Hilton Head Fishing Charters
Information on outstanding fishing charters in the Hilton Head Island, Daufuskie Island, Palmetto Bluff, and Bluffton, South Carolina area. Hilton Head fishing is the finest in the lowcountry!
There are a variety of options for Hilton Head fishing charters, and the best choice for you depends on what type of fishing you'd like to do, the size, composition, and experience of your group, and the location you'd prefer exploring with your professional fishing guide.
There are a variety of options for Hilton Head fishing charters, and the best choice for you depends on what type of fishing you'd like to do, the size, composition, and experience of your group, and the location you'd prefer exploring with your professional fishing guide.
The charm of fishing is that it is the pursuit of what is elusive but attainable, a perpetual series of occasions for hope.
John Buchan
Hilton Head Fishing Charters by Destination
When discussing charters it's important to clarify certain "location" terms. Please be aware that different fishing companies might use the same terms (specifically "Deep Sea") to totally different experiences (Inshore vs Offshore). It's best to clarify exactly what is meant and be sure it is an appropriate experience for your group. Here's a description of various on-water destinations:
Inshore Fishing Charters
Inshore fishing in Hilton Head includes the tidal creeks, sounds (think "small bay"), and the nearshore region off the beach typically still within sight of land.This is by far the most popular fishing destination of most Hilton Head Fishing Charters because it's accessible in a half day or less.
Generally, inshore fishing charters are on boats for up to 6 passengers, plus the captain, but some captains may prefer smaller groups in certain circumstances or with certain boats. It's wise to not overcrowd a boat for the best fishing experience.
The inshore waters are incredibly active as they are the estuary, or "nursery" of the ocean. A diverse range of species live inshore for at least part of their life cycle, even if they move to the open ocean as adults. The locally popular Red Drum is a perfect example, living its juvenile life in the creeks and rivers, then moving to open offshore waters as an adult. They come back inshore during spawning.
Generally, inshore fishing charters are on boats for up to 6 passengers, plus the captain, but some captains may prefer smaller groups in certain circumstances or with certain boats. It's wise to not overcrowd a boat for the best fishing experience.
The inshore waters are incredibly active as they are the estuary, or "nursery" of the ocean. A diverse range of species live inshore for at least part of their life cycle, even if they move to the open ocean as adults. The locally popular Red Drum is a perfect example, living its juvenile life in the creeks and rivers, then moving to open offshore waters as an adult. They come back inshore during spawning.
Flats Fishing Charters
Flats fishing is a specialized type of "inshore" fishing. Flats Boats offer an excellent opportunity for coastal marsh fishing. Typically setup for 1-2 people fishing, plus a guide, a flats boat charter is the most personalized guided charter fishing available. Sight casting opportunities for Redfish and Trout are numerous, among other species depending on season. Flats boat fishing guides tend to be among the most experienced, seasoned captains in the business. Likewise, due to the experience required to operate an excellent flats boat guiding service, they are also few and far between. The charters listed here are outstanding guides with many years fishing Hilton Head Island and the surrounding Lowcountry waters.
"Deep Sea" Fishing
The term "Deep Sea" Fishing is thrown about rather loosely. In Hilton Head, "Deep Sea" could be used to describe any deepwater fishing, whether it's technically inshore, nearshore, or offshore. In fact, the closest deep holes to Hilton Head are primarily inshore by definition, with certain hotspots that are 50'-70' deep being just a stones throw from land on the backcountry side of the island.
Just because it's "deep" doesn't necessarily mean "fish are there," but it's important to understand where and how you'll be fishing. One charter company might throw about the term "Deep Sea" Fishing when referring to a 3-4 hour trip that may not venture beyond the mouth of Port Royal Sound, while another captain might refer to "Deep Sea" when talking about Gulf Stream fishing 80 miles out on a 12 hour trip… The difference is substantial. One is appropriate for a 10 year old, the other is not.
We suggest you not use the term "Deep Sea" at all, and discuss the specific areas you will be fishing and intended target species.
Just because it's "deep" doesn't necessarily mean "fish are there," but it's important to understand where and how you'll be fishing. One charter company might throw about the term "Deep Sea" Fishing when referring to a 3-4 hour trip that may not venture beyond the mouth of Port Royal Sound, while another captain might refer to "Deep Sea" when talking about Gulf Stream fishing 80 miles out on a 12 hour trip… The difference is substantial. One is appropriate for a 10 year old, the other is not.
We suggest you not use the term "Deep Sea" at all, and discuss the specific areas you will be fishing and intended target species.
Offshore Fishing Charters
A true Offshore Fishing Charter is a serious adventure not for the faint of heart.
Similar to the phrase "Deep Sea," the term "Offshore" can mean different things to different people.
"Offshore" doesn't mean fishing from the shore, or even just off the shore. True Offshore fishing is ocean-specific, beyond the nearshore coastal region.
By default, a 4 hour "Offshore" fishing charter will mean you're staying fairly close to land, within the first few miles away from the beach, but still in the nearshore vicinity and typically in sight of land. If it were any more than that, you'd spend the whole time getting there and back, rather than fishing!
5 miles from the dock does not equate to 5 miles offshore.
To get to offshore wrecks and reefs in the 5-25 mile range, you'll probably want a 6 or 8 hour trip that offers plenty of fishing time, relative to travel time.
Gulf Stream offshore fishing is a distant 60-80 miles out, where targets like Dolphin (Mahi Mahi) and Wahoo are found. In Hilton Head, a Gulf Stream trip means launching at 3 or 4 in the morning, in order to start fishing by first light. Expect 12+ hours for this kind of trip.
Similar to the phrase "Deep Sea," the term "Offshore" can mean different things to different people.
"Offshore" doesn't mean fishing from the shore, or even just off the shore. True Offshore fishing is ocean-specific, beyond the nearshore coastal region.
By default, a 4 hour "Offshore" fishing charter will mean you're staying fairly close to land, within the first few miles away from the beach, but still in the nearshore vicinity and typically in sight of land. If it were any more than that, you'd spend the whole time getting there and back, rather than fishing!
5 miles from the dock does not equate to 5 miles offshore.
To get to offshore wrecks and reefs in the 5-25 mile range, you'll probably want a 6 or 8 hour trip that offers plenty of fishing time, relative to travel time.
Gulf Stream offshore fishing is a distant 60-80 miles out, where targets like Dolphin (Mahi Mahi) and Wahoo are found. In Hilton Head, a Gulf Stream trip means launching at 3 or 4 in the morning, in order to start fishing by first light. Expect 12+ hours for this kind of trip.
Hilton Head Fishing Charters by Target Species
Hilton Head Red Fishing
A year round target for Hilton Head is the Redfish (Red Drum). The younger Reds in the "keeper" range of 15"-23" can be found in the creeks, flats, and oyster reef areas of the tidal salt marsh around Hilton Head Island.
Larger "Bull" Reds visit inshore occasionally, and are most likely to be found in late Summer / early Fall in a few specific areas where they are believed to gather for breeding. Outside of this, you'll see them occasionally around artificial wrecks and reefs offshore throughout the rest of the year.
Larger "Bull" Reds visit inshore occasionally, and are most likely to be found in late Summer / early Fall in a few specific areas where they are believed to gather for breeding. Outside of this, you'll see them occasionally around artificial wrecks and reefs offshore throughout the rest of the year.
(Coming Soon!)
Shark Fishing in Hilton Head
One of the most popular targets, especially if you're looking for consistent action during the warm water months.
In the tidal creeks you'll find Bonnethead, Sharpnose, and Blacktip sharks. Larger species such as Lemon Sharks, Tiger Sharks, and Hammerheads also visit the inshore region, but tend to stick to deep areas around Port Royal Sound or Calibogue Sound, and of course the open ocean.
In the tidal creeks you'll find Bonnethead, Sharpnose, and Blacktip sharks. Larger species such as Lemon Sharks, Tiger Sharks, and Hammerheads also visit the inshore region, but tend to stick to deep areas around Port Royal Sound or Calibogue Sound, and of course the open ocean.
(Coming Soon!)
Cobia Fishing Charters
The waters between Hilton Head Island, Bay Point Island, and Parris Island are part of perhaps the largest inshore spawning area of Cobia in the southeast US. Every Spring, thousands of chocolate "brownies" migrate inshore to breed. The males of the species are smaller, in the 10-30 pound range, and the females can easily double that and more.
Offshore, the artificial wrecks and reefs in the 10-20 mile range in particular offer some of the best Cobia fishing in the world. Anglers benefit from clear waters where sight casting to cobia can be either frustrating or exhilarating, depending on the mood of the fish. When the bite is on, it's amazing!
Offshore, the artificial wrecks and reefs in the 10-20 mile range in particular offer some of the best Cobia fishing in the world. Anglers benefit from clear waters where sight casting to cobia can be either frustrating or exhilarating, depending on the mood of the fish. When the bite is on, it's amazing!
(Coming Soon!)
Complete Listing of Hilton Head Fishing Charters:
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A Live One
A Live One
Freeman 29
Capt. Blair Willis
A professional waterman since 1996, Capt. Blair guides inshore and offshore fishing trips for all species. His charter fishing boat, A Live One, is a Freeman 29, unique to Hilton Head and one of only about a dozen in the world.
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Cool Cat
Cool Cat
30' Cobia
Capt. Chris Prince
Join Capt. Chris aboard his 30' Cobia with twin Yamaha outboards and have some fun on the water! Cobia, Sharks, and Redfish are some of the primary targets at different times of the year, and Cool Cat will put you in the right spot for the best opportunity to catch 'em up! HiltonHeadIslandFishing.net -
EZ-Cat Charters
EZ-Cat Charters
31' Cape Horn - Capt. Eric Moore
Located on the North End Of Hilton Head Island, Captain Eric Moore is always ready to take you on your most epic fishing trip!
While fishing aboard the EZ CAT you will travel in a 31ft Cape Horn, powered by two 300 Yamahas. Captain Eric will customize a trip for you; from teaching trips for youngsters and families to exciting trips for experienced fishing enthusiasts.
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Hammerhead
Live Oac's Hammerhead
25' FJ&S SportFish — Capt. Travis Meissner
Hammerhead™ is Live Oac's 25' SportFish guided by Capt. Travis Meissner, who has been leading trips with Hilton Head's Live Oac for nearly a decade. Specialties include redfish and shark fishing in Port Royal and Calibogue Sounds, and yes, Hammerheads are not uncommon when you're fishing with Captain Travis! -
Outcast
Outcast Sport Fishing
26' Glacier Bay
Capt. Chip Michalove
The Outcast is a 26 foot Glacier Bay Catamaran powered by twin Yamaha outboards. Cats typically provide a softer ride on the water. The twin hulls cut through the waves minimizing the pounding and slapping of conventional monohulls. Capt. Chip Michalove is shark fishing specialist, and has caught and released more Great White Sharks than any other Hilton Head Island charter captain! OutcastFishing.com -
Polecat Sportfishing
Polecat Sportfishing
27' Pro Sports Catamaran
Capt. Jon "Gumbo" DeLoach
Captain "Gumbo" has fished Hilton Head since the early 80s, and brings his experience as both a charter captain and a multiple tournament winner to you on a charter aboard Polecat. PoleCatCharters.com -
Reelin'
Reelin' Charters
31' Cape Horn
Capt. Marc Pincus
Capt. Marc Pincus brings his years of charter and tournament fishing experience to guests aboard a 31' Cape Horn with twin Yamaha F300s to get you where you need to go fast and in comfort. Marc organizes the long running annual SC Wahoo Series and the Hilton Head Harbor Wahoo Shootout tournaments, and is a long time participant in SKA Kingfish Tournaments. His tournament-honed expertise is at your service aboard charters for various species inshore and offshore in Hilton Head. ReelinCharters.com -
Runaway
Runaway
31' Custom Sportfish
Capt. Jackson Larson
Capt. Jackson Larson is your guide aboard Runaway since 2018. At 31 feet long with a 12 foot beam, she's a roomy, smooth riding and comfortable sport fishing boat. RunawayFishingCharter.com -
Stingray
Live Oac's Stingray
Yellowfin 17 Skiff
Check out the flats and inshore waters aboard Live Oac's Stingray. This Yellowfin 17 Skiff offers a fantastic ride and the ability to get into super skinny water where the redfish like to hide. All Live Oac fishing guides offer years of experience and provide a perfect blend of engagement for both beginning anglers and lifelong fishing fanatics. -
Stray Cat Charters
Stray Cat
37' Tideline Catamaran
Capt. Jim Clark
Stray Cat's twin Yamaha 425s(!!!) provide fast access to the Hilton Head's north end fishing grounds. Enjoy a quick and easy ride aboard the Stray Cat fishing for Hilton Head's best catch. StrayCatCharter.com -
Sweet Pea Fishing
Sweet Pea Fishing
29' World Cat
Capt. John Brackett
Capt. John Brackett is an experienced fishing charter captain as well as a professional photographer. Enjoy a great day of fishing on a comfortable riding cat boat with the latest electronics, tackle, and an enclosed head. Fish for species including Redfish, Seatrout, Sheepshead and more. SweetPeaFishing.com -
More Hilton Head Fishing Charters…
Awesome Adventure Charters
23' Jones Brothers & 24' Everglades
Capt. Kai Williams
Private fishing charters with Awesome Adventure Charters include light tackle and fly fishing Hilton Head's inshore and nearshore waters. AwesomeAdventureCharters.comBay Runner
Pathfinder 2400
Capt. Miles Altman
Over 4 decades in the charter and seafood business, Capt. Miles brings a wealth of knowledge to your service aboard his Hilton Head fishing charters with Bayrunner. bayrunnerfishinghiltonhead.comBlack & Blue
30' Blackfin
Capt. Stratton Politzer
Capt. Stratton is a Hilton Head Island third generation charter fisherman, learning the ropes with his father and grandfather. A well established waterman in his own right, Stratton runs a custom Blackfin sportfishing boat that is roomy and plenty fast with twin 300hp Suzuki motors.
blackandbluechartershhi.comBulldog
32' Sportfish
Capt. Christiaan Politzer
A second generation charter fisherman, Capt. Christiaan brings a tremendous amount of experience to you aboard the Bulldog. Fish inshore or offshore for a variety of species including king mackerel, cobia, grouper, snapper, tarpon, and monster sharks. bulldogfishingcharters.comCatmandoo
27' Pro Sports Catamaran
Capt. Jim
Decades of HHI fishing knowledge are at your service with Capt. Jim on the Catmandoo. Enjoy a Hilton Head fishing charter anywhere from a foot of water inshore to 100 miles out, there is something for everyone. HHIDeepSeaFishing.comCleopatra Charters
18' Hewes Bonefisher
Capt. Jimmy Reese
Capt. Jimmy Reese is one of Hilton Head's most experienced flats fishing charter captains, and he'd love to share that expertise with you on a Hilton Head Fishing Charter aboard Cleopatra. CleopatraCharters.comFishin' Coach
22' Century Bay Boat
Capt. Dan Utley
Captain Dan is an expert inshore fisherman with the patience to "Coach Up" beginning angler and the knowledge to challenge the experienced fisherman. FishinCoach.comGullah Gal
34' Crusader Fly Bridge
Capt. Jeff Kline
Family fishing fun aboard the Gullah Gal departing Shelter Cove Marina for your next Hilton Head fishing charter. hiltonheadislandcharterfishing.comHoney B
35' Bertram
Capt. Jeff Kline
Family fishing fun aboard Honey B departing Shelter Cove Marina for your next Hilton Head fishing charter. hiltonheadislandcharterfishing.comLoCo Fly Charters
18' Maverick
Capt. Mark Nutting
Hop aboard LoCo Fly Charters' 18' Maverick skiff with Capt. Mark who is a fly fishing specialist. Beginners are welcome and light tackle is available as an alternative. LoCoFlyCharters.comMegabite
23' Parker SE Sportfish
Capt. Kent Bird
Capt. Kent Bird is a native island local who started fishing in the early 70s. Benefit from his lifetime of Hilton Head fishing experience aboard the Megabite for a fantastic charter trip. MegabiteFishingHiltonHead.comMighty Mako
Custom 25' Center Console
Capt. Dave Fleming
Capt. Dave has over 20 years guiding experience and his resume includes thousands of satisfied and appreciative vacationing anglers. The Mighty Mako has a huge amount of fishing space, with a wide 9 foot beam. It's shallow 10 inch draft allows access to tight spots you can't reach in other boats, and this can make the difference in finding the fish. MightMako.comOff The Hook
21' Egret Flats Boat
Capt. Bryan Vaughn
Capt. Brian is a light tackle and fly fishing specialist with over 25 years experience guiding charters. OffTheHookCharters.comPapa Bear
34' Yellowfin
Capt. Michael Perry
Capt. Michael Perry is a third generation fishing guide who has been guiding Hilton Head fishing charters since the mid 90s. You'll enjoy a great experience inshore or offshore fishing with Papa Bear. papabearcharters.comSouthern Spots
Skeeter SX240
Capt. Wes Chesnutt
Capt. Wes will lead your Hilton Head fishing charter in search of inshore and nearshore targets like redfish, cobia, sharks and more. His custom bay boat has a tower for spotting fish and a bimini top for shade. southernsportsfishingcharters.comTallboy
28' Dusky CC
Capt. Richard Pollitzer
Enjoy a great ride, lots of fishing space, and comfort aboard Tallboy with Capt. Richard Pollitzer. tallboyfishingcharters.comTop Shot Sport Fishing
31' Morgan
Capt. Jay Prescott
Enjoy a Hilton Head Fishing Charter with Capt. Jay Prescott aboard the Top Shot, a beautiful 1989 Morgan sport fishing boat powered by a Caterpillar turbo diesel. topshotsportfishing.comTrue Grits
34' Fitz Fly Bridge
Capt. Jeff Kline
Family fishing fun aboard True Grits departing Shelter Cove Marina for your next Hilton Head fishing charter. hiltonheadislandcharterfishing.com
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