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If you’re booking a day on the water and wondering what to bring on a fishing charter in Charleston, you’re already doing the smart thing: planning ahead so the trip feels easy, not chaotic.
Here’s the good news—on most Charleston charters, the captain provides the fishing gear. Rods, reels, terminal tackle, flies, leaders… the whole “tools of the trade” side of the equation is usually handled. Your job is mainly to show up comfortable, prepared for the conditions, and ready to fish.
If you’re still deciding what kind of trip you want, start here: fly fishing in Charleston, SC.
Charleston can feel calm early, then breezy by late morning. Sun reflects off the water. Weather changes fast. The goal is simple:
If you bring one “fishing” item, make it polarized glasses. They help you spot fish, protect your eyes from hooks, and cut glare so you’re not squinting all day.
Tip:Yellow or copper lenses usually work well in Charleston’s mixed light.
Even on cool days, sun exposure on the water adds up.
Bring:
On a skiff, wind finds you. A light windbreaker or packable shell keeps you comfortable on boat rides and during breezy stretches.
Hydration is a performance enhancer. It keeps you sharper, more patient, and less likely to crash halfway through the trip. Water will be supplied but feel free to bring any beverages of choice.
Snack ideas:
Keep it simple. One small backpack or sling bag is plenty. Extra bags turn into deck clutter fast.
Boat rides add wind chill. Sun exposure hits harder. Even when it’s warm, the wrong clothes can make the day feel long.
Best setup:
I recommend people of wear flip flops when the weather is warm because they can remove them because a lot of people fish barefoot so they can feel the fly line under their feet to know their stepping on it.
Good options (if you don’t prefer to fish barefoot)
If you’re an experienced angler who’s picky (in a good way), you might choose to bring:
If that’s you, use this as a reference point before you pack: recommended gear for the Charleston marsh.
Best practice: ask your captain what’s already on the boat before you bring anything. It keeps things clean and avoids duplicates.
Fishing as a family can be a blast—when you pack for comfort. Kids don’t need fancy gear. They need simple stuff that keeps the mood up.
Bring (in addition to the essentials above):
Also: if your child has a favorite hat or sunglasses, pack a backup. The ocean is excellent at “re-homing” gear.
If you want to dodge the common issues that turn a good day into a frustrating one, read this: avoid these saltwater fly fishing mistakes.
Here are the biggest packing-related mistakes we see:
You can still fish, but you’ll miss fish—and you’ll work harder for every opportunity.
Cotton stays wet and gets cold in wind. Quick-dry clothing keeps you comfortable.
Extra gear becomes clutter. Clutter becomes tangles. Tangles become… character-building moments.
Even in warm months, the ride out can surprise you.
Charleston doesn’t stick to one script. You can see warm afternoons and cool mornings in the same week, especially in spring and fall.
For a month-by-month breakdown, use this guide: seasonal fly fishing in Charleston.
In many cases, charter coverage handles licensing requirements for saltwater fishing in South Carolina, so visitors don’t usually need to buy a separate personal license just to fish during the trip.
Still—rules can change, and there are edge cases (shore fishing before/after your trip, wading on your own, private boats, etc.). When you book, ask your captain to confirm the current requirement and double-check SCDNR guidance if you’re doing any fishing outside the charter.
You don’t need to be a tide nerd to enjoy Charleston fishing, but tides change water depth and fish positioning—which can affect comfort and expectations (wind + tide can also make a ride feel “sportier”).
Here’s the best breakdown: tide timing for Charleston fly fishing.
Quick tide takeaways:
Must-have:
Nice-to-have:
Usually NOT needed (because the charter provides it):
(If you want to bring your own, check with the captain first so you’re not hauling gear you won’t touch.)
When you show up prepared, you fish better. You’re not distracted by sunburn, wind, wet feet, or missing basics. You’re focused on the fun part: making good shots, learning the fishery, and enjoying the day.
If you’re still deciding whether a guide is worth it while you’re visiting, learn how to get the most out of a Charleston charter.
Capt. Adam Lawson is the owner and lead guide of Tailfin Expeditions in Charleston, South Carolina, specializing in inshore light-tackle and fly fishing trips for redfish and other Lowcountry favorites. With a guide-first approach, Adam focuses on clear instruction, patient coaching, and putting guests in the best position for real shots—not just boat rides. Whether you’re brand new to the flats or looking to sharpen your skills, he’s known for keeping the day relaxed, dialed, and focused on what matters: solid fishing, good company, and a trip you’ll want to run back.
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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