One of the most common questions we hear from guests planning a fishing charter is, “What’s biting right now?”
The answer depends on the season.
One of the reasons Murrells Inlet has become one of the premier fishing destinations on the South Carolina coast is the incredible variety of fish available throughout the year. As water temperatures change and migratory species move along the Atlantic coast, different fishing opportunities emerge month after month.
Whether you’re planning a family fishing trip during your Myrtle Beach vacation, looking to target trophy fish offshore, or hoping to reel in your first cobia, understanding seasonal fishing patterns can help you choose the best time to book your charter.
In this guide, we’ll explore when to catch cobia and many of the other popular species found in the waters off Murrells Inlet, South Carolina.
Why Murrells Inlet Is One of South Carolina’s Top Fishing Destinations
Located just south of Myrtle Beach, Murrells Inlet provides quick access to a wide variety of fishing environments.
Anglers can target fish in:
- Nearshore reefs
- Artificial reefs
- Offshore ledges
- Natural bottom structures
- Inshore estuaries
- Coastal waters
This diversity means there’s always something biting somewhere throughout the year.
For visitors planning a Murrells Inlet vacation or Myrtle Beach vacation, fishing charters remain one of the most popular outdoor activities because every season offers unique opportunities.
Cobia Season in Murrells Inlet
If there’s one fish that generates excitement among South Carolina anglers every spring, it’s cobia.
Best Time to Catch Cobia
Peak Season: April through June
As ocean temperatures begin to warm in spring, cobia migrate northward along the South Carolina coast.
Murrells Inlet becomes a hotspot for cobia fishing during this migration.
Many anglers specifically book charters during late April, May, and early June to target these powerful fish.
Why Cobia Are So Popular
Cobia are known for:
- Hard-fighting runs
- Large size
- Excellent table fare
- Exciting sight-fishing opportunities
Depending on the season, cobia can range from manageable catches to true trophy fish.
Watching a large cobia appear alongside the boat is one of the most exciting experiences available on a South Carolina fishing charter.
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
King mackerel are among the most sought-after species for charter fishing in Murrells Inlet.
Best Time to Catch King Mackerel
Spring: April through June
Fall: September through November
Many experienced anglers consider the fall king mackerel run to be one of the best fishing opportunities of the year.
During migration periods, schools of kingfish move through local waters and can provide incredible action.
Why Anglers Love King Mackerel
Kingfish are famous for:
- Fast runs
- Powerful fights
- Spectacular strikes
- Consistent seasonal action
When king mackerel are active, fishing can be incredibly exciting for anglers of all skill levels.
Spanish Mackerel
Spanish mackerel are often one of the first migratory species to arrive in significant numbers.
Best Time to Catch Spanish Mackerel
April through October
Peak fishing typically occurs during late spring and early summer.
Spanish mackerel are excellent targets for:
- Families
- Beginner anglers
- Light tackle enthusiasts
Their aggressive feeding habits can create action-packed trips with plenty of opportunities to reel in fish.
Mahi-Mahi (Dolphinfish)
For many offshore anglers, mahi-mahi represent the ultimate summer fishing target.
Best Time to Catch Mahi-Mahi
May through September
The warm offshore waters of summer create ideal conditions for mahi-mahi fishing.
These brilliantly colored fish are known for:
- Incredible acrobatic fights
- Bright blue, green, and gold coloration
- Outstanding table quality
- Fast-paced action
Summer offshore charters often provide the best opportunities for targeting mahi-mahi near the South Carolina coast.
Amberjack
Amberjack are known as one of the strongest fish anglers commonly encounter offshore.
Best Time to Catch Amberjack
Late Spring through Early Fall
Amberjack are often found around:
- Offshore reefs
- Artificial structures
- Deep-water wrecks
Why They’re Called “Reef Donkeys”
Amberjack have earned a reputation for brute strength.
Many first-time anglers are shocked by how difficult these fish can be to reel in.
Landing a large amberjack is often one of the most physically demanding experiences available on a fishing charter.
Grouper
Grouper fishing is a favorite among anglers looking to bring home quality fish for dinner.
Best Time to Catch Grouper
While opportunities vary based on regulations and species, productive grouper fishing often occurs during:
Spring through Fall
Grouper are typically targeted around:
- Offshore structures
- Deep reefs
- Natural ledges
These fish are powerful and often try to return to structure immediately after being hooked.
Snapper
Snapper are another popular offshore species.
Best Time to Catch Snapper
Various snapper species may be available throughout much of the year depending on regulations and seasonal conditions.
Anglers appreciate snapper for:
- Excellent eating quality
- Consistent action
- Accessibility on offshore trips
Snapper fishing often pairs well with grouper and bottom fishing excursions.
Redfish
Redfish remain one of the most iconic inshore species along the South Carolina coast.
Best Time to Catch Redfish
Fall is often considered prime redfish season.
However, redfish can be caught throughout much of the year in local waters.
Redfish are popular because they:
- Fight hard
- Thrive in shallow water
- Provide exciting sight-fishing opportunities
- Are accessible to anglers of all experience levels
Flounder
Flounder fishing is a favorite among anglers looking for both action and excellent table fare.
Best Time to Catch Flounder
Late Spring through Fall
Flounder are commonly found around:
- Docks
- Channels
- Creek mouths
- Coastal structures
Their unique ambush feeding style creates a fishing experience that’s different from many other species.
Sheepshead
Sheepshead are famous for their distinctive teeth and challenging feeding habits.
Best Time to Catch Sheepshead
Winter through Spring
Many anglers target sheepshead around:
- Piers
- Docks
- Bridges
- Structure-heavy areas
These fish require patience and precise timing to hook successfully.
Black Sea Bass
Black sea bass offer excellent opportunities for anglers throughout much of the year.
Best Time to Catch Black Sea Bass
Fall, Winter, and Spring
Black sea bass are often abundant around:
- Artificial reefs
- Offshore structures
- Bottom fishing areas
They provide consistent action and are highly regarded as table fare.
Seasonal Fishing Calendar for Murrells Inlet
Spring (March – May)
Top Targets:
- Cobia
- Spanish mackerel
- King mackerel
- Black sea bass
- Sheepshead
Spring is one of the most exciting times to fish due to migrating species arriving along the South Carolina coast.
Summer (June – August)
Top Targets:
- Mahi-mahi
- King mackerel
- Amberjack
- Snapper
- Grouper
- Cobia
Summer offers some of the most diverse offshore fishing opportunities available.
Fall (September – November)
Top Targets:
- King mackerel
- Redfish
- Flounder
- Spanish mackerel
- Black drum
Many local anglers consider fall one of the best overall fishing seasons of the year.
Winter (December – February)
Top Targets:
- Black sea bass
- Redfish
- Sheepshead
- Grouper
Winter fishing is often overlooked by visitors but can provide excellent opportunities with less boating traffic.
What Is the Absolute Best Month for Fishing in Murrells Inlet?
If we had to choose a single month, May would likely rank among the best.
Why?
May often combines:
- Cobia migration
- Spanish mackerel action
- King mackerel activity
- Comfortable weather
- Excellent water conditions
That said, every season offers unique fishing opportunities, which is why charter fishing remains such a popular activity throughout the year.
Choosing the Right Charter Based on Your Target Species
The best fishing trip often depends on what you hope to catch.
Ask yourself:
- Do you want to target trophy fish?
- Are you looking for fish to take home?
- Is this a family-friendly outing?
- Do you prefer offshore adventures or shorter trips?
An experienced charter captain can help recommend the best trip based on the season and your goals.
Book Your Murrells Inlet Fishing Charter During Peak Season
No matter when you visit, Murrells Inlet offers some of the best fishing opportunities on the East Coast.
From spring cobia runs to fall king mackerel migrations and productive winter bottom fishing, there is always something worth targeting in South Carolina’s coastal waters.
At Myrtle Beach Sport Fishing, we help guests take advantage of seasonal fishing opportunities throughout the year. Whether you’re planning a Myrtle Beach vacation, a family fishing trip, or an offshore adventure, our local knowledge helps put anglers in the best position for success.
The fish are always moving, the seasons are always changing, and every trip offers the possibility of creating unforgettable memories on the water.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is cobia season in Murrells Inlet?
Cobia season typically peaks from April through June, with May often considered one of the best months to target migrating cobia.
What fish are biting in Murrells Inlet during summer?
Summer anglers commonly target mahi-mahi, king mackerel, amberjack, snapper, grouper, and cobia.
What is the best month to fish in Murrells Inlet?
Many anglers consider May one of the best fishing months due to cobia migration, king mackerel activity, and favorable weather conditions.
Can you fish year-round in Murrells Inlet?
Yes. Fishing opportunities exist throughout the year, with different species becoming more active during different seasons.
What fish can families catch on a Murrells Inlet fishing charter?
Depending on the season, families may catch Spanish mackerel, black sea bass, king mackerel, redfish, flounder, and many other species.