Deep Water Fishing Charters in Charleston SC
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
10-hour offshore fishing trip targeting multiple prized speciesCharter accommodates up to 6 guests with experienced crewBottom fishing adventure covers 15-60 miles into open waters
Looking for the real deal when it comes to offshore fishing in Charleston? Ceviche Charters delivers a hardcore 10-hour bottom fishing adventure that'll take you anywhere from 15 to 60 miles out into the Atlantic. We're talking serious blue water territory here, where the big boys live and the action gets hot. This isn't your typical harbor cruise – we're going after the heavy hitters that call these Carolina waters home. Pack your cooler, bring your A-game, and get ready to test your arms against some of the strongest fighters in the ocean.
When you step aboard with Ceviche Charters, you're signing up for a full-day commitment to serious fishing. We launch early and stay out late, giving you maximum time in the productive zones where the fish are stacked up. The boat handles up to 6 anglers, so you've got plenty of room to work without bumping elbows. Captain knows these waters like the back of his hand – from the nearshore reefs at 15 miles out to the deep drops at 60 miles offshore. The further we go, the bigger the possibilities get. Fair warning though: fuel isn't included in the trip price, but trust me, it's worth every penny when you're hooked up to a monster grouper or battling a stubborn amberjack. Bring your own lunch and drinks because we're not heading back to the dock until we've put some serious fish in the box.
We're targeting structure-oriented species, which means we'll be working the bottom hard with heavy tackle and serious baits. Think chicken rigs, knocker rigs, and plenty of lead to get down deep where the grouper and snapper hang out. The captain will position us over ledges, wrecks, and natural bottom structure where these fish congregate. You'll be dropping baits in 60 to 200+ feet of water, so get ready for that arm workout when something big grabs hold. We use circle hooks for better fish survival and heavier leaders to handle the toothy critters and rough structure. When the bite is on, it can get hectic fast – multiple hookups aren't uncommon when you find a good school of fish. The key is keeping your bait on the bottom and being ready to reel hard when you feel that thump.
Atlantic Bonito are speed demons that'll test your drag system and give you a workout you won't forget. These torpedo-shaped fighters typically show up in the 15-25 mile range during their seasonal migrations, usually spring through fall. They average 3-8 pounds but fight like fish twice their size, making screaming runs that'll have your reel singing. What makes bonito special is their incredible stamina – just when you think you've got them whipped, they'll make another blistering run. Plus, they're fantastic table fare when prepared fresh.
Blacktip Sharks bring raw power and attitude to every fight. These aggressive predators patrol the same waters we fish for bottom species, and they're not shy about grabbing a bait meant for something else. Running 20-60 pounds on average, blacktips are pure muscle and determination. They'll jump, they'll run, and they'll test every knot you tied. The best part? They're year-round residents in Charleston's offshore waters, so there's always a chance one will crash the party. Just remember – respect the shark and handle with care for a safe release.
Cobia are the bruisers that separate the serious anglers from the weekend warriors. These brown sharks (as locals call them) can push 50+ pounds and fight with the stubbornness of a bulldog. Spring and early summer are prime time when they're cruising the surface near structure. What makes cobia fishing so addictive is their curiosity – they'll often follow the boat and investigate baits, giving you a shot at sight fishing these monsters. When hooked, they dive deep and bulldoze their way around the bottom, making you work for every inch of line recovered.
Red Snapper are the holy grail of bottom fishing, and Charleston's offshore waters hold some real dandies. These crimson beauties average 5-15 pounds but can push 20+ when you find the right spots. They're structure-oriented and incredibly wary, requiring precise presentations and quick hooksets. Summer months offer the best action when federal seasons align. What makes red snapper so prized isn't just their excellent table quality – they're smart fish that require skill to consistently catch. Landing a limit of quality red snapper is a badge of honor any angler can be proud of.
Gag Grouper are the ultimate prize for bottom fishing enthusiasts. These mottled giants can exceed 30 pounds and inhabit the deeper structure we target. They're ambush predators that slam baits hard, then immediately head for the rocks to break you off. The fight is typically short but incredibly intense – it's all about stopping that initial run and turning their head up. Gag season typically runs through the cooler months, making them a perfect target for this deep water adventure. Their flaky white meat is considered some of the best eating in the ocean.
Charleston's offshore fishing scene is world-class, and Ceviche Charters puts you right in the heart of the action. This 10-hour marathon fishing trip gives you the time and distance needed to reach the productive waters where trophy fish live. With space for up to 6 anglers, it's perfect for serious fishing groups who want to experience the best Carolina waters have to offer. The boat, the captain, and the fishing grounds are all top-rated – you just need to bring your enthusiasm and appetite for adventure. Remember to secure your date early because prime offshore weather windows fill up fast. Don't let another season slip by wondering what's swimming out there in the deep blue – book your trip and find out firsthand why Charleston's
Step aboard our reliable 2009 Grady-White center console, powered by twin 300HP Yamaha engines that'll get you to the fishing grounds fast with a top speed of 50 knots. This spacious boat comfortably handles up to 6 anglers and comes loaded with everything you need for a serious offshore fishing adventure. The onboard fish finder helps locate those productive bottom structures where grouper, snapper, and amberjack love to hang out, while the GPS keeps us on course whether we're running 15 or 60 miles into Carolina waters. Keep your catch fresh in the icebox, enjoy tunes on the multimedia system between bites, and take advantage of the onboard restroom during those long 10-hour trips. The wireless trolling motor lets us position quietly over structure without spooking fish. Perfect for targeting red snapper, gag grouper, barracuda, and redfish in Charleston's productive offshore waters.
Sarda SardaAtlantic Bonito are fast, silver mackerel-like fish that'll hit 40 mph when they're feeding. Most run 8-12 pounds, but we've seen them push 15+ pounds out here. They travel in big schools during summer months, usually 15-30 miles offshore in 60-degree water. You'll spot them by watching for diving birds - these fish feed aggressively on the surface, chasing baitfish and sometimes jumping clear out of the water. They're not great eating here in the States, but they put up a solid fight on light tackle. When you find a school feeding, they'll hit almost anything you throw at them. Pro tip: once you hook up, keep multiple lines ready because the school will stick around for a few minutes before moving on.
Carcharhinus LimbatusBlacktips are the acrobats of the shark world - they'll jump 20 feet in the air and sometimes right into your boat if you're not careful. Most run 4-6 feet and around 40-60 pounds, though we've caught some pushing 100. They hang around reefs and structure in 30-100 feet of water, especially during warmer months. These sharks are surprisingly social and can get worked up into feeding frenzies when there's plenty of bait around. They're fun to target because they're aggressive feeders but also pretty timid - you'll see them circling your chum line before committing. Heavy braided line and circle hooks are a must since they get excited once hooked. Best tip: use oily fish like mackerel or sardines for chum and bait - the stronger the scent trail, the better.
Rachycentron CanadumCobia are loners that cruise just under the surface, often getting mistaken for sharks with their dark brown color and single dorsal fin. These fish average 30-50 pounds but can push 100+ pounds - they're built like torpedoes and fight like it too. We find them around wrecks, reefs, and buoys in 30-70 feet during spring migration, then deeper structure through summer. Spring and early summer are prime time when they're moving through our waters. What makes them special is the incredible table fare - firm, white meat that rivals any fish in the ocean. They're curious fish that'll often come check out the boat. Sight fishing is the name of the game here. My go-to trick: use a bucktail jig in any color and work it near structure. Don't be afraid to cast right at a fish you see - they're usually hungry.
Mycteroperca MicrolepisGag Grouper are the bulldogs of the reef - thick-bodied fish with an attitude that'll test your drag system. They average 5-15 pounds, but the big males can push 50+ pounds and turn nearly black during spawning season. These fish live around rocky bottom, reefs, and wrecks in 40-120 feet of water. Spring through fall is your best bet, especially when water temps are in the 70s. What makes them special is they're excellent table fare and put up a serious fight - they'll try to drag your bait straight back to their hole in the rocks. All gags start as females and change to males as they grow, which is pretty unique. My best advice: use live pinfish or cut bait on a circle hook, keep your drag locked tight, and the second you feel the bite, start cranking hard to get them away from structure.
Lutjanus CampechanusRed Snapper are the crown jewel of bottom fishing - bright red fish that grow from pink juveniles into 20+ pound bruisers. Most we catch run 2-8 pounds, but the big ones pushing 15-20 pounds are out there on the deeper structure. They live around reefs, wrecks, and rocky bottom in 60-200 feet of water. Summer through early fall is prime time when they're most active. These fish are pure fighters - once hooked, they'll dive straight for cover and try to cut your line on anything sharp. What keeps people coming back is the incredible eating - sweet, flaky white meat that's restaurant quality. They're also one of the prettiest fish you'll catch. Pro tip: use circle hooks with fresh squid or cigar minnows, and once you hook up, keep steady pressure and don't let them get back to structure.
Charleston