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Learn to Fish Charleston's Inshore Waters

  • Published Date: November 6, 2025
  • Fishing
  • Charleston, SC
  • $500 - $700 price range

Summary

Capt. Cody Dakin's beginner fishing trip in Charleston, SC is perfect for newcomers to angling. You'll learn the basics while trying to catch redfish, trout, flounder, and more in the beautiful waters around Charleston. Don't worry about gear – everything you need is provided. Cody tailors each trip to give first-timers plenty of chances to reel one in. It's a great way to spend time with family or friends, even if you've never held a rod before. You'll get hands-on experience with different fishing techniques, all while enjoying the scenery of the Lowcountry coastline. Cody's local knowledge and patient teaching style make this an ideal introduction to inshore fishing. Whether you're 8 or 80, you'll come away with new skills and hopefully some fish stories to tell. It's a laid-back day on the water that's all about having fun and maybe catching dinner.
Learn to Fish Charleston's Inshore Waters

Catch of the Day

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Redfish caught on a fishing trip at Mount Pleasant

Fishing adventures in Charleston never get old.

Angler with black drum fish in SC

Charleston mornings are made for fishing.

Angler holding a redfish in Mount Pleasant

Casting lines along South Carolina shores.

Angler fishing in Mount Pleasant

Another perfect day fishing in Charleston.

Spotted Weakfish caught while fishing in Mount Pleasant

Fishing fun in South Carolina style.

Two redfish caught while fishing in Mount Pleasant

South Carolina fishing therapy is real.

Scenic view of Mount Pleasant

Reel moments happen in Charleston.

Redfish caught while fishing in SC

South Carolina skies, Charleston waters.

Spotted Weakfish caught while fishing in SC

Hook, line, and Charleston vibes.

A person fishing in South Carolina

Charleston’s waters, your next adventure.

Redfish caught on a fishing trip at Mount Pleasant

Fishing adventures in Charleston never get old.

Angler with black drum fish in SC

Charleston mornings are made for fishing.

Angler holding a redfish in Mount Pleasant

Casting lines along South Carolina shores.

Angler fishing in Mount Pleasant

Another perfect day fishing in Charleston.

Spotted Weakfish caught while fishing in Mount Pleasant

Fishing fun in South Carolina style.

Two redfish caught while fishing in Mount Pleasant

South Carolina fishing therapy is real.

Scenic view of Mount Pleasant

Reel moments happen in Charleston.

Redfish caught while fishing in SC

South Carolina skies, Charleston waters.

Spotted Weakfish caught while fishing in SC

Hook, line, and Charleston vibes.

A person fishing in South Carolina

Charleston’s waters, your next adventure.

Redfish caught on a fishing trip at Mount Pleasant

Fishing adventures in Charleston never get old.

Angler with black drum fish in SC

Charleston mornings are made for fishing.

Angler holding a redfish in Mount Pleasant

Casting lines along South Carolina shores.

Angler fishing in Mount Pleasant

Another perfect day fishing in Charleston.

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Reel in Your First Catch in Charleston

Hey there, newbie angler! Ready to wet a line in the beautiful waters of Charleston? Captain Cody Dakin's beginner fishing trip is the perfect way to get your feet wet (pun intended). Whether you're a total greenhorn or just looking to brush up on your skills, this trip is all about having a blast while learning the ropes. We'll cruise the scenic Charleston waterways, targeting a variety of fish that are perfect for beginners to cut their teeth on. No need to worry about gear - we've got you covered with top-notch equipment. So grab your friends, family, or whoever needs a day out on the water, and let's make some fishing memories!

What's the Deal?

This ain't your grandpa's boring fishing lesson. Captain Cody knows how to keep things fun and engaging while teaching you the essentials. We'll focus on species that are more than happy to bite, giving you plenty of chances to feel that exciting tug on the line. You'll learn everything from how to bait a hook to the proper way to reel in a fish. And the best part? We're fishing in some of the most beautiful spots Charleston has to offer. Even if the fish aren't biting (which is rare), you'll still have a great day soaking up the sun and scenery.

Fishing 101: Charleston Style

Alright, let's talk tackle. We'll be using light to medium spinning gear, perfect for the inshore species we're after. You'll get hands-on experience with different techniques like bottom fishing, popping corks, and maybe even some sight casting if conditions are right. We'll show you how to read the water, spot fish activity, and choose the right bait for each species. And don't worry about looking silly - everyone starts somewhere, and we've seen it all. By the end of the trip, you'll be throwing that cast net like a pro (well, maybe not quite, but you'll definitely improve).

Fish on the Menu

Charleston's waters are teeming with fish that are perfect for beginners. Let's break down what you might be reeling in:

Redfish: These copper-colored beauties are a favorite among anglers. They're strong fighters, so when you hook one, get ready for a workout! Redfish love to hang out near oyster beds and grass flats. The best part? They're not too picky eaters, so even if your technique isn't perfect, you've still got a good shot at landing one.

Sea Trout: Also known as spotted seatrout, these guys are a blast to catch. They've got a soft mouth, so finesse is key when reeling them in. Sea trout are most active in the early morning or late evening, and they love to ambush their prey. When you see birds diving, there's a good chance trout are feeding below.

Southern Flounder: Flat as a pancake and masters of camouflage, flounder are a unique catch. They like to bury themselves in the sand and ambush their prey. Catching these guys requires a slow, steady retrieve - perfect for beginners to practice their patience. And let me tell you, they're delicious if you're planning a fish fry later.

Black Drum: These cousins of the redfish are known for their distinctive "chin whiskers" and deep, croaking sound. They're bottom feeders, so we'll use techniques like dropping bait right in front of their noses. Black drum can grow to massive sizes, but the smaller ones are perfect for beginners to handle.

Sheepshead: With their black and white stripes and human-like teeth, sheepshead are one of the quirkiest-looking fish you'll catch. They're known as the "convict fish" because of their stripes, and they're notorious bait stealers. Landing a sheepshead is a real accomplishment for any angler, beginner or pro.

Why Folks Keep Coming Back

Look, I could tell you all day about how great this trip is, but nothing beats hearing it straight from the horse's mouth. Our guests love the laid-back vibe, the patience Captain Cody shows with newbies, and of course, the thrill of catching their first fish. Many come back year after year, bringing new friends to share the experience. It's not just about the fish - it's about the stories you'll tell, the laughs you'll share, and the sense of accomplishment you'll feel when you reel in that first catch.

Time to Get Your Fish On

So, what do you say? Ready to trade that office chair for a captain's chair? This beginner fishing trip in Charleston is the perfect way to dip your toes into the world of angling. You'll learn new skills, catch some fish, and have a ton of fun doing it. Whether you're looking for a unique family outing, a different kind of date, or just a way to enjoy Charleston's beautiful waters, this trip checks all the boxes. Don't let another season slip by without giving it a try. The fish are biting, the water's fine, and Captain Cody's ready to show you the ropes. Book your spot now and get ready for a day of firsts on the water. Trust me, once you feel that first tug on the line, you'll be hooked for life!

Learn more about the species

Black Drum

Black Drum are the gentle giants of our local waters. These cousins of the Redfish can grow huge, with most catches in the 5-30 pound range. You'll find them hanging around oyster beds, mudflats, and bridge pilings in Charleston's estuaries. They're bottom feeders with strong, crushing teeth perfect for cracking shells. Spring is the best time to target them, as they school up for spawning. Anglers love Black Drum for their strong fight and good eating qualities, especially the smaller ones under 15 pounds. To catch one, use fresh crab or shrimp on a fish-finder rig. Here's a tip: listen for their distinctive drumming sound. Black Drum make a croaking noise that can help you locate them, especially during spawning season. It's like they're calling out, "Come and catch me!"

Black Drum

Redfish

Redfish, or Red Drum, are the rockstars of Charleston's inshore waters. These copper-colored beauties, known for the distinctive black spot near their tail, typically range from 20-35 inches in our area. You'll find them tailing in shallow flats, hanging around oyster beds, or cruising the marsh edges. Fall is prime time for Redfish, but they're catchable year-round. Anglers love them for their powerful runs and excellent table fare. To catch one, try live bait like mullet or crabs, or artificial lures like gold spoons and soft plastics. Here's a local tip: on calm days, look for their tails breaking the surface as they feed in shallow water. It's like they're waving at you, saying "Come and get me!" Just remember to approach quietly to avoid spooking them.

Redfish

Sea Trout

Sea Trout, also known as Spotted Seatrout, are a favorite among Charleston anglers. These silvery, spotted fish typically range from 14-24 inches and love to hang out in grass flats and shallow waters. They're most active during cooler months, especially fall and spring. Sea Trout are known for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic fights, making them a blast to catch. They're also excellent eating, with a mild, delicate flavor. To target them, try using live shrimp under a popping cork or artificial lures like jigs and topwater plugs. Here's a local tip: look for "slicks" on the water surface. These oily patches are often a sign of feeding trout. When you see one, cast nearby and get ready for action. It's like finding a dinner bell in the water!

Sea Trout

Sheepshead

Sheepshead are the convict-striped tricksters of Charleston's waters. These crafty fish, usually 1-8 pounds, hang around structures like docks, bridges, and oyster beds. They're famous for their human-like teeth, which they use to crush barnacles and crabs. Spring is prime time for Sheepshead fishing, as they gather to spawn. Anglers love targeting them for their challenging bite and excellent table fare. To catch one, you'll need patience and precision. Use small hooks with fiddler crabs or barnacles as bait. Here's a local secret: when you feel a nibble, don't set the hook right away. Sheepshead are notorious bait stealers, so wait until you feel weight on the line. It's like a game of chess with these fish, and that's what makes landing one so satisfying.

Sheepshead

Southern Flounder

Southern Flounder are masters of camouflage, blending in with sandy or muddy bottoms. These flatfish typically range from 15-18 inches, but can grow up to 33 inches. You'll find them in shallow coastal waters, bays, and estuaries around Charleston. They're ambush predators, lying in wait for smaller fish and crustaceans. Fall is prime time for flounder fishing, as they move to deeper waters for spawning. Anglers love targeting them for their delicate, mild-flavored meat. To catch one, use live bait like mullet or shrimp on a Carolina rig. Here's a local tip: when you feel a bite, wait a few seconds before setting the hook. Flounder often grab prey and reposition it before fully committing. This patience can make the difference between landing a nice one and coming up empty-handed.

Southern Flounder

About the Ranger 2410

Company vehicle

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6

Manufacturer Name: Yamaha

Maximum Cruising Speed: 45

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 250

Hop aboard Capt. Cody Dakin's comfy fishing boat for a laid-back day on Charleston's beautiful waters. This trip is perfect if you're new to fishing or just want a relaxed outing with family or friends. You'll learn the basics while trying to catch redfish, trout, flounder, and other local favorites. Don't worry about gear – everything you need is provided. Capt. Cody knows all the best spots and will help you improve your skills as you enjoy the scenery. With room for two guests, it's an ideal way to spend quality time together while experiencing the joy of reeling in your very own catch. Whether you're 8 or 80, this trip offers a fun introduction to inshore fishing in one of South Carolina's most picturesque coastal areas.
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Experience a day on the water with Captain Cody Dakin of Top Predator Adventures. From inshore and harbor charters to looking for sharks teeth, there is a trip made for all skill levels and ages. Book Today!

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