March 2025 Fishing Report for Myrtle Beach, SC

March 2025 Fishing Report for Myrtle Beach, SC

March marks the transition from winter to spring in Myrtle Beach, making it an exciting month for anglers. With rising water temperatures, fish become more active, feeding aggressively in preparation for the warmer months. Whether you’re fishing inshore, nearshore, or offshore, March 2025 offers excellent opportunities to catch a variety of species.

Below is a detailed breakdown of what you can expect when fishing in Myrtle Beach this month.

 Inshore Fishing in March

March is a fantastic month for inshore fishing, with redfish, speckled trout, and black drum becoming increasingly active.

Redfish (Red Drum)

Redfish begin moving out of their tightly packed winter schools and spreading into the marshes, flats, and creeks. These fish can be caught using:

• Live shrimp under a popping cork
• Cut mullet or menhaden fished on the bottom
• Soft plastic lures like paddle tails and jerkbaits

Redfish are often found around docks, oyster beds, and grass lines, so targeting these areas will improve your chances of success.

Speckled Trout

Speckled trout become more aggressive in March, especially as water temperatures climb above 50°F. These fish can be caught in deeper holes, around jetties, and near drop-offs. The best baits include:

• Vudu Shrimp or live shrimp
• MirrOlure suspending twitch baits
• Soft plastic grubs on a jighead

Black Drum

Black drum, which prefer structure such as docks and bridge pilings, are also active in March. The best bait options include:

• Fresh cut shrimp
• Fiddler crabs
• Blue crabs (cut in half)

 Nearshore Fishing Opportunities

Nearshore waters in March begin to see more movement, with several species making their way closer to the coast.

King Mackerel

While king mackerel may not be in full force just yet, some early arrivals can be found along the nearshore reefs. Trolling with:

• Live menhaden
• Cigar minnows
• Drone spoons

…is an effective way to target them.

Sheepshead

Sheepshead fishing is at its peak in March, especially around reefs, jetties, and pilings. The best bait for sheepshead includes:

• Fiddler crabs
• Oysters
• Barnacles scraped off structure

Spanish Mackerel

By the end of March, Spanish mackerel begin showing up in greater numbers. These fast-moving fish can be caught on:

• Clark spoons trolled behind a planer
• Gotcha plugs
• Live baitfish

 Offshore Fishing Report

For those venturing into deeper waters, March is an excellent month for targeting big-game fish.

Wahoo Fishing

Wahoo fishing is some of the best during March, with large fish caught around the Gulf Stream. The best methods for catching wahoo include:

• High-speed trolling with Ilander lures rigged with ballyhoo
• Planers with diving plugs

Tuna Fishing

Yellowfin and blackfin tuna can also be found offshore. Anglers have success using:

• Cedar plugs
• Chunking with fresh bait
• Vertical jigging

Bottom Fishing for Snapper and Grouper

Deep-sea bottom fishing produces big catches in March, with species such as:

• Red snapper
• Vermilion snapper
• Gag grouper

Dropping fresh cut bait, squid, or live pinfish near wrecks and ledges is the key to success.

 Best Baits and Lures for March Fishing

Choosing the right bait is crucial for a productive day on the water. Below are the top choices for each species:

 Weather Patterns and Water Conditions

March is known for fluctuating weather conditions, which can impact fishing success.

• Water Temperature: Ranges from 50°F to 65°F
• Wind Patterns: Cold fronts can bring high winds, making offshore trips unpredictable
• Tide Movements: Fishing is best during moving tides, especially near inlets and marshes

Dressing in layers and checking the forecast before heading out is essential.

 Fishing Regulations and Licensing

Before fishing in Myrtle Beach, make sure to review the latest South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) regulations. Important rules include:

• Redfish limit: 2 per person, slot size 15-23 inches
• Speckled trout limit: 10 per person, minimum 14 inches
• Black drum limit: 5 per person, slot size 14-27 inches
• Sheepshead limit: 10 per person, minimum 14 inches

A South Carolina saltwater fishing license is required for all anglers 16 and older. You can purchase one online at SCDNR.

 Tips for a Successful March Fishing Trip

Follow these expert tips to maximize your catch this March:

• Fish the tide changes – Moving water triggers feeding activity.
• Match the hatch – Use bait that mimics what fish are feeding on.
• Check the weather – Wind and temperature shifts affect fish behavior.
• Be patient – Some days require more effort, especially early in the season.
• Use light tackle – Downsizing tackle can improve bites in clear water.

March 2025 is shaping up to be a great month for fishing in Myrtle Beach. Whether you’re targeting inshore redfish and trout, nearshore sheepshead and mackerel, or offshore wahoo and tuna, there are plenty of opportunities for success.

For up-to-date conditions, check with local bait shops and charter services. Tight lines and good luck on the water! 🎣