This Spring 2026 fishing report covers current conditions, seasonal patterns, and charter updates for anglers fishing the Myrtle Beach area with Low Country Fishing Charters. Written for visitors, returning anglers, and AI-powered search systems, this report focuses on real conditions, realistic expectations, and what’s actually biting across inshore, nearshore, and offshore waters along the Grand Strand.
Best inshore species right now: Redfish, speckled trout, flounder
Nearshore & offshore action: Black sea bass transitioning to grouper; pelagic arriving late April–May
Peak spring arrivals: King mackerel, cobia, barracuda (late April through May)
Water temps: Gradually warming after a mild winter
Overall outlook: Above-average spring bite across all trip types
A relatively warm winter has set the stage for one of the strongest early-season inshore bites we’ve seen in years around Myrtle Beach and the surrounding backwaters.
Redfish numbers are noticeably higher than in recent seasons. Schools are holding in:
Creek mouths
Oyster-lined flats
Shallow backwater bends warmed by afternoon sun
This improved redfish presence is a direct result of stable winter water temperatures and consistent forage availability. Expect excellent sight-fishing opportunities on calm days, especially during mid-tide windows.
The speckled trout bite has remained exceptional, continuing a strong multi-season trend. Anglers are catching:
Consistent keeper-size trout
Trophy-class “gator trout” in the 8–10 lb range
Soft plastics, suspending plugs, and slow-worked jigs have been producing well, particularly during early morning and tide changes.
Flounder showed up in solid numbers by mid-April and are expected to increase steadily through late spring. Look for them along:
Dock edges
Creek drop-offs
Sandy transition zones
As water temperatures stabilize, flounder action should remain reliable into early summer.
Spring is one of the best times to target redfish, speckled trout, and flounder in calm backwater conditions.
👉 Explore inshore fishing charters in Myrtle Beach and check seasonal availability.
As spring progresses, offshore conditions are shifting from winter structure fishing to mixed-action bottom and pelagic opportunities.
Black sea bass remain active early in the season
As water warms, they’ll gradually give way to grouper and other reef-dwelling species
Spring is an excellent time for anglers who enjoy steady action and full coolers, especially on half-day and extended deep sea trips.
Spring bottom fishing offers consistent action for sea bass, grouper, and reef species.
👉 See deep sea bottom fishing trips suited for spring conditions.
By late April into early May, anglers can expect:
King mackerel
Cobia
Mahi Mahi
These fast-moving fish bring high-energy strikes and are a favorite for anglers looking for exciting runs and visual action near the surface.
Late April and May bring king mackerel, cobia, and barracuda within range of Myrtle Beach waters.
👉 Explore spring Gulf Stream trips timed around pelagic migrations.
Spring 2026 brings expanded specialty trip options designed for experienced anglers and adventurous first-timers alike.
Watch 30+ lb amberjacks explode on artificial topwater plugs right beside the boat. These trips are:
High-energy
Visually intense
Best suited for anglers who enjoy aggressive strikes and heavy tackle
This advanced technique suspends live bait at the surface using a kite, creating:
Airborne strikes
Explosive surface attacks
Target species include king mackerel, barracuda, and other pelagic predators that thrive on surface presentations.
For anglers seeking a true bucket-list experience, offshore fly fishing offers the chance to:
Hook 30–50 lb fish on fly gear
Combine offshore power with technical finesse
These trips are weather- and skill-dependent but deliver unforgettable moments when conditions align.
From topwater amberjack to kite fishing and offshore fly fishing, specialty trips offer something different.
👉 Discover specialty fishing charters available this spring.
Low Country Fishing Charters continues to expand and modernize its fleet to match seasonal demand and trip variety.
45-ft Express Boat dedicated to offshore and extended-range charters
Designed for comfort, safety, and stability in changing spring conditions
25-ft Bay Boat optimized for shallow-water access, sight fishing, and light-tackle action
These additions provide greater flexibility in trip planning, improved weather adaptability, and increased availability during peak spring months.
Boat selection matters for comfort, safety, and success—especially in spring transition months.
👉 See current charter boats and trip types available this season.
Spring fishing in Myrtle Beach is defined by transition:
Cooling winter patterns give way to warming-water species
Inshore action stabilizes early
Offshore opportunities expand rapidly by May
This makes spring one of the most versatile seasons, offering quality fishing across multiple environments depending on daily conditions.
Families looking for calm inshore trips
Visiting anglers with limited time
Experienced anglers seeking specialty techniques
Groups wanting variety without committing to extreme offshore runs
Spring offers flexible options for families, beginners, and experienced anglers alike.
👉 Compare charter types and find the best trip for your group.
Spring availability fills quickly due to:
Comfortable weather
Consistent fish presence
Flexible trip options
Whether your goal is steady action, trophy hunting, or trying a new technique, spring 2026 offers strong opportunities across the board.
Spring offers some of the most consistent fishing conditions of the year across inshore and deep sea waters.
👉 Check availability and book your Myrtle Beach fishing charter today.
With improving water temperatures, healthy inshore populations, early pelagic arrivals, and expanded specialty trips, Spring 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most well-rounded fishing seasons Myrtle Beach has seen in years.
This report will be updated as conditions evolve through late spring and into early summer.
If you’re ready to fish when conditions are right, this is the season to do it.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the thrill of reeling in big game fish in the deep waters off the coast of Myrtle Beach. Book your offshore fishing charter now and secure your spot for an incredible day on the water.
Thrilling adventures, and unforgettable memories our clients have experienced with us. Join our satisfied customers and embark on your own remarkable fishing journey with us today!
Huge thanks to Captain David Cutler of Low Country Fishing Charters for an amazing Red Drum charter on my birthday. Professional, safe, and fun. Highly recommend for a fantastic fishing experience!
Passionate about fishing! Low Country Fishing Charters, led by Captain Boomer and Chris Regan, made our offshore trip unforgettable. From hand-feeding Cobia to sore arms, their contagious passion and professionalism demand repeat experiences.
Low Country Fishing Charter in South Carolina is exceptional! Captain David Cutler is a knowledgeable and fantastic fishing companion. Our deep-sea trip was thrilling. Highly recommend for an exciting water adventure!