Shark Fishing Trip - Charleston, SC
Private Trip
Wrecks/Reefs Fishing
Target Hammerhead, Black Tip, Spinner, and Bonnet Head Sharks offshoreSmall group charter accommodates maximum two guests for personalized experienceAll fishing gear, bait, cleaning supplies, and fuel included
Ready to tangle with some of the ocean's most feared predators? Charleston's waters are crawling with sharks year-round, and there's nothing quite like the rush of watching your rod bend double when a hammerhead or spinner decides to take your bait. This isn't your typical inshore redfish trip – we're heading out to where the big boys cruise, armed with heavy tackle and serious bait to bring these apex predators boat-side. With Charleston Fish Rod Bending, you'll be fishing proven shark grounds off the South Carolina coast, targeting multiple species that call these waters home. Pack your camera and bring your A-game, because these fish don't mess around.
We'll be running a 2-angler charter, keeping things intimate so everyone gets plenty of action and personal attention. The boat's rigged specifically for shark fishing – heavy rods, strong reels, and wire leaders that can handle razor-sharp teeth. We launch from Charleston's harbor and make the run out to productive shark grounds, usually hitting depths between 30-80 feet where these predators patrol for food. The captain knows exactly where to set up based on tides, bait schools, and seasonal patterns. You'll be fishing with circle hooks and fresh cut bait – think bluefish, menhaden, or whatever's running thick that day. The setup is pretty straightforward: we'll deploy multiple lines at different depths and distances from the boat, then wait for the magic to happen. When a shark picks up your bait, you'll know it immediately – the rod tip starts bouncing, line peels off the reel, and your heart rate jumps through the roof.
Shark fishing is all about the right gear and patience. We're talking heavy conventional reels loaded with 50-80 pound test line, paired with 7-8 foot rods that have serious backbone. The terminal tackle includes steel leaders – absolutely essential since these fish can slice through mono or braid in a heartbeat. We'll be using a combination of drift fishing and anchored fishing, depending on conditions and what's working best that day. The key is getting fresh bait down to where sharks are cruising and keeping it there long enough to draw their attention. Circle hooks are mandatory – they're safer for both the angler and the fish, hooking sharks in the corner of the mouth rather than deep in the throat. When a shark takes your bait, resist the urge to set the hook hard. Let the fish run, keep steady pressure, and let that circle hook do its job. The captain will coach you through the fight, helping you work the fish without breaking off or wearing yourself out too quickly.
Scalloped Hammerheads are the crown jewel of Charleston shark fishing, showing up in good numbers from late spring through early fall. These prehistoric-looking predators average 4-6 feet but can push 8+ feet if you're lucky. What makes them special is that distinctive hammer-shaped head – it's loaded with electrical sensors that help them hunt stingray and smaller sharks. They're strong fighters that make long runs and aren't afraid to jump when hooked. The smaller ones are scrappy, while the big females are pure power that'll test your endurance and equipment.
Spinner Sharks earn their name from the spectacular aerial displays they put on when hooked. These sleek, bronze-colored sharks love to jump and spin when they feel the hook, creating photo opportunities you'll never forget. They're common in Charleston's nearshore waters from April through October, typically running 3-5 feet long. Spinners are fast swimmers that often travel in schools, so where you catch one, there's usually more. They're aggressive feeders that hit cut bait hard and make blistering runs that'll have your drag screaming.
Bonnethead Sharks might be the smaller cousins in the hammerhead family, but they're perfect for action-packed fishing. Running 2-4 feet long, these guys are abundant in Charleston's shallower waters and provide steady action when the bigger sharks aren't cooperating. They've got that same distinctive head shape as their larger relatives, just scaled down. What's cool about bonnetheads is they're actually omnivores – the only sharks known to eat and digest plant matter along with their usual diet of crabs and small fish.
Blacktip Sharks are the workhorses of Charleston shark fishing, available year-round but really lighting up the bite during warmer months. These bronze-backed predators with black-tipped fins are incredibly common and range from smaller 2-3 foot fish up to hefty 6+ foot adults. They're aggressive biters that often hit live or cut bait before you can even get settled. Blacktips are known for spectacular jumps and have enough strength to give even experienced anglers a solid workout. They're also one of the most photogenic sharks, with those distinctive fin markings and sleek build.
Smooth Hammerheads are the gentle giants of the group, often reaching impressive sizes that can stretch 6-8 feet or more. These sharks prefer slightly deeper water and are most active during dawn and dusk periods. Unlike their scalloped cousins, smooth hammerheads have a more rounded head shape without the prominent scalloped edge. They're powerful fish that make long, steady runs rather than explosive bursts. Landing a good-sized smooth hammerhead is a real trophy catch that showcases both the diversity and quality of Charleston's shark population.
Charleston's shark fishing scene is world-class, and this charter puts you right in the middle of some of the best action on the East Coast. With all gear, bait, and fuel included, you just need to show up ready to fish. The 2-angler limit means you'll get personalized attention and won't be fighting crowds for rod time. Whether you're looking to check shark fishing off your bucket list or you're a seasoned angler wanting
Ready to tangle with some serious predators off the Charleston coast? This fishing machine cuts through the waves to prime shark hunting grounds where Hammerheads, Black Tips, Spinners, and Bonnet Heads patrol the waters. Built for serious anglers who want to test their skills against apex predators, she's equipped with everything you need for a successful shark hunt. All your tackle, bait, and cleaning gear comes ready to go, plus fuel is covered. With space for up to 2 guests, you'll have plenty of room to work when that rod starts screaming and something massive hits your line. The captain knows exactly where these monsters like to feed around the local wrecks, putting you right in the action zone where the big fish roam.
Sphyrna ZygaenaThe smooth hammerhead is the second-largest of the hammer family and a serious trophy fish. These beasts can reach 11+ feet and pack serious power with that signature curved, smooth-edged head. Unlike other hammerheads, they prefer our cooler waters and are most active during summer months when they move north from warmer areas. You'll find them anywhere from shallow inshore waters to 200+ feet deep, often around structure and drop-offs. They're active predators that feed on other sharks, rays, and large bony fish, making them a true apex target. The fight is intense - long powerful runs with that big head throwing serious leverage. They can be aggressive compared to their shy cousins. We use heavy tackle with wire leaders and large circle hooks. Fresh stingray or shark meat works great, but big live baits like bonito really get their attention.
Sphyrna LewiniThese distinctive sharks with their signature scalloped hammer-shaped heads are some of the coolest targets we encounter off Charleston. Females can reach up to 8 feet and 180 pounds, while males stay smaller around 6 feet. They cruise our coastal waters during warmer months, typically in 30-100 feet of depth near structure and drop-offs. Their widely spaced eyes and nostrils make them efficient hunters, able to detect prey buried in sand. Summer and early fall offer the best action when water temps are right. Guests love the challenge and that unique silhouette when they come up. These sharks are incredibly shy, so we keep noise down and use fresh cut bait like bonito or mackerel. Pro tip: fish the bottom with circle hooks - they often grab bait while hunting rays in the sand.
Carcharhinus LimbatusBlacktips are some of the most exciting sharks we target - they're known for literally jumping into boats when they get fired up! These stocky sharks average 4-5 feet but can reach over 9 feet, easily identified by those black-tipped fins. They patrol our nearshore waters in 30-100 feet, especially around artificial reefs and structure where baitfish gather. Spring through fall offers consistent action, with peak times during summer months. Guests love their aggressive nature and spectacular jumps - they can rocket 20+ feet out of the water. They're social feeders that get into feeding frenzies, so when you hook one, expect company. We use heavy braided line with circle hooks because they get pretty wild. Best bait is fresh, oily fish like mackerel or herring. Start a good chum line - these guys will follow that scent trail right to your hooks.
Sphyrna TiburoThe smallest of the hammerheads, bonnetheads are perfect for getting kids and first-timers into shark fishing. They typically run 3-4 feet and rarely exceed 20 pounds, with that distinctive spade-shaped head instead of the classic hammer. These guys love our shallow coastal waters - bays, estuaries, and nearshore flats in 10-30 feet. Summer through early fall is peak season when they school up in groups of 10-15 fish. They're harmless and actually pretty shy, but they fight harder than their size suggests with quick runs and head shakes. What's cool is they're one of the few sharks that eat seagrass along with crabs and small fish. Fresh blue crab cut in half is absolutely deadly for them - hook it through a leg so it stays on. The key is finding those grass flats where they root around for crabs during moving tides.
Carcharhinus BrevipinnaNamed for their wild spinning jumps that can launch them 15 feet out of the water, spinners put on quite a show. These slender sharks average 6-7 feet and 120 pounds, with that classic gray body and black-tipped fins. They prefer our warmer coastal waters under 100 feet, often chasing bait schools near the surface. Late winter through early spring is prime time when they migrate through our area following spawning fish. What makes them special is that aerial display - they'll rocket straight up spinning like a corkscrew before crashing back down. The fight is fast and furious with multiple jumps. They rely heavily on smell since their eyesight isn't great, so we use oily baits like bonito, bluefish, or fresh mullet. My go-to trick is to soak your bait in the chum slick for extra scent - they'll find it from way off.
Charleston