South Carolina · Grand Strand
POMPANO FISHING
IN MURRELLS INLET
Murrells Inlet is a solid destination for pompano fishing, with peak season in May and good catches in April, June. Book a charter and target pompano with local experts.
About Pompano Fishing in Murrells Inlet
One of the most prized eating fish in the Gulf. Found in the surf and along sandy beaches.
Florida Pompano are among the most prized eating fish in the ocean — their rich, buttery flesh commands premium prices in restaurants. These torpedo-shaped fish have a silver body with a yellow-gold belly and fins, a deeply forked tail, and a small, downturned mouth. They travel in schools along sandy beaches, following the surf line to feed on sand fleas (mole crabs), clams, and small crustaceans. Males and females are nearly identical in appearance.
Scientific name: Trachinotus carolinus
Pompano Seasonal Calendar — Murrells Inlet
Month-by-month availability for pompano in Murrells Inlet, SC.
How to Catch Pompano in Murrells Inlet
Techniques & Bait
Live sand fleas (mole crabs) are the ultimate pompano bait, fished on a double-drop pompano rig with a pyramid sinker in the surf. Fishfinder rigs with fresh-cut shrimp or Fishbites artificial baits (in shrimp or sand flea scent) are highly effective. From boats, small jigs (1/4-3/8 oz) tipped with shrimp or Fishbites bounced along sandy bottoms produce well. Doc's Goofy Jigs and pompano-specific teardrop jigs in pink, chartreuse, and yellow are favorites.
Recommended Tackle
Medium-light surf rod (9-10 ft) or medium-light spinning rod (7 ft) for boat fishing. 3000 reel, 10-15 lb braid, 20 lb fluorocarbon leader. Size #1-1/0 circle hooks for surf rigs.
Best Inshore Fishing Spots in Murrells Inlet
Top spots where local captains target pompano and other inshore species.
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.
Other Species in Murrells Inlet
More fish you can target while visiting Murrells Inlet.
Pompano Fishing in Murrells Inlet — FAQ
The peak months for Pompano fishing in Murrells Inlet are May. During these months, Pompano are most active and abundant in the Murrells Inlet area.
Pompano fishing charters in Murrells Inlet are typically inshore trips. Prices vary by trip duration and group size. Most charters include all gear, bait, licenses, and fish cleaning.
Live sand fleas (mole crabs) are the ultimate pompano bait, fished on a double-drop pompano rig with a pyramid sinker in the surf. Fishfinder rigs with fresh-cut shrimp or Fishbites artificial baits (in shrimp or sand flea scent) are highly effective. From boats, small jigs (1/4-3/8 oz) tipped with shrimp or Fishbites bounced along sandy bottoms produce well. Doc's Goofy Jigs and pompano-specific teardrop jigs in pink, chartreuse, and yellow are favorites.
No — when you book a charter in Murrells Inlet, your captain provides all required South Carolina fishing licenses as part of the trip.
Pompano regulations in South Carolina include minimum size limits and bag limits that vary by season. Your captain will know the current regulations and ensure compliance.
While targeting Pompano in Murrells Inlet, you may also catch Redfish, Sheepshead, King Mackerel, Flounder, Cobia. Many charter trips target multiple species for the best action.
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