South Carolina · Grand Strand
INSHORE FISHING
IN MURRELLS INLET
Explore the best inshore fishing charters in Murrells Inlet. Book verified captains, compare prices, and fish the legendary calm bays, estuaries, grass flats, and mangrove-lined shorelines.
About Inshore Fishing in Murrells Inlet
Murrells Inlet, South Carolina offers some of the finest inshore fishing on the Gulf Coast. Known as the Seafood Capital of South Carolina, Murrells Inlet is a premier inshore fishing destination with productive creeks, marshes, and easy access to nearshore and offshore waters. The inshore waters here — calm bays, estuaries, grass flats, and mangrove-lined shorelines — provide world-class angling opportunities that draw fishermen from across the country.
Inshore anglers in Murrells Inlet target an impressive roster of species including Redfish, Sheepshead, Black Drum, Flounder, Speckled Trout and more. Peak season runs through April, May, September, but productive inshore fishing is available year-round.
We're actively partnering with the best inshore fishing captains in Murrells Inlet. 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 Murrells Inlet This September
Inshore Fishing Calendar — Murrells Inlet
Month-by-month availability for inshore species. Plan your trip around peak season for the best action.
| Species | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Redfish |
G
|
G
|
G
|
P
|
G
|
G
|
F
|
F
|
G
|
P
|
P
|
G
|
| Sheepshead |
G
|
P
|
P
|
G
|
F
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
F
|
G
|
| Black Drum |
—
|
—
|
F
|
G
|
G
|
F
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
| Flounder |
—
|
—
|
F
|
G
|
G
|
G
|
G
|
G
|
P
|
G
|
F
|
—
|
| Speckled Trout |
—
|
—
|
F
|
G
|
F
|
F
|
—
|
—
|
G
|
G
|
F
|
—
|
| Pompano |
—
|
—
|
—
|
G
|
P
|
G
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
F
|
—
|
—
|
Best Inshore Fishing Spots in Murrells Inlet
From legendary bays to productive reefs, here are the top inshore fishing spots your captain will target in the Murrells Inlet area.
Murrells Inlet Main Creek
The main creek channel winding through Murrells Inlet is the backbone of this legendary inshore fishery, lined with oyster beds and marsh grass that hold redfish, speckled trout, and flounder. Anglers drift or anchor along the deeper bends where tidal flow concentrates baitfish against the banks. It is widely regarded as one of the finest inshore fishing destinations on the entire South Carolina coast.
Oyster Landing (Huntington Beach)
Oyster Landing at Huntington Beach State Park provides kayak and small-boat access to pristine tidal creeks south of the inlet. Redfish tail across the shallow mud flats while flounder ambush bait along the channel drops, making it a sight-fishing paradise. The state park setting ensures minimal development pressure and healthy habitat for a thriving fish population.
Garden City Point
Garden City Point sits at the north side of Murrells Inlet where the inlet meets the Atlantic, creating a productive convergence zone of ocean and marsh water. Flounder, redfish, black drum, and sheepshead congregate around the rock jetties and sand bars on tidal changes. The point is accessible by boat and offers some of the best jetty-fishing opportunities in the area.
Parsonage Creek
Parsonage Creek is a winding tidal creek branching off the main Murrells Inlet channel, known for its pristine oyster beds and consistent redfish population. The creek's narrow width and overhanging marsh grass create shaded ambush zones where redfish and trout feed on shrimp and small crabs. It is a favorite among local sight-fishing guides who pole skiffs along the shallow edges at low tide.
Top Inshore Fish Species in Murrells Inlet
These are the primary inshore species you'll target on a Murrells Inlet charter. Click any species to learn more.
Redfish
Sciaenops ocellatus
Peak: Apr, Oct, Nov
Also known as Red Drum, one of the most sought-after inshore gamefish in the Gulf. Known for powerful runs and the distinctive spot on the tail.
Sheepshead
Archosargus probatocephalus
Peak: Feb, Mar
The "convict fish" with distinctive black and white stripes. Found around structure and pilings, known for stealing bait.
Black Drum
Pogonias cromis
A powerful bottom-feeding species found in bays and passes. Juveniles are excellent table fare.
Flounder
Paralichthys albiguttata
Peak: Sep
A prized flatfish found along sandy bottoms and structure. Excellent table fare and fun to catch on light tackle.
Speckled Trout
Cynoscion nebulosus
A favorite inshore species found throughout the Gulf. Excellent eating fish that feeds aggressively on live bait and artificial lures.
Pompano
Trachinotus carolinus
Peak: May
One of the most prized eating fish in the Gulf. Found in the surf and along sandy beaches.
Inshore Fishing Boats & Tackle in Murrells Inlet
Here's what to expect when you book a inshore charter in Murrells Inlet.
Boats
Inshore fishing in Murrells Inlet is typically done on bay boats, flats boats, and skiffs (typically 18-24 ft).
Tackle & Gear
Inshore charters in Murrells Inlet typically use light spinning tackle with 6-12 lb test line. Live shrimp, cut bait, and soft plastics are the top choices.
What to Bring
Sunscreen (reef-safe), polarized sunglasses, light layers, non-marking shoes, snacks, and water. Your captain provides all fishing gear, tackle, bait, and licenses.
Inshore Fishing Charters in Murrells Inlet
We're partnering with top inshore fishing captains in Murrells Inlet. 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 inshore fishing captains in Murrells Inlet. Request a quote and we'll connect you with a top-rated local captain within 24 hours.
Request a Free QuoteFrequently Asked Questions About Inshore Fishing in Murrells Inlet
Fish the bays, flats, and passes close to shore. Target redfish, speckled trout, flounder and more in calm, protected waters.
The top inshore species in Murrells Inlet include Redfish, Sheepshead, Black Drum, Flounder, Speckled Trout, Pompano. Availability varies by season — check our seasonal calendar above for month-by-month details.
The peak months for inshore fishing in Murrells Inlet are April, May, September, when the most species are at peak availability. However, Murrells Inlet offers productive inshore fishing year-round.
Inshore fishing in Murrells Inlet is typically done on bay boats, flats boats, and skiffs (typically 18-24 ft). These vessels are specifically designed for navigating the calm bays, estuaries, grass flats, and mangrove-lined shorelines.
No — when you book a charter in Murrells Inlet, your captain provides all required South Carolina fishing licenses as part of the trip. You don't need to purchase a separate license.
Sunscreen (reef-safe), polarized sunglasses, light layers, non-marking shoes, snacks, and water. Your captain provides all fishing gear, tackle, bait, and licenses.
Absolutely! Inshore fishing in Murrells Inlet is one of the best options for beginners and families. The calm waters, light tackle, and consistent action make it an ideal introduction to saltwater fishing. Most captains welcome children and first-timers.
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