The Ultimate Guide to the Best Surf Fishing in Myrtle Beach, SC

By Karen Stemmle

I love surf fishing; I am not sure exactly why! I have been drawn to the beach my whole life, and something about surf fishing makes me feel connected and at peace. The rhythmic sound of the waves crashing against the shore, the salty breeze, and the feeling of sand beneath my feet all contribute to this sense of tranquility. Casting a line into the ocean and waiting patiently for a bite is not just about the potential catch but the experience, the solitude, and the opportunity to reflect and relax.

Myrtle Beach is actually a great place in the Carolinas to surf fish. With its miles of sandy coastline and accessible fishing spots, it’s an ideal location for both novice and experienced anglers. The variety of fish species, such as flounder, red drum, and bluefish, makes each trip exciting and unpredictable.

Myrtle Beach Is Surprising Well Suited For Surf Fishing

While Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is well-known for its extensive coastline, warm waters, and abundant marine life, the Grand Strand is a prime destination for surf fishing enthusiasts and beginners.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a novice looking to cast your line into the Atlantic Ocean, timing is crucial for a successful fishing expedition. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best times to surf fish in Myrtle Beach and tips and tricks to maximize your catch.

Understanding the Tides in Myrtle Beach

Tides play a pivotal role in surf fishing, influencing fish behavior and feeding patterns. Myrtle Beach experiences semi-diurnal tides, meaning it has two high tides and two low tides each day. Understanding the tide cycles is essential for planning your fishing trip.

1. High Tide: During high tide, fish are more likely to move closer to the shore in search of food stirred up by the incoming waves. This provides an excellent opportunity for surf anglers to target species like pompano, red drum, flounder, and bluefish. High tide typically offers better fishing conditions, as deeper water allows fish to venture closer to the shoreline.
2. Low Tide: While fishing during low tide can be challenging due to shallower waters and reduced fish activity near the shore, it presents opportunities to target species that prefer calmer conditions or deeper waters. Anglers may have success targeting larger species, such as sharks, sheepshead, and speckled trout, by casting their lines into deeper channels or near sandbars.

Best Times of Day to Surf Fish In Myrtle Beach

In addition to monitoring the tide cycles, choosing the right time of day to surf fish can significantly impact your surf fishing experience in Myrtle Beach. Check the Tide chart for Myrtle Beach. You can check the Myrtle Beach Fishing Forecast here.

Early Morning

Dawn is often considered the optimal time for surf fishing, as many species are actively feeding during the early hours of the day. The water is typically calmer, and beach traffic is minimal, providing anglers with a serene fishing environment. Early morning fishing sessions also offer the chance to witness breathtaking sunrises over the Atlantic Ocean.

Evening

As the sun begins to set, surf fishing enthusiasts can take advantage of the evening bite. Similar to the early morning hours, fish are often more active during dusk, making it an excellent time to reel in a big catch. Plus, the cooler temperatures and stunning sunset views add to the allure of fishing in the evening.

Seasonal Considerations

While Myrtle Beach boasts mild weather year-round, seasonal variations can impact surf fishing conditions and target species. You can check the weather in Myrtle Beach Here.

Spring Surf fishing

Spring brings warmer temperatures and an abundance of baitfish, attracting predatory species to the shallows. Anglers can expect to encounter species like Spanish mackerel, pompano, and bluefish during the spring months.

Summer Surf fishing

Summer is peak fishing season in Myrtle Beach, with various species prowling the surf zone. From feisty flounder to hard-fighting red drum, anglers have ample opportunities to reel in their prized catch during the summer months.

Surf fishing in the Fall

Fall signals the arrival of cooler temperatures and the migration of various fish species along the coast. Anglers can target migrating species such as king mackerel, cobia, and black drum as they make their way south for the Winter.

Surf fishing in Winter

While Winter may bring cooler waters and fewer crowds to Myrtle Beach, dedicated anglers can still enjoy productive surf fishing. Species like striped bass, whiting, and speckled trout are commonly caught during Winter, especially during mild weather spells.

Final Thoughts

Surf fishing in Myrtle Beach, SC, offers anglers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature and reel in a diverse selection of fish. You can purchase your surf fishing license here.

By understanding the intricacies of tide cycles, choosing the optimal times of day, and considering seasonal variations, anglers can enhance their fishing experience and increase their chances of success along the sandy shores of Myrtle Beach. So grab your fishing gear, head to the beach, and prepare for an unforgettable angling adventure on the South Carolina coast! Click here to learn more about fishing the Carolinas.