Fishing
Where to Fish in the Myrtle Beach Area
There are no limits on the types of fishing in the Myrtle Beach area, from pier to deep sea charter fishing, saltwater to fresh water and inland fishing. Cast your line into the any of the fishing waters in the area and bring out a catch that can be a vacation fish story to remember.
Saltwater Fishing
When people talk about Myrtle Beach fishing, they're usually referring to saltwater fishing. After all, we have immediate access to the Atlantic Ocean, along with numerous creeks and channels that feed into the ocean - all saltwater. For those accustomed to freshwater fishing, here are a few pointers: you generally use a different type of bait and tackle; the majority of in-shore fishing is done on the ocean floor, so you need a pyramid-shaped weight, or sinker, to keep your rig on the bottom; and, you should rinse your reel with fresh water after each use to purge the saltwater. If you don't have your own rod and reel, you can purchase or rent one at local bait and tackle shops, piers, or sporting goods stores. Myrtle Beach deep sea fishing is a true adventure, and catching those big, large fish in the deep water certainly offers a thrilling experience.
Freshwater and Inland Fishing
In addition to the mighty Atlantic Ocean, the Myrtle Beach area is blessed with wonderful inland waters. These include the Intracoastal Waterway, which runs parallel to the coast from Little River to Socastee, where it merges with the Waccamaw River. Along the way, other rivers and tributaries feed into the waterway, and passage to the ocean is gained through Little River or Winyah Bay.
In its entirety, the Intracoastal Waterway runs from Boston to Key West. The waterway was "built" by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, taking advantage of existing rivers and other waterways and digging canals as needed to connect them. The completion in 1936 of the section between Little River and Socastee opened the way to commercial and leisure vessels for the entire length of the East Coast. Dignitaries from throughout the country attended a dedication ceremony here on April 11, 1936.
The Myrtle Beach Area's inland waters are popular for all kinds of recreation, including boating, fishing, and leisurely cruises. Outside of fishing in Myrtle Beach, you can make your trip more exciting with cruise boats. Cruise boats operate out of Little River, North Myrtle Beach, Myrtle Beach, Conway, Murrells Inlet, and Georgetown. Some transport passengers along the Intracoastal Waterway, while others explore the Waccamaw River or Winyah Bay. Some are sightseeing trips, and others offer dinner and dancing. Almost all provide enlightening narratives about the region's wildlife, scenic wonders, history, and legends.
Fishing License Information
- From a Private Boat: Saltwater Recreational Fisheries Licenses are required for individuals 16 and older harvesting oysters or clams, or individuals fishing for marine finfish from privately owned boats.
- From Shore: Individuals 16 years of age or older will need a license to fish from the surf, but not from a public fishing pier.
For additional information, visit the S.C. Department of Natural Resources website, or call (843) 953-9300.
For current fees and license applications, visit dnr.sc.gov/licensing.html
Grand Strand Fishing Rodeo & Take A Kid Fishing Day
Each April through October, you can enter your catch in the annual Grand Strand Fishing Rodeo. The fish must be caught from a pier, the surf, an inlet or deep sea and participants have the chance to receive monthly decals, shoulder patches, and prizes totaling thousands of dollars in cash and merchandise.
Take A Kid Fishing Day aims to promote and introduce young anglers to the sport of fishing and create an opportunity for parent, relative or volunteer to spend the day with a child.
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