Fishing Charters in Myrtle Beach: Types, Costs & How to Book the Right Trip
South Carolina’s Grand Strand is home to some of the most bountiful natural beauty in the United States. The year-round climate and prices of amenities make enjoying outdoor activities a year-round pleasure.
Our region, since it’s near the Atlantic Ocean, Intracoastal Waterway, and the Waccamaw River, offers both saltwater and freshwater fishing. Each of these bodies of water has easy access and various amenities to assist you to your destination, making it a fun and smooth adventure for anglers of all levels.
*Several of the fishing charter locations also offer dolphin-seeing tours/cruises. Be sure to check the websites to see which tour best suits you and your family! *
Getting Out on the Water
Fishing charters are one of the best ways to experience Myrtle Beach beyond the shoreline. Whether you’re looking for a quick, family-friendly trip or a full day offshore chasing bigger fish, local captains make it easy to get started.
Most charters are fully guided, meaning you don’t need to bring gear or have prior experience. From bait and tackle to navigation and technique, everything is handled so you can focus on the experience.
What to Expect
Booking a fishing charter is straightforward, but knowing what’s included helps set expectations.
Most trips include:
- Rods, reels, bait, and tackle
- Fishing licenses for everyone onboard
- Experienced, Coast Guard-certified captains
- Guidance based on weather, tides, and seasonal conditions
- Optional fish cleaning after your trip
You’ll typically meet at the marina, board the boat, and head directly to active fishing areas based on what’s biting that day.
Types of Fishing Charter Experiences
Not all charters are the same. The biggest difference comes down to how far you go and what kind of fishing you want to do.
Inshore Fishing
Inshore trips take place in calm, protected waters like the Intracoastal Waterway, marshes, and creeks.
- Trip length: 3–5 hours
- Water conditions: Calm and beginner-friendly
- Common catches: Redfish, speckled trout, flounder
Best for: Families, first-timers, and anyone looking for a shorter, more relaxed experience
Nearshore Fishing
Nearshore trips venture a few miles off the coast to reefs and underwater structures.
- Trip length: Typically 4–6 hours
- Water conditions: Moderate
- Experience level: Good mix of beginner and intermediate
Best for: More action without committing to a full offshore trip
Deep Sea / Offshore Fishing
Offshore charters head miles into the Atlantic—sometimes all the way to the Gulf Stream.
- Trip length: 6–12+ hours
- Water conditions: Open ocean
- Common catches: Mahi-mahi, tuna, king mackerel, snapper
Best for: Anglers looking for bigger fish and a full-day experience
Pricing and Trip Length
Fishing charter pricing varies depending on the type of trip, boat size, and group size.
Typical ranges:
- Shared (headboat) trips: $40–$100 per person
- Inshore private charters: $300–$500 per group
- Offshore charters: $800–$1,500+ depending on duration
Trip lengths typically include:
- Half-day (3–5 hours)
- Extended trips (6–8 hours)
- Full-day or Gulf Stream trips (10–12+ hours)
Booking in advance is recommended, especially during spring and summer when demand is highest.
Choosing the Right Charter
The best charter depends on your goals for the trip.
- For beginners or families: Inshore or half-day trips
- For variety without a long ride: Nearshore trips
- For big fish and a full experience: Offshore charters
It’s also worth considering:
- Group size limits
- What’s included (gear, bait, cleaning)
- Trip length and timing
- Captain experience
Book a Fishing Charter
Ready to get out on the water? These local charters offer a range of experiences—from beginner-friendly trips to full offshore adventures. Most charters operate out of two main hubs: Murrells Inlet and Little River.
Salty Hooker Fishing Charters (Murrells Inlet, SC)
Located just south of Myrtle Beach, Salty Hooker offers flexible trip options throughout the day, making it easy to find something that fits your schedule.
- Multiple trip times and package options
- Inshore and nearshore fishing experiences
- Great for both beginners and experienced anglers
Fish Finder Fishing Charters (Murrells Inlet, SC)
Led by local Myrtle Beach natives, Fish Finder focuses on inshore and nearshore trips with the option to venture farther offshore.
- Targets species like Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, cobia, and sharks
- Good mix of beginner-friendly and more advanced trips
- Strong option for families or small groups
Captain Smiley Fishing Charters (Little River)
Part of the Little River Fleet, Captain Smiley offers a wide range of trips from inshore waters to offshore Gulf Stream fishing.
- Half-day and full-day trips available
- Access to inshore creeks, nearshore wrecks, and offshore waters
- Targets species like grouper, snapper, bass, and triggerfish
Crazy Sister Marina Fishing & Fleet (Murrells Inlet, SC)
One of the most versatile operations in the area, offering everything from guided fishing trips to boat rentals.
- Inshore, nearshore, offshore, and shark fishing trips
- Public head boat and private charter options
- Boat rentals available for DIY experiences
Voyager Deep Sea Fishing & Dolphin Cruises (Little River)
Known for its large, comfortable boats and wide range of offshore trip options.
- Half-day, full-day, and 24-hour trips available
- Ideal for large groups and shared experiences
- Targets snapper, grouper, amberjack, and more
Calabash Fishing Fleet (Calabash, NC)
A full-service fleet offering everything from inshore trips to Gulf Stream adventures.
- Party boats and private charters available year-round
- Offshore, nearshore, and inshore options
- Equipped with advanced fishing technology
Harvest Moon Fishing Charters (Georgetown, SC)
A quieter, more nature-focused charter experience just south of the Grand Strand.
- Inshore fishing in rivers, creeks, and estuaries
- Targets redfish, trout, flounder, and tarpon
- Ideal for a laid-back, scenic fishing day
Hurricane Fleet (Calabash, NC)
A longtime leader in Myrtle Beach-area fishing charters, operating since 1948.
- Head boat and deep-sea fishing trips
- Shorter travel time to the ocean means more time fishing
- All equipment and licenses included
Planning Your Trip
Fishing charters offer a completely different way to experience Myrtle Beach. Instead of waiting for fish to come to you, you’re heading out with local experts who know where to go and when.
Whether you’re booking your first trip or planning a full offshore adventure, there’s an option that fits your schedule, experience level, and budget.
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