Fishing in Isle of Palms: Bounty, variety, and available to all! |
While vacationing in Isle of Palms, South Carolina there are many activities to captivate residents, and tourists, alike. In addition to enjoying the approximate 7 miles of shoreline with sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing, fishing captivates many visitors and is why over 4,000 people have chosen Isle of Palms as their permanent residence. Fishing in Isle of Palms offers many avenues- creek and inlet fishing, also known as nearshore, and deep sea fishing, also known as offshore. There’s something for everyone! |
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Fishing in Isle of Palms is accessible to the novice as well as the experienced. Specialized equipment is not required- simply a saltwater rod, reel and appropriate tackle (hooks and weights). |
To purchase any needed equipment or bait, Haddrell’s Point Tackle and Supply is the place to go! It has served the Isle of Palms community for over 30 years. Haddrell’s takes pride in providing “the most professional fishing advice in the low country!” In addition to its vast product assortment (over 27,000 products!) Haddrell’s also offers repairs, service and maintenance of most makes and models of fishing equipment in multiple locations. |
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Haddrell’s also sells live and artificial bait (if you don’t plan on catching your own initially). For fishing questions/directions specific to the seasons and weather, Haddrell’s has created a seasonal guide on species, bait, locations, methodology, weather, and even tides. |
From December to March, Redfish, Sheepshead, and Black Drum are frequently sought after. As the spring weather arrives, more migratory fish are caught, such as Trout, Flounder, Spanish Mackerel, bluefish, sharks, Ladyfish, Jack Crevalle, and Tarpon. During the busy summer months, most fish will be caught before 10am, and most will migrate as the water temperatures exceed 75 degrees. As the year closes and the weather and water cools, fishing for Bull Redfish peaks in all locations - jetties and in the surf! |
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Sheepshead |
Redfish |
Mackerel |
In addition to timing the weather and choosing a strategic fishing location, many anglers prefer a rising or falling tide. Tide charts are available here for reference and planning purposes. |
South Carolina requires fishing licensure, so be prepared! Licenses are available for purchase in many locations, including Haddrell’s, but you may also purchase online. They differ by freshwater, saltwater, and duration, so check the fine print! |
f you’d prefer to hire a professional guide to aid in all these matters, Isle of Palms has a broad offering of Fishing Charter organizations. At IOP Escapes, one of our favorite charter companies is SeaRunner Charters. SeaRunner is owned and operated by locals, and perhaps that is why they have such high success in creating great days on the water! Be it with a fishing trip nearshore or offshore, Sea Runner is a trusted organization that we love recommending to families staying at any IOP Escapes vacation rental properties. |
SeaRunner offers full day trips: Gulf Stream Trolling, Nearshore / Bottom Fishing, and shark / harbor fishing. |
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Photo Credit: SeaRunner Charters |
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Utilizing a fish charter has many benefits, particularly if you are new to fishing, new to Isle of Palms, or simply want a local pro to provide direction on fishing locations, timing, tides, tackle, and bait. Fishing Charters provide all necessary equipment and will even set up all tackle. Many charters will also clean and prepare all eligible catches from the day for you to take home to enjoy your fresh-caught meal! |
Fishing charters also provide educational value about the ecosystem of Isle of Palms and its conservation. They have a lifetime of local insight and history that cannot be found online or in books, and delight in sharing it with their guests. |
Overall, fishing charters are fun for the novice and experienced angler and very family-friendly! If fishing isn’t for you, SeaRunner Charters also offers Sunset Cruises, Dolphin Watchin’ cruises, and “Captain for the Day!” For this charter, choose your destination, and SeaRunner will take you wherever you’d like to go! SeaRunner will also take you to enjoy beaches such as Capers Island and Morris Island. They will host your large party - such as a bachelor and Bachelorette gathering. SeaRunner also highly values boater safety and will assist you in learning how to pilot and safey navigate your personal watercraft. |
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For your next trip to Isle of Palms, we highly recommend spending time exploring below the ocean’s surface! |