If you're looking for an adrenaline-pumping fishing adventure, offshore fishing may just be the perfect activity for you. Unlike freshwater fishing, offshore fishing takes you beyond the calm waters of lakes and rivers and into the deep blue sea, where you'll have the opportunity to catch some of the biggest and most elusive fish in the world.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is known for its breathtaking coastline and thriving fishing scene, making it the perfect destination for offshore fishing enthusiasts. In this article, we'll dive into the world of offshore fishing, explore some of the best spots to cast your line in Myrtle Beach, and take a look at the most commonly caught fish species in the area.
What is Offshore Fishing?
Offshore fishing is a type of recreational fishing that takes place in open water, typically more than nine miles from the shore. It involves using specialized equipment, such as heavy-duty rods and reels, to catch large, deep-sea fish species that are not typically found near the shore. Unlike inshore or freshwater fishing, offshore fishing requires a boat and often a crew to navigate the open waters and locate schools of fish.
Offshore Fishing in Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach is home to a variety of popular offshore fishing spots, each offering unique opportunities to catch different species of fish. One of the most well-known areas for offshore fishing is the Charleston Bump, a large undersea mountain located about 80 miles southeast of Myrtle Beach. This area is known for its strong currents and deep drop-offs, making it an ideal spot for catching species like Wahoo, Mahi Mahi, and Tuna Fish.
Another popular offshore fishing spot in Myrtle Beach is the Gulf Stream, a warm ocean current that runs along the eastern coast of the United States. The Gulf Stream is home to a wide variety of fish species, including Sailfish, Marlin, and Tuna Fish. Its warm waters also attract large schools of Mahi Mahi and King Mackerel.
Other notable offshore fishing spots in Myrtle Beach include the Black Jack Hole, an area about 60 miles offshore that's known for its abundance of Grouper, Snapper, and Amberjack, and the Georgetown Hole, a deep-water area about 40 miles offshore that's home to Tuna Fish, Mahi Mahi, and Wahoo.
Commonly Caught Fish Species
One of the most exciting aspects of offshore fishing is the variety of fish species that can be caught. In Myrtle Beach, some of the most commonly caught fish species include:
-
Mahi Mahi: Also known as Dolphin fish, these colorful fish are a favorite among offshore anglers. They're known for their acrobatic jumps and can weigh up to 30 pounds.
-
Tuna Fish: The Atlantic Ocean is home to a variety of Tuna Fish species, including Bluefin, Yellowfin, and Blackfin Tuna. These powerful fish can grow up to 400 pounds and are known for their speed and agility.
-
Blue Marlin: Arguably the most prized catch in offshore fishing, Blue Marlin can weigh up to 1,000 pounds and are known for their incredible strength and speed.
-
Grouper: Bottom fishing for Grouper is a popular activity in Myrtle Beach. These fish can weigh up to 50 pounds and are known for their delicious meat.
-
Sharks: Myrtle Beach is home to a variety of shark species, including Hammerhead, Sandbar, and Blacktip sharks. These apex predators are a thrill to catch but are usually released back into the ocean due to conservation efforts.
Offshore fishing is a thrilling and rewarding activity that offers the opportunity to catch some of the biggest and most exciting fish in the world. Myrtle Beach's unique location and thriving fishing scene make it an ideal destination for offshore fishing enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Whether you're a seasoned angler or a first-timer, there's no better way to experience the excitement of offshore fishing than by booking a trip in Myrtle Beach. So, grab your gear and get ready to reel in the big one!
Related Articles