Category Archives: Myrtle Beach Fishing Report

Posted on

Thank You for an Incredible Fishing Year with Captain Smiley Fishing Charters

Thank You for an Incredible Fishing Year with Captain Smiley Fishing Charters

Fishing in Myrtle Beach SC
Fishing in Myrtle Beach SC

As another fishing season comes to a close, all of us at Captain Smiley Fishing Charters want to take a moment to say thank you to each and every one of our amazing patrons. This year has been nothing short of incredible, and it’s all because of you—the families, friends, locals, and visitors who chose to spend their time on the water with us.

From early morning lines in the water to sunsets that painted the sky, this season was filled with unforgettable moments. We watched first-time anglers in Myrtle Beach reel in their very first fish, seasoned fishermen land impressive catches, and families create memories that will last a lifetime. Those smiles, laughs, and excited shouts are exactly why we love what we do.

Read More Thank You for an Incredible Fishing Year with Captain Smiley Fishing Charters

Posted on

Unforgettable Fall Fishing Trips for Every Angler

Unforgettable Fall Fishing Trips for Every Angler

fall fishing trips in Myrtle Beach SC
fall fishing trips in Myrtle Beach SC

Fall brings one of the most exciting shifts of the entire fishing season, and it is the reason so many anglers start planning fall fishing trips long before the leaves begin to change. The cooler weather, calmer conditions, and stronger fish activity all come together to create one of the most productive times of the year. When the season arrives in Myrtle Beach SC, the water transforms into a rich feeding zone that attracts a wide mix of species.

Captain Smiley Fishing Charters LLC understands this seasonal shift better than most, and their team has helped countless anglers take advantage of fall opportunities. Because baitfish push into the creeks and estuaries, predator species follow closely behind, which creates incredible action for visiting anglers.

During this time of year, fish move aggressively as they prepare for winter, and this makes each trip more rewarding. Additionally, the milder climate encourages longer hours on the water without the heat that summer brings. It is one of the biggest reasons anglers return every year for fall fishing trips in Myrtle Beach SC.

Read More Unforgettable Fall Fishing Trips for Every Angler

Posted on

Inshore Fishing: Proven Fall Strategies for Bigger Catches

Inshore Fishing: Proven Fall Strategies for Bigger Catches

inshore fishing in Myrtle Beach SC
inshore fishing in Myrtle Beach SC

Fall brings a refreshing change for anglers who love inshore fishing. As the weather cools, the waters come alive with activity, making this one of the best times to land trophy fish. The transition season triggers massive baitfish movement, and predators take full advantage, feeding aggressively before winter sets in. With the right strategy, gear, and timing, your fall fishing adventures can be some of the most rewarding of the year.

Why Fall Offers the Best Inshore Fishing Opportunities

When water temperatures start to drop, species like redfish, flounder, and speckled trout shift into high gear. They chase migrating baitfish and gather in predictable areas, giving anglers more chances for consistent action. Cooler air also means more comfortable fishing conditions and calmer waters—perfect for longer trips.

In Myrtle Beach SC, the fall season delivers some of the most productive inshore fishing in the region. Local guides from Captain Smiley Fishing Charters LLC know these feeding patterns inside out, helping anglers locate the best fishing spots where activity peaks at dawn and dusk.

Read More Inshore Fishing: Proven Fall Strategies for Bigger Catches

Posted on

Labor Day Fishing Guide: Make The Most Of The Long Weekend

Labor Day Fishing Guide: Make The Most Of The Long Weekend

labor day fishing in Myrtle Beach SC
labor day fishing in Myrtle Beach SC

A labor day fishing trip is a simple way to turn the holiday into real memories. It keeps planning easy, puts everyone outdoors, and gives you a break from routine without complicated logistics. Moreover, you can tailor the pace for first-timers or seasoned anglers and still finish the day relaxed.

Labor Day Fishing Benefits: A Simple Plan That Delivers

A labor day fishing outing delivers a final splash of summer without the usual crowds. Captains handle tackle, bait, and safety, so you can focus on fun and photos. Therefore, even mixed-experience groups feel confident from first cast to last.

Weather And Timing For Labor Day Fishing

Late-summer mornings are cooler and afternoons are steady, which suits family schedules. For calm water and quick access to action, consider labor day fishing in Myrtle Beach SC with a short run to productive zones. Additionally, Myrtle Beach fishing often pairs gentle seas with lively seasonal species.

Read More Labor Day Fishing Guide: Make The Most Of The Long Weekend

Posted on

The Real Cost of Charter Fishing: What to Expect

The Real Cost of Charter Fishing: What to Expect

charter fishing in Myrtle Beach SC
charter fishing in Myrtle Beach SC

Dreaming of a day out on the water, reeling in a prize catch with expert guidance by your side? That’s exactly what charter fishing offers. It’s not just a boat ride—it’s a complete fishing experience, led by professionals who know the waters, the fish, and how to help you land them. But before booking your spot, it’s smart to understand the full picture. From trip types to hidden costs, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about the true cost of charter fishing.

1. What Affects the Price of Charter Fishing Trips

Several key factors influence the cost of a charter fishing trip. Understanding these helps you choose an option that suits both your expectations and your budget.

• Location matters: Trips in high-demand fishing spots—whether it’s along the coast or on famous rivers—tend to cost more. You’re paying not just for the view, but for access to well-stocked waters.

• Trip duration: Half-day trips are generally more affordable, while full-day or overnight excursions come at a premium. The longer the trip, the more gear, fuel, and labour involved.

• Type of fishing: Deep-sea or offshore charter fishing often costs more than inshore trips. Offshore excursions require more fuel, larger boats, and heavy-duty equipment, so they come with a higher price tag.

• Seasonal demand: During peak fishing seasons, prices can climb due to high demand. Booking during off-peak months could save you money, though species availability may differ.

So, while some trips might seem costly upfront, the quality and potential of the experience often make it well worth it.

Read More The Real Cost of Charter Fishing: What to Expect

Posted on

Inshore Fishing Secrets: Tips to Make Every Trip Unforgettable

Inshore Fishing Secrets: Tips to Make Every Trip Unforgettable

inshore fishing in Myrtle Beach SC
inshore fishing in Myrtle Beach SC

After learning why inshore fishing keeps anglers hooked year after year, it makes sense to dive deeper into how to make each outing truly rewarding. While shallow-water adventures already promise plenty of action, a few insider strategies help you get the most out of every cast. So, if you crave more bites, bigger fish, and better memories, these tips for smarter inshore fishing belong in your tackle box.

Know the Tides for Successful Inshore Fishing

To start, remember that tides control the entire rhythm of inshore fishing in Myrtle Beach SC. Fish use moving water to find food, so timing your trip around rising or falling tides often means more bites. For instance, predatory fish like redfish or speckled trout love hunting along grass edges and oyster beds when the tide pushes baitfish closer to shore. Use a tide chart before heading out so you’re not left wondering why the water looks lifeless.

Read More Inshore Fishing Secrets: Tips to Make Every Trip Unforgettable

Posted on

Myrtle Beach Fishing: Best Times to Fish in Saltwater and Freshwater

Myrtle Beach Fishing : Best Times to Fish in Saltwater and Freshwater

Myrtle Beach fishing
Myrtle Beach fishing

When planning your next Myrtle Beach fishing adventure, timing makes a major difference. While any day on the water can be enjoyable, knowing how tides, weather, and time of day impact fish behavior gives you a clear advantage. Because Myrtle Beach offers access to both saltwater and freshwater locations, understanding when and where to fish increases your chances of success.

Why Timing Plays a Key Role in Myrtle Beach Fishing

Fish respond strongly to environmental shifts. Water temperature, oxygen levels, light conditions, and wind patterns all influence feeding habits. For example, fish in shallow freshwater areas often become sluggish during hot afternoons due to lower oxygen levels, while early morning and late afternoon conditions are typically more active.

Additionally, Myrtle Beach fishing provides diverse environments, from inland rivers to brackish tidal creeks and the open sea. Learning how to adjust your timing to match these conditions helps you make the most of your trip.

Read More Myrtle Beach Fishing: Best Times to Fish in Saltwater and Freshwater

Posted on

March Fishing Report

Inshore: Captain Smiley Fishing Charters (843-361-7445) reports that March is typically a strong month on the north end of the Grand Strand, and they have every reason to expect that the black drum fishing will continue to be excellent. They will eat live or dead shrimp fished around structure. Redfish should also still be schooled up in skinny water where they can be caught at low tide on shrimp, and at higher stages of the tide they will be found around structure. Trout fishing should turn on at the jetties as well as inshore, and fish will be caught on both live shrimp and artificial baits like Vudu Shrimp. In late February it was nice to see some trout after concerns about a winter kill.

Nearshore: Captain Smiley Fishing Charters reports that in March sheepshead will still be stacked up at the nearshore reefs, and black sea bass should still be relatively close to the coast. Before long weakfish and bonito should start to arrive.

Posted on

February Fishing Report

Inshore: Captain Smiley Fishing Charters (843-361-7445) reports that February offers some of the clearest, prettiest water of the year, and as a result it can be an excellent month for sight-fishing on the north end of the Grand Strand. Redfish will be grouped up into large winter schools that are easy to spot, although it may be hard to get them to bite if they are focused on avoiding dolphins and as their metabolism slows. Fresh cut shrimp on a jighead is a good bait choice. There will also be lots of reds around structure like docks. Black drum can also be caught on shrimp fished around docks and ledges in the Intracoastal Waterway. Even after the snow they are still optimistic based on early results that trout should continue to be caught, and they will take artificial lures such as Vudu Shrimp in the ICW and around the jetties. But if you can get them live shrimp are usually impossible to beat for trout.

Posted on

December Fishing Report

Inshore: Captain Smiley Fishing Charters (843-361-7445) reports that January typically offers some of the clearest, prettiest water of the year, and as a result it can be an excellent month for sight-fishing on the north end of the Grand Strand. Redfish will be grouped up in large winter schools that are easy to spot, and it is hard to beat fresh cut shrimp fished on a jighead to entice them to bite. Black drum can also be caught on shrimp fished around docks and ledges in the Intracoastal Waterway or holes in the creeks. If water temperatures stay in the upper 40s then trout should continue to bite right through January. They will be caught on artificial lures such as Vudu Shrimp in the ICW and around the jetties, and at times they will even be mixed in with redfish on the shallow flats. Storms and dirty water can slow the bite and spread the fish out, but they will usually return to eating once conditions improve.

1 2 3 4
X
Book Now