Charleston Deep Sea Fishing for Mahi Mahi and Wahoo
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
10hour offshore charter targets MahiMahi, Wahoo, and Blackfin TunaDeep water bottom fishing accommodates up to 6 guests maximumCharleston waters provide access to premium offshore fishing grounds
Charleston's offshore waters hold some of the Atlantic's most prized game fish, and this 10-hour deep sea charter puts you right in the action. Captain and crew from Ceviche Charters know these waters like the back of their hand, taking up to 6 anglers out to the productive fishing grounds where Mahi-Mahi, Wahoo, and Blackfin Tuna cruise the blue water. You'll be targeting pelagic species that fight hard and taste even better, using proven bottom fishing techniques in depths that consistently produce fish. Fair warning - fuel costs aren't included in the trip price, but when you're hauling in these world-class species, you'll understand why this charter is worth every penny.
Your day starts early at Charleston Harbor, where you'll meet your captain and get the lowdown on tackle, safety, and what fish have been biting lately. The ride out to the fishing grounds takes you past some beautiful South Carolina coastline before you hit the deeper blue water where the real action happens. This isn't your typical inshore trip - you're heading to depths where bottom fishing means dropping lines down 100+ feet to structure that holds bigger fish. The boat comes equipped with quality rods, reels, and terminal tackle designed for these offshore species. You'll spend most of your 10 hours with lines in the water, moving between productive spots as conditions and fish activity dictate. The crew knows when to stay put and when to make a move, reading the water and fish finder to keep you on the bite. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks since meals aren't provided, but trust me - you'll be too busy fighting fish to think much about food.
Deep water bottom fishing around Charleston means working structure like ledges, wrecks, and hard bottom areas where baitfish congregate and predators follow. You'll be using heavy sinkers to get your baits down through the water column quickly, typically fishing with cut bait, squid, or live bait depending on what's working best that day. The technique requires patience and feel - you need to detect subtle bites while managing the drift and current at depth. Circle hooks are standard for most setups, helping ensure solid hooksets while being easier on the fish if you're planning to release anything. When a fish hits, the key is setting the hook firmly and maintaining steady pressure as you work it up from the depths. These offshore species can make strong runs, so be ready for your drag to sing and your arms to get a workout. The crew will coach you through the fight and handle the netting or gaffing when your fish reaches the boat.
Mahi-Mahi are the crown jewel of Charleston's offshore fishing scene, and for good reason. These fish are absolute rockets when hooked, known for their acrobatic jumps and blazing fast runs that'll test your tackle and skills. Mahi typically show up in our waters from late spring through early fall, with peak action happening during the warmer months when they follow the Gulf Stream closer to shore. They're school fish, so when you find one, there's usually more around - leading to some epic days where everyone on board gets into the action. What makes Mahi special isn't just the fight, though that's certainly part of it. These fish are also some of the best eating you'll find in the ocean, with firm white meat that's perfect for everything from fish tacos to grilled steaks.
Wahoo are the speed demons of the deep, capable of hitting 60+ mph when they want to get somewhere in a hurry. These torpedo-shaped predators have razor-sharp teeth and an attitude to match, making them one of the most exciting fish you can tangle with off Charleston. Fall and winter months tend to be prime time for Wahoo, when they move through our area following bait schools. A typical Wahoo will run anywhere from 20 to 50+ pounds, with the bigger fish being genuine tackle-busters that'll push your gear to its limits. The key to landing Wahoo is being ready for that initial scorching run - they'll take line so fast it'll make your head spin. But stick with them through the fight, and you'll have one of the ocean's premier table fare fish in the cooler.
Blackfin Tuna might be the smaller cousins of their Bluefin and Yellowfin relatives, but don't let that fool you into thinking they're pushovers. These fish are pure muscle, built for speed and endurance that'll give you a legitimate workout on appropriate tackle. Blackfins are year-round residents in Charleston's offshore waters, though they tend to bite best during the cooler months when bait is abundant. They're schooling fish that often feed aggressively, leading to multiple hookups that'll have the whole boat scrambling. While they typically run 10-25 pounds, their pound-for-pound fighting ability is off the charts. Plus, they're fantastic on the dinner table - think sashimi-grade meat that rivals anything you'll find in a high-end restaurant.
Charleston's offshore fishing is as good as it gets on the East Coast, and this 10-hour charter gives you the time needed to really get into the fish. With space for up to 6 anglers, you've got room for your crew without feeling crowded on deck. The experienced captain and crew from Ceviche Charters have built their reputation on putting clients on fish, and their knowledge of local waters and seasonal patterns shows in the results. Remember to factor in fuel costs when budgeting for your trip, and bring plenty of food and drinks to keep your energy up during the long day on the water. Whether you're a seasoned offshore angler or looking to step up from inshore fishing, this charter offers the perfect opportunity to tangle with some of the Atlantic's most sought-after game fish. These fish don't wait around, and neither should you - book your Charleston deep sea fishing adventure today.
This 2009 Grady-White center console is your ticket to Charleston's best offshore fishing grounds. Twin 300HP Yamaha engines push this sturdy boat to 50 knots, getting you to the deep water fast where mahi-mahi, wahoo, and blackfin tuna roam. The spacious deck handles up to 6 anglers comfortably, while the fish finder helps locate schools and structure below. Keep your catch fresh in the icebox and your drinks cold during those long 10-hour runs. The onboard restroom means no cutting trips short, and GPS navigation ensures you'll find those productive spots again. Whether you're bottom fishing in 200 feet or trolling the blue water, this boat's wireless trolling motor lets you position quietly without spooking fish. The multimedia system keeps everyone entertained between bites. Built tough for Charleston's offshore waters, this Grady-White handles the swells while you focus on landing your next trophy fish.
Thunnus AtlanticusBlackfin tuna are the scrappy little fighters of the tuna family, usually running 10-25 pounds with that classic tuna build and dark fins. They school up in 150-600 feet of water along shelf edges and temperature breaks, preferring water over 68°F. Best fishing happens fall through spring when they're most active in our waters. Why target them? Pound for pound, they're some of the strongest fighters you'll encounter, plus they make excellent sashimi or seared tuna steaks. These fish have incredible eyesight, so here's what works: scale down your tackle, use #30 fluoro leaders with 5/0-6/0 circle hooks, and try vertical jigging with small lures. Chunk with pilchards to get them fired up and in feeding mode.
Coryphaena HippurusThese golden beauties put on quite a show with their brilliant colors and acrobatic jumps. Mahi typically run 15-30 pounds around here, though we've seen some pushing 40+. They love hanging around floating debris, weed lines, and current edges in 100-400 feet of water. Best action happens May through September when water temps climb above 70°F. What makes them special? They fight hard with multiple jumps, they're gorgeous fish that change colors like a light show when hooked, and the meat is absolutely delicious - firm, white, and mild. Pro tip: when you see frigate birds working over floating grass or debris, get your ballyhoo ready because there's probably a school of hungry mahi underneath waiting to ambush anything that moves.
Acanthocybium SolandriWahoo are the speed demons of the deep - these torpedo-shaped predators can hit 60 mph and average 20-40 pounds, with bigger ones pushing 60+ pounds. They cruise the deep blue in 200-800 feet, often found around temperature breaks and current edges. Peak season runs April through October when they're most active. What draws anglers to them? The initial run is absolutely blistering, they're beautiful fish with striking blue stripes, and the white, flaky meat is premium table fare. These fish are loners or travel in small groups, so when you hook one, expect a solo battle. Here's the key: run your lures fast at 12-15 knots and use wire leaders - their razor-sharp teeth will slice through anything else in seconds.
Charleston