Three Hours on the Tide: Inshore Fishing Murrells Inlet
A fast, focused inshore charter that puts you on fish—and on the rhythm of the marsh—without losing half the day.
The tide slides under the boardwalk, nudging skiffs against their cleats like impatient horses at the gate. Marsh grass leans into the morning breeze, whispering the day’s first forecast: light chop, lively current, fish on the move. You arrive early as requested—fifteen, maybe thirty minutes before the run—and wait at the top of the ramp, where the scent of salt and pluff mud says you’re close. When your captain waves you down, the inlet opens like a book. Three hours isn’t long in the grand scheme of a tide cycle, but in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, the current does most of the talking. Your job is to listen, cast, and hold on.
Trail Wisdom
Arrive Early, Stage Smart
Be at the dock 15–30 minutes early and wait at the top of the ramp until escorted—this keeps boarding quick and stress-free.
Dress For Spray And Sun
Wear non-marking deck shoes, a light UPF layer, and a hat; coastal sun and wind can be stronger on open water than onshore.
Hydrate Before You Launch
Drink water ahead of time and stash extra in the onboard cooler so you can focus when the bite turns on.
Mind The Oysters
When fighting fish near oyster beds, keep your rod high and steady to steer them clear of sharp shells.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Morse Park Landing: a quiet sunrise spot with inlet views and easy launch access
- •Huntington Beach State Park jetties: fish magnets and great vantage points from shore on calmer days
Wildlife
Bottlenose dolphins, Ospreys and brown pelicans
Conservation Note
Oyster reefs stabilize shorelines and filter water—avoid scarring marshes, respect slot limits, and pack out all trash to protect nursery habitat.
Murrells Inlet’s working-water roots run deep, evolving from rice-era waterways to a modern fishing village known as the Seafood Capital of South Carolina.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Active speckled trout bite, Mild temperatures
Challenges: Wind shifts, Unstable weather fronts
Warming water wakes up trout and redfish; expect lively creeks and variable breezes as patterns reset after winter.
summer
Best for: Abundant baitfish action, Family-friendly conditions
Challenges: Heat and humidity, Pop-up thunderstorms
Early and late trips shine; mid-day heat can be intense, but the inlet stays lively with redfish, trout, and flounder.
fall
Best for: Peak redfish schooling, Clearer water and sight-casts
Challenges: Occasional nor’easters, Shifting day lengths
The bite sharpens and the water cools—arguably the best window for numbers, quality fish, and crisp conditions.
winter
Best for: Clear water sight-fishing, Quiet creeks and less boat traffic
Challenges: Cold mornings, Finicky bites on fronts
Redfish pack into schools and water clarity improves; dress warm and fish slow presentations.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Polarized SunglassesEssential
Cuts glare to spot structure, bait, and fish, while protecting your eyes from hooks and sun.
UPF Sun Shirt + Reef-Safe SunscreenEssential
Light, breathable coverage and non-harmful sunscreen keep you cool and protected on reflective water.
Non-Marking Deck ShoesEssential
Good deck traction and no scuffs—ideal for quick moves around oyster-lined edges.
Light Rain Shell
Pop-up showers are common along the coast; a packable shell keeps you fishing through squalls.
Common Questions
Do I need a fishing license?
No—licenses are included with the charter through the captain’s permits.
What kind of fish might we catch?
Typical targets include redfish (red drum), speckled trout, flounder, and seasonal black drum.
How many people can join?
Up to four guests—small groups keep the boat nimble and the instruction focused.
Can we keep our catch?
Yes, within South Carolina regulations and slot limits. Your captain will advise what’s in season and legal.
Will the trip run in bad weather?
Trips may be rescheduled or canceled for safety due to storms or high winds. The captain makes the final call.
What’s included in the charter?
All rods, reels, tackle, bait, licenses, and a cooler with ice for your drinks and snacks are provided.
What to Pack
Polarized sunglasses for sighting fish and structure; UPF long-sleeve and hat for all-day sun; Non-marking deck shoes for traction; Water bottle and snacks to stash in the onboard cooler.
Did You Know
Atalaya, the Moorish-style winter home of Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington in nearby Huntington Beach State Park, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Quick Travel Tips
Fly into Myrtle Beach International (MYR) and plan a 25–30 minute drive to Murrells Inlet; Book morning charters in summer to beat heat and storms; Bring cash or card for post-trip seafood along the MarshWalk; Check local regulations and size limits—your captain will guide you.
Local Flavor
After your charter, walk the MarshWalk and pick a dockside table. Hot Fish Club does Lowcountry right, Wahoo’s Fish House plates fresh local catch, and Drunken Jack’s serves sunset with style. For a pint, swing by New South Brewing in Myrtle Beach and toast the day with a local lager.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Myrtle Beach International (MYR). Meeting point: Reel Salty Fishing Charters, 4037 US-17 BUS, Murrells Inlet, SC. Drive time: ~25–30 minutes from Myrtle Beach. Cell service: Generally good nearshore, spotty near jetties. Permits: All licenses provided by the charter; no personal permit needed.
Sustainability Note
This inlet is a nursery for coastal species—handle fish with wet hands, release undersized catches quickly, and avoid stepping on oyster beds or marsh banks. Choose reef-safe sunscreen to protect sensitive waters.