Fishing Charters in South Carolina
Browse fishing charters in South Carolina that can help you catch sheepshead.
Reel Fish Finder Charters
See what Charleston's top fishing charter is all about! Join Reel Fish Finder Captain James LaVanway for inshore, nearshore, saltwater, or freshwater fishing on the coastal waters of Charleston. Catch flounder, red drum, trout, sheepshead, shark, or any other number of fish species or enjoy a charter harbor cruise.
Simon Says Charters
Welcome to Simon Says Private Charters Located at Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina USCG Licensed and Insured Captain Matt Simon -Extra Hour Of Fishing to Active Duty/Veterans and First Responders - Fishing Report Yellowfin Tuna 3/2022 Sheepshead Featured Charters Deep Sea Trolling Deep Sea Re ...
Best Time to Catch Sheepshead
Sheepshead can be caught year-round in Pawleys Island. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Sheepshead
For sheepshead enthusiasts, Pawleys Island offers excellent opportunities around its numerous docks, bridges, and rock piles. These fish are notorious bait stealers, so you'll need a sensitive rod and a quick hookset. Fiddler crabs are the bait of choice, but barnacles also work well. Spring and fall are prime times, coinciding with their spawning season. Target areas with strong tidal flow, as this brings in the crustaceans they feed on. A local tip is to use a very short leader and a small, sharp hook to increase your hookup ratio. Also, be mindful of the structure you're fishing around, as sheepshead will quickly retreat into cover when hooked. The waters around the causeway leading onto Pawleys Island are known sheepshead hotspots.
How to Catch Sheepshead
Sheepshead Fishing Regulations in South Carolina
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
10 per person per day
Size Limit
14-inch total length minimum
License Required
Saltwater fishing license
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the South Carolina state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in South Carolina
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best bait to use for sheepshead around Pawleys Island?
Fiddler crabs are a local favorite for sheepshead. You can also try shrimp, oysters, or barnacles fished near docks, bridges, and other structure.
What is the sheepshead size and bag limit in South Carolina?
The legal size limit for sheepshead in South Carolina is a 14-inch total length minimum. You're allowed to keep up to 10 sheepshead per person per day.
Can I catch sheepshead year-round in Pawleys Island?
Yes, the sheepshead season is open year-round in South Carolina, so you can target them whenever you like.
Where are some good spots to find sheepshead near Pawleys Island?
Try fishing around the pilings of the Pawleys Island pier, docks in the creeks, or any structure in the saltwater or brackish waters. They love to hang around barnacle-covered surfaces.
More Sheepshead Fishing in South Carolina
Other Species to Fish in Pawleys Island
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