Last Updated on October 5, 2024 by Eric Bonneman
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, offers some of the best fishing opportunities on the East Coast, particularly for those interested in tackling one of the most powerful inshore fish around: the tarpon, often called the “Silver King.” Tarpon fishing in this area isn’t your typical day on the water—it’s an exciting challenge that demands patience, skill, and determination. From June through October, the coastal waters of South Carolina become prime territory for anglers looking to land this massive and aggressive fish. In this guide, we’ll break down the essentials for anyone interested in taking on this epic fishing experience.
What You Need to Know About Tarpon
Tarpon (Megalops atlanticus) are one of the largest and strongest fish that inshore fishermen can target. These fish can reach over 200 pounds, though most of the tarpon caught in South Carolina weigh between 80 and 100 pounds. They’re known for their strength and agility, often putting on a spectacular show when hooked by leaping out of the water and thrashing to throw the hook. Their stamina also makes them a formidable opponent, with fights often lasting upwards of 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the size of the fish and the gear you’re using.
The tarpon migrate along the South Carolina coast from late May through October, moving in schools and following their prey. They tend to hang around in estuaries, rivers, and coastal waters where there’s plenty of food. September is particularly good for tarpon fishing, as the mullet run brings plenty of baitfish into the area, drawing the tarpon in close and making them easier to target.
Fly Fishing for Tarpon
For fishermen who prefer to go after tarpon with a fly rod, Myrtle Beach and the surrounding areas offer great opportunities. Fly fishing for tarpon requires specific gear. You’ll want a heavy-duty setup like an 11wt or 12wt fly rod. Anything lighter, and you won’t stand much of a chance against a 100-pound tarpon. When it comes to flies, custom-tied patterns are often used, and many local guides have their own favorite designs that imitate the prey tarpon go after in the area.
Unlike some other places where you might sight-fish for tarpon in crystal-clear water, South Carolina’s waters can be murky, so spotting the fish isn’t always easy. However, tarpon are surface feeders, and they frequently “roll” on top of the water to gulp air, making them visible at times. This is when fly fishermen get their chance to cast to these giants. It’s a tougher way to catch a tarpon, but for those who like a challenge, the payoff is worth it.
Top Tarpon Fishing Spots
If you’re heading to Myrtle Beach for tarpon fishing, you’ll want to focus on the nearby waterways, estuaries, and river mouths. Some of the best locations around include Winyah Bay, the Santee Delta, and Cape Romain. Each of these spots offers different environments where tarpon like to hang out. Whether it’s the open water near the shore or the winding tidal creeks, you’ll find tarpon here during the migration season.
Winyah Bay, located near Georgetown, South Carolina, is one of the more popular spots for tarpon fishing charters. The estuary system here provides an excellent feeding ground for tarpon as they follow schools of baitfish up the coast. Similarly, the Santee Delta, with its shallow waters and abundant food supply, attracts plenty of tarpon during their migration. Cape Romain is another solid choice, offering a more secluded and peaceful setting for anglers looking to get away from the crowds while still having a good shot at hooking a tarpon.
Tarpon Fishing Charters: What to Expect
One of the best things about tarpon fishing in the Myrtle Beach area is that it’s accessible to all fishermen, regardless of experience. Local charters cater to both seasoned anglers and complete beginners, so whether you’ve hooked a tarpon before or not, you’ll have a guide to help you through the process. A knowledgeable guide is a big asset when targeting tarpon, as these fish can be finicky and tough to catch. The guide will take care of everything from finding the right location, selecting the best bait, and even coaching you through the fight once you’ve hooked a fish.
Charter captains are also experts in reading the conditions. If the tarpon aren’t biting due to weather or water conditions, they’ll switch things up and find other species, like bull redfish or sharks, to keep the day exciting. Windy days or slow fishing won’t stop a good guide from making sure you have an enjoyable experience on the water.
When to Go: Timing Your Trip for Success
Tarpon start showing up in South Carolina’s coastal waters in late May, but the prime months for tarpon fishing are June through September. If you’re looking for the best chance to hook one of these giants, aim for July through September, with September being the absolute peak. During this time, the mullet run is in full swing, and large schools of tarpon follow the mullet into shallow waters, creating an ideal opportunity for fishermen.
Charters tend to book up fast during these peak months, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead and secure your spot early. Most guides recommend fishing early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the temperatures are cooler and the fish are more active.
What to Expect for First-Time Tarpon Fishermen
If you’ve never gone tarpon fishing before, prepare for an exciting and intense experience. These fish aren’t just big—they’re tough, and getting one on the line is only the first part of the battle. Once hooked, tarpon will fight hard, with powerful runs and acrobatic leaps as they try to shake the hook. You’ll need patience and stamina to reel one in, as well as a willingness to accept that you might lose a fish or two along the way.
For beginners, a sense of humor and a bit of flexibility go a long way. Some days the tarpon just aren’t biting, and even the best guides can’t control that. On slower days, your guide might switch gears and target other species like redfish or sharks to keep things interesting.
Your Tarpon Fishing Adventure with Carolina Guide Service
If you’re ready to tackle tarpon in Myrtle Beach, the Carolina Guide Service is a top choice for chartering a trip. With experienced captains who know the local waters like the back of their hand, you’ll be in good hands whether you’re a seasoned fisherman or it’s your first time going after tarpon. They offer trips tailored to your skill level, and their focus is on making sure you have the best experience possible.
Don’t miss out on the chance to land the “Silver King” and create some incredible memories on the water. Book your tarpon fishing charter with Carolina Guide Service today, and get ready for an adventure you won’t forget.
