Charleston's Beginner-Friendly Inshore Fishing Trip
- Published Date: September 12, 2025
- Fishing
- Charleston
- $500 - $900 price range
Summary
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Rods, Reels, and Smiles
A perfect day on the water
Creating memories
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Redfish Trophy in Charleston SC Fishing Charter
35 inch cobia today in 8 ft of water on a 2500!
Teaching young kid how to reel trophy redfish
Charleston's very own Redemption!
Hooked up in paradise!
Trophy catch of the day!
Catch of the day!
A perfect day on the water
Creating memories
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Redfish Trophy in Charleston SC Fishing Charter
35 inch cobia today in 8 ft of water on a 2500!
Teaching young kid how to reel trophy redfish
Charleston's very own Redemption!
Hooked up in paradise!
Trophy catch of the day!
Catch of the day!
A perfect day on the water
Creating memories
null
Redfish Trophy in Charleston SC Fishing Charter
Cast a Line & Learn: Charleston's Beginner Fishing Trip
Ready to dip your toes into the world of fishing? Captain Brent's extended half-day trip is the perfect way to get your feet wet. Whether you're a total newbie or just looking to brush up on your skills, this 6-hour adventure in Charleston's rich waters is tailored for folks who want to learn the ropes without feeling overwhelmed. We'll take it nice and easy, focusing on the basics while giving you plenty of chances to reel in some of the local favorites like redfish, trout, and more. No need to sweat the small stuff – we've got all the gear, bait, and licenses covered. It's all about having a good time on the water and maybe catching your first fish (or your new personal best)!
What to Expect on the Water
Picture this: You're out on Charleston's gorgeous waterways, rod in hand, with Captain Brent right there to guide you every step of the way. This isn't your typical rushed fishing charter – we're taking a full 6 hours to make sure you get comfortable with the basics. You'll learn how to bait your hook, cast like a pro, and read the water for signs of fish. We'll cruise to some of the captain's favorite spots where the fish are biting, giving you the best shot at landing something to brag about. And don't worry if you're bringing the kids or a group of first-timers – Captain Brent's got the patience of a saint and a knack for making fishing fun for everyone. By the end of the day, you'll be hooked (pun intended) on this awesome sport.
Fishing 101: Gear & Techniques
Alright, let's talk tackle. We're not going to overwhelm you with fancy equipment – we're keeping it simple and effective. You'll be working with light to medium spinning gear, perfect for the inshore species we're after. Captain Brent will show you how to tie a basic fishing knot (trust me, it's not as tricky as it looks) and how to set up your rig. We'll likely be using live bait – nothing beats the real deal for attracting fish. As for techniques, we'll cover the fundamentals like how to cast without tangling your line (it happens to the best of us), how to feel for a bite, and the proper way to set the hook. We might do some bottom fishing for sheepshead around structure, or try sight casting for redfish in the shallows. And if the conditions are right, we might even try some popping cork action for trout. Don't know what any of that means? No worries – you will by the end of the trip!
Top Catches This Season
Charleston's waters are teeming with fish year-round, but what we're likely to catch depends on when you book your trip. In the warmer months, redfish and trout are the stars of the show. These guys love to hang out in the shallow flats and around oyster beds. As the water cools down, we might focus more on sheepshead – they're tricky to catch, but boy are they tasty. Flounder are another popular target, especially in the fall when they're fattening up for winter. And for something a little different, we might even try our luck with some carp fishing in the freshwater areas. No matter what's biting, Captain Brent knows where to find them and how to get them on your hook.
Species You'll Want to Hook
Let's dive into the fish you might be reeling in on your Charleston adventure. First up, the redfish – also known as red drum. These copper-colored beauties are a favorite among anglers for their strong fights and delicious meat. They can range from little "puppy drums" to big bull reds over 40 inches long. Redfish love to cruise the shallows, often giving themselves away with their tails sticking out of the water – it's a sight that'll get your heart racing!
Sea trout, or spotted seatrout, are another local staple. These guys are known for their speckled backs and canine-like teeth. They're not the biggest fish in the sea, but they make up for it with their feisty attitude and willingness to bite. Trout are most active in the cooler months and love to hang around structure like docks and oyster beds.
Sheepshead are the oddballs of the bunch, with their distinctive black and white stripes and human-like teeth. These fish are notorious bait stealers, making them a fun challenge for anglers of all skill levels. They're typically found around pilings, bridges, and other hard structures where they munch on barnacles and crustaceans.
Southern flounder might not win any beauty contests, but they're prized for their delicate, flaky meat. These flatfish are masters of camouflage, blending in perfectly with the sandy bottom. Catching a flounder requires a bit of finesse and a sharp eye to detect their subtle bites.
Last but not least, we've got the common carp. While not typically targeted in saltwater fishing, carp can provide a unique freshwater experience in Charleston's surrounding areas. These fish can grow to impressive sizes and put up a heck of a fight. Carp fishing requires patience and a different set of techniques, making it an interesting change of pace for anglers looking to try something new.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
There's something special about fishing in Charleston that keeps folks coming back for more. Maybe it's the way the sun glints off the water as you cast your line, or the thrill of feeling that first tug on your rod. Or perhaps it's the satisfaction of learning a new skill and seeing yourself improve with each cast. Captain Brent's trips are more than just a chance to catch fish – they're about making memories, whether you're bonding with family, enjoying a day out with friends, or treating yourself to some solo time on the water. And let's be honest, there's nothing quite like the pride of catching your own dinner (even if you decide to throw it back). With each trip, you'll find yourself falling a little more in love with fishing and the beautiful waters of Charleston.
Time to Book Your Spot
So, what do you say? Ready to give fishing a shot or maybe improve those rusty skills? Captain Brent's extended half-day trip is the perfect way to get your feet wet (figuratively speaking, of course). With all the gear provided, expert guidance, and some of the best fishing spots in Charleston at your fingertips, you're set up for a day of fun and potential fish tales to share. Whether you're looking for a unique family outing, a memorable date idea, or just want to try something new, this trip has got you covered. Don't let another season slip by without experiencing the joy of fishing in Charleston's beautiful waters. Grab your spot now – the fish are waiting, and trust me, once you start, you'll be hooked for life!
Learn more about the species
Common Carp
Common Carp might not be Charleston's glamour fish, but they're a blast to catch. These golden-olive bruisers average 15-30 inches and can top 20 pounds. You'll find them in slow-moving rivers, lakes, and even some brackish areas. They're bottom feeders, so look for muddy water or near vegetation. Spring and fall are prime seasons when they move into shallows to feed. Anglers love carp for their hard-fighting spirit – they'll give you a run for your money on light tackle. To catch one, try corn, bread, or prepared carp baits on a hair rig. Here's a local trick: chum the area with corn or boilies to draw them in, then fish just off the bottom. Be patient – carp are wary, but once hooked, they'll test your skills. While not everyone's favorite for the table, catch-and-release carp fishing is gaining popularity for the challenge it offers.
Redfish
Redfish, or Red Drum, are a Charleston staple and a blast to catch. These copper-colored beauties can range from 20 to 40 inches, with the bigger ones hanging offshore. Look for them in shallow flats, around oyster beds, or near structure in 1-4 feet of water. They're year-round targets, but fall is prime time when they school up. Anglers love Redfish for their strong fights and that distinctive tail spot. To hook one, try sight fishing in clear shallows or use live bait like mullet or shrimp. Here's a local tip: when you see them tailing in the grass, cast a weedless jig or topwater lure just ahead of them. Be ready for an explosive strike! And don't forget, these guys make excellent table fare with their mild, sweet flavor. Just remember to check size limits – we want to keep 'em around for years to come.
Sea Trout
Sea Trout, also called Speckled Trout, are a favorite target in Charleston's waters. These silvery fish typically run 14-24 inches and put up a great fight. You'll find them in grass flats and shallow waters, especially at night. They're most active in fall and spring when water temps are just right. Anglers love Sea Trout for their aggressive strikes and tasty, flaky white meat. To catch 'em, try using artificial lures like jerk baits or topwater plugs in the shallows. Here's a local trick: on cooler days, look for them in deeper channels where they school up. When you're reeling one in, keep your rod tip up – these guys are known for shaking the hook loose. And remember, don't overcook 'em or you'll lose that delicate texture everyone raves about.
Sheepshead
Sheepshead, or convict fish, are a real treat to catch around Charleston. These striped beauties usually weigh 1-8 pounds and stretch 14-20 inches long. You'll find them hanging around structures like docks, bridges, and oyster reefs. They're famous for their human-like teeth, which they use to crunch barnacles and crabs. Spring is prime time for sheepshead fishing when they form large spawning groups. Anglers love the challenge of catching these bait stealers – they're notorious for nibbling without getting hooked. For the best shot at landing one, use light tackle and get your bait as close to the pilings as possible. Here's a pro tip: when you feel that telltale nibble, wait a second, then set the hook hard. Their tough mouths need a strong hookset. And trust me, the fight is worth it, not to mention they make excellent table fare.
Southern Flounder
Southern Flounder are a unique catch in Charleston's waters. These flat, oval fish typically range from 15-18 inches long and can weigh up to 5 pounds. You'll find them lurking on sandy or muddy bottoms in shallow coastal areas, bays, and estuaries. They're masters of camouflage, changing color to blend with their surroundings. Fall is prime time for flounder fishing as they move to deeper waters. Anglers love targeting them for their delicate, white flesh and the challenge of hooking these bottom-dwellers. To land one, try still fishing or drift fishing with live bait like mullet or shrimp. Here's a local tip: use a single-hook rig with a slip lead, and when you feel a bite, give the flounder a moment before setting the hook. They often grab prey sideways before repositioning it, so patience is key.
About the 220 Bay Scout (Bay boat)
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 35
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 200
