Myrtle Beach fishing offers some of the most exciting saltwater action anywhere on the East Coast, and few crews know these waters better than Captain Justin Swaim aboard the Kat-Cha Later. Whether you want to chase acrobatic Spanish mackerel just off the beach or troll the Gulf Stream for mahi mahi and wahoo, this guide walks you through every trip option, the current bite report, and everything you need to know before booking your next Myrtle Beach fishing charter.
Boat: Kat-Cha Later
Captain: Justin Swaim
First Mate: James Colman
Marina: Cricket Cove Marina, 4495 Baker St, Little River, SC 29566 — B Dock, Slip 26
Call to Book: 843-907-0064
Meet Your Myrtle Beach Fishing Charter Crew
Captain Justin Swaim and First Mate James Colman run the Kat-Cha Later out of Cricket Cove Marina in Little River, SC — just minutes from North Myrtle Beach. Because the boat carries a maximum of six guests, every trip stays private and personal. Consequently, families, first-timers, and serious anglers all get one-on-one attention instead of sharing a crowded rail with strangers. This is the difference between a generic Myrtle Beach fishing trip and a genuinely memorable day on the water.
Half-Day Nearshore Myrtle Beach Fishing Trips
Our half day nearshore fishing trip runs five hours total: roughly 30 minutes out, four hours of fishing, and 30 minutes back to the dock. This trip stays within about 10 miles of the beach, targeting Spanish mackerel, sharks, and bluefish. It never strays out of sight of land, which makes it an ideal choice for kids and families who want real action without a long offshore ride.
Spanish Mackerel: The Star of Nearshore Trips
Right now, the Spanish mackerel bite is on fire. Trips are averaging 40 to 75 fish each, and it truly does not matter whether you book a morning or afternoon slot — the fish are cooperating either way. This species is a lean, white-fleshed fish that tastes excellent on the grill, so guests almost always leave with a cooler full of dinner. In addition, the fast, repetitive action makes this species perfect for keeping younger anglers engaged all afternoon.
Shark Fishing Near Myrtle Beach
Our sharks fishing action is equally strong this week, with 4 to 6 sharks landed per trip, ranging anywhere from 20 to 200 pounds. Anglers are hooking everything from smaller dogfish sharks up to big black tips, and the fight on light tackle is a highlight for first-time offshore anglers. As a result, this nearshore trip has become one of the most requested Myrtle Beach fishing charter options for families who want a shorter ride and guaranteed bent rods.
Three-Quarter Day Offshore Fishing in Myrtle Beach
For anglers wanting bigger fish and a stronger pull, the three-quarter day trip runs seven hours, reaching 18 to 30 miles offshore. Expect an hour to an hour-and-a-half ride each way, leaving five solid hours of fishing time in between. This week, the king mackerel bite has been outstanding, with most trips limiting out between 6 and 9 fish. Meanwhile, mahi mahi and cobia have also started showing up, with 1 to 3 landed per trip. Because this trip pushes just beyond the range of nearshore waters, the fish caught here tend to run noticeably larger — perfect for anglers chasing a heavier drag and a real battle at the rail.
Gulf Stream Deep Sea Fishing Charters
Our Gulfstream fishing trip is the full offshore experience: 12 to 13 hours total, with a 3 to 3.5-hour ride out to the blue water, 5 to 6 hours of trolling, and the same ride home. This trip targets true blue-water gamefish that simply are not available closer to shore. On our most recent run, the crew boated 11 mahi and 1 wahoo, proving that when conditions line up, the Gulf Stream delivers some of the best deep sea fishing in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina has to offer. This is a long day, but it is by far the most rewarding trip for serious anglers chasing trophy pelagic species.
Private Myrtle Beach Fishing Charters for Families and Groups
If you want a day on the water that belongs entirely to your group, our Private Myrtle Beach Fishing Charters allow up to six guests aboard the Kat-Cha Later. Unlike party boats that mix strangers together, every trip here is booked exclusively for you and your crew. Consequently, we can tailor the pace, the target species, and even the ride time around your family’s comfort level, whether that means a relaxed nearshore outing or an aggressive offshore push.
Current Myrtle Beach Fishing Report and Seasonal Patterns
Fishing conditions off the Grand Strand shift throughout the year, so it helps to track the latest Myrtle Beach fishing report before you book. Right now, Spanish mackerel and king mackerel are both running strong, while mahi mahi, cobia, and wahoo are beginning to show up on the deeper trips. For a closer look at what to expect as conditions change, check our March fishing tips for Myrtle Beach, which cover early-season strategy in detail. In particular, water temperature drives almost every pattern shift, so paying attention to seasonal reports helps you pick the right trip for the right week.
Planning Your Trip: Licenses, Gear, and Regulations
Above all, you do not need to buy your own fishing license before stepping aboard a licensed charter — our captain’s license covers every guest on board. However, if you plan to fish from the pier or shore separately, South Carolina requires a saltwater license, and you can review current rules directly through the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. As for gear, we supply all rods, reels, tackle, bait, and ice; you only need to bring sunscreen, non-slip shoes, a hat, and something to drink. In addition, motion sickness medication is worth packing if you have never fished offshore before.
How to Book Your Myrtle Beach Fishing Charter
Booking a Myrtle Beach fishing trip with our crew is simple. Follow these steps to get your date locked in:
- Choose your trip type. Decide between the half-day nearshore trip, the three-quarter day offshore trip, or the full Gulf Stream deep sea run based on your group’s experience and desired ride time.
- Check the current bite report. Review our latest Myrtle Beach fishing report to confirm which species are actively biting during your planned travel window.
- Call to reserve your date. Speak directly with the crew at 843-907-0064 to lock in your preferred date, confirm group size, and ask any trip-specific questions.
- Prepare your gear and group. Pack sunscreen, comfortable non-slip shoes, drinks, and snacks, then confirm departure time with everyone joining your charter the night before.
- Arrive at Cricket Cove Marina. Meet Captain Justin and First Mate James at B Dock, Slip 26, roughly fifteen minutes before departure to load up and go over safety basics.
Why Choose Our Myrtle Beach Fishing Charters
Unlike large party boats that pack in dozens of anglers, our six-person limit means every guest gets personal instruction and a real shot at landing fish. Furthermore, our location at Cricket Cove Marina puts us close to some of the best fishing spots near Myrtle Beach, cutting down travel time and maximizing hours with lines in the water. For a broader look at everything the region offers, our complete Myrtle Beach fishing guide is a great next stop after this page.
Frequently Asked Questions About Myrtle Beach Fishing
What is the best time of year for Myrtle Beach fishing?
Spring and summer typically bring the strongest Spanish and king mackerel runs, while mid-to-late summer opens up mahi mahi, cobia, and wahoo on the offshore and Gulf Stream trips. In contrast, cooler months can still produce good shark and bottom fishing, so there is rarely a bad time to book.
Do I need a fishing license for a charter trip?
No. Our captain’s license legally covers every angler aboard, so you do not need to purchase your own saltwater license to fish with us.
What kinds of fish will I catch on a Myrtle Beach fishing charter?
Depending on the trip you choose, you can expect Spanish mackerel, bluefish, and sharks nearshore; king mackerel, mahi mahi, and cobia on the three-quarter day trip; and mahi mahi or wahoo on the full Gulf Stream run.
How much does a Myrtle Beach fishing charter cost?
Pricing varies by trip length and distance traveled, with nearshore half-day trips priced lowest and full Gulf Stream trips priced highest due to fuel and time. Call 843-907-0064 for current rates on each trip type.
What should I bring on a deep sea fishing trip?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, non-slip shoes, drinks, and snacks. We provide all rods, reels, tackle, bait, and ice, so there is no need to bring your own gear.
Is Myrtle Beach fishing good for kids and beginners?
Absolutely. The half-day nearshore trip stays close to shore with a short ride time, steady action, and a relaxed pace, making it the top choice for families and first-time anglers.
Final Thoughts on Booking Your Myrtle Beach Fishing Trip
In short, Myrtle Beach fishing offers something for every angler, whether you want a quick nearshore trip with the kids, a three-quarter day offshore run chasing king mackerel, or a full Gulf Stream adventure for mahi mahi and wahoo. Above all, Captain Justin Swaim and First Mate James Colman keep every trip private, personal, and focused on putting fish in the boat. Therefore, if you are ready to book a fun-filled day on the water, call 843-907-0064, or for a deeper walkthrough, see our Myrtle Beach Deep Sea Fishing: A Comprehensive Guide for Your Next Adventure.