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The waters of the Lowcountry are an angler’s paradise. Just choose your fishing adventure – we have it all: Fresh and brackish water lagoons; inshore and near shore in creeks; rivers and tidal lagoons or estuaries; “monster” shark fishing; and offshore “blue water” deep sea fishing in the Atlantic Ocean’s Gulf Stream.
The area is rich in shark, marlin, spot, cobia, red snapper, grouper, bluefish, king and Spanish mackerel, sheep head, flounder and the sea trout.
Types of Charter Boats
There are basically two kinds of fishing boats for hire. “Party boats” are licensed to hold a large number of people. They feature walking space and come equipped with all the amenities, including a galley and multiple restrooms. Their rates are lower because you are sharing the charter with a number of other people.
“Charter boats” generally hold up to six people. Most have canopied seating areas, some will have bathrooms and enclosed cabins, but they are not large and are not usually equipped with a full-service galley or bathrooms.
Both types can offer deep sea offshore, nearshore, and inshore fishing trips, and provide bait, tackle, and your fishing license. All captains are happy to provide instruction and most will be willing to clean your catch.
Fishing License Regulations
For out-of-town visitors wondering about fishing regulations in the state of South Carolina, offshore fishing uses South Carolina law up to three miles offshore. Beyond that, Federal regulations apply.
If you are going saltwater fishing on your own boat (or a rental), you need a South Carolina fishing license if you are 16 years old or over. However, if you will be fishing with a charter boat, you are covered by the boat’s license.
If you are going saltwater fishing from the shore, you will need a license. Shore-based saltwater fishing areas include all beaches, saltwater lagoons (including those found within the Island’s gated plantations), public boat lands, and public or private docks or piers.
Licenses can be purchased locally at Bubba’s Cabin Lowcountry Outfitters, Wal-Mart, or any outdoor outfitter.
Tag and Release
Also be aware of the laws regarding “tag (or catch) and release.” If you catch undersized fish, or fish over the limit, they should be released back into the water to ensure the future of fish populations. If you are fishing with a charter, the captain will assist you in determining what you can keep.
For more information about South Carolina’s fishing regulations, visit the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources website.
For more information, contact:
Bubba’s Cabin Lowcountry Outfitters (843-785-3971)
Drifter (843-363-2900)
Kayak Hilton Head & Dolphin Discoveries (843-684-1910)
Live Oac Adventures (843-384-1414)
Outside Hilton Head (843-686-6996)
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