Fishing Charters Murrells Inlet | Inshore Trip
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Inshore fishing targeting Kings, Spanish Mackerel, and CobiaPrivate charter accommodates up to 4 guests maximumReef fishing with potential shark encounters included
Looking for some serious action on the water? Our inshore fishing charter out of Murrells Inlet puts you right where the fish are biting. This isn't your typical afternoon on the boat – we're talking about getting into some real battles with kings, Spanish mackerel, cobia, and yeah, even some toothy blacktip sharks that'll get your heart pumping. With just four anglers max, you get the personal attention and prime fishing spots that bigger boats can't offer. The waters around Murrells Inlet are loaded with structure and baitfish, making it one of South Carolina's top-rated inshore destinations.
We'll be working the nearshore waters where the action happens – those productive zones just offshore where structure meets open water. The reefs and ledges around Murrells Inlet hold incredible numbers of fish, especially during the warmer months when everything's feeding aggressively. You'll spend your day casting, trolling, and bottom fishing depending on what's biting and where the fish are holding. The scenery's pretty spectacular too, but honestly, once you hook into a king mackerel screaming drag or feel that telltale thump of a cobia, the view becomes secondary. We keep groups small at four anglers because it means more room to fight fish, better access to the best spots, and personalized instruction if you need it.
We run a mix of techniques depending on conditions and what's showing up on the fish finder. For kings and Spanish mackerel, we'll troll with planers and wire line, running spoons and cigar minnows at different depths. When we mark cobia, it's sight fishing time – we'll switch to spinning gear with bucktails or live bait and get ready for some serious arm-burning fights. The blacktip sharks usually show up when we're bottom fishing or when there's a lot of bait around, and trust me, they'll let you know they're there. All tackle and bait are provided, but if you've got a lucky rod or favorite reel, bring it along. The boat's rigged with quality Penn and Shimano gear that can handle whatever we hook into, from 20-pound spinning setups to heavy conventional rigs for the big boys.
King mackerel are the crown jewel of our inshore trips, and Murrells Inlet's waters are absolutely loaded with them from late spring through fall. These fish are pure speed and power – when a king hits your spoon at 15 knots, it's game on. They'll make multiple screaming runs, often jumping and tail-walking before you get them to the boat. Most of our kings run between 15 and 40 pounds, with the occasional monster pushing 50-plus. The best action typically happens from May through October when they're feeding heavily on menhaden and sardines around the reefs.
Spanish mackerel might be smaller than their king cousins, but pound-for-pound, they're some of the hardest fighting fish in these waters. They hit like freight trains and never give up, making multiple runs right to the boat. These guys are perfect for lighter tackle and absolutely fantastic eating. They show up in big schools, so when we find them, it's often non-stop action with everyone hooked up at once. Peak season runs from April through November, with the biggest fish showing up in late summer.
Cobia are the bruisers of the bunch – these brown sharks (they're actually not sharks, but they sure fight like them) are some of the strongest fish swimming. They're curious by nature, often swimming right up to the boat, which makes for some exciting sight fishing. Once hooked, they'll dive deep and pull drag like nothing else. Most of our cobia run between 25 and 60 pounds, and they're absolutely delicious table fare. Spring and fall are prime time, especially around structure and when the water temperature's in that sweet spot between 70 and 80 degrees.
Blacktip sharks add that extra element of excitement to any trip. These guys are fast, aggressive, and will absolutely test your drag system and arm strength. When you hook a blacktip, expect multiple jumps, long runs, and a fight that can last 20 minutes or more. They're most active during the warmer months and often show up when we're targeting other species. It's always a rush when someone yells "shark on!" and everyone gathers around to watch the battle unfold.
This charter delivers exactly what serious anglers are looking for – consistent action, quality fish, and the kind of memories that keep you talking about the trip for years. The small group size means you're not fighting for rod space or waiting your turn to fish the prime spots. Our local knowledge of Murrells Inlet's best fishing grounds, combined with top-quality tackle and a boat that can get you there comfortably, makes this a customer favorite for both locals and visitors. Whether you're after bragging rights, a fish dinner, or just want to feel that adrenaline rush of a big fish peeling drag, this is your ticket to some of South Carolina's best inshore action. The calendar fills up fast, especially during peak season, so grab your spot and get ready for some serious fishing.
Get ready to chase Kings, Spanish Mackerel, and Cobia aboard our 2023 Carolina Yachts 23' center console! This fishing machine packs a serious 200HP Suzuki engine that'll get you to the hottest inshore spots around Murrells Inlet at speeds up to 40 knots. The spacious deck gives you and up to 3 other anglers plenty of room to work your lines without bumping elbows. Our fish finder will help you locate schools holding in the structure, while the GPS keeps you on the productive reefs and drop-offs where these gamefish love to hang out. The wireless trolling motor lets you position quietly over finicky fish without spooking them. When visibility drops or weather moves in, the radar keeps you safe and on course. With Carolina's reputation for smooth rides and dry decks, you'll stay comfortable whether you're battling a bull redfish or dealing with that surprise shark that decides to crash your fishing party.
Carcharhinus LimbatusBlacktips average around 5 feet but can hit 9 feet and 270 pounds. You'll spot them by the black-tipped fins cruising shallow waters from 30-100 feet around reefs and muddy bays. They're most active during warmer months when baitfish are thick. What makes them fun is their acrobatic jumps – they can launch 21 feet per second out of the water! They're also known for being a bit excitable, sometimes even jumping right into boats during feeding frenzies. The fight is aggressive but they can be timid too. My go-to technique is heavy braided line with circle hooks, chumming with oily fish like mackerel or sardines. Keep multiple lines out since they patrol in small groups around structure.
Rachycentron CanadumCobia are the loners of the nearshore world, typically running solo except during spawning. These brown bruisers average 6 feet and 100 pounds, living up to 12 years. You'll find them around reefs, wrecks, and buoys in 30-70 feet, though they can go deeper. Spring through summer is prime time, especially during their spawning run. What guests love is the pure strength – they fight like underwater bulldozers. Plus, the meat is top-shelf table fare with firm texture and great flavor. Since they're usually alone, we sight-fish for them near the surface or work structure with bucktail jigs. Here's the key: once you hook one, keep steady pressure. They'll try to wrap you around whatever structure they're near.
Scomberomorus CavallaKing Mackerel are built for speed and can reach 30+ pounds, with females growing larger than males. These olive-backed fighters cruise nearshore waters from 40-150 feet, often around reefs and structure where baitfish gather. Spring through fall offers the best action when water temps hit 68-84°F. What makes them special is that lightning-fast run when they hit your bait – they're as quick as wahoo. The meat's rich and flaky, perfect for grilling. Here's a local trick: use a two-hook rig on wire leader since kings love to bite the tail end of live bait. First hook through the nose, second hook trailing near the tail. They'll nail sardines, blue runners, or any oily baitfish we're seeing that day.
Scomberomorus MaculatusSpanish Mackerel are speed demons averaging 1-2 feet and 8-11 pounds, traveling in large schools that can stretch for miles. These silver bullets with yellow spots cruise nearshore waters, often near the surface around structure, flats, and oyster bars. Spring through fall brings the best action, with warmer months pushing them closer to shore. Guests love the fast-paced action when you find a school – it's fish after fish. They're also excellent eating with mild, flaky meat that grills perfectly. The trick is light tackle and small shiny spoons or jigs. When you see birds diving, get there fast but drift quietly to the school – motor noise spooks them quickly. Wire leader helps with those sharp teeth.
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