Myrtle Beach Half Day Fishing Trips

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is a destination for fishing, even though many folks visit for golf, weddings, or a family vacation. No matter your reason, you will want to plan a half day fishing charter while you are in Myrtle Beach. This article is a good starting point to help you determine what to look for, and what to expect, when booking a half day fishing charter near Myrtle Beach.

Where Can You Find a Fishing Charter in Myrtle Beach, SC?

If you plan to visit Myrtle Beach, you are probably thinking about fishing at least one day while you’re in the area. South Carolina’s coastal waters provide the ideal setup for a half-day fishing charter. There are several main inlets and over 20 artificial reefs within 15 miles of shore. With this, you can expect to find various charter types along this stretch of The Grand Strand. There are three main inlets along Myrtle Beach’s coastline.

Popular Inlets Located along the Grand Strand

• Little River
• Murrells Inlet
• Winyah Bay

While Little River and Murrell’s Inlet have their place, you will want to consider Winyah Bay for your inshore fishing charter. If you are looking for a deep-sea fishing trip, Little River and Murrell’s Inlet are good options due to their proximity to the ocean; however, those inlets offer limited options for inshore fishing. Winyah Bay is located in Georgetown, which is a short drive from Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach.

Why Book a Half Day Fishing Charter in Myrtle Beach, SC?

A half day trip is the most popular option for folks searching for a fishing charter in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Since vacation rentals normally run for one week, Myrtle Beach visitors are looking for a quality experience with the freedom to make the most out of every day.

Opting for a half day fishing charter in Myrtle Beach, SC provides enough time to get the full experience without taking up your whole day. The duration of these trips give you the opportunity to cover most of a tide cycle where fishing should be productive.

If you’re like me, and you have children with a short attention span, booking a half day is the perfect way for your kids to experience family friendly fishing. You can take comfort in knowing we will return in time for them to talk about their day of fishing the whole ride home!

When you choose a half-day charter, you have the whole day ahead of you upon your return. Visiting Georgetown for your fishing charter will get you away from the crowds and allow you to see more of the Grand Strand, where things aren’t quite so busy.

What to Expect on a Myrtle Beach Half-Day Fishing Charter?

Most Myrtle Beach, SC visitors prefer the morning or afternoon 4 and 5-hour options for their half-day fishing trip, which allows you to travel light. Bottled waters are usually provided; but you can bring your own beverages (no glass, please). Bring a few snacks if you like, but the short duration of these trips usually leaves snacks uneaten.

The captain will reach out to you the day before the trip to discuss departure time and plans for your fishing charter. This is where you can express any preferences, and expectations for the day can be shared between you and the captain. The captain will let you know what fish are currently biting in Myrtle Beach, and give you an idea of the best bet for having a successful fishing trip.

The actual fishing aspect of a half day fishing charter in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina can vary based on what’s biting and the skill levels aboard. We will use artificial and topwater baits if skilled anglers seek a more active experience. Many times, live bait is going to be the best option regardless of the angler’s fishing experience.

I normally keep things simple and will have bait before leaving the dock. This allows anglers of all skill levels to have the best chance for a successful day of fishing in Myrtle Beach. If better bait is available to be caught, we will spend some time throwing the cast net. Our younger guests always get excited about seeing the different marine life while catching bait!

We will target what I feel may be our best bet unless there is something specific that the charter wants to try to catch. If you want to know what fish are biting in Myrtle Beach, check out our latest fishing calendar and report.

What to Bring on a Half-Day Fishing Trip in Myrtle Beach?

• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen (non-aerosol)
• Comfortable life jacket for children under the age of 10
• Beverages
• Small cooler for your catch

You basically just need the items you normally use for a day in the sun. Most inshore fishing boats do not have a restroom, so you will want to go before leaving the dock. If you need to use the restroom on the water, there are options for you to find some relief in comfort.

What’s Included on a Myrtle Beach Fishing Charter?

Fishing Charter Pricing Includes:

• Coast Guard Licensed and Insured Captain
• Fishing Licenses
• Fishing Gear, Bait, Ice & Fuel
• Bottled Waters
• Clean and Filet your catch (Redfish are catch and release)

All fishing charters in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina should be run by a United States Coast Guard licensed Captain. Professional fishing charter operators will have a South Carolina Charter Boat Permit that covers Saltwater Fishing Licenses for their guests on board.

Any legitimate fishing charter should also carry business and liability insurance for peace of mind. Your Myrtle Beach fishing charter pricing should also include all fishing gear, bait, ice, and fuel. You can literally step on board empty handed!

I provide bottled waters for my Myrtle Beach, South Carolina guests, and if we are fortunate enough to catch some fish to eat, I will also clean and filet your catch. From start to finish, you do the fun part!

A successful trip is where preparation meets opportunity.

Why Fish Winyah Bay from Myrtle Beach?

• Only a 30-minute drive
• Access to multiple estuaries
  • Winyah Bay
  • North Inlet
  • Jetties
  • Santee Delta
  • McClellanville
• Uncrowded waters
• Ability to visit popular coastal communities:
  • Litchfield
  • Pawleys Island
  • Historic Georgetown

You’re probably wondering, “Why should I plan my Myrtle Beach fishing charter in Winyah Bay?” Sure there are other options for a half day fishing charter in Myrtle Beach, but you are looking for the best possible experience!

You will have many more options, with much less boat traffic, to pursue on a half day fishing charter. Being the third largest watershed on the East Coast, Winyah Bay has plenty of room to make the most of an inshore fishing charter and is close to Myrtle Beach.

Winyah Bay offers a unique blend of fishing excitement with scenic views that are second to none. You might be captivated by bald eagles soaring overhead or dolphins playing in the wake behind your boat while waiting for that reel to scream. The bay’s ecosystem is a testament to how a well preserved coastal watershed can provide year round fishing opportunities.

The real kicker is that you are not limited to Winyah Bay, as there are four other estuaries that we can access from the dock on a half day fishing trip! Sometimes the fish may be biting better in one estuary than all others, and I can give you access to that. Little River and Murrell’s Inlet are landlocked bodies of water, and they cannot match the freedom of choosing where to fish out of Winyah Bay!

Making the short drive to Georgetown also allows for a welcome change of pace from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. You will get to see some of the smaller quaint communities that have a lot to offer. Pawley’s Island and Litchfield Beach have a rich history as beach vacation destinations, but they have preserved their heritage to maintain a relaxing atmosphere.

What are the Types of Myrtle Beach Half Day Fishing Trips?

Types of Half Day Fishing Trips Include:

• Inshore Fishing
• Nearshore Fishing
• Tarpon Fishing
• Ecotours

Inshore Fishing Charters in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Inshore charters are the most popular choice for half day fishing trips in Myrtle Beach, SC. Fishing for redfish, trout, and flounder is pretty much a year-round activity in this area; and staying inshore often makes the most of you time on a half day fishing charter. We will be fishing in calm waters of the many creeks and bays near Myrtle Beach.

• Redfish: These fighters, with their copper color and iconic tail spots, often use the bay’s structure to their advantage during a fight, making them exciting to catch.
• Speckled Trout: With their silvery body and distinct dotted patterns, they can be caught year-round.
• Flounder: Masters of camouflage, these flat fish lurk near the bottom, waiting to ambush prey. Anglers need patience and skill to get them to take a hook.
• Sheepshead: These striped fighters, with their human-like teeth, prefer structure and are known to nibble bait stealthily.

The brackish waters of estuaries, where freshwater rivers meet the ocean, create the perfect environment for many game fish species. Marshes, mudflats, and oyster beds are abundant, acting as breeding grounds and providing rich feeding areas. The views of the landscape offer their own rewards in addition to the fishing!

See: Overview of Myrtle Beach Inshore Fishing Charters

Myrtle Beach, SC Nearshore Fishing Charters

For those looking to target offshore quality fish on a half day fishing trip, nearshore fishing offers an excellent alternative for a gulf stream trip. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina’s coast has a network of nearly 15 artificial reefs within 12 miles of shore.

Myrtle Beach Nearshore Species Include:

• King Mackerel: Recognized by their sleek bodies and fierce runs, the drag-screaming runs make kingfish a thrilling fish to target.
• Cobia: These strong and agile fighters often frequent wrecks and can surprise even the most seasoned angler with their strong pull on the line.
• Sharks: A variety of shark species inhabit the nearshore waters. Catching one demands a mix of patience, skill, and strength.
• Spanish Mackerel: These swift swimmers can be found in schools, and are a fun catch on lighter tackle.

The nearshore trips are perfect for those who want a taste of offshore fishing on a half day fishing charter! Nearshore is a little further to run than inshore fishing, but it can be worth the thrill! And with the shoreline always in sight, it offers a comforting backdrop to the expansive waters.

See: Overview of Myrtle Beach Nearshore Fishing Charters

Half Day Tarpon Fishing Trips

While a full day is normally recommend for Tarpon fishing trips, this one is at the top of many angler’s bucket list. Tarpon, often referred to as the “Silver King,” are globally recognized for their sheer strength, acrobatic jumps, and the heart-pounding fights they offer. South Carolina’s waters, particularly around Myrtle Beach, have become a sought-after destination for tarpon enthusiasts.

Tarpon are one of our seasonal species for the Myrtle Beach area, usually from late June to September. I have devoted significant time to understanding tarpon and their habits during the migration in South Carolina.

It’s important to note that tarpon fishing demands patience. While they can occasionally be caught during half-day charters, a full-day commitment often increases the odds, especially for those truly determined to reel one in.

Tarpon fishing is about the experience. The anticipation, the adrenaline rush when you feel the bite, and the awe-inspiring sight of a tarpon leaping out of the water are memories that last a lifetime. During our time together, I will do my best to not only position you for success but also help learn to respect and appreciate the sheer might and beauty of the Silver King.

See: Overview of Myrtle Beach Tarpon Fishing Charters

How Do You Book A Half-Day Fishing Trip in Myrtle Beach?

1. Call the captain to see if they are a good fit
2. Book directly with a local fishing guide
3. Review past customer experiences on Google or TripAdvisor
4. Avoid third-party websites that compete against, and charge the captain for booking your trip
5. We offer online booking as a convenience