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Premier Charleston Inshore Fishing Adventure

  • Published Date: July 17, 2025
  • Fishing
  • Charleston
  • Updated Date: December 11, 2025

Summary

Join Captain Scott for a full day of inshore fishing in Charleston's rich coastal waters. This 8-hour private charter kicks off at 7:30 AM, giving you plenty of time to explore the area's diverse fishing spots. You'll hit creeks, flats, and nearshore edges in search of prized catches like redfish, tarpon, and king mackerel. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to fishing, this trip caters to all skill levels. The extended time on the water means more chances to try different techniques and land that big one. With all gear, bait, and licenses included, you can focus on the fishing and leave the details to the pros. The two-person capacity ensures a personalized experience as you soak in Charleston's beautiful scenery and hopefully reel in some impressive fish. Remember, you've got flexible cancellation up to a week before, so book with confidence and get ready for a day of serious fishing action.
Premier Charleston Inshore Fishing Adventure

Reels and Catches

Full-Day Inshore Fishing: Charleston's Hidden Gems

Ready to reel in some of Charleston's finest inshore species? Hop aboard with Captain Scott for a full day of non-stop fishing action. This 8-hour private charter kicks off at 7:30 AM, giving you prime time on the water to target redfish, tarpon, king mackerel, and more. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this trip's got something for everyone. We'll hit up all the local hotspots - from quiet creeks to bustling flats and nearshore edges. Best part? All the gear, bait, and licenses are covered, so you can focus on what matters: landing that trophy catch.

What to Expect on the Water

Picture this: you're cruising through Charleston's inshore waters as the sun's coming up, rod in hand, ready for whatever bites. Captain Scott knows these waters like the back of his hand, so you're in for a treat. We'll start by hitting up some secret spots in the creeks where the redfish love to hide out. As the day heats up, we might head to the flats to sight-cast for some tailing reds - it's like fish hunting, and man, is it a rush! If the tarpon are running, we'll give 'em a go - these silver kings put up one heck of a fight. And don't forget about the king mackerel - these speedsters will test your drag and your arms. With a full day on the water, we've got time to mix it up and try different techniques, making sure you get the most out of your Charleston fishing experience.

Techniques That'll Hook You

On this charter, we're not just fishing - we're using every trick in the book to get those fish biting. We'll start with some light tackle action, perfect for working the grass lines for redfish. You'll learn how to spot those tell-tale signs of feeding reds and how to present your bait just right. When we're after tarpon, it's all about the live bait and patience - these guys can be picky, but when they hit, hold on tight! For the king mackerel, we might do some slow trolling with live bait or pitch some blue runners their way. Captain Scott's always got a few secret weapons up his sleeve, so don't be surprised if you pick up some new techniques that'll have you fishing like a local in no time. And hey, if you've got a favorite method you want to try, just say the word - this is your day on the water, after all.

Top Catches This Season

Charleston's inshore waters have been on fire lately, and anglers are talking. The redfish bite has been especially hot, with plenty of slot-sized fish and some real bruisers in the mix. Tarpon season's been a real treat, with several 100+ pounders hooked (and a few even landed). The king mackerel run has been nothing to sneeze at either, with some smokers in the 30-40 pound range making appearances. Black drum and sheepshead have been keeping things interesting around the docks and pilings. Whether you're after quantity or quality, Charleston's got the goods this season.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Redfish: The crown jewel of Charleston's inshore scene. These copper-colored beauties are known for their distinctive spot near the tail and their hard-fighting nature. Redfish can be found year-round in our waters, but fall is prime time when they school up in big numbers. They love to cruise the flats and hang around oyster beds, often revealing their presence with a waving tail above the water. Sizes typically range from 20-30 inches, but don't be surprised if you hook into a big bull red over 40 inches!

Tarpon: The silver king is the ultimate game fish for many anglers, and for good reason. These prehistoric-looking fish can grow over 6 feet long and weigh well over 100 pounds. They're known for their spectacular aerial displays when hooked, often jumping several feet out of the water. Tarpon typically show up in Charleston's waters from June to September, with peak season in July and August. Landing one of these giants is a true test of an angler's skill and endurance.

King Mackerel: Also known as kingfish, these speedsters are the torpedoes of the sea. They're built for speed, with a sleek body and razor-sharp teeth. Kings can grow up to 5 feet long and weigh over 50 pounds, though most caught inshore are in the 10-30 pound range. They're typically found in Charleston from April through October, with the best action often in the late summer and early fall. When a king hits your bait, be ready for a smoking run that'll have your reel singing!

Spanish Mackerel: The smaller cousins of the king mackerel, Spanish macks are abundant in Charleston's waters and provide non-stop action when they're running. These fish typically weigh 2-4 pounds but fight well above their weight class. They're often found in large schools, making for fast-paced fishing that's perfect for anglers of all skill levels. Spanish mackerel are most common from May through September and are excellent on the grill.

Black Drum: Often overlooked but never disappointing, black drum are the gentle giants of the inshore world. These fish can grow to massive sizes, with some specimens topping 80 pounds, though most caught inshore are in the more manageable 5-30 pound range. They're bottom feeders with a preference for crustaceans, making them a fun target around structures like docks and bridges. Black drum can be caught year-round in Charleston, but spring and fall often see the best action.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

There's something special about fishing Charleston's inshore waters that keeps folks coming back for more. Maybe it's the thrill of sight-casting to tailing redfish in gin-clear water, or the heart-pounding excitement of watching a tarpon launch itself skyward. Could be the variety - where else can you target such a diverse range of species in a single day? Or perhaps it's the laid-back Charleston vibe, where time seems to slow down and all that matters is the tug on your line. Whatever it is, one thing's for sure: once you've experienced Charleston's inshore fishing, you'll be hooked for life.

Time to Book Your Spot

Alright, folks, let's cut to the chase - if you're itching for some world-class inshore fishing, this Charleston charter's got your name on it. Captain Scott's ready to put you on the fish, whether you're after hard-pulling reds, high-flying tarpon, or speedy kings. With all gear provided and flexible booking, there's no excuse not to get out there and make some memories. Just remember, the fish are always biting, but spots on the boat aren't always open. So why wait? Grab your spot now and get ready for a day of Charleston fishing you'll be bragging about for years to come. Trust me, the only thing you'll regret is not booking sooner!

Learn more about the animals

Black Drum

Black Drum are bruisers that'll test your tackle. In Charleston, we see them from 5-30 pounds, with some monsters pushing 90. You'll find them in brackish waters around oyster beds, mudflats, and creek mouths. Spring is prime time as they school up to spawn. Anglers love Drum for their powerful fights and distinctive "croaking" sound. They're not the prettiest fish, but smaller ones make good eating. Use fresh crab, shrimp, or cut mullet on a fish-finder rig. My local trick: fish the falling tide near oyster bars. The Drum move in to feed as water drains off the flats. Listen close – sometimes you can hear them drumming before you see 'em. Just be ready to hang on when a big one takes your bait!

Black Drum

Black Sea Bass

Black Sea Bass are a favorite target for many Charleston anglers. These chunky fish usually run 1-5 pounds, though bigger ones over 8 pounds aren't unheard of. You'll find them around rocky bottoms, wrecks, and reefs in 60-120 feet of water. Spring and fall are prime seasons as they move closer to shore. Folks love catching Sea Bass for their strong, determined fight and excellent table fare. They're opportunistic feeders, so cut squid, clams, or small fish work great as bait. My go-to rig is a simple two-hook bottom setup with a bank sinker. Pro tip: when you catch one, drop right back down. Sea Bass often school up, so you can limit out quick if you find the right spot. Just watch out for their sharp spines when handling them!

Black Sea Bass

King Mackerel

King Mackerel, or "Kings," are the speedsters of Charleston's waters. These sleek predators typically run 10-30 pounds, but 50-pounders aren't uncommon. You'll find them in deeper water, usually 30-150 feet, around reefs and wrecks. Late spring through fall is prime time as they follow bait schools. Anglers love Kings for their blistering runs and aerial acrobatics. They're also excellent eating when prepared fresh. Trolling with live bait like menhaden or blue runners is deadly effective. My local tip: use a stinger rig with two treble hooks. Kings are known for short-striking baits, so that trailing hook ups your hookup ratio. When a King hits, hold on tight – they're famous for smoking drags and putting on a show!

King Mackerel

Redfish

Redfish are the rockstars of Charleston's inshore scene. These copper-colored beauties typically run 3-12 pounds in the shallows, with bigger bulls in deeper water. You'll find them tailing on flats, cruising oyster bars, and hanging around dock pilings. They're active year-round, but fall is prime time when they school up. Anglers love Reds for their powerful runs and their willingness to eat just about anything. They're also excellent on the table. Live shrimp under a popping cork is a local favorite, but artificials like gold spoons work great too. My top tip: look for "nervous water" on calm days. That slight ripple often means Redfish are pushing water as they feed. Once you spot 'em, a well-placed cast can lead to an explosive strike and an unforgettable fight.

Redfish

Spanish Mackerel

Spanish Mackerel are a blast to catch around Charleston. These speedy fish typically run 1-2 feet long and 2-8 pounds. You'll find them in schools near the surface, often around structures like jetties and reefs. They're most active in warmer months, especially late spring through fall. Anglers love targeting Spanish Mackerel for their fast runs and acrobatic jumps when hooked. Their light, flaky meat is great eating too. To catch 'em, try trolling small spoons or jigs behind planers. My local tip: look for diving birds – that often means Spanish Mackerel are feeding on bait fish below. Once you find a school, you can have non-stop action. Just be ready for their sharp teeth when unhooking!

Spanish Mackerel

About the Charlestowne Coastal Charters

Company vehicle

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 5

Manufacturer Name: Suzuki

Maximum Cruising Speed: 40

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 115

Hop aboard Captain Scott's boat for a full day of fishing fun in Charleston's inshore waters. This 8-hour private charter kicks off at 7:30 AM, giving you plenty of time to explore the area's rich fishing grounds. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to the sport, you'll have a blast targeting a variety of species like redfish, tarpon, and king mackerel. Captain Scott will guide you through creeks, flats, and nearshore spots, sharing local knowledge and helpful tips along the way. With all the gear, bait, and licenses provided, you can focus on reeling in the big ones. It's a great chance to improve your skills and enjoy quality time on the water. Remember, you can cancel up to 7 days before if your plans change. So grab a friend and get ready for a fantastic day of fishing in beautiful Charleston!
Charlestowne Coastal Charters

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Ready to reel in unforgettable memories with Charlestowne Coastal Charters in Charleston, SC? Book your fishing adventure today and experience the Lowcountry like never before—hook, line, and smile!

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Charleston charmer! This redfish is one for the memory books.

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Beautiful Day and a Trout Catch!

Redfish caught by angler in Charleston

Fins up! Charleston’s redfish are biting!

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Overloaded with Happiness!

Redfish caught by angler in Charleston

Red hot catch in the Holy City!

Two people fishing in Charleston

Dad and Daughter Enjoying their fishing trip!

Angler with a redfish in South Carolina

“Nothing like a Charleston red to make your day!

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Charleston charmer! This redfish is one for the memory books.

Redfish caught during fishing trip in SC

Saltwater therapy and a redfish to match.

Bonnethead Shark caught while fishing in SC

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Lone angler fishing in Charleston

Beautiful Flounder! - Charleston, SC.

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