, and snapper. The coastal waters near cities like Myrtle Beach, Charleston, and Hilton Head Island offer prime saltwater fishing spots.
- Red and black drum are commonly found in the shallow waters of South Carolina’s coast, usually around Murrells Inlet and Charleston Harbor. Flounder are another popular species that can be caught near piers, jetties, and artificial reefs.
- Cobia, king mackerel, and Spanish mackerel can be targeted in offshore fishing excursions near the Atlantic Ocean’s Gulf Stream. Sharks are also a popular target for adventurous anglers around the Palmetto State’s coastal areas.
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South Carolina Fishing Seasons
Spring Fishing
Spring is a fantastic season for fishing in South Carolina, as the warming waters spark fish activity.
From April to May, anglers can enjoy catching largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and white bass in the state’s freshwater lakes, such as Lake Murray, Lake Jocassee, Lake Marion, and Lake Wylie.
Rainbow and brown trout are especially active in the Chattooga River, and April is an excellent time for fly fishing in the Whitewater River. Remember to purchase a fishing license before heading out.
Summer Fishing
The summer months, particularly June and July, provide anglers with the best opportunity to fish off the coast of South Carolina. Popular destinations for saltwater fishing include Myrtle Beach, Charleston Harbor, Hilton Head Island, and Winyah Bay.
Offshore fishing is productive for species like king mackerel, Spanish mackerel, red drum, black drum, and sea trout. Inshore, you’ll find flounder and sheepshead near boat ramps and access points. Remember the high and low tide times when planning your fishing trip.
Fall Fishing
Fall season, which includes August, September, and early October, offers some of the best fishing in South Carolina.
Late summer and early fall is prime time for red drum and white perch in Murrells Inlet, as well as crystal-clear waters for black crappie, flathead catfish, white crappie, and yellow perch in Upstate lakes like Lake Hartwell and Lake Keowee.
Lake Moultrie is an ideal spot for catching catfish during this time. Additionally, fall fishing in the state parks and miles of shoreline provides a scenic experience.
Winter Fishing
Winter is an underrated season for fishing in South Carolina. The cold water reduces activity, but species such as striped bass, channel catfish, and black crappie can still be found. Lake Bowen, located near Greenville County, is an excellent destination for winter fishing.
Devils Fork State Park, along the shores of Lake Jocassee, offers anglers the chance to catch trophy-sized trout during the winter months. You may also encounter grouper, snapper, and various tuna species when venturing into the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf Stream.
Fishing Licenses and Regulations
Before heading out to the beautiful South Carolina waters in search of your trophy catch, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the fishing licenses and regulations required in the Palmetto State.
Residents and non-residents need a valid fishing license to fish in freshwater and saltwater areas, with some exceptions for specific locations.
To fish in South Carolina, you can obtain a license online, via authorized agents, or at select Department of Natural Resources (DNR) offices. Residents and non-residents have different fees, including annual, 14-day, and 3-day licenses.
If you plan to fish along the border with Georgia. In that case, there is a reciprocal agreement in place allowing anglers with respective state licenses to fish in both states’ waters within agreed boundaries.
Conclusion – Best Fishing in South Carolina
South Carolina offers a wide array of opportunities for anglers seeking both freshwater and saltwater fishing experiences. With numerous lakes, rivers, and miles of shoreline, it’s the perfect destination for a memorable fishing trip.
Just remember to obtain the proper fishing license and follow the state’s regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the water. Until next time Happy Fishing!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the best public ponds for fishing?
In South Carolina, there are many excellent public ponds for fishing. Some popular options include:
- Myrtle Beach State Park
- Greenville County
- Murrells Inlet
These areas offer great fishing opportunities for a variety of fish species, such as largemouth bass, white crappie, and white bass.
Which lakes have great bass fishing?
South Carolina is home to numerous freshwater lakes that are perfect for bass fishing. Some well-known lakes with productive largemouth and smallmouth bass populations include Lake Murray, Lake Jocassee, Lake Hartwell, Lake Bowen, and Lake Wylie.
These lakes are popular for their abundance of bass species and miles of shoreline for anglers to explore.
What are top spots for bank fishing?
Bank fishing is an accessible and enjoyable way to fish in South Carolina. Top spots for bank fishing include Dreher Island State Park on Lake Murray, the Chattooga River, Charleston Harbor, and the Intracoastal Waterway.
These locations offer diverse fishing experiences, from crystal clear waters to shallow areas with easy access points.
When is the peak fishing season?
The peak fishing season in South Carolina varies depending on the species targeted and location. For example, largemouth bass fishing is typically most productive during the late spring and early summer months.
While other fish, such as striped bass, red drum, and black drum are more prevalent during winter. Generally, the best time for fishing in the Palmetto State is from late spring to late summer.
What are the SC fishing regulations?
Fishing regulations in South Carolina are established to protect and conserve fish populations, ensuring a sustainable fishing experience for all.
Some regulations include limits on fish size, daily bag limits, gear restrictions, and proper fishing licenses for both residents and non-residents. For up-to-date information on South Carolina fishing regulations, visit the state’s Department of Natural Resources website.
Do I need a fishing license in SC?
Residents and non-residents must have a valid fishing license to fish in South Carolina’s freshwater lakes and saltwater coastal waters. Licenses can be purchased online, in person at state parks, or at authorized retailers nationwide.
Cory Haasnoot
Cory is a content writer-editor and founder of Tackle Box Talk. Favorite Quote: "Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime."