Get ready to spend a full day on the water with our 8-hour inshore fishing trip off Folly Beach. We're talking serious fishing time here, folks. This isn't your quick morning jaunt - we're giving you the whole day to really dig into what these waters have to offer. From first light to afternoon, you'll be casting lines, reeling in catches, and soaking up that classic Lowcountry atmosphere. Perfect for both seasoned anglers looking to max out their time on the water and families wanting a day-long adventure everyone can enjoy.
Alright, let's break down your day. We'll kick things off early, loading up the boat with all the gear you'll need. As we push off from the dock, you'll feel that anticipation building. The extended trip time means we can explore further out, hitting up all the prime fishing spots around Folly Beach. We're talking grass flats, oyster beds, and deeper channels - each one a potential hotspot for different species. You'll get to try various fishing techniques throughout the day, from bottom fishing to sight casting. And don't worry if you're new to this - our guides are here to show you the ropes and make sure you're having a blast the whole time.
We've got you covered on all the fishing essentials. Rods, reels, bait, tackle - it's all here and ready to go. We use top-notch gear that's well-maintained and suited for the species we're after. Depending on what's biting, we might start off with some light tackle for redfish in the shallows, then switch it up to heavier gear if we're going after cobia or grouper later in the day. You'll get hands-on experience with different setups, learning how to work a popping cork for trout or jig for black drum. It's all part of the fun, and by the end of the day, you'll have a solid grasp on inshore fishing techniques that work all along the Carolina coast.
Alright, let's talk fish. Folly Beach waters are teeming with a variety of inshore species, and on an 8-hour trip, we've got time to target quite a few. Redfish are a local favorite - these copper-colored beauties put up a great fight and can be found year-round. In the warmer months, we'll be on the lookout for cobia. These powerful fish can grow up to 100 pounds and are known for their strong runs - landing one of these is a real thrill. Spanish mackerel are another summertime treat, fast and fun to catch when they're schooling near the surface. As we move into fall, black drum become more active. They might not be the prettiest fish in the sea, but they're great eating and can really test your drag. And if we're lucky, we might even hook into a gag grouper. These structure-loving fish are a real prize, known for their delicious white meat and the challenge they present in getting them away from their rocky hideouts.
Every season brings its own fishing highlights, but lately, we've been seeing some killer action. The redfish have been on fire, especially around the oyster bars and creek mouths. We've had days where anglers are pulling in bull reds over 40 inches - that's the kind of fishing that gets your heart racing. The cobia run has been impressive too, with several boats reporting fish in the 30-40 pound range. And don't even get me started on the Spanish mackerel - when they're running, it's non-stop action that'll wear your arm out in the best way possible. With 8 hours on the water, you've got a real shot at putting together an impressive catch, maybe even checking off a few species from your fishing bucket list.
There's something special about fishing the waters around Folly Beach that keeps folks coming back year after year. Maybe it's the way the sun rises over the Atlantic, painting the sky in pinks and oranges as we head out. Or it could be that moment when your line goes tight, and you're locked in a battle with a fish you can't even see yet. For many, it's the variety - in a single day, you could be sight-casting to tailing reds in the morning, then jigging for grouper in deeper water by afternoon. And let's not forget the laid-back Folly Beach vibe that infuses everything we do out here. It's fishing, sure, but it's also about making memories, swapping stories, and just enjoying a day away from the grind. That's the kind of experience that sticks with you, long after you've cleaned your catch and headed home.
If you're itching to get out on the water for a full day of inshore fishing action, now's the time to lock in your date. Our 8-hour trips are popular, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait too long to book. Remember, we're providing all the gear and your fishing license for the day - all you need to bring is your sense of adventure (and maybe some snacks and sunscreen). Whether you're a serious angler looking to put some serious time in on the water, or a family wanting to turn a day of fishing into lasting memories, this trip's got you covered. So what are you waiting for? The fish are biting, the boat's ready, and Folly Beach is calling. Let's make your next fishing story one for the books!
Black drum are the gentle giants of our inshore waters. These silvery-black fish can reach over 100 pounds, but 5-30 pounders are more common. You'll find them in brackish areas, around oyster beds, and in channels. Spring is prime time as they school up to spawn. Black drum are bottom feeders, using their chin barbels to root out crabs and shellfish. They're not the fastest fish, but big ones pull like tractors. Fresh crab or shrimp on the bottom is your best bet. Listen for their distinctive croaking sound - that's how they got the name "drum." The smaller ones under 15 pounds are great eating, with sweet, white meat. Local trick: fish the last of the falling tide around oyster beds for best results.
Cobia are some of the hardest-fighting fish you'll hook around here. These bruisers can top 6 feet and 100 pounds, though 30-50 pounders are more common. Look for them around buoys, wrecks, and other structure in 30-70 feet of water. Spring and early summer are best as they migrate through. Cobia are often mistaken for sharks with their long, dark bodies. They're curious fish and will investigate just about anything, which makes sight-fishing for them a blast. Throw a big bucktail jig or live eel and get ready for an epic battle. These guys pull like freight trains and don't give up easy. The meat is excellent too - firm and mild. Pro tip: always have a pitch bait ready, as cobia often travel in small groups.
Gag grouper are the bulldogs of the reef. These hard-fighting fish average 10-30 pounds but can top 50. You'll find them around rocky bottoms, reefs, and wrecks in 60-250 feet of water. They're most active in cooler months. Gags are ambush predators, so fishing structure is key. Drop live bait or big jigs right into their lairs. When a gag hits, it's all power - they'll try to dive back into the rocks, so you need to turn them quick. The meat is top-notch - white, flaky, and mild. Gags can be tricky to target, but the fight and table fare make it worth it. Pro tip: use a stout rod and reel with plenty of drag. Once hooked, it's you or the grouper, and these fish don't give up easy.
Redfish are a favorite among anglers here in Folly Beach. These copper-colored beauties typically run 20-30 inches and put up a great fight. You'll find them in shallow water, often tailing in just a foot or two around oyster beds and grass flats. Spring and fall are prime seasons, but we catch 'em year-round. Redfish are known for their distinctive black spot near the tail - some fish even have multiple spots. They're not just fun to catch; they're delicious too, with a mild, sweet flavor. When sight-fishing, look for that copper flash or tailing action. My top tip: try a gold spoon or scented soft plastic on a light jighead. Work it slowly along the bottom and hang on tight when they strike!
Spanish mackerel are the speedsters of our local waters. These sleek, silver fish with yellow spots typically run 2-4 pounds but can reach 12. You'll find them in open water, often near the surface in large schools. They're most active in warmer months, especially summer. Spanish macks are known for their blistering runs and acrobatic jumps when hooked. Light tackle and fast retrieves are the ticket here. Try small spoons or jigs cast into feeding frenzies, or troll Clark spoons behind planers. These fish are a blast on light gear and make great eating when fresh. Local tip: watch for birds diving - that's often a dead giveaway for Spanish mackerel schools feeding on bait near the surface.
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