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If there’s one thing I’ve learned from years of running a skiff through the creeks and flats of Charleston, it’s this—there’s nothing quite like inshore fishing in the Lowcountry. Today, I’m lucky enough to call it my full-time job as a fishing guide. Whether I’m poling across a flooded flat at first light or easing into a quiet creek on a falling tide, every day out here brings something new.
Charleston, SC is a special place for anglers. Our coastline is a web of tidal creeks, grass-lined marshes, and shallow flats that hold fish year-round. It's one of the few places where you can sight-cast to tailing redfish in ankle-deep water or drift a live shrimp into a slot full of speckled trout—all within a few minutes of town.
This article is for anyone curious about inshore fishing in Charleston, SC—whether you’re planning your first Charleston SC fishing charter or just want to better understand what makes these waters tick. I’ll break down the species we target, where and when to fish, what “inshore” really means, and why a guided trip might be the best way to get the most out of your time on the water with your family or friends. Let’s get into it.
When folks ask me what kind of fishing we do here in Charleston, I tell them it’s called inshore fishing—and it’s hands down my favorite way to spend a day on the water.
Inshore fishing means we stay close to land, usually within a few miles of the coastline, and fish the creeks, marshes, flats, and backwaters that make up the Lowcountry’s tidal ecosystem. These are shallow, protected waters where we target species like redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and sheepshead. It’s a more technical, hands-on kind of fishing that rewards patience, precision, and a little bit of local know-how.
Now to clear up some common confusion—inshore is not the same as nearshore or offshore. Nearshore fishing pushes a bit farther out, usually targeting reefs and wrecks just a few miles offshore. Offshore fishing is the deep blue stuff—miles out, chasing pelagics like tuna or mahi. All great in their own right, but for me, there’s something special about working a push pole across a grass flat, sight-casting to a redfish with its back out of the water.
The magic of inshore fishing comes down to tides and timing. These waters change every few hours, and the fish move with them. Understanding how to read the tide—when the redfish push into the grass, when the trout school up around creek mouths—is where the challenge and fun lie. It’s a puzzle that resets daily, and I never get tired of solving it.
Inshore trips are also ideal for just about anyone. If you’re a fly angler, you’ll love the shallow water shots and technical presentations. If you’re new to fishing, the calm waters and steady action are a great way to ease in. And if you're just looking for a laid-back day with some good scenery, a cooler full of drinks, and a few fish in the boat—well, this is the trip for you.
For me, inshore fishing isn’t just a style of fishing—it’s a rhythm, a connection to the tides, and a front-row seat to some of the most beautiful parts of the Lowcountry.
One of the best things about inshore fishing in Charleston is that there’s always something biting. The species change with the seasons, the tides, and the weather, but we’re never short on opportunities to hook into quality fish. Here are the main players we target on my trips—and a little bit about how and when we chase each one.
This is the Lowcountry favorite—and my bread and butter year-round. SC Redfish are the most consistent target we have. They love the shallow marsh, they tail on flood tides, and they school up in big numbers during the cooler months. Whether we’re sight-fishing to singles on the flats or watching a pack of 20 crash a bait ball, redfish offer a hard fight and an honest reward. You’ll hear guides say, “If I had to pick just one fish,” and for me, it’s this one.
Trout fishing in Charleston is a treat, especially in the spring and fall. These fish hang around oyster beds, drop-offs, and creek mouths—and when they’re on, the action is fast. They’ll crush topwater lures at first light or hit soft plastics bounced along the bottom. They’re aggressive, beautiful, and always a fun fight on light tackle. I especially like targeting trout when the water temps are in that sweet spot between 60–75°F.
Flounder are a warm-season bonus. They’ll lie ambush-style on the bottom near structure or sandy pockets and will absolutely crush a jig when you least expect it. While they’re a little more subtle on the take, they’re one of the best-eating fish around—and a welcome addition to any inshore slam (redfish, trout, flounder).
When I’m fishing around docks, oyster beds, or rock piles, I’m often targeting these guys. Sheepshead are known for being finicky bait thieves, but once you dial in your presentation, they’re a solid fight and a fun challenge. Black drum, on the other hand, are usually more forgiving and get big fast. Both are great structure-oriented fish and round out the inshore lineup nicely.
I get this question on almost every trip: “Can we keep fish?” The short answer is yes—within regulations—but I always encourage folks to think about the future of the fishery. We practice a lot of catch and release, especially with redfish and larger trout. That said, if you’d like to take a few home for dinner and it’s within legal limits, I’m happy to clean them for you. It’s all about finding that balance and respecting the resource that gives us so much.
I don’t have a one-size-fits-all approach to fishing. The tide, water clarity, wind, and season all play a role in how I plan each trip. If the conditions are right for sight-fishing redfish on the flats, we’ll take the skiff into skinny water. If we’re coming off a cold front, we might tuck into a creek and throw soft plastics for trout. My goal is always to put you in the best position to catch fish, have fun, and soak in the day.
One of the best parts of fishing in Charleston is the variety of water we get to explore. From winding tidal creeks to wide-open harbors, there’s no shortage of productive spots—and the good news is, you don’t have to know where to go. That’s my job.
At Tailfin Expeditions, I tailor every trip based on the tide, wind, time of year, and where the fish are moving. Over the years, I’ve built a mental map of how this fishery behaves, and I use that to make sure you’re in the right place at the right time. Here are a few of the core zones I fish throughout the year:
This is one of my favorite places to target redfish on a flood tide. The marshes around Kiawah fill up just enough to let redfish nose into the grass, tailing and feeding in skinny water. It’s classic Lowcountry sight-fishing—quiet, technical, and insanely rewarding. You’ll also find trout and flounder here in the spring and fall months.
When the conditions are right, the harbor can light up. It offers deeper structure, docks, and current seams that hold black drum, trout, and sometimes bigger redfish. It’s a good area when we’re working with a higher tide or if the wind makes the flats a little less friendly.
The Wando is a versatile fishery with good current and a ton of productive edges. We’ll fish oyster points, creek mouths, and drop-offs that are ideal for trout, flounder, and redfish. It’s a go-to zone when I’m looking for moving water and active fish—and it usually stays productive in every season.
There are endless pockets, creeks, and hidden spots between the barrier islands and the mainland. This is where local knowledge makes all the difference. On any given day, I might fish a narrow cut that’s holding redfish on the outgoing tide or slip into a shallow bay that stays warm after a cold snap. The Intracoastal is where the best days often happen—and where I take folks looking for something off the beaten path.
No matter where we go, I’m not just choosing spots because they look good on a map—I’m following patterns based on water movement, wind direction, bait presence, and years of watching how these fish behave. You don’t need to study a chart or worry about finding the fish. That’s what I’m here for. You just show up ready to fish—I’ll handle the rest.
People ask me all the time, “What’s the best time of year to fish in Charleston?” And the truth is—you can catch fish every single month of the year. You just have to adjust your game depending on what the conditions are doing. That’s part of what makes this fishery so special. No matter when you’re here, there’s always a way to find a bite.
Here’s how I break it down:
As the water temps start to climb, the fish start shaking off the winter slow-down. Speckled trout get aggressive, especially around creek mouths and oyster beds. Redfish begin spreading out more and feeding consistently on the flats. Spring is a great time to fish artificials or throw a popping cork rig—everything starts moving again, and the bite follows.
Summer in Charleston can get hot—and so can the fishing. The key is getting out early before the sun’s high and the water heats up. Redfish feed actively on the flood tides, and this is prime time for tailing action. Whether you're throwing a fly or casting soft plastics, summer offers some of the best shallow water sight-fishing of the year. Plus, there’s always a shot at flounder and trout if you know where to look.
If I had to pick one season to fish every day, it’d be fall. The water cools just enough to fire up the bite, but the days are still warm and pleasant. Boat traffic drops off after summer, and the redfish school up tight on the flats. Trout bite gets consistent again, and flounder are still in the mix. It's the sweet spot—less pressure, more fish, and perfect conditions for fly or spin anglers.
This season doesn’t get enough love, but winter is an absolute gem—especially if you’re into sight-fishing. Cold fronts push the water clear, and redfish group up in large schools in shallow creeks and bays. It’s a visual game: poling the skiff in inches of water, watching for the push of a school, and making that perfect cast. Quiet, peaceful, and often the most rewarding time to be on the water.
Guide Tip:
“You can catch fish every month—you just have to adjust your game. Pay attention to the tides, know where they move, and fish smart. That’s what I’m here for.”
No matter when you’re looking to fish in Charleston, I’ll help you make the most of it. Every season has its moments—you just need the right approach.
If you’re picturing a long boat ride into open ocean with big swells and deep water—don’t worry. Inshore fishing isn’t like that at all. On most trips, we’re fishing just a short ride from the dock, and a lot of our best water is within a mile or two of shore. In fact, some days we’re casting lines within sight of downtown Charleston or tucked into a creek behind a barrier island.
Inshore fishing means we’re working the calm, protected waters of tidal creeks, marshes, estuaries, and flats. These areas are sheltered from the wind and waves, so you don’t have to worry about getting bounced around. That makes these trips perfect for families, couples, or anyone who’s not a fan of rough water. If you’ve ever hesitated to book a charter because you were nervous about seasickness—this is your kind of trip.
At Tailfin Expeditions, I keep things low-pressure and comfortable. We fish from a technical skiff designed to navigate shallow water smoothly, and I plan our routes based on the wind, tides, and where I know the fish are holding. You’re never far from land, and you’re always in good hands.
The goal is simple: catch fish, enjoy the day, and make sure everyone steps off the boat smiling. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or this is your very first time on the water, I’ll make sure the trip fits you just right.
If you’re heading out with me at Tailfin Expeditions, the goal is simple—make it easy, make it enjoyable, and put you on fish. I’ve got just about everything you’ll need for a solid day on the water, so there’s no need to overthink what to pack. Here’s a quick breakdown of what’s included and what you might want to bring along.
When you step onto the skiff, you’re covered. Every charter includes:
Whether you’re brand new to fishing or have years of experience, I’ll walk you through what to use and when to use it so you can relax and enjoy the day.
Here’s a short list of personal items that’ll make your trip even better:
If it’s cooler weather, I always recommend dressing in layers—mornings can start chilly and warm up fast.
If you’ve got a rod you love, bring it—I’m all for it. But if you don’t want to travel with gear or you’re just starting out, I’ve got high-quality fly rods, reels, and leader setups ready to go. Just let me know ahead of time what you prefer, and I’ll make sure we’ve got you dialed in.
“If you forget something, I probably have it in the boat. The goal is to keep it simple and let you focus on the fun part—fishing.”
At the end of the day, you don’t need to show up as a pro to have a great time. Just bring a good attitude, a little curiosity, and I’ll take care of the rest.
Sure, we’re out there to catch fish—but truth be told, the inshore waters around Charleston offer a whole lot more than just what’s on the end of your line. One of the things I hear most from guests—especially folks visiting from out of town—is how surprised they are by everything else they experience on the water.
As we cruise through winding tidal creeks or pole across the flats, you’ll probably spot bottlenose dolphins working the banks, pelicans dive-bombing bait, and great blue herons stalking the edges of oyster beds. On calm mornings, it’s not unusual to catch a sunrise lighting up the marsh grass in gold and orange—the kind of view that makes you pause and just take it all in.
These waters are alive. Every oyster bed, every spartina-lined creek, every flicker of bait on the surface tells a story. It’s one of the most dynamic ecosystems on the East Coast, and I’ve spent years learning how it all fits together. Fishing gives us a front-row seat to that rhythm, and it’s a big reason why I love sharing this place with people.
A lot of guests walk away from their trip not just with photos of redfish, but with a deeper appreciation for the Lowcountry itself. Whether you're a first-time angler or just tagging along for the ride, the peace, beauty, and wildlife out here tend to leave a mark.
And if you're in Charleston for the weekend, an inshore trip is the perfect addition to your itinerary. Spend the morning exploring the backcountry waters, then head back to town for a shrimp and grits lunch or a walk through the historic district. It’s the best of both worlds—wild water and Southern charm—all in one place.
Charleston is hands-down one of the best inshore fisheries on the East Coast. Between the redfish tailing in the grass, the trout chasing bait on a moving tide, and the miles of creeks and flats waiting to be explored—there’s no shortage of opportunity out here. Whether you're new to fishing or have a dozen fly rods at home, I’d love to show you what makes this place so special.
At Tailfin Expeditions, I run laid-back, personalized trips that are all about helping you have a great time on the water. We’ll fish smart, move with the tides, and make the most of every cast.
Ready to go? Book your next trip with us today!
Have questions before you book? Shoot me a call or text at (843) 817-9546—I’m happy to help you figure out the best time to come, what to bring, or just talk fishing.
Let’s get you on the water.
I get a lot of the same questions while we’re cruising through the creeks or waiting on the tide to turn, so here’s a quick rundown of the most common ones—answered just like I would on the boat.
We primarily target redfish, speckled trout, flounder, black drum, and sheepshead—depending on the time of year and what the tide is doing. Redfish are the main event most days, but we mix it up based on conditions and what’s biting.
Yes! I love taking kids out. The calm water and shorter runs make inshore trips perfect for families. Whether it’s their first fish or they’re already hooked, I’ll make sure it’s a fun and easygoing day.
Nope—I’ve got you covered. When you book a charter with me, your fishing license is included for the day. All you need to do is show up ready to fish.
We’ll chat about that on the water. I’m always happy to help you keep a legal, sustainable catch if that’s what you’re after. But we also practice a lot of catch and release to keep this fishery healthy.
Absolutely. Fly fishing is a big part of what I do—and one of my favorite ways to fish. Whether you’re experienced with a fly rod or just getting into it, I’ll put you in the right position for success. You can bring your own gear or use mine—just let me know ahead of time.
If you've got more questions before you book, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m always happy to talk shop and help you feel prepared for a great day on the water.
A deposit of $200 will be required to hold your dates. Deposits are refundable up to 7 days prior to your trip or if the weather does not allow us to get out. Payment in full is due the day of the trip. Cancellations within 48 hours of the trip are subject to full payment. Acceptable forms of payment include; credit/debit card, Venmo, check or cash.
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