Fishing on the Grand Strand

Myrtle Beach attracts visitors from all over who enjoy the white sandy beaches.  Others consider it a golfer's paradise, with over 100 courses in the area. But what many people don't realize is that the Grand Strand is also an ideal retreat for fishing! Between the Atlantic and the Waccamaw River, anglers find a wide variety of prime fishing opportunities. Our beautiful area boasts several locations for surf, pier, deep sea and freshwater fishing.

Surf Fishing

Surf Fishing in Myrtle Beach

With over 60 miles of uninterrupted coastline, the Grand Strand offers prime surf fishing. Cast your line and relax on the beach while waiting for the bluefish, croaker, whiting, skate or pompano to bite! The meticulously preserved coastline at Huntington Beach State Park also presents the opportunity to catch flounder, sea trout, red and black drum, mackerel and sheepshead. When surf fishing, the best success usually occurs from high to low tide. If you don't have your own, rent your gear from a pier or a local bait & tackle shop. Children under the age of 16 are not required to have a license when fishing in the surf. Most area beaches permit surf fishing but may temporarily ban it if there are too many swimmers.

Pier Fishing

Among the most popular locations for saltwater fishing are the many piers that dot our shores. Fish are attracted to the marine species and organisms that make the pier their home, creating an ideal spot for a fisherman eager for action! The most common species to lurk these waters include whiting, sea trout, spot trout, king mackerel, spanish mackerel, flounder, drum, tarpon and mullet. Aside from the chance for a great catch, the piers also offer sweeping views of the coastline and quick access to bait & tackle shops, restaurants and bars. Recommended piers include: Cherry Grove, 2nd Avenue, Springmaid, Surfside and the Pier at Garden City (for additional information including pricing, follow the pier links). To see a list of when the various types of fish are in season, see the bottom of the webpage at this link.

Deep Sea Fishing

Voyager Fishing Charters

If you're eager to sail out into the big blue in search of large fish and an exciting experience, you're in luck! The Grand Strand features several charter services ready for adventure, equipped with state-of-the-art electronics for navigation and fish finding.  Each company has several packages tailored to fit your needs based on the number of people in your group, how long you'd like to fish and your level of experience.  If you're new to angling, no need to worry! Most companies offer equipment rental and instruction from their experienced captain and crew. Based on the time of year, you can find dolphin, wahoo, mahi mahi, shark, marlin, sea bass, snapper, barracuda, king mackerel, grouper, cobia and amberjack. If you're interested in deep sea excursions, local charters include: Hurricane Fleet, Voyager Fishing Charters, Georgetown Coastal Adventures and Captain Raymond's Fishing & Cruises.

Freshwater Fishing

Waccamaw River

The South's 140+ mile Waccamaw River winds serenely through the Grand Strand, bringing excellent freshwater fishing opportunities to the area. Catfish, perch, crappie, bass and bowfin are a few of the species found in the black waters. Fishing from the shore can be difficult due to wetlands, but look for a few spots off of Dick Pond Road by the Socastee swing bridge and by Elm Street in Conway. You'll have an even better fishing experience if you take to the water! Renting or bringing a boat, canoe or kayak will give you easy access to the best fishing spots. Wacca Wache Marina (located in the fishing village of Murrell's Inlet) and the Conway Marina provide boat launch sites as well as rentals.

Keep in mind- if you're looking to catch dinner, we offer more than just fish. Head to the shore and harvest oysters, clams, crabs and shrimp to make a home-cooked seafood buffet!

Now that you know the best places to go, it's time to gather your gear and make your way to the water.  If you have any additional questions about the Grand Strand area, be sure to stop by the Official Myrtle Beach Welcome Center in Aynor, South Carolina. Happy fishing everyone!