Deep Sea Fishing Myrtle Beach: Complete 2026 Guide
The line goes tight without warning. Thirty miles offshore, the rod bends hard, the reel screams, and your heart rate jumps as blue water stretches to the horizon in every direction. This is deep sea fishing in Myrtle Beach—raw, powerful, and unforgettable.
Myrtle Beach sits in a prime position along the South Carolina coast, offering access to productive offshore waters, artificial reefs, historic wrecks, and the legendary Gulf Stream. Warm currents push close to shore here, bringing pelagic species like mahi-mahi, tuna, and wahoo within reach of day trips. The bottom structure holds grouper and snapper, while migratory fish move through the season.
Deep sea fishing is available year-round, with peak consistency during the warmer months. Summer brings calm seas and active fish, while fall and winter deliver trophy opportunities for experienced anglers. Every season has its advantages when conditions line up.
Low Country Fishing Charters specializes in private offshore trips, including fully guided
deep sea fishing charters in Myrtle Beach designed around your group’s goals. With more than 40 years of local experience, Captain Keith knows how to read conditions and adjust tactics for offshore success.
Ready to experience the ultimate offshore adventure? Call Captain Keith at (843) 222-7433 to book your deep sea fishing trip today.
What Is Deep Sea Fishing in Myrtle Beach?
Deep sea fishing refers to offshore fishing conducted in water typically deeper than 100 feet. Around Myrtle Beach, that usually means traveling 20 to 40 miles offshore, with Gulf Stream trips running 50 to 70 miles or more depending on conditions and target species.
These trips focus on larger pelagic fish and bottom dwellers that do not inhabit nearshore waters. Because of the distance and depth involved, deep sea fishing requires specialized boats, heavy-duty tackle, navigation electronics, and an experienced captain who understands offshore conditions.
How it differs from other charter types:
Inshore fishing: Shallow, protected waters such as creeks and the Intracoastal Waterway. Short rides and calm conditions.
→ Learn more about inshore fishing charters in Myrtle Beach
Nearshore fishing: Usually 1–3 miles offshore, targeting species like Spanish mackerel, sea bass, and sharks.
→ Available through Low Country Fishing Charters’ nearshore trips
Offshore / deep sea fishing: 10–40+ miles out, larger fish, longer trips, and more challenging conditions.
Gulf Stream fishing: Blue-water fishing 50–70+ miles offshore for tuna, mahi, wahoo, and billfish.
→ See Gulf Stream fishing charters in Myrtle Beach
What makes Myrtle Beach special is its proximity to productive offshore structure and the Gulf Stream. Artificial reefs, natural ledges, and shipwrecks create habitat for bottom fish, while warm currents bring migratory species close enough for day trips. With proper timing and local knowledge, fishing can be productive throughout the year.
Top Fish Species for Deep Sea Fishing Myrtle Beach
Deep sea fishing off Myrtle Beach offers a wide mix of species. Below are some of the most common and sought-after targets.
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
Size: 15–40 pounds, with occasional fish over 50
Season: April through November, strongest in summer
Technique: Trolling with live bait, spoons, and diving plugs
Fight: Fast, powerful runs with sudden direction changes
Table quality: Excellent, especially smoked or grilled
King mackerel are a favorite because of their speed and consistency. They provide steady action and are well suited for anglers of all experience levels.
Mahi-Mahi (Dolphin Fish)
Size: 10–40 pounds
Season: May through September, peak June–August
Technique: Trolling near weed lines, floating debris, temperature breaks
Fight: Acrobatic jumps and strong runs, often in schools
Table quality: Outstanding, firm white meat
Mahi-mahi are colorful, aggressive, and often caught in multiples, making them a highlight of summer offshore trips.
Wahoo
Size: 30–80 pounds
Season: October through February
Technique: High-speed trolling at 15+ knots
Fight: Explosive strike followed by blistering speed
Table quality: Exceptional, often used for sashimi
Wahoo are among the fastest fish in the ocean. When one hits, there is no mistaking it.
Blackfin Tuna
Size: 15–35 pounds
Season: Summer through fall
Technique: Trolling, chunking, and vertical jigging
Fight: Strong, steady, and relentless
Table quality: Excellent for sushi and searing
Blackfin tuna often travel in schools, which can lead to multiple hookups when conditions are right.
Grouper (Red, Gag, Scamp)
Size: 10–50 pounds depending on species
Season: Regulated—check current state and federal seasons
Technique: Bottom fishing on wrecks and reefs
Fight: Powerful initial run toward structure
Table quality: Highly prized
Grouper fishing is technical and rewarding, often producing true trophy fish.
Snapper (Vermilion, Lane, Red)
Size: 2–20 pounds
Season: Spring through fall, subject to regulations
Technique: Bottom fishing with cut bait
Fight: Aggressive and consistent
Table quality: Excellent
These species represent only a portion of what may be caught. Amberjack, barracuda, cobia, sharks, and other species are also possible depending on season and conditions.
For anglers specifically interested in targeting large coastal predators, Low Country Fishing Charters also offers
shark fishing charters in Myrtle Beach during the appropriate seasons.
Best Times and Seasons for Deep Sea Fishing
Peak Season: May–September
This is the most consistent time of year. Warm water, calmer seas, and active fish combine for reliable offshore action. Long daylight hours allow for extended fishing time.
Spring (March–May)
As water temperatures rise, mahi-mahi begin to appear and king mackerel move closer to shore. Weather windows improve steadily, and bottom fishing remains productive.
Summer (June–August)
Prime time for deep sea fishing. Calm seas are more common, making this the best season for families and first-time offshore anglers. Mahi-mahi and king mackerel dominate, with tuna mixed in.
Fall (September–November)
Wahoo season begins, and king mackerel remain active. Crowds thin out, weather is often excellent, and larger fish become more common.
Winter (December–February)
This is the most weather-dependent season. When conditions allow, wahoo fishing can be outstanding, but trips are best suited for experienced anglers with flexible schedules.
Other factors influencing success include tides, moon phase, water temperature, recent weather, and bait availability. Captain Keith monitors all of these variables when planning trips.
How Far Offshore and What to Expect
Standard deep sea trips: 20–40 miles offshore
Gulf Stream trips: 50–70+ miles offshore
Travel time: 1.5–3 hours each way
Total trip length: Typically 6–12 hours
Trips usually depart early in the morning. The ride out varies with sea conditions, and the captain selects routes that balance comfort and efficiency. Dolphins, flying fish, and sea turtles are common sights offshore.
Once on the grounds, the captain locates structure, bait, and temperature breaks. Techniques may include trolling, bottom fishing, or jigging, depending on conditions.
Seasickness is a common concern. Taking medication an hour before departure, staying hydrated, and keeping your eyes on the horizon helps most people manage it effectively.
All rods, reels, tackle, bait, licenses, and ice are provided. Guests should bring food, drinks, sunscreen, appropriate clothing, and a camera.
Deep Sea Fishing Charter Pricing
Typical pricing in the Myrtle Beach area:
6-hour offshore trip: $850-$1000
8-hour deep sea trip: $1,350-$1,500
12–14 hour Gulf Stream trip: $2,500–$3,000
Pricing reflects fuel costs, trip length, distance offshore, boat size, and captain experience. Offshore trips require significant fuel and maintenance, which is why they cost more than inshore options.
Charter prices generally include the captain, crew if applicable, all gear, bait, licenses, fuel, and ice. Food, drinks, gratuity, and fish cleaning are typically not included.
Myrtle Beach fishing charter rates page.
Low Country Fishing Charters offers transparent pricing with no hidden fees and 100 percent private trips.
Is Deep Sea Fishing Right for You?
Deep sea fishing is ideal for anglers seeking adventure, larger fish, and a true offshore experience. It is well suited for adults, teenagers, and motivated beginners who are comfortable with longer trips.
If you are prone to seasickness, have very young children, or prefer shorter outings, inshore fishing charter in Myrtle Beach may be a better starting point. Offshore fishing can be physically demanding, requiring standing, reeling, and balance.
Beginners are welcome. Captain Keith provides instruction and assistance throughout the trip and helps match the experience to your group’s comfort level.
Deep Sea Fishing Tips from Captain Keith
Preparation matters. Get a good night’s sleep, eat a light breakfast, and take seasickness medication early. Dress in layers and arrive early.
During the trip, stay hydrated, listen to instructions, and ask questions. When fighting fish, let the rod do the work, keep steady pressure, and stay patient.
Good photos are part of the experience. Have your camera ready and follow the captain’s guidance when handling fish, especially those being released.
Photos are encouraged, and many guests enjoy documenting their trip for the
Low Country Fishing Charters gallery.
Tipping 15–20 percent for good service is customary and appreciated.
Why Choose Low Country Fishing Charters
Captain Keith Logan brings more than two decades of offshore experience to every trip. He fishes these waters regularly, understands seasonal patterns, and adjusts tactics as conditions change.
Trips are always private, allowing for a personalized experience. Equipment is modern and well maintained, safety is prioritized, and all necessary licenses are included.
Families, beginners, and experienced anglers are all welcome, with trips customized to goals and comfort levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a fishing license?
No. All required licenses are included with your charter.
Can beginners go deep sea fishing?
Yes. Instruction and assistance are provided throughout the trip.
What if I get seasick?
Take medication before departure and follow the captain’s advice. Most guests do well with preparation.
Can we keep the fish?
Yes, within state and federal regulations.
How many people can go?
Most offshore trips accommodate 4–6 guests comfortably.
What is the best month?
June through August is most consistent, but other months excel for specific species.
Do you provide food?
No. Guests bring their own food and drinks.
What if weather is bad?
Trips are rescheduled or refunded if conditions are unsafe.
Ready to Book Your Deep Sea Adventure?
Deep sea fishing in Myrtle Beach delivers excitement, challenge, and lasting memories. With Captain Keith’s experience and a fully private charter, you can focus on the adventure while everything else is handled.
Call (843) 222-7433 to book your Myrtle Beach deep sea fishing charter or visit lowcountryfishingcharters.com to learn more.
Explore trip photos in the
Low Country Fishing Charters gallery
and choose the offshore adventure that fits your goals.