| Myrtle Beach, South Carolina |
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It’s no secret that fishing is a popular pastime for North Myrtle Beach visitors and residents. Some of the largest and most prized game-fish can be caught off the coast of South Carolina, which is just one reason local fishermen work every month of the year. When folks talk about North Myrtle Beach fishing, they're usually referring to saltwater fishing. After all, we have immediate access to the Atlantic Ocean, along with numerous creeks and channels that feed into the ocean – all saltwater. Before starting your angling excursion, don’t forget your Saltwater Recreational Fisheries License. In South Carolina, a fishing license is required for individuals 16 and older. A fishing license is not required for North Myrtle Beach surf or pier fishing, or if you're fishing from a rental or charter boat. North Myrtle Beach deep sea fishing is a true adventure. Going head to head against trophy game-fish provides a thrilling experience. Ask anyone who has done it, and they’ll tell you that deep sea fishing in North Myrtle Beach will set you in motion! Recently, artificial reef fishing has become a popular alternative. The most visited reef in South Carolina is right off the coast, near North Myrtle Beach. The Jim Caudle Reef is located just 2 ½ miles off the Little River shoreline. Supported by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, the Jim Caudle artificial reef project enhances fishing and aids fish stocks by creating habitat. All in all, South Carolina has a total of 45 artificial fishing reefs, bringing a huge $83 million to the South Carolina economy each year. For more information on how to locate one of the 45 reefs visit www.saltwaterfishing.sc.gov/artificialreef.html.In addition to fishing in the mighty Atlantic, the North Myrtle Beach area is blessed with wonderful inland waters. These include the Intracoastal Waterway, which runs parallel to the coast from Little River to Socastee, where it merges with the Waccamaw River. Along the way, other rivers and tributaries feed into the waterway, and passage to the ocean is gained through Little River. In its entirety, the Intracoastal Waterway runs from Boston to Key West. The waterway was "built" by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, taking advantage of existing rivers and other waterways and digging canals as needed to connect them. The completion in 1936 of the section between Little River and Socastee opened the path to commercial and leisure vessels for the entire length of the East Coast. Dignitaries from throughout the country attended a dedication ceremony here on April 11, 1936. North Myrtle Beach doesn’t have a shortage of fishing tournaments either. Year-round, fishing tournaments keep locals and visiting anglers busy. 2008 will mark the 8th Annual Dixie Chicken Fishing Funament, a multi-species fishing tournament and fund-raising event attracting fishermen from across the country. In addition to the "Funament" itself, the weekend event will play host to several functions including the Annual Flounder Frenzie sponsored by the North Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce. The Dixie Chicken Funament features cash and prizes totaling approximately $50,000, with all proceeds going toward the development of The Jim Caudle Reef. The 8th Annual Dixie Chicken Funament will be held May 23rd – 25th. For details visit www.dixiechickenfunament.com. In addition to fishing, the North Myrtle Beach area offers the following boating excursions: party boat fishing, individual/large group excursions, private charters, casino cruises and riverboat cruises. For diving and watersports enthusiasts, the North Myrtle Beach area offers: surfing, water skiing, kayaking and snorkeling.
Capt. Smiley's Inshore Fishing Charters
Harbourgate Resort & Marina Hurricane Fleet Fishing Center Additional Resources:
South Carolina Department of Natural Resources South Carolina Information Highway Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission Experience the Difference…North Myrtle Beach
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