What types of fish can I catch on a charter in North Myrtle Beach? On any given trip with North Myrtle Beach Fishing Charters, guests reel in everything from redfish and flounder tucked into the marsh creeks to king mackerel, mahi-mahi, and even sharks much farther offshore. Because South Carolina’s coastal waters shift dramatically between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Gulf Stream, the fish you catch depends heavily on the type of trip you book, the season, and the day’s conditions. In addition, your captain’s experience reading tides and water temperature plays a major role in what ends up on the line.
Key Takeaways
- Inshore and backwater trips typically produce redfish, spotted sea trout, and flounder in the creeks and the Intracoastal Waterway.
- Nearshore trips often target Spanish mackerel, bluefish, sheepshead, and black drum close to the beach.
- Offshore, deep-sea, and Gulf Stream charters can reach king mackerel, mahi-mahi, wahoo, cobia, tuna, and several shark species.
- Season, water temperature, and tide movement — not guesswork — determine which species are realistically available on a given day.
- Licensed captains plan each trip around current conditions, so specific species and catch quantities are never guaranteed.
What Types of Fish Can I Catch on a Charter in North Myrtle Beach?
When people ask what types of fish can I catch on a charter in North Myrtle Beach, the honest answer is: it depends on where you fish. A private fishing charter is a boat trip booked exclusively for your group rather than a shared “head boat” seat, and the captain chooses the route based on your goals. Specifically, inshore trips stay in protected creeks, offshore trips run miles into the Atlantic, and Gulf Stream trips push even farther out. As a result, the species list changes completely from one trip type to the next.
Overall, guests along the Grand Strand can realistically target more than a dozen popular species across the different trip types. For a full species breakdown by location, our complete guide to Myrtle Beach fish species covers each one in more depth.
Inshore and Backwater Species Along the Grand Strand
Inshore fishing, sometimes called backwater or inland fishing, takes place in coastal creeks, marshes, estuaries, and the Intracoastal Waterway. Because these waters are shallow and sheltered, they are especially well suited to families, children, and first-time anglers. Similarly, this environment tends to produce the most consistent action of any trip type, which is one reason it’s a popular starting point for beginners.
Redfish, Trout, and Flounder in the Marsh Creeks
Red drum, commonly called redfish, are among the most sought-after inshore species because of their hard fight and their habit of “tailing” in shallow grass flats. Spotted sea trout and flounder round out the typical inshore catch, and black drum and sheepshead show up around docks and oyster beds as well. The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) sets seasonal and size regulations for several of these species, and rules can change from year to year, so your captain confirms current limits before you fish.
Nearshore Fishing: What You Might Reel In Close to Shore
Nearshore trips run just beyond the breakers, typically within a few miles of the beach, without traveling all the way to offshore wrecks or the Gulf Stream. Consequently, these trips strike a balance between an inshore trip’s calm water and an offshore trip’s bigger fish. Spanish mackerel and bluefish are common targets here, especially when bait schools move close to the beach in spring and fall.
In addition, sheepshead and black drum often hold around nearshore structure such as jetties and piers, giving anglers a realistic shot at bottom species without a long boat ride. For guests deciding between inshore and nearshore options, our guide to the best fishing near Myrtle Beach explains how to match the trip to your group’s comfort level on the water.
Offshore, Deep-Sea, and Gulf Stream Species
Offshore and deep-sea trips travel well beyond sight of the marsh, targeting structure, wrecks, and current lines where bigger predators feed. The Gulf Stream, a warm ocean current described in detail by Wikipedia’s Gulf Stream overview, generally lies roughly 40 to 50 miles off the Grand Strand coastline. Because this current carries warm, clear blue water, it attracts species that simply cannot be found closer to shore.
What Lives Near Offshore Wrecks and Reefs?
King mackerel, cobia, and amberjack frequently hold near artificial reefs and sunken wrecks off the Carolina coast. Farther out, the Gulf Stream itself can produce mahi-mahi (also called dolphinfish), wahoo, and various tuna species. According to NOAA Fisheries, king mackerel migrate along the South Atlantic coast primarily between April and October, which is a major reason captains time these trips around warmer months. Shark fishing, meanwhile, is also available on select offshore trips for guests who want a true test of tackle and stamina.
“The water tells you what’s biting long before the rod does — you just have to know how to read it.” — reflects the approach Captain Keith Logan has applied to these waters since 1991.
How Season Affects Which Fish You Can Catch
Fish behavior shifts throughout the year as water temperature and bait movement change. Therefore, a spring inshore trip can look very different from a late-summer offshore trip, even along the same stretch of coastline. In spring, redfish and trout become more active as water temperatures climb, while Spanish mackerel and bluefish start showing up nearshore as baitfish schools return.
Summer generally brings the strongest offshore action, with king mackerel, mahi-mahi, and cobia all reachable in warmer water. In contrast, fall often produces some of the best inshore fishing of the year, as redfish and flounder feed heavily before winter. Above all, no calendar date guarantees a specific species, since real-time conditions always have the final say.
How Captains Choose Where to Fish: A Step-by-Step Look
Guests often assume captains simply head to a favorite spot, but in reality the decision is a deliberate process repeated before every trip. Understanding it helps explain why catch reports vary from day to day.
- Check tides and water temperature: Before leaving the dock, the captain reviews the day’s tide chart and water temperature, since these two factors largely determine where baitfish and predator species are likely holding that morning.
- Review recent activity and bait movement: Captains compare notes from recent trips and watch for diving birds or surface bait, because active bait almost always signals nearby feeding fish.
- Match the plan to your group: The captain factors in your party’s experience level, physical comfort, and available time to decide between inshore, nearshore, or offshore water for that day.
- Select a departure route: Based on the target species and conditions, the captain chooses which creeks, structure, or offshore coordinates to run to first.
- Adjust throughout the trip: If bites slow down, the captain relocates and changes technique in real time rather than sticking with a plan that isn’t producing results.
Comparing Trip Types by Likely Catch
The table below offers a general snapshot of what each trip type tends to produce. Specifically, it is meant as a starting point for conversation with your captain rather than a guarantee.
| Trip Type | Typical Area | Common Species | Best Season |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inshore / Backwater | Creeks, marshes, Intracoastal Waterway | Redfish, trout, flounder, black drum | Spring through fall |
| Nearshore | Just beyond the beach, jetties | Spanish mackerel, bluefish, sheepshead | Spring and fall |
| Offshore / Deep Sea | Wrecks, reefs, structure | King mackerel, cobia, amberjack, shark | Summer |
| Gulf Stream | 40–50 miles offshore | Mahi-mahi, wahoo, tuna | Late spring through summer |
Choosing the Right Charter for Your Target Species
Because every group is different, the best trip usually comes down to available time, comfort with boat motion, and whether kids or beginners are along. For example, a family with young children often does better on a calm inshore trip, while experienced anglers chasing a trophy king mackerel may prefer an offshore run. Furthermore, corporate outings and larger parties can be split across multiple boats when needed, since select vessels accommodate up to 15 guests.
If you’re still weighing your options, our detailed charter fishing near me guide and our North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina charter overview both walk through how to match a trip to your group. You can also browse current options on our Myrtle Beach charter listings or visit North Myrtle Beach Fishing Charters directly to check availability and book a private trip.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fish You Can Catch in North Myrtle Beach
What is a fishing charter, and how does it work in North Myrtle Beach?
A fishing charter is a boat trip booked privately for your group, led by a licensed captain who provides the boat, gear, and local knowledge. Unlike a shared head boat, every seat and route decision on a charter is built around your party alone.
What types of fish can I catch on a charter in North Myrtle Beach?
You can catch redfish, trout, and flounder inshore; Spanish mackerel and sheepshead nearshore; and king mackerel, cobia, mahi-mahi, wahoo, and shark on offshore or Gulf Stream trips. The exact mix always depends on season, tides, and current conditions.
How many fish can I keep per trip?
Keep limits vary by species and change based on current state and federal regulations. Your captain confirms the applicable size and bag limits before fishing begins, so nothing is left to guesswork.
What is the best season for inshore fishing near North Myrtle Beach?
Spring through fall generally offers the most consistent inshore action, since warmer water keeps redfish, trout, and flounder feeding actively. That said, mild winter days can still produce good catches in protected creeks.
When is king mackerel season near the Grand Strand?
King mackerel are most active along the South Atlantic coast between roughly April and October, according to NOAA Fisheries. Summer months typically offer the strongest nearshore and offshore action for this species.
How far offshore do you have to go to reach the Gulf Stream?
The Gulf Stream generally sits roughly 40 to 50 miles off the Grand Strand coastline. Reaching it requires a longer run and typically a full-day offshore or Gulf Stream charter.
What’s the difference between inshore, nearshore, and offshore fishing?
Inshore fishing happens in protected creeks and waterways, nearshore fishing stays just beyond the beach, and offshore fishing runs miles into open ocean toward wrecks, reefs, or the Gulf Stream. Each zone holds different species and requires a different boat and route.
How much does a fishing charter cost in North Myrtle Beach?
Pricing depends on trip type, boat size, trip length, and group size, since inshore, nearshore, offshore, and Gulf Stream trips all require different fuel, distance, and time commitments. Contacting the charter directly is the most reliable way to get an accurate quote for your group.
Do I need a fishing license for a charter trip?
No, required fishing licenses for charter guests are provided as part of the trip. This removes one more step from planning and lets guests focus on fishing rather than paperwork.
What’s a common mistake first-time charter guests make when choosing a trip?
Many first-timers book an offshore trip expecting calmer water, not realizing open ocean conditions can be rougher than inshore creeks. Discussing comfort level and motion sensitivity with the captain beforehand prevents this mismatch.
Is shark fishing safe for beginners and families?
Shark fishing trips are led by licensed captains who handle safety equipment and technique, which makes them manageable even for less experienced anglers. However, families should mention their comfort level in advance so the captain can plan accordingly.
Can beginners and children catch fish on these charters?
Yes, hands-on instruction is included, and inshore trips in particular are well suited to children and first-time anglers. Captains adjust pace, tackle, and technique to match the group’s experience level.
Can I book a private dolphin or eco tour instead of a fishing trip?
Yes, private dolphin, wildlife, and eco tours are available for guests who want to be on the water without fishing. These trips can be a good option for mixed groups where not everyone wants to fish.
In summary, the types of fish you can catch on a charter in North Myrtle Beach range from redfish and flounder in the marsh creeks to king mackerel, mahi-mahi, and shark far offshore in the Gulf Stream. Ultimately, the right trip depends on your group’s experience, comfort level, and available time, and a licensed captain who reads tides and seasonal patterns will always improve your odds. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a corporate trip, or a serious offshore run, matching the trip type to your goals is the single best way to put the right species within reach.