South Carolina · Grand Strand
INSHORE FISHING
IN MYRTLE BEACH
Explore the best inshore fishing charters in Myrtle Beach. Book verified captains, compare prices, and fish the legendary calm bays, estuaries, grass flats, and mangrove-lined shorelines.
About Inshore Fishing in Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina offers some of the finest inshore fishing on the Gulf Coast. Myrtle Beach is the Grand Strand's fishing hub with multiple fishing piers, easy access to nearshore wrecks, and Gulf Stream trips that put you on mahi, tuna, and marlin. 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 Myrtle Beach target an impressive roster of species including Redfish, Sheepshead, Black Drum, Flounder, Pompano and more. Peak season runs through April, May, October, but productive inshore fishing is available year-round.
We're actively partnering with the best inshore fishing captains in Myrtle Beach. 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 Myrtle Beach This September
Inshore Fishing Calendar — Myrtle Beach
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 |
F
|
F
|
G
|
G
|
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
|
G
|
G
|
F
|
—
|
| Pompano |
—
|
—
|
F
|
G
|
P
|
G
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
F
|
—
|
—
|
| Speckled Trout |
—
|
—
|
F
|
F
|
F
|
F
|
—
|
—
|
F
|
G
|
F
|
—
|
Best Inshore Fishing Spots in Myrtle Beach
From legendary bays to productive reefs, here are the top inshore fishing spots your captain will target in the Myrtle Beach area.
Murrells Inlet Creek System
The tidal creeks feeding Murrells Inlet south of Myrtle Beach are a top-tier inshore fishery, with miles of oyster-lined banks holding redfish, flounder, and speckled trout. Anglers work the falling tide to intercept fish funneling out of the marsh grass and into deeper channels. The area's consistent bait supply makes it productive year-round, with fall redfish runs drawing anglers from across the Southeast.
Winyah Bay
Winyah Bay is a massive estuary where four rivers converge near Georgetown, offering expansive grass flats and oyster reefs teeming with redfish, speckled trout, and flounder. The mixing of fresh and saltwater creates a nutrient-rich ecosystem that sustains massive schools of baitfish. It is one of the most productive and least-pressured inshore fisheries accessible from the Myrtle Beach area.
Cherry Grove Inlet
Cherry Grove Inlet connects the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway to the ocean at the northern end of the Grand Strand, creating strong tidal flow that concentrates baitfish and gamefish. Flounder, redfish, sheepshead, and black drum stack up around the inlet's rock structure and sand bars. The inlet is particularly productive during tidal changes and is a favorite among wade anglers and kayak fishermen.
Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) Docks
The residential docks and bridge pilings along the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway through Myrtle Beach provide excellent structure-fishing opportunities. Sheepshead, flounder, redfish, and speckled trout hold tight to pilings and shadow lines, especially during cooler months. Night fishing under dock lights is a proven technique for landing trophy-sized flounder and trout in this stretch.
Top Inshore Fish Species in Myrtle Beach
These are the primary inshore species you'll target on a Myrtle Beach charter. Click any species to learn more.
Redfish
Sciaenops ocellatus
Peak: 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
A prized flatfish found along sandy bottoms and structure. Excellent table fare and fun to catch on light tackle.
Pompano
Trachinotus carolinus
Peak: May
One of the most prized eating fish in the Gulf. Found in the surf and along sandy beaches.
Speckled Trout
Cynoscion nebulosus
A favorite inshore species found throughout the Gulf. Excellent eating fish that feeds aggressively on live bait and artificial lures.
Inshore Fishing Boats & Tackle in Myrtle Beach
Here's what to expect when you book a inshore charter in Myrtle Beach.
Boats
Inshore fishing in Myrtle Beach is typically done on bay boats, flats boats, and skiffs (typically 18-24 ft).
Tackle & Gear
Inshore charters in Myrtle Beach 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 Myrtle Beach
We're partnering with top inshore fishing captains in Myrtle Beach. 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 Myrtle Beach. 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 Myrtle Beach
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 Myrtle Beach include Redfish, Sheepshead, Black Drum, Flounder, Pompano, Speckled Trout. Availability varies by season — check our seasonal calendar above for month-by-month details.
The peak months for inshore fishing in Myrtle Beach are April, May, October, when the most species are at peak availability. However, Myrtle Beach offers productive inshore fishing year-round.
Inshore fishing in Myrtle Beach 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 Myrtle Beach, 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 Myrtle Beach 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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