The Best Inshore Fishing in Myrtle Beach in March 2023

Catching the Springs Season’s Top Inshore Fish!

If you’re looking for the best inshore fishing adventure in Myrtle Beach during the spring, March is the perfect time to cast your line. As the weather warms up, the fishing season is in full swing, and you can expect to find a variety of fish species in the area’s waters. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover the best fishing locations, popular fish species, effective inshore fishing techniques, essential gear, and local fishing regulations to help you plan a successful inshore fishing trip.

Popular Fish Species in Myrtle Beach in March

In March, Myrtle Beach’s waters are teeming with various fish species, including:

Red Drum:

Also known as redfish, red drum are abundant in the inshore waters of North Myrtle Beach, SC. These powerful fish are famous for their reddish-bronze color and distinctive black spot near their tails.

Spotted Sea Seatrout:

These silver fish with distinctive black spots are found in estuaries and coastal waters in and round Ocean Isle and Sunset Beach, NC. Spotted seatrout are known for their voracious appetite and put up a good fight when hooked.

Black Drum:

Closely related to red drum, black drum are larger and have a dark gray or black body. They are commonly found in the same locations as their red counterparts in Calabash, NC.

Sheepshead:

With their distinctive black stripes and human-like teeth, sheepshead are a popular catch in March. These fish are usually found near structures, such as piers and jetties, feeding on barnacles and crustaceans around Myrtle Beach, Little River, SC.

Flounder:

These flat, bottom-dwelling fish can be found in the inshore waters of Myrtle Beach. Flounders are masters of camouflage and are known for their ambush hunting style. They can be found in inland waterways around Cherry Grove, SC.

Best Fishing Locations in Myrtle Beach

To increase your chances of catching the best fish, it’s important to know the prime fishing locations in Myrtle Beach. Here are the top spots to visit:

Murrells Inlet Marsh Walk:

This popular fishing location offers access to the rich waters of Murrells Inlet, where you can find an abundance of red drum, black drum, and flounder.

Cherry Grove Pier:

This historic pier is an ideal location for catching sheepshead, spotted seatrout, and other inshore species. The pier also features a two-story observation deck and a tackle shop. It is also known for its world record catch of a Sand Tiger Shark that weight 1740 pounds.

Apache Pier:

At 1,206 feet, the Apache Pier is the longest wooden fishing pier on the East Coast. Anglers can expect to find a variety of fish species, including red drum, black drum, spanish mackerel, and sheepshead.

Myrtle Beach State Park:

Offering a fishing pier and surf fishing opportunities, Myrtle Beach State Park is a versatile location for anglers looking to target different fish species while pier fishing.

North Myrtle Beach Fishing Charters:

Offering family-friendly private inshore fishing charters in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina for up to 4 to 6 people per boat. They include everything you need from bait, tackle, ice, fishing license rods, and reels. You just need to bring what you want to eat, drink and sunscreen.

North Myrtle Beach Fishing Charters:

also offer deep-sea fishing for Spanish mackerel, King Mackerel, Grouper, Snapper, Black Sea Bass, and much more in the Grand Strand.

Fishing Techniques for a Successful Catch

Different fish species require unique techniques to increase your chances of a successful catch. Here are some effective fishing techniques for the popular fish species in Myrtle Beach in March:

Red Drum and Black Drum:

When targeting red and black drum, use live or cut bait, such as live shrimp or mullet, and fish near oyster beds, grass flats, or other structures. A Carolina rig or popping cork rig is effective for presenting your bait naturally.

Spotted Seatrout:

For spotted seatrout, try using soft plastic lures or live bait like shrimp or small baitfish. Fish in moving water near grass lines, oyster bars, or drop-offs. A popping cork rig or a jig head with a soft plastic tail can help attract these aggressive fish.

Sheepshead:

To catch sheepshead, use live bait such as fiddler crabs or shrimp, and target areas near structures like piers, jetties, and pilings. A Carolina rig with a small, strong hook is ideal for presenting your bait.

Flounder:

When targeting flounder, use live bait like mud minnows or finger mullet, or opt for artificial lures like soft plastic grubs. Fish on the bottom in sandy or muddy areas near structures. A Carolina rig or a jig head with a soft plastic tail works well for flounder.

Essential Fishing Gear

To ensure a successful and enjoyable fishing in Myrtle Beach in March, it’s essential to bring the following fishing gear:

Rod and Reel:

A medium-action spinning rod and reel combination is versatile enough for most inshore species in Myrtle Beach. Choose a Penn reel as it has a smooth drag system and load it with 10-20 lb test braided line.

Tackle:

Bring a variety of hooks, sinkers, swivels, and leader material to create different rigs. Include artificial lures like soft plastics, jigs, and topwater plugs, as well as a selection of live or cut bait.

Tools:

Essential tools include pliers for removing hooks, a hook sharpener, a bait knife, and a measuring device to ensure your catch meets local size regulations.

Personal Items:

Bring sunscreen, a hat, polarized sunglasses, and weather-appropriate clothing to stay comfortable during your fishing trip.

Local Fishing Regulations

Before heading out to fish, it’s important to be familiar with local fishing regulations in Myrtle Beach. Here are some essential things to know:

Fishing License:

All anglers over the age of 16 must possess a valid South Carolina fishing license. Licenses can be purchased online or at local bait and tackle shops.

Catch Limits and Size Restrictions:

Observe catch limits and size restrictions for each fish species. Visit the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources website for up-to-date information on regulations.

Protected Areas:

Certain areas, such as state parks or nature reserves, may have additional fishing restrictions. Always consult the specific location’s regulations before fishing.

Fishing In Myrtle Beach

Fishing in Myrtle Beach in March is a fantastic experience for both novice and experienced anglers. With the right knowledge, gear, and techniques, you can catch some of the season’s best fish. Be sure to visit the prime inshore fishing locations, use the right fishing techniques for each species, and follow local fishing regulations to ensure a successful and enjoyable trip.

With this comprehensive guide, you’re ready to plan an unforgettable fishing adventure in Myrtle Beach. If you do not have your own equipment or know the right hot spot to fish, then be sure to book a inshore charter fishing with North Myrtle Beach Fishing Charters and Captain Keith Logan.

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