Murrells Inlet Fishing: The Complete Guide for Families, First-Timers & Serious Anglers
Murrells Inlet Fishing Guide
Your local captain’s look at what bites, when to fish, and how to make the most of this Lowcountry gem.
Murrells Inlet is one of the most unique fishing destinations on the entire South Carolina coast. Calm marsh creeks, oyster beds, inshore flats, jetties, and quick access to nearshore reefs — it’s all packed into one little stretch of water just 20 minutes south of Myrtle Beach.
Families love it because the water stays calm.
Serious anglers love it because the fishery never stops producing.
Kids love it because they get to reel in real fish — not just “cast and hope” fishing.
And with Fish Finder Fishing being the top-rated charter in Murrells Inlet with more than 500+ 5-star Google reviews, you’ve got a fleet of captains who know these waters like home.
Let’s walk you through what makes fishing here so special.
What Makes Fishing in Murrells Inlet So Good?
Protected, Calm Waters — Perfect for Families
Murrells Inlet is a natural marsh estuary. That means you aren’t bouncing around in big ocean waves. You’re fishing creeks, grasslines, oyster bars, and channels — ideal for kids and first-timers.
Quick Access to Nearshore Action
If you want bigger fish, the ocean is right there. Within 15 miles of the inlet, we can target:
- Spanish mackerel
- King mackerel
- Spadefish
- Black sea bass
- Sharks
- Bluefish
- Cobia (seasonal)
- Spanish mackerel
- King mackerel
- Spadefish
- Black sea bass
- Sharks
- Bluefish
- Cobia (seasonal)
It’s the best of both worlds: calm inshore + fast nearshore runs.
Year-Round Fishing
There’s always something biting. Some species peak in fall, others in spring — but you can catch fish 12 months a year in Murrells Inlet.
What Species Can You Catch in Murrells Inlet?
Here’s the “big six” most folks come for:
Redfish
The classic Lowcountry gamefish. Hard fighters, shallow-water tailers, and great for kids.
Flounder
Tasty, tricky, and fun — these ambush predators are common around inlet channels and creek mouths.
Speckled Trout
Fast-paced action, especially in fall and early winter.
Sharks
For kids and families, shark fishing is pure fun. Blacktips, bonnetheads, Atlantic sharpnose — steady summer action.
Spanish Mackerel & Bluefish
Nearshore speedsters that make rods bend and drags scream.
Black Sea Bass & Reef Species
Great options on 4–6 hour nearshore reef trips.
Best Time of Year to Fish Murrells Inlet
Here’s a quick seasonal breakdown:
Spring (March–May)
- Redfish schools break up and start cruising the marsh
- Trout return and turn on
- Spanish mackerel arrive
- Nearshore reefs fire up
Summer (June–August)
- Sharks everywhere
- Flounder steady
- Spanish mackerel thick
- Early-morning redfish & trout
- Best for family trips & kids
Fall (September–November)
Some of our favorite times to fish during the year.
- Speckled trout peak
- Redfish in big numbers
- Flounder strong early fall
- Mackerel and reef action excellent
Winter (December–February)
- Clear water sight-fishing for redfish
- Trout still around
- Quiet, peaceful marsh days
Inshore vs. Nearshore Fishing: What’s the Difference?
Inshore Fishing (Calm Marsh Fishing)
Perfect for kids, beginners, families, and folks who want a smooth ride.
Common catches:
- Redfish
- Speckled Trout
- Flounder
- Black Drum
- Sheepshead
Nearshore Fishing (Up to 15 Miles Out)
A little more adventure — but still beginner-friendly.
Common catches:
- Spanish Mackerel
- Sharks
- Black Sea Bass
- Spadefish
- Bluefish
Murrells Inlet Fishing Trip Lengths (What to Expect)
If you’re booking a charter, here’s a simple guide:
- 3-Hour Trip: Best for kids, first-timers, or families who want a quick, fun fishing adventure.
- 4-Hour Trip: The most popular option. Enough time to fish the marsh and poke out nearshore if conditions allow.
- 6-Hour Trip: More fishing, more variety, more chances at bigger fish. Ideal for folks who want redfish + nearshore action in one trip.
Fish Finder’s pricing starts at $445, includes all gear, bait, licenses, and fish cleaning — just bring your crew.
Why Murrells Inlet Is Better Than Myrtle Beach for Fishing
If you’re booking a charter, here’s a simple guide:
- Calmer. Safer. More Scenic. - Myrtle Beach is fun, but the fishing pressure is heavy and the ocean can get choppy.
Murrells Inlet is:
- Protected from big waves
- Easier for kids
- Packed with wildlife
- Closer to the Action - From dock to fishing grounds, you’re minutes away — not 30+ minutes of riding.
Wildlife You’ll See Along the Way
Every trip feels like a Lowcountry nature tour.
You might spot:
- Dolphins
- Sea turtles
- Ospreys & pelicans diving
- Marsh birds hunting along the grass
- Stingrays gliding past the boat
This is what makes Murrells Inlet magical.
What’s Included on a Murrells Inlet Charter
Fishing with Fish Finder means everything is handled for you:
- Rods & reels
- Bait & tackle
- Fishing license
- Fuel
- Fish cleaning
- Safe, comfortable 26’ center console boats or pontoon boat
- Local captains who love teaching kids
You simply show up ready to fish — or let the kids take the spotlight.
What to Bring With You
Keep it simple:
- Sunblock
- Hat & sunglasses
- Snacks / drinks
- Camera
- Light jacket in spring/fall
- Big smile — the fish usually handle the rest
Ready to Go Fishing in Murrells Inlet?
Whether you want a calm inshore trip for the kids or a nearshore adventure chasing mackerel and sharks, our crew knows how to make it fun, safe, and memorable.
- Call or text today to book your trip and let’s go fishing.