%2Ffit-in%2F250x250%2Fguide_websites%2F2082%2Fimages%2F254615102_182392087403029_6877736647196321292_n.jpg&w=1200&q=100)
Shem Creek's Best 6-Hour Inshore Fishing Charter
- Published Date: July 17, 2025
- Fishing
- Charleston, SC
- $500 - $700 price range
- Updated Date: November 6, 2025
Summary
%2F%2Fusers%2Fbc213157-241f-4024-8e3b-b7e0af24d974%2Fratecard%2F642a3e27-763f-450c-ae1e-93de49fc2dae.jpeg&w=1200&q=75)
Lowcountry Catches
Reel in the Lowcountry: Charleston's Half-Day Hotspot
Ready to get your line wet in some of the best inshore fishing Charleston has to offer? Hop aboard with Capt. Cody Dakin for a half-day trip that'll have you hooked from start to finish. We're talking prime fishing grounds, top-notch gear, and a local pro who knows exactly where the fish are biting. Whether you're looking to bend a rod on some hard-fighting redfish or finesse your way to a gator trout, this trip's got you covered. Let's break down what makes this Charleston fishing charter a can't-miss experience.
What's Biting Today?
Picture this: You're cruising out of Shem Creek as the sun's climbing over the horizon, rod in hand, ready to tangle with some of Charleston's finest inshore species. Capt. Cody's got the inside scoop on where the fish are holding, whether it's redfish tailing in the grass, trout busting bait along oyster bars, or flounder ambushing prey in the deeper holes. This isn't your average "cast and hope" fishing trip – we're talking about a tailored experience designed to put you on the fish from the moment you step on board. With a max of two anglers, you'll get plenty of one-on-one time with the captain, perfect for picking up new techniques or honing your skills.
Gear Up for Success
Leave your tackle box at home, folks. Capt. Cody's got you covered with top-of-the-line gear that's dialed in for the local fishery. We're talking light tackle setups perfect for working jigs in the creeks or tossing live bait under docks. You'll be armed with everything from popping corks for those wary trout to bottom rigs for the structure-loving sheepshead. And don't sweat it if you're new to fishing – Capt. Cody's patient coaching will have you casting like a pro in no time. The beauty of inshore fishing is that it's accessible to all skill levels, so whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time holding a rod, you're in for a great day on the water.
Raving Reels: Customer Stories
"Top Notch Charter, Captain Cody kept us on fish all charter - Reds, Flounder, and Trout. Highly Recommended!! The Bakers" - Scott
"Captain Cody was a great guide. My son's 13th birthday will be a lasting one and he was an integral part of making that happen. He asked for sharks and he got us to them! Super down to earth, friendly, funny, and full of fishing knowledge that he was more than happy to share and teach. Thanks Cody, we will for sure be biking with you again in the future ." - Ryan
"Captain Cody is top notch! Very knowledgeable of the area. Professional and works hard to get you on the fish. Will definitely be booking with him in the future. We had a great 6 hour trip" - Richard
Lowcountry's Finest: Target Species
Redfish: The crown jewel of Charleston's inshore waters, redfish (also known as red drum) are the bulldogs of the flats. These copper-colored beauties can range from scrappy "rat reds" in the 14-inch class to bruiser bull reds topping 40 inches. Redfish love to cruise the shallow grass flats and oyster bars, often revealing their location with their signature tailing behavior. The fall months are prime time for redfish action, but you can tangle with these fighters year-round in Charleston. There's nothing quite like the rush of seeing a big red crush a topwater lure or watching your line peel off as one makes a powerful run.
Sea Trout: Also known as spotted seatrout or specks, these wily predators are a favorite among light tackle enthusiasts. Sea trout are ambush feeders, often found lurking around oyster bars, creek mouths, and grass lines. They're known for their soft mouths and acrobatic jumps, making them a challenging and exciting catch. The cooler months from October through April typically offer the best trout fishing, with many anglers targeting them using live shrimp under popping corks or artificial lures like soft plastics and topwater plugs. Landing a gator trout (over 20 inches) is a true trophy in these waters.
Southern Flounder: Masters of camouflage, flounder are the ninjas of the inshore world. These flat fish bury themselves in the sandy or muddy bottom, waiting to ambush unsuspecting prey. Flounder fishing requires finesse and patience, often involving slow retrieves and a keen eye for the subtle "thump" when a flounder takes the bait. Fall is typically the best time to target flounder as they begin their migration to offshore spawning grounds. While they might not put up the strongest fight, flounder are prized for their delicious fillets, making them a favorite among anglers looking for a fish fry.
Black Drum: Often overlooked by anglers chasing their more famous cousins, the redfish, black drum are a worthy adversary in their own right. These strong fighters can grow to impressive sizes, with some monsters topping 50 pounds in inshore waters. Black drum are bottom feeders, using their sensitive barbels to root out crustaceans and mollusks. They're often found around structure like bridge pilings, jetties, and deep holes. Spring and fall are prime times for black drum, and they're suckers for fresh cut bait or crabs. Landing a big black drum will give your arms a workout and put a smile on your face.
Sheepshead: With their distinctive black and white stripes and human-like teeth, sheepshead are one of the more unique species you'll encounter in Charleston's waters. These structure-loving fish are notoriously challenging to catch, earning them the nickname "convict fish" for their ability to steal bait. Sheepshead are typically found around oyster bars, dock pilings, and other hard structure where they feed on barnacles and crustaceans. Winter and early spring are the best times to target sheepshead, and while they might not be the biggest fish in the sea, their fight and tasty fillets make them a prized catch.
Time to Wet a Line
Alright, folks, let's cut to the chase – this Charleston inshore fishing trip is the real deal. You've got a seasoned local captain, prime fishing grounds right in Charleston's backyard, and a shot at some of the most sought-after inshore species in the Southeast. Whether you're looking to put some fish in the cooler or just want to experience the thrill of the catch, Capt. Cody's got you covered. But here's the kicker – spots are filling up fast, and once they're gone, they're gone. Don't be the one left high and dry at the dock. Grab your fishing buddy, book your trip, and get ready for a half-day of non-stop action on the water. Just remember, that deposit's non-refundable, so when you book, you're locked in for a good time. See you on the water!
Customer Reviews
Fish Frenzy Feast
Scott Baker
April 3, 2023
Shark Seekers Dream
Captain Cody was a great guide. My son’s 13th birthday will be a lasting one and he was an integral part of making that happen. He asked for sharks and he got us to them! Super down to earth, friendly, funny, and full of fishing knowledge that he was more than happy to share and teach. Thanks Cody, we will for sure be biking with you again in the future .
Ryan Spracklin
August 10, 2025
Fish On with Cody
Captain Cody is top notch! Very knowledgeable of the area. Professional and works hard to get you on the fish. Will definitely be booking with him in the future. We had a great 6 hour trip
Richard Fitzsimmons
March 25, 2023
Learn more about the species
Black Drum
Black Drum are the heavyweight champions of the drum family, ranging from 5 to 30 pounds, with some monsters hitting 90 pounds. You'll find them in brackish waters, hanging around oyster beds and mudflats. These bottom-feeders use their powerful jaws to crush shellfish, so listen for that distinctive drumming sound. Spring's the hot time to target them, as they school up to spawn. Anglers love Black Drum for their strong fights and tasty meat, especially the smaller ones under 15 pounds. To land one, use fresh crab or shrimp on a simple bottom rig. Here's a local tip: when you feel a bite, wait a few seconds before setting the hook. Black Drum often play with their food, and patience can mean the difference between a hookup and a near miss. Fish the falling tide for best results, focusing on areas where shallow flats meet deeper channels.
Redfish
Redfish, or Red Drum, are the rockstars of Charleston's inshore fishing scene. These copper-colored beauties, known for the distinctive black spot near their tail, typically range from 20 to 30 inches in the shallows. You'll find them tailing in marshes and flats, often in water so shallow their backs break the surface. Fall is prime time as they school up, but you can catch them year-round. Anglers love Redfish for their powerful runs and excellent table fare. To hook one, try sight-casting with live mullet or shrimp, or use artificial lures like gold spoons or topwater plugs. Here's a local tip: on sunny days, look for their tails waving above the water as they root for crabs in the mud. Approach quietly and make an accurate cast - it's a thrill like no other when a big Red crushes your bait in skinny water.
Sea Trout
Sea Trout, also known as Speckled Trout, are a favorite among Charleston anglers. These silvery, spotted fish typically range from 14 to 24 inches, with some trophy-sized ones hitting 5 pounds or more. You'll find them in grass flats and shallow waters, especially active at night or early morning. Fall and spring are prime seasons, but you can catch them year-round. Trout are known for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic fights, making them a blast to catch. They're also great eating fish, with delicate, flaky meat. To target Sea Trout, try using live shrimp under a popping cork or artificial lures like jigs and topwater plugs. Here's a local tip: on cooler days, slow down your retrieve and fish deeper waters where trout congregate. Listen for their distinctive "pops" on the surface - that's often a sign they're feeding actively.
Sheepshead
Sheepshead, nicknamed "convict fish" for their black and white stripes, are a real treat to catch. These clever fish typically weigh 1-8 pounds and hang out around structures like docks, bridges, and reefs. They're famous for their human-like teeth, which they use to crush barnacles and crabs. Spring's the prime time to target them as they gather to spawn. Anglers love the challenge Sheepshead provide - they're notorious bait stealers and require finesse to hook. For the best shot, use small hooks baited with fiddler crabs or pieces of shrimp. Here's a local trick: when you feel a bite, count to two before setting the hook. This gives the Sheepshead time to get the bait in its mouth. Once hooked, they put up a surprisingly strong fight for their size. Plus, their sweet, white meat makes for excellent table fare.
Southern Flounder
Southern Flounder are masters of camouflage, blending in with sandy or muddy bottoms. They typically range from 15-18 inches, but can grow up to 33 inches. You'll find them in shallow coastal waters, bays, and estuaries. Fall is prime time for catching these flatfish as they move to spawn. Anglers love targeting them for their delicate, white meat and the challenge of hooking these sneaky ambush predators. To catch 'em, use live bait like mullet or shrimp on a Carolina rig. Fish slow and steady along drop-offs and structure. A local trick is to drag your bait across the bottom, mimicking their prey. When you feel that distinctive "thump," set the hook hard - flounder have tough mouths. Be ready for a good fight, especially with the bigger ones. Just remember, patience is key when fishing for these masters of disguise.
About the Ranger 2410
%2F%2Fusers%2Fbc213157-241f-4024-8e3b-b7e0af24d974%2Fvehicle_picture%2F96807d72-bb5e-4a67-b9ad-d23f214ddbec.jpeg&w=1200&q=75)
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 45
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 250
Top Notch Charter, Captain Cody kept us on fish all charter - Reds, Flounder, and Trout. Highly Recommended!! The Bakers