5.0(1 Reviews)Charleston Scenic Offshore Fishing
5.0(1 reviews)
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Six-hour offshore fishing adventure with experienced Captain Louis McMichaelTarget amberjack, cobia, mahi-mahi, and black grouper speciesPremium equipment and expert guidance provided for six guests
Ready to experience some of the best offshore fishing the South Carolina coast has to offer? Captain Louis McMichael's 6-hour scenic fishing adventure takes you beyond the harbor into the deep blue waters where the big fish live. This isn't just another fishing trip – it's your chance to see Charleston from a whole new angle while you're waiting for that rod to bend. With room for up to 6 anglers, Captain Louis keeps things relaxed and focused on helping everyone get their lines wet and hopefully take home some dinner. He's been working these waters long enough to know where the fish are biting, and he's got the gear and know-how to put you on them.
Your day starts with Captain Louis getting you set up with premium rods and reels – none of that budget tackle that'll snap when you hook into something serious. The boat heads out past the jetties where the real action happens, and you'll get some pretty amazing views of the Lowcountry coastline on the way out. This is laid-back fishing at its finest, where you can cast a line and actually enjoy being on the water without feeling rushed. Captain Louis knows these fishing grounds like the back of his hand, so he'll position you over structure and ledges where amberjack, cobia, and mahi-mahi like to hang out. The pace is comfortable – perfect for first-timers who want to learn the ropes or experienced anglers looking for a relaxing day away from the crowds.
Captain Louis runs a variety of techniques depending on what's biting and where the fish are holding. You might find yourself dropping jigs over artificial reefs, trolling for mahi-mahi in the blue water, or working live bait around structure for cobia and grouper. The captain provides all the heavy-duty tackle you'll need – think 30 to 50-pound class rods paired with reels that can handle whatever decides to eat your bait. He'll show you the proper way to work jigs for amberjack, how to present live bait for cobia, and the right trolling speeds for mahi-mahi. No need to bring your own gear unless you want to – everything's included and properly maintained. The boat's equipped with quality electronics to locate fish-holding structure, and Captain Louis knows how to read the signs when gamefish are in the area.
"10 out of 10 recommend this was our first time going deep-sea fishing and we had a blast. The captain was super nice and gave us good tips and everything. We call a bunch of fish and we just love the experience." - Nicolette
Mahi-mahi are the crown jewel of offshore fishing around Charleston, and for good reason. These brilliant gold and green fish are aggressive feeders that put on an aerial show when hooked. They typically range from 10 to 30 pounds in these waters, with the occasional bull dolphin pushing 40 pounds or more. Summer and early fall are prime time for mahi-mahi, when they move in close following the Gulf Stream. What makes them so special is their willingness to eat – they'll hit trolled baits, jigs, and live bait with equal enthusiasm. Plus, they're absolutely delicious on the dinner table.
Lesser amberjack are the workhorses of the offshore scene here. These fish live around wrecks and artificial reefs, and they'll test your tackle and your back muscles. Most amberjack caught on this trip run between 15 and 40 pounds, though bigger ones definitely swim in these waters. They're year-round residents, but spring and fall fishing tends to be most productive. Amberjack are known for their bulldogging fights – they don't jump much, but they'll pull hard and try to wrap your line around whatever structure they can find. Captain Louis knows how to position the boat to give you the best shot at landing them.
Cobia are the wildcards that can make your entire trip memorable. These brown, shark-looking fish are curious by nature and often approach the boat, giving you sight-fishing opportunities you won't forget. They can range anywhere from 20 to 60 pounds, with spring being the peak season when they're moving through on their annual migration. Cobia are fantastic eating and known for their strength – they'll make long runs and aren't afraid to dive deep when hooked. What's really exciting is that you often see them before you hook them, swimming just under the surface near the boat.
Gag grouper are the bottom dwellers that require some finesse to catch and even more skill to keep out of the rocks. These fish hang around ledges and structure in 60 to 120 feet of water, and they're masters at cutting you off if you give them the chance. Most gag grouper caught here run 5 to 15 pounds, though bigger ones certainly exist. They're excellent table fare and a favorite target for many local anglers. The key is getting them up and away from structure quickly once you set the hook – something Captain Louis will coach you through.
Atlantic sailfish are the speedsters that can turn a good day into a legendary one. While they're not as common as the other species, when conditions are right and the baitfish are around, sailfish move in close enough to target. These acrobatic fighters are known for their spectacular jumps and blazing runs. Most sailfish caught here are released after a quick photo, but the experience of fighting one of these magnificent fish is something you'll talk about for years. Fall and winter months offer the best chances, especially when the water temperature and bait movement align just right.
Captain Louis McMichael's scenic offshore fishing trip gives you the perfect blend of serious fishing and Lowcountry sightseeing. Whether you're looking to learn something new, catch dinner for the family, or just spend a quality day
This restored 2003 Contender center console is your ticket to Charleston's offshore fishing grounds. At 32 feet with twin 300HP Mercury engines, she'll get you out to the fishing spots fast, cruising at speeds up to 63 knots. The boat comfortably handles 6 anglers with plenty of deck space for fighting fish and moving around. You'll have everything needed for a successful day - GPS and radar for navigation, fish finder to locate the action, plus an icebox to keep your catch fresh and drinks cold. The wireless trolling motor lets you position quietly over structure where grouper and cobia like to hide. Whether you're targeting mahi-mahi in blue water or working the reefs for amberjack, this setup gives you the range and reliability to fish Charleston's best offshore waters with confidence.
Istiophorus AlbicansSailfish are the ultimate offshore gamefish - they average 40-60 pounds with that iconic sail-like dorsal fin. These speed demons cruise the 30-200 foot range, following warm water and baitfish. Winter months bring the best action as they migrate through our waters. What makes them special is the fight - they'll jump, dive, and run like nothing else out here. That massive fin isn't just for show either - they use it to herd schools of baitfish. Most anglers release these beauties since they're not great eating. The secret is patience: when one shows up behind your spread, don't get excited and jerk the bait away - let them eat, then hold on tight for the ride of a lifetime.
Rachycentron CanadumCobia are one of my favorite targets - they average 20-40 pounds and can reach 100+. These dark brown fish cruise alone or in small groups around structure in 30-70 feet. Spring migration (April-June) is prime time when they're spawning and moving through. What's cool about cobia is they're often spotted right at the surface, making for exciting sight fishing. They're aggressive predators that'll eat crabs, squid, and small fish. The meat is outstanding - firm and white, some say better than grouper. Here's the trick: when you see one, cast past it and work your bait back in front - they spook easily if you drop it right on their head.
Mycteroperca MicrolepisGag grouper are chunky bottom dwellers that average 5-15 pounds, though 30+ pounders show up regularly. They hang around rocky bottom, reefs, and wrecks in 40-200 feet of water. Best fishing is fall through early spring when they're more active. What guests love about gags is the tug-of-war fight - they'll try to drag your bait straight back to their hole. The fillets are excellent eating, firm and mild. Males are darker with reticulated fins, females are lighter with marbled patterns. Here's what works: use live pinfish or cut bait, but once you hook up, lock that drag down and muscle them up fast - give them an inch and they'll wrap you around the bottom structure.
Seriola FasciataThe smallest member of the amberjack family, these guys typically run 5-15 pounds and max out around 25. You'll find them in deeper water than their bigger cousins - usually 180-400 feet down around wrecks, reefs, and structure. They're open year-round but seem more active during warmer months when baitfish are plentiful. Lesser amberjack aren't as well-known as other species, but they put up a solid scrap for their size and make decent table fare. They feed on small fish, squid, and crabs near the bottom. My advice: drop your jig all the way down and work it slow off the bottom - they'll usually hit on the way up when you're jigging vertically.
Coryphaena HippurusThese golden beauties are some of the most colorful fish you'll see offshore. They average 15-30 pounds but can hit 50+ on a good day. Mahi love floating debris and weed lines where they ambush flying fish, usually in 30-200 foot depths. Spring through fall gives us the best action when water temps hit 70°+. What makes them special? That crazy color show when they come up - brilliant blues and golds that fade as you watch. Plus they're fantastic eating with firm, sweet meat. They fight hard with lots of jumps and runs. Pro tip: when you hook one, keep trolling - where there's one mahi, there's usually more following.
5.0 out of 5.010 out of 10 recommend this was our first time going deep-sea fishing and we had a blast. The captain was super nice and gave us g...
Charleston