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4-Hour Private Inshore Fishing with Salty Angler

  • Published Date: July 17, 2025
  • Fishing
  • Charleston
  • $500 - $1,100 price range
  • Updated Date: September 5, 2025

Summary

Looking for a quick fishing getaway in Charleston? Our Half Day Charter has you covered. We'll take you out on the local waters for some prime inshore action, targeting species like Redfish, Sea Trout, Sheepshead, and Black Drum. Don't worry about bringing gear or getting licenses – we've got all that sorted for you. Just show up ready to cast a line and have a good time. This trip is great for all skill levels, whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time holding a rod. We can take up to six people, but the base price covers two guests. Choose between a morning or afternoon trip, whatever fits your schedule best. Our captain knows these waters like the back of their hand, so you're in for some solid fishing. And when you land that big one, we'll even clean it for you. It's a hassle-free way to experience some of the best inshore fishing Charleston has to offer.
4-Hour Private Inshore Fishing with Salty Angler

Inshore Catches of Charleston

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Redfish, Black Drum, and Redfish caught during fishing trip in Mount Pleasant

History on land, fish in the sea.

Summer flounder caught fishing in SC

Harbor fishing, Charleston style.

A lone black drum fish caught in Mount Pleasant

Charleston: a reel good time.

Redfish caught while fishing in SC

Nothing but rods and rhythms.

Redfish caught during fishing trip in SC

Fresh catches, salty smiles.

Black Drum fish caught while fishing in SC

Charleston Harbor = angler’s paradise.

One person fishing at Mount Pleasant

Lowcountry tides calling.

One person fishing in South Carolina

Dropping lines, chasing time.

Redfish caught in SC

Fishing with a view of steeples.

Five people fishing in SC

Charleston coasts = endless adventure.

Redfish, Black Drum, and Redfish caught during fishing trip in Mount Pleasant

History on land, fish in the sea.

Summer flounder caught fishing in SC

Harbor fishing, Charleston style.

A lone black drum fish caught in Mount Pleasant

Charleston: a reel good time.

Redfish caught while fishing in SC

Nothing but rods and rhythms.

Redfish caught during fishing trip in SC

Fresh catches, salty smiles.

Black Drum fish caught while fishing in SC

Charleston Harbor = angler’s paradise.

One person fishing at Mount Pleasant

Lowcountry tides calling.

One person fishing in South Carolina

Dropping lines, chasing time.

Redfish caught in SC

Fishing with a view of steeples.

Five people fishing in SC

Charleston coasts = endless adventure.

Redfish, Black Drum, and Redfish caught during fishing trip in Mount Pleasant

History on land, fish in the sea.

Summer flounder caught fishing in SC

Harbor fishing, Charleston style.

A lone black drum fish caught in Mount Pleasant

Charleston: a reel good time.

Redfish caught while fishing in SC

Nothing but rods and rhythms.

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Half-Day Fishing: Charleston's Inshore Hotspots

Get ready to experience the best of Charleston's inshore fishing scene with Salty Angler Fishing Charters. Our half-day trip is perfect for anglers of all skill levels looking to reel in some of the Lowcountry's most prized catches. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, Captain Mike knows exactly where to find the fish and how to put you on them. With everything included - from top-notch gear to licenses and even fish cleaning - all you need to do is show up ready for action on the water.

What to Expect on the Water

Our half-day charters run morning or afternoon, giving you the flexibility to fit some prime fishing into your Charleston itinerary. We'll cruise through the area's rich inshore waters, hitting productive spots in the creeks, marshes, and nearshore reefs. The shallow-draft boat lets us access those hidden honey holes where the big ones lurk. Expect a mix of casting and bottom fishing as we target a variety of species. Captain Mike's local knowledge means you'll be fishing the right spots at the right times, maximizing your chances for a cooler full of keepers.

Rods, Reels, and Rigging

Leave your tackle box at home - we've got you covered with top-quality gear suited for inshore action. We typically use light to medium spinning setups, perfect for handling everything from feisty redfish to chunky black drum. Live bait is often the ticket, but we'll also throw some artificial lures when the bite is right. Captain Mike will walk you through the different techniques we'll be using, from working a popping cork for trout to dropping a fiddler crab down to a sheepshead's lair. Don't worry if you're new to this type of fishing - by the end of the trip, you'll be casting like a pro.

Customer Stories

"LOCAL knowledge. That's what you get with Captain Mike. Hardworking, laidback, willing to teach, and will do the best he can to put you on the bite." - Darrell

"Friendliest and most down to earth guide we have had in a long time. Really enjoyed meeting Capt. Mike. He definitely puts customers needs first. Highly recommended." - Kirk

"Capt Mike is a pleasure to spend time with and we enjoyed the great fishing trip. I felt like I was fishing with family. I recommend anyone that loves fishing to hookup with Capt Mike" - Frank

Species You'll Want to Hook

Redfish: These copper-colored bruisers are the crown jewel of Charleston's inshore waters. Known for their powerful runs and distinctive spot near the tail, redfish (also called red drum) can be found year-round but really shine in the fall. We'll target them around oyster beds and grass lines, where they love to ambush prey. The "bull reds" can reach over 40 inches, providing an epic battle on light tackle.

Speckled Trout: A favorite among light-tackle enthusiasts, speckled trout (or sea trout) are known for their delicate bite and acrobatic fights. We typically find them around structure like docks or submerged grass beds. Fall and spring are prime times for trout, when cooler water temperatures have them feeding aggressively. Their speckled pattern and yellow mouth make for great photos, and they're delicious on the dinner table too.

Black Drum: Often overlooked by anglers, black drum can provide some serious pull when hooked. These cousins of the redfish have distinctive chin barbels and can reach impressive sizes. We'll look for them around bridge pilings and deeper holes, where they use those barbels to root out crabs and shrimp. Spring is an excellent time to target big black drum as they move inshore to spawn.

Sheepshead: With their distinctive black and white stripes, sheepshead are sometimes called "convict fish." Don't let their appearance fool you - these fish are master bait stealers with their human-like teeth. We'll target them around hard structure like pilings and jetties, where patience and a delicate touch are key to hooking up. Winter is prime time for sheepshead, when other species slow down.

Black Sea Bass: While technically an offshore species, we can often find smaller "rock bass" around nearshore reefs and wrecks. These aggressive biters are fun to catch and make for excellent eating. We might encounter them while targeting other species, especially in cooler months when they move closer to shore. Their jet-black color and spiny dorsal fin make them a unique catch among the inshore crowd.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Our half-day trips offer the perfect blend of action, variety, and convenience. In just a few hours, you can experience some of the best inshore fishing the Southeast has to offer. Captain Mike's easygoing nature and wealth of local knowledge means you're not just going fishing - you're getting an insider's tour of Charleston's waterways. Whether you're looking to put some fish in the cooler or just enjoy a relaxing day on the water, this trip delivers. And with all the gear provided and fish cleaning included, it's a hassle-free way to add some excitement to your Charleston visit.

Time to Book Your Spot

Ready to get out on the water and see what Charleston's inshore fishing is all about? Our half-day trips are perfect for families, groups of friends, or solo anglers looking to join in on the action. With space for up to six guests, it's a great way to share the experience (and split the cost). Remember, the early bird gets the worm - or in this case, the fish. Popular dates fill up fast, especially during peak seasons. So don't wait - reach out to Salty Angler Fishing Charters today and let's get your Charleston fishing adventure on the calendar. Trust us, after one trip with Captain Mike, you'll be hooked and planning your next outing before you even hit the dock.

Customer Reviews

Local Pro Mike

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LOCAL knowledge. That’s what you get with Captain Mike. Hardworking, laidback, willing to teach, and will do the best he can to put you on the bite.

DL
Darrell Licayan

May 8, 2025

Mikes Customer Care

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Friendliest and most down to earth guide we have had in a long time. Really enjoyed meeting Capt. Mike. He definitely puts customers needs first. Highly recommended.

KK
Kirk Knussmann

January 2, 2025

Fish Like Family

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Capt Mike is a pleasure to spend time with and we enjoyed the great fishing trip. I felt like I was fishing with family. I recommend anyone that loves fishing to hookup with Capt Mike

FG
Frank Giordano

October 24, 2024

Birthday Fishing Fun

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Took my son for his 12th Bday. Captain Mike was very attentive to him and did a good job making the entire experience enjoyable.

MM
Michael Medwed

June 5, 2025

Reel Good Time

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We enjoyed this trip so much. Reeled in some decent fish. We had a great time. Thanks Captain Mike

TV
Tabatha Veach

June 23, 2025

Captain Excellence

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Great time, Great Captain! Will definitely book again!

AA
Amie Adkins

June 24, 2025

Captain Excellence

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Great time, Great Captain! Will definitely book again with Captain Mike!!!

AA
Amie Adkins

June 24, 2025

Captain Excellence

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Great time, Great Captain! Will definitely book again with Captain Mike!!!

AA
Amie Adkins

June 24, 2025

Shark Thrill Fishing

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Captain Mike did it again! He gave my son and me another fantastic experience on the water—this time introducing us to an entirely new level of fishing... SHARKS! The fight was intense, the excitement was real, and we’re officially hooked (pun very much intended). Thanks, Captain Mike, for yet another unforgettable vacation memory!

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JW
Jared Williams

June 25, 2025

Mikes Magic Hooks

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We have been on several guides with Mike and we have had the most amazing fishing trips with him! He is truly professional and we consider him family now. He’s always joyful and we enjoy being around him! I highly recommend Mike for your fishing guides! We always catch and have never been disappointed! He’s the BEST!

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MM
Melissa Miller

August 19, 2025

Perfect Day Fishing

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We had such a wonderful day on the water! It was worth every penny. Captain Mike is an outstanding guy. He’s got a great personality, super knowledgeable about fishing, patient, and kind. His boat is very nice and he keeps it clean. All 5 of us couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Next time we are in town, I’ll 100% be booking an 8 hour offshore trip with Captain Mike.

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ML
Matthew Lewis

October 14, 2023

Reel Catch with Mike

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Had a great time out with Mike today, he knew where to go and made sure we caught fish. Caught some great reds and black drum. Highly recommend.

MS
Michael Spessard

October 29, 2023

Pro Guide Mike

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We would highly recommend Capt. Mike as his professionalism, courtesy and knowledge of the local waters made the trip a great time for everyone We’re looking forward to booking another trip with him and another great day out on the water.

Read More
RV
Raymond Vazquez

February 23, 2024

Limit Catch Success

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We had a great fishing trip with Captain Mike. Had a memorable fishing trip and caught our limit.

CJ
Carrie Joyce

July 20, 2024

Mikes Winning Trips

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This was our second time going out with Mike and he is a excellent charter. He really puts in the work to make sure your trip is successful. Thanks again sir will be back for sure.

ML
Matt Lail

July 28, 2024

Mikes Winning Trips

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Second time we have been out with Mike and he really puts in the work to make sure your trip is successful. Thanks again and will be back for sure.

ML
Matt Lail

July 28, 2024

Learn more about the species

Black Drum

Black Drum are hefty fighters that'll test your gear. These bruisers commonly run 5-30 pounds, but monsters over 80 pounds lurk in our waters. You'll find them in shallow, muddy flats and around oyster beds. Spring's the prime time as they school up to spawn. Black Drum use their strong jaws and teeth to crush shellfish, so oyster-rich areas are hotspots. Anglers love 'em for the hard-pulling fight and good eating, especially fish under 15 pounds. The meat gets tough in bigger ones. To land a Black Drum, use fresh crab or clam for bait. Fish it on the bottom in 2-4 feet of water. When you feel that thump, give it a second before setting the hook - they like to mouth the bait first. Once hooked, hang on tight. These bulldogs will try to muscle back to structure.

Black Drum

Black Sea Bass

Black Sea Bass are a popular inshore target here in Charleston. These chunky fish typically run 1-4 pounds, though bigger ones over 8 pounds are possible. Look for them around structure like jetties, piers, and wrecks from late spring through summer. They love hanging around rocky bottoms in 30-120 feet of water. Black Sea Bass put up a good scrap, especially on light tackle. Their white, flaky meat is delicious too. To land one, I recommend using a medium-weight rod with 20-30 pound line. Drop your bait right on the bottom - squid or fish strips work great. When you feel that telltale nibble, set the hook hard. These crafty fish will try to duck back into structure, so be ready for a fight. The season runs February 1-28 and May 15-December 31, so plan your trip accordingly.

Black Sea Bass

Redfish

Redfish are the crown jewel of Charleston's inshore fishing. These copper-colored beauties typically run 3-10 pounds in the shallows, but bulls over 40 pounds roam deeper waters. You'll find them tailing in super skinny water - sometimes with their backs out of the water! Look for them around oyster beds, grass flats, and creek mouths. Fall's prime time as they school up to feed before winter. Redfish are famous for their powerful runs and stamina - they'll test your drag for sure. To land one, sight-fishing with light tackle is a blast. Try a gold spoon or soft plastic shrimp. Work it slowly along the bottom, keeping an eye out for that tell-tale copper flash. When you spot one, make a quiet cast beyond it and retrieve past its nose. Set the hook when you feel weight, not just the thump. Then hang on tight - that first run is a doozy!

Redfish

Sea Trout

Sea Trout, also called Speckled Trout, are a favorite target for light tackle anglers here in Charleston. These silvery fish typically run 14-24 inches and 1-5 pounds, though bigger ones show up. Look for them in grass flats and shallow waters, especially at night. They love to hang around creek mouths and oyster bars. Fall and spring are prime seasons when water temps are mild. Sea Trout put up a zippy fight on light gear and taste great too. Their meat is delicate, so don't overcook it. To catch one, try slowly working a soft plastic shrimp or grub along the bottom. Topwater lures at dawn can be explosive. My secret weapon is a float rig with live shrimp - let it drift with the current past likely holding spots. When you feel that distinctive tap-tap, pause before setting the hook to let them take it fully.

Sea Trout

Sheepshead

Sheepshead are one of the trickiest fish to catch around here, but man are they fun. These striped "convict fish" usually run 1-8 pounds, though 20-pounders pop up now and then. You'll find them around barnacle-covered structures like docks, bridge pilings, and jetties. Spring's prime time as they gather to spawn. Sheepshead are famous for their human-like teeth, which they use to crunch crabs and barnacles. Anglers love the challenge - these bait stealers are masters at nibbling without getting hooked. For the best shot, use light tackle and small hooks. Fiddler crabs are my go-to bait. Get as close to the structure as you can and let your bait sink. When you feel the lightest tap, set the hook hard. The fight's not over once you hook up though - Sheepshead pull like crazy for their size.

Sheepshead

About the Sea Pro

Company vehicle

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6

Manufacturer Name: Suzuki

Maximum Cruising Speed: 30

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 250

Ready for some laid-back fishing fun in Charleston? This half-day trip is just the ticket. We'll take you out on the local waters to cast for bass, redfish, and other inshore species. No need to stress about gear or licenses - we've got all that covered, plus we'll even clean your catch. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out, you'll have a great time reeling in fish and soaking up the South Carolina scenery. The boat comfortably fits two people, but we can accommodate up to six if you want to bring some friends along. Morning or afternoon, it's your choice. So grab your hat and sunscreen, and let's hit the water for some quality fishing time in Charleston!
Salty Angler Fishing Charters

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Salty Angler Fishing Charters

Time is running out to experience the thrill of a lifetime with Captain Mike Whitesides on Salty Angler Fishing Charters in Charleston! Don't miss your chance to reel in the big one and create memories that will last forever. Book your unforgettable fishing adventure today before spots fill up, and get ready to embark on an exhilarating journey like no other.

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