What Fish are Biting Near Myrtle Beach in July & August?

Last Updated on July 4, 2024 by Eric Bonneman

If you’re planning to fish along the Grand Strand this summer, you’ve picked a great spot. Stretching from Little River all the way down to Georgetown, this area is always hopping with fishing action, whether you’re casting from the beach or cruising the waters.

Let’s jump right into the local fishing report—here’s what’s biting right now and what you’ll likely be catching in the next couple months around Myrtle Beach.

Inshore Fishing

Starting with the inshore scene, the red drum (also known as redfish) is a local favorite. You’ll find plenty of these fighters lurking around the oyster beds and the lush, grassy edges of the marshes, particularly near the estuaries around Winyah Bay and Murrells Inlet.

  • Winyah Bay has a mix of fresh and saltwater which draws in a lot of fish, making it a solid spot for red drum. It’s got plenty of food for them and good currents that keep things interesting.
  • Then there’s Murrells Inlet, a quieter place where you can enjoy a day of fishing without too much commotion. It has the right kind of marshy areas that reds love.

If you’re up early or out late, you might also catch speckled trout (that’s spotted seatrout to some) during these cooler parts of the day.

Flounder are sticking around in July and throughout the summer, especially near the inlets. Drop your line around the structures near Garden City Pier or over by Pawleys Island. Tarpon fishing also starts in July, and let me tell you, these “silver kings” will give you a run for your money. They’re big, they jump, and they fight hard. You’ll need some heavy-duty gear if you want to land one. Make sure your lines are strong and your rods are sturdy—because a tarpon won’t go easy on them.

a picture of What Fish are Biting Near Myrtle Beach in July & August? with Carolina Guide Service

And don’t overlook the black drum and sheepshead, which are particularly fond of the docks and rocky areas around Myrtle Beach itself:

  • Black drum are tough fighters and can be quite a catch off the docks where they graze for crustaceans and small fish. They’re not too picky, so a variety of baits can work, but they sure do love some fresh shrimp or crab.
  • Sheepshead are often found nibbling on barnacles and other shellfish right off the sides of piers and rocky structures. You’ll need some patience and a bit of skill to hook these clever fish—they’re known for stealing bait if you’re not careful!

For something a bit different, gray snapper (A.K.A. “mangrove snapper”) are plentiful around the structures inshore, like piers and old docks. They’re smart and can be a bit tricky to hook, but that’s part of the fun. You’ll need some good bait—shrimp or small fish works well.

Nearshore Action

Moving just a bit further out, the waters are alive with Spanish mackerel, especially around the baitfish schools off the coast. These fish are fast and they make for a fun catch because of their speed and agility.

King Mackeral Fishing in South Carolina

For those looking to reel in something heftier, king mackerel are also abundant near the reefs and wrecks. A trip out toward the artificial reefs like Paradise Reef can be particularly rewarding.

You might find that the cobia are starting to move out by July, but don’t worry—we’ve got pompano around in numbers. You can find them along the beaches and around sandbars.

In July, keep an eye out for Jack Crevalle. These fish are showing up both inshore and nearshore, and they’re known for their strength and stamina. When you hook a Jack Crevalle, be ready for a fight. They’re aggressive and energetic, making them a favorite for fishermen looking for action. Whether you’re fishing close to the shore or heading out a little further, these fish can really add some excitement to a fishing trip with their powerful runs and resistance.

Sharks Galore

If shark fishing is your thing, there are plenty of shark species here in the summer to keep you busy. You’ll find bonnethead sharks in the inshore muddy bottoms. These are smaller members of the hammerhead family that prefer the muddy bottoms of shallow inshore waters where they scour for crabs and shrimp.

They’re an excellent target if you’re just cutting your teeth in shark fishing—feisty enough for a good fight but manageable in size.

Moving towards the river mouths and estuaries, you’re more likely to encounter bull sharks. Bulls are known for their strength and can adapt to both salt and fresh water, making the South Carolina estuaries perfect for them.

a picture of What Fish are Biting Near Myrtle Beach in July & August? with Carolina Guide Service

Out nearshore, watch for blacktips, spinners, and the occasional tiger shark. Tigers are less common but are among the most sought-after catches on shark fishing charters due to their size and the bragging rights they carry.

Fishing Guide for The Grand Strand

Myrtle Beach & Surrounding Areas

Along the Grand Strand, you’ve got a wide range of fishing spots to choose from. You can hit the busier areas around Myrtle Beach where the action is constant, or enjoy the calmer, more natural settings like Cape Romain, where the fishing can be just as good.

If you’re new to fishing around here or just aiming to boost your skills, Carolina Guide Service is where you should start. We specialize in light tackle and fly fishing, inshore and nearshore, and we welcome anglers of all skill levels.

Whether you’re thinking about cruising the historic waters of Georgetown at Winyah Bay or enjoying some summer fishing around Edisto Island, we know where the fish are biting and the best techniques to land them. We’re here to make sure you have a great time on the water—and maybe learn a few new tricks along the way.

Click here to book your next fishing adventure with Carolina Guide Service today!