Guide to Saltwater Fishing in South Carolina

Guide to Saltwater Fishing in South Carolina
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South Carolina is home to a number of different fishing spots, both inland and offshore. The saltwater fishing, in particular, is a popular draw for sportsmen from around the area. This is in part due to the wide variety of fish found both inland and off the coast of the state, and also thanks to a number of different charter companies that offer fishing trips.

License

The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources requires that anyone fishing for marine finfish from a private boat must have a license, which is important to keep in mind when planning any fishing trip. Licenses are divided into two main groups: those for residents and those for non-residents. Both must get a license, but South Carolina residents receive a reduced rate. Obtaining a license is easy. They can be purchased online, over the phone or at one of over 1,000 state license agents.

Types of Fish

South Carolina waters are home to a variety of different fish that are prized by saltwater fishermen. Spottail bass is a popular fish for inland fishermen, and it can be spotted and caught easiest during low tide. Spotted sea trout is a more difficult fish to catch, but they present a fun opportunity for fishermen to use their knowledge of tidal action in order to land the best catch. Other fish that are popular and found in South Carolina waters are flounder, whiting and dolphin.

Charter Companies

Not owning a boat shouldn't keep anyone from enjoying the ripe fishing opportunities that lie of the coast of South Carolina. For anyone wishing to venture far from land, consider one of the charter companies that will take you out there--for a price, of course. Location should be considered before venturing to any charter company. Once figured out, consider some of the more experienced companies, such as Integrity Charters in Hilton Head, Fish Hook Charters in Myrtle Beach, and Angler Management in Charleston.

Tournaments

Casual fishing can be fun, but there's an added thrill to the sport when it's injected with competition. Enter the fishing tournament. South Carolina offers competitive anglers multiple tournaments throughout the year, each one with a unique theme. Some of the biggest fishing tournaments in South Carolina include the Myrtle Beach Saltwater Classic in July, the Bassmaster Weekend Tournament in August and the Redfish Tour in September.

Geography

Deciding where to fish in South Carolina can be a difficult decision, not because proper places are hard to find, but because there are so many. Depending on mood and the type of fish a fisherman is looking to catch, one can choose a myriad of locales from which to toss their bait. These focus on the coast of the state, at locales such as Myrtle Beach, where pier fishing is popular, and Charleston, where there are waterways inland that run from the sea, thus offering saltwater fish, as well as charter companies that know just where to go for game fishing.

References

Article reviewed by JPC Last updated on: Dec 7, 2010

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