South Carolina · Lowcountry
DEEP SEA FISHING FISHING
IN CHARLESTON
Explore the best deep sea fishing fishing charters in Charleston. Book verified captains, compare prices, and fish the legendary deep Gulf waters beyond the continental shelf, blue water, and offshore reefs.
About Deep Sea Fishing Fishing in Charleston
Charleston, South Carolina offers some of the finest deep sea fishing fishing on the Gulf Coast. The Holy City is a world-class fishing destination with historic harbor fishing, expansive flats for sight-casting to redfish, and offshore access to the Gulf Stream ledge. The deep sea fishing waters here — deep Gulf waters beyond the continental shelf, blue water, and offshore reefs — provide world-class angling opportunities that draw fishermen from across the country.
Deep Sea Fishing anglers in Charleston target an impressive roster of species including Sailfish, Blackfin Tuna, Blue Marlin, Mahi Mahi, Yellowfin Tuna and more. Peak season runs through June, July, November, but productive deep sea fishing fishing is available year-round.
We're actively partnering with the best deep sea fishing fishing captains in Charleston. Request a quote and we'll connect you with a top-rated local captain. All charters include gear, bait, tackle, South Carolina fishing licenses, and fish cleaning — everything you need for an unforgettable day on the water.
What's Biting in Charleston This September
Deep Sea Fishing Fishing Calendar — Charleston
Month-by-month availability for deep sea fishing species. Plan your trip around peak season for the best action.
| Species | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sailfish |
F
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R
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—
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—
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—
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R
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F
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| Blackfin Tuna |
—
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—
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—
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—
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F
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F
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F
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F
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F
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F
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—
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—
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| Blue Marlin |
—
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—
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—
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—
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F
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G
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G
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F
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—
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—
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—
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—
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| Mahi Mahi |
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—
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—
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G
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P
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P
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G
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F
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—
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—
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—
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| Yellowfin Tuna |
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—
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—
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—
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F
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F
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F
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F
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F
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—
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—
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—
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| Wahoo |
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—
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—
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F
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G
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P
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G
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Best Deep Sea Fishing Fishing Spots in Charleston
From legendary bays to productive reefs, here are the top deep sea fishing fishing spots your captain will target in the Charleston area.
The Charleston Bump (Gulf Stream)
The Charleston Bump is a dramatic underwater plateau that deflects the Gulf Stream eastward and creates one of the most unique offshore fishing environments on the Atlantic coast. The upwelling generated by the Bump concentrates swordfish, yellowfin tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi, and blue marlin in remarkable densities. Charleston is internationally recognized as a premier swordfish port largely because of this geological feature.
The Snowy Wreck
The Snowy Wreck is a well-known artificial reef and sunken vessel lying in deep water offshore of Charleston, attracting large concentrations of snowy grouper, tilefish, and other deepwater bottom dwellers. Amberjack and barracuda hold above the wreck structure, while occasional wahoo and king mackerel pass through the area. It is a favorite destination for anglers targeting deep-drop species on full-day and overnight trips.
The 60-Mile Grounds
The 60-Mile Grounds refer to a productive stretch of ledges and hard bottom along the continental shelf edge approximately 60 miles southeast of Charleston. Vermilion snapper, triggerfish, amberjack, gag grouper, and scamp are pulled from the deep structure, while the proximity to the Gulf Stream brings pelagic action above the reef. This area serves as a transition zone between bottom fishing and bluewater trolling.
The Georgetown Shelf Break
The shelf break northeast of Charleston drops from approximately 100 feet to over 300 feet in a short distance, creating a wall of structure that holds an incredible diversity of deepwater species. Warsaw grouper, snowy grouper, tilefish, and golden crab are targeted with deep-drop rigs along the ledges. The break also produces quality yellowfin tuna and wahoo when the Gulf Stream pushes close.
Top Deep Sea Fishing Fish Species in Charleston
These are the primary deep sea fishing species you'll target on a Charleston charter. Click any species to learn more.
Sailfish
Istiophorus platypterus
The fastest fish in the ocean with spectacular aerial displays. A premier sport fish.
Blackfin Tuna
Thunnus atlanticus
Smaller cousin of the yellowfin but excellent eating and great light-tackle sport.
Blue Marlin
Makaira nigricans
The ultimate big game fish. Spectacular fighters that can exceed 1,000 pounds.
Mahi Mahi
Coryphaena hippurus
Peak: Jun, Jul
Also called Dolphin or Dorado. Stunningly beautiful and acrobatic. Excellent eating.
Yellowfin Tuna
Thunnus albacares
A powerful open-water predator prized for sashimi-grade flesh. Found in blue water near rips and structure.
Wahoo
Acanthocybium solandri
Peak: Nov
One of the fastest fish in the ocean. Prized for firm, white flesh and blistering runs.
Deep Sea Fishing Fishing Boats & Tackle in Charleston
Here's what to expect when you book a deep sea fishing charter in Charleston.
Boats
Deep Sea Fishing fishing in Charleston is typically done on center consoles, sportfishers, and offshore charter boats (28-65 ft).
Tackle & Gear
Deep Sea Fishing charters in Charleston typically use heavy conventional and trolling gear with 30-80 lb test line. Live bait, trolling lures, and heavy jigs are standard.
What to Bring
Motion sickness medication (if prone), sunscreen, hat, light rain jacket, non-marking shoes, food and drinks. All fishing gear and licenses provided by the captain.
Deep Sea Fishing Fishing Charters in Charleston
We're partnering with top deep sea fishing fishing captains in Charleston. Request a quote below and we'll match you with the best local experts.
Captains Coming Soon to Saltwater Pros
We're actively partnering with the best deep sea fishing fishing captains in Charleston. Request a quote and we'll connect you with a top-rated local captain within 24 hours.
Request a Free QuoteFrequently Asked Questions About Deep Sea Fishing Fishing in Charleston
Deep sea fishing 20+ miles out. Chase tuna, marlin, mahi mahi, wahoo and other pelagic gamefish in blue water.
The top deep sea fishing species in Charleston include Sailfish, Blackfin Tuna, Blue Marlin, Mahi Mahi, Yellowfin Tuna, Wahoo. Availability varies by season — check our seasonal calendar above for month-by-month details.
The peak months for deep sea fishing fishing in Charleston are June, July, November, when the most species are at peak availability. However, Charleston offers productive deep sea fishing fishing year-round.
Deep Sea Fishing fishing in Charleston is typically done on center consoles, sportfishers, and offshore charter boats (28-65 ft). These vessels are specifically designed for navigating the deep Gulf waters beyond the continental shelf, blue water, and offshore reefs.
No — when you book a charter in Charleston, your captain provides all required South Carolina fishing licenses as part of the trip. You don't need to purchase a separate license.
Motion sickness medication (if prone), sunscreen, hat, light rain jacket, non-marking shoes, food and drinks. All fishing gear and licenses provided by the captain.
Deep Sea Fishing fishing can be more challenging due to longer boat rides and heavier tackle, but experienced captains in Charleston welcome anglers of all skill levels. Let your captain know your experience level when booking so they can tailor the trip accordingly.
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