Whether you’re a beginner or an avid fisherman, fishing in Hilton Head is for everyone! Are you ready to reel in your greatest catch yet? Here in Hilton Head, we have plenty of spots to fish on shore, with an experienced charter, or by kayak! So, grab your favorite rods and reels and prepare for an adventure of a lifetime.
Read on for more local insight about the best fishing in the area! Then, request a free copy of our 7-Day Itinerary for more information about other fun things to do while you’re visiting Hilton Head.
South Carolina Regulations for Fishing in Hilton Head
South Carolina has its rules and regulations required to know before you cast your line in our waters.
Here are just a few things of which to be mindful:
- You need a fishing license. Before fishing in the waters off the coast of South Carolina, you’ll need a fishing license. Anglers 16 and over must have a license for recreational fishing. If you’re fishing with a charter, ask ahead of time because they may provide you with one. If you’re fishing on your own, you can purchase one online ahead of time.
- There are illegal species, size, and bag limits. South Carolina fishing regulations apply within three miles of Hilton Head Island’s shores. Once you’re past the three-mile line, federal fishing regulations go into effect. Check out regulations before you go to be safe!
- Never pollute the waters. Help us protect the integrity of our wildlife and beautiful landscapes while you’re here. Do your best to clean up after yourself.
- You must follow shore guidelines. You cannot fish for sharks or stingrays while shore fishing at any time. If you catch one by accident, just let it go quickly.
What You’ll Catch Fishing in Hilton Head
Fall & Winter
It’s no secret that cooler waters bring more fish to the top for feeding. Fall and winter are the peak seasons to catch Redfish, Trout, and Flounder.
Spring
We recommend spring fishing in the Port Royal Sound and Broad River. This season’s top catches often include Cobia, Spanish Mackerel, and Blue Fish.
Summer
In the summer, you can expect to encounter Tarpon, King Mackerel, Jack Crevalle, and Redfish. Surrounding creeks, the Port Royal Sound, and local marshes are the places to be.
Top 3 Ways To Enjoy Fishing in Hilton Head Island
With A Fishing Charter
Deep-sea fishing can be intimidating if you’re new to the sport. That’s why it’s worth it to hire an experienced guide to show you the ropes! Whether you’re new to it or not, our experienced fishing charters will show you the best spots and provide everything you need, including bait and tackle!
Off the Hook Fishing Charters
Off The Hook Fishing Charters offers fishing tours with the finest fly and spinning tackle. If you want to fish the flats, bay, or ocean, their boats can do it all!
Tail Tamer Fishing Charters
With Tail Tamer Fishing Charters, you’ll experience the beauty of the Lowcountry while catching an array of fish near shore, in the sounds, and over the wrecks. If you’re a little more adventurous, try Lowcountry Shark Fishing!
Hilton Head Fishing Adventures
Enjoy a day of light tackle fishing on the waters around Hilton with inshore fishing guides at Hilton Head Fishing Adventures. You’ll have the opportunity to fish the calm shallows for redfish, speckled sea trout, and flounder. Depending on the weather, you may fish in the deeper waters of the Port Royal Sounds or nearshore wrecks for tarpon, bull redfish, cobia, shark, and mackerel!
Rainmaker Fishing Charters
Rainmaker Fishing Charters offers full-service tours in the coastal and offshore waters of Hilton Head. You'll have an unforgettable experience learning about the local ecosystem and finding the fishing grounds fast with the fully equipped boats and technology they offer!
With A Kayak
Did you know you can rent a kayak for fishing? If you’re looking for a unique fishing experience, consider this option. Enjoy the serenity and beauty of the tidal salt marsh with a guided fishing excursion!
From the Shore
If you prefer to spend quiet time fishing alone or with a few close friends or family members, don’t worry. There are plenty of great fishing spots that you can find on your own. All you’ll need is some fishing poles, bait, and good luck! Shore fishing, pier fishing, and boat fishing are some of the options you’ll have to choose from at some of the following destinations:
- Sea Pines Lagoon
- Palmetto Dunes Lagoon
- Jarvis Creek State Park
- Charles C. Haigh Jr. Fishing Pier
- Daufuskie Island
- The Calibogue Sound
- Fish America Reef
- Betsy Ross Reef
If you stay in one of our properties within the Sea Pines or Palmetto Dunes communities, you’ll have easy access to the bodies of water located on their grounds.
Bait & Tackle Shops on the Island
Shrimp, shellfish, cut bait, baitfish, paddle tails, bucktails, lures, poppers, jerks, and more. Knowing the best bait to use for whatever it is you’re trying to catch is essential. Make your way to one of the local bait and tackle shops, and if you’re lucky, one of the shop owners or another local fisherman who might be shopping there could pass along some helpful advice! You can also purchase everything else you might need, such as a rod and reel, fishing line, nets, wire cutters, and more.
Here are some of the best local tackle shops to check out during your visit:
Make the Most of Your Hilton Head Getaway When You Stay with Beach Properties
If you’re planning to spend your vacation on Hilton Head fishing, you’ll need to choose accommodations for your home base. Live like a local instead of a tourist! Beach Properties of Hilton Head offers an impressive selection of properties across the island. No matter how large or small your group is, we’ve got the right vacation home for you. You’ll also have access to a wide variety of amenities, including top-notch community features.
Book your stay today!
