When to Go: You can find rewarding action any month of year. But it’s worth understanding some seasonal differences that can help you determine what species you’ll target and how. In cold winter months, inshore waters become clear, and spotting schools of reds is feasible, but they’re more lethargic and getting them to eat can be trickier (fish “low and slow” in local parlance). When waters warm, redfish will move onto mud and hard-bottom grass flats to feed; look for fins, tails and wakes. Summer’s a great time to fish the harbor for big bull reds. Offshore fishing is worthwhile anytime the weather permits it — that’s a bit iffier in the winter. Also, be aware of the annual closure for the harvest of grouper. Plus, red snapper remain closed in federal waters all year at the time of this writing.
Where to Go and How to Get There: Many major airlines fly into Charleston International Airport daily. For those driving, Charleston is a mere hour or so east of Interstate 95.
What to Expect: The number of inshore guides and offshore charters gives anglers plenty of choice. One great option is RedFin Charters. The wide-ranging charter operation offers inshore options for redfish and trout, but also nearshore, offshore, shark and fly-fishing trips. They likely have you covered for any species you want to target it in the area.
Besides the ever-popular redfish, fishing inshore and the harbor holds the promise of other species: trout, flounder, sheepshead, black drum, tarpon, sharks (bull, blacktip, bonnethead), Spanish mackerel, bluefish, jacks and ladyfish. If fishing with a licensed guide, you’ll need no separate fishing license; otherwise, obtain your South Carolina license.
Far from being limited to fishing, Charleston is a southern center of history and culture. Among the “other” activities might be a visit to the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum and the South Carolina Aquarium, a walk along Waterfront Park or King Street, or a visit to any of several beaches. You’ll find accommodations from budget to five-star, and fabulous restaurants. Never visit Charleston without indulging in a local favorite: she-crab soup.
