Wahoo & Tuna Trolling Adventure
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Offshore trolling targets Wahoo and Blackfin Tuna speciesExpert guidance provided for deep sea fishing experienceAccommodates up to 6 guests per charter trip
There's nothing quite like the adrenaline rush of watching a wahoo explode on your trolled ballyhoo at 30 knots, and that's exactly what you'll experience on this top-rated offshore charter with Miss Emily Charters. Operating out of Johns Island, SC, this trip targets two of the most sought-after pelagic species in these waters - wahoo and blackfin tuna. You'll spend your day running and gunning in the deep blue, covering water where these speed demons hunt. Captain and crew know these waters like the back of their hand, positioning you over the right structure and temperature breaks where these fish congregate. With a guest capacity of six anglers, there's plenty of room to spread out multiple lines without getting tangled up when the bite gets hot.
This is a serious offshore operation, not a casual inshore trip. You'll be heading out to the blue water where the real action happens, often running 20-40 miles offshore to find the right conditions. The boat is rigged specifically for high-speed trolling, which is the bread and butter technique for wahoo and blackfin tuna. Expect an early morning departure to maximize your fishing time and get on the grounds before other boats. The crew will have the spread ready to go - typically running a combination of ballyhoo, cedar plugs, and high-speed lures designed to trigger strikes from these aggressive predators. The fishing here is heavily dependent on water temperature, bait presence, and structure, so your captain will be constantly reading the electronics and adjusting the game plan throughout the day.
High-speed trolling is an art form, and this crew has it dialed in. You'll typically be pulling baits at 8-15 knots, covering serious water to locate active fish. The boat runs a spread of 4-6 lines, with a mix of natural baits like ballyhoo and artificial lures positioned at different distances behind the boat. Wire leaders are essential when targeting wahoo - their razor-sharp teeth will slice through monofilament in a heartbeat. The crew handles all the rigging and boat positioning while you focus on fighting the fish. When a fish hits, it's all hands on deck - clearing lines and getting the angler in the chair for what could be a blistering run. These fish are known for their initial burst of speed, so be ready for your drag to start screaming the moment you set the hook.
Wahoo are the speed demons of the offshore world, capable of reaching speeds over 60 mph and known for their aggressive strikes on high-speed trolled baits. These sleek predators typically range from 15-50 pounds in these waters, with the occasional trophy pushing 60+ pounds. Peak season runs from late fall through early spring when water temperatures drop into the mid-70s, but they can be caught year-round. What makes wahoo so exciting is their explosive strike and blistering initial run - they'll take 200+ yards of line in seconds if your drag isn't set properly. Their razor-sharp teeth and torpedo-like build make them one of the most challenging fish to hook and land consistently.
Blackfin tuna are the workhorses of the offshore trolling scene, aggressive feeders that travel in schools and provide consistent action when you locate them. These fish typically range from 10-25 pounds and are known for their strength and stamina rather than speed. They're most active during temperature breaks and around structure like ledges and drop-offs, often feeding alongside dolphins and birds. Blackfin season peaks in late spring through early fall, but they're present year-round in varying numbers. What anglers love about blackfin is their willingness to bite and their excellent table fare - they're arguably one of the best eating fish in the ocean when handled properly.
This world-class offshore fishing experience books up fast, especially during peak season when conditions are prime. Keep in mind that fuel costs ($1,100-$1,400) are additional and depend on how far offshore you need to run to find fish - it's a small price to pay for the chance at these premier gamefish. The crew's local knowledge and years of experience fishing these waters give you the best shot at a successful trip. Whether you're a seasoned offshore angler or looking to step up from inshore fishing, this charter delivers the goods. Don't wait too long to secure your dates - the best fishing days fill up months in advance, and you don't want to miss your chance at hooking into some of the fastest fish in the ocean.
This 39-foot Luhrs convertible is built for serious offshore action around Johns Island waters. Twin 420HP Caterpillar diesels push her up to 27 knots, getting you to the productive wahoo and blackfin tuna grounds fast. The roomy cockpit comfortably handles up to 6 anglers with plenty of space to work multiple rods when the fish are biting. Her sportfishing design features outriggers for proper trolling spreads and enough deck space to handle those line-screaming wahoo runs. The cabin provides shelter between fishing spots, while the flybridge gives your captain excellent visibility to spot birds and bait. Built tough for blue water fishing, this boat handles the offshore conditions you'll encounter chasing pelagics. Perfect setup for targeting the fast-moving gamefish that frequent these South Carolina waters.
Thunnus AtlanticusBlackfin tuna are the scrappy fighters of the tuna family, usually running 10-25 pounds with that classic tuna build and beautiful golden stripe along their sides. They school up in deeper coastal waters, typically 60-300 feet, and love hanging around structure and temperature breaks. Best fishing here is fall through early spring when they're most active in our warmer waters. Don't let their smaller size fool you - blackfin fight way above their weight class with that classic tuna power. They're also top-shelf table fare, perfect for sashimi or searing. Here's the key: scale down your tackle and use lighter fluorocarbon leaders since these fish have sharp eyes. A 30-pound fluoro leader with 5/0 circle hooks works perfect, and live pilchards for chum will bring them right to the boat.
Acanthocybium SolandriWahoo are built for speed - these sleek predators can hit 60 mph and typically run 20-50 pounds, though we've seen monsters over 80. They cruise the blue water columns from 30-200 feet, often near temperature breaks and current edges. Around Johns Island, our best wahoo action happens from late spring through fall when the Gulf Stream pushes closer to shore. What makes them special? That blistering run when they hit your bait - pure adrenaline. Plus, wahoo are fantastic eating with firm, white meat that's perfect for the grill. Pro tip: we troll fast (12-15 knots) with wire leaders since their razor teeth will slice through mono in a heartbeat. Watch for diving birds - they'll point you to the bait schools wahoo love to ambush.
Johns Island