Destinations and TripsView More >>>
April 7, 2025

Myrtle Beach Fishing: Your Guide to South Carolina's Best Catches

Are you planning a fishing trip to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina? You've come to the right place. Myrtle Beach is a renowned fishing destination with a wide variety of angling opportunities for both novice and seasoned anglers. Whether you're interested in saltwater or freshwater fishing, Myrtle Beach has it all. From surf fishing along the beautiful coastline to casting a line in the serene inland waters, the options are plentiful. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the best fishing spots, the most sought-after species, essential tips for a successful fishing experience, and much more. So, grab your tackle box, and let's dive into the ultimate Myrtle Beach fishing adventure.

Best Fishing Spots in Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach offers a diverse range of fishing spots, each with its own charm and unique opportunities. Whether you prefer surf fishing, pier fishing, or freshwater angling, you'll find the perfect spot to indulge in your favorite fishing activities. Here are some of the best fishing locations in Myrtle Beach:

Apache Pier

Spanning 1,206 feet over the Atlantic Ocean, Apache Pier is an iconic fishing location in Myrtle Beach. The pier offers anglers the opportunity to target various species, including flounder, Spanish mackerel, and king mackerel. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced angler, fishing off the Apache Pier can be an exhilarating experience. The scenic views and the abundance of marine life make it a must-visit spot for fishing enthusiasts.

Murrells Inlet

Known as the "Seafood Capital of South Carolina," Murrells Inlet is not only a paradise for seafood lovers but also a fantastic location for inshore and nearshore fishing. The saltwater marshes and creeks in this area teem with red drum, speckled trout, and flounder, providing anglers with ample opportunities to test their skills. Whether you prefer fishing from a boat, kayak, or the shoreline, Murrells Inlet offers an idyllic setting for a memorable angling experience.

Myrtle Beach State Park

If you're a fan of surf fishing, Myrtle Beach State Park is the perfect destination for you. With its pristine shoreline and abundant fish populations, this state park provides excellent opportunities for anglers to reel in whiting, pompano, and bluefish. The convenience of beach access and the tranquil surroundings make it an ideal location for a relaxing day of fishing with family and friends.

Popular Fish Species

When it comes to fishing in Myrtle Beach, anglers can target a wide array of fish species, both in freshwater and saltwater environments. Some of the most sought-after fish species in the Myrtle Beach area include:

Red Drum

Also known as redfish, red drum are prized by anglers for their powerful fights and delectable flesh. These fish are commonly found in the estuaries, marshes, and shallow bays of Myrtle Beach, offering anglers the chance to hook into a thrilling catch. Whether you're casting from the shore or navigating the inshore waters, red drum are a prevalent and popular species to target.

Flounder

Flounder are highly coveted among anglers for their delicate flavor and distinctive flat bodies. In the waters around Myrtle Beach, anglers can pursue both southern and summer flounder, particularly in areas with sandy and muddy bottoms. For those who enjoy a challenging yet rewarding catch, targeting flounder in the inlets and nearshore waters can provide an exciting angling experience.

Speckled Trout

Speckled trout, also known as spotted sea trout, are a favorite among anglers for their elusive nature and thrilling strikes. These fish inhabit the shallow coastal waters and estuaries, making them accessible to anglers who prefer inshore fishing. Myrtle Beach's brackish marshes and tidal creeks offer excellent opportunities to pursue speckled trout using a variety of artificial lures and live bait.

Tips for a Successful Fishing Trip

To ensure a memorable and successful fishing trip in Myrtle Beach, consider these essential tips:

Check Local Regulations

Prior to your fishing excursion, familiarize yourself with the local fishing regulations and licensing requirements. It's important to adhere to size limits, bag limits, and seasonal closures to contribute to sustainable fishing practices and compliance with the law.

Be Mindful of the Environment

Respect the natural surroundings and wildlife by properly disposing of trash and avoiding any actions that may harm the local ecosystem. By being considerate of the environment, you can help preserve the beauty of Myrtle Beach for future generations of anglers.

Stay Informed About Weather Conditions

Keep an eye on weather forecasts and tides to plan your fishing trip effectively. Being aware of the weather conditions and tidal movements can significantly impact your fishing success and safety while out on the water.

Engage with Local Anglers

Strike up conversations with local anglers or visit nearby tackle shops to gather valuable insights and recommendations. Local knowledge can be invaluable when it comes to understanding the behavior of fish in specific areas and discovering the most effective fishing techniques.

Conclusion

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, beckons anglers with its rich fishing heritage and diverse aquatic landscapes. Whether you're drawn to the thrill of offshore angling or prefer the tranquility of freshwater fishing, Myrtle Beach has something for everyone. With an abundance of fishing spots, a variety of prized fish species, and a welcoming angling community, Myrtle Beach stands out as a premier destination for fishing enthusiasts. By immersing yourself in the bountiful waters of Myrtle Beach, you're sure to create lasting memories and reel in some remarkable catches.

Q: What types of fishing are available in Myrtle Beach?

A: Myrtle Beach offers both saltwater and freshwater fishing opportunities, including surf fishing, pier fishing, inshore fishing, and nearshore fishing.

Q: Where is Apache Pier located and what fish species can be caught there?

A: Apache Pier extends 1,206 feet over the Atlantic Ocean in Myrtle Beach. You can catch species like flounder, Spanish mackerel, and king mackerel.

Q: What makes Murrells Inlet a good fishing spot?

A: Murrells Inlet has saltwater marshes and creeks teeming with red drum, speckled trout, and flounder, making it a great location for inshore and nearshore fishing.

Q: If I want to go surf fishing, where should I go in Myrtle Beach?

A: Myrtle Beach State Park is an excellent destination for surf fishing, offering opportunities to catch whiting, pompano, and bluefish.

Q: What are some popular fish species to target in Myrtle Beach?

A: Some popular fish species include red drum, flounder, and speckled trout.

Q: What is red drum also known as, and where can I find them?

A: Red drum are also known as redfish. They're commonly found in the estuaries, marshes, and shallow bays of Myrtle Beach.

Q: What kind of flounder can you catch in Myrtle Beach?

A: In the waters around Myrtle Beach, anglers can pursue both southern and summer flounder, particularly in areas with sandy and muddy bottoms.

Q: What kind of bait to use to target speckled trout?

A: Myrtle Beach's brackish marshes and tidal creeks offer excellent opportunities to pursue speckled trout using a variety of artificial lures and live bait.

Q: What should I check before going on a fishing trip in Myrtle Beach?

A: Before your trip, you should check local fishing regulations and licensing requirements.

Q: What should I do to help to perserve the beauty of Myrtle Beach?

A: Respect the natural surroundings and wildlife by properly disposing of trash and avoiding any actions that may harm the local ecosystem.

Q: Why is it important to stay informed about weather conditions before fishing?

A: Being aware of the weather conditions and tidal movements can significantly impact your fishing success and safety while out on the water.

Q: What kind of local knowledge can I get before going on a fishing trip?

A: Local knowledge can be invaluable when it comes to understanding the behavior of fish in specific areas and discovering the most effective fishing techniques.

Related to Destinations and Trips

No items found.

Disclaimer

Fishing regulations, including size and bag limits, and seasonal closures are subject to change. Anglers should consult the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) for the most up-to-date regulations before fishing. Adherence to these regulations is the responsibility of each individual angler. The information provided in this guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional fishing advice. Fishing conditions and species availability can vary.