Planning to hop aboard one of the many North Myrtle Beach Fishing Charters or broader Myrtle Beach Fishing Charters, but still have questions? This comprehensive FAQ covers licenses, seasickness, tipping, kids on board, what you’ll catch, and more. Use it as a quick-reference guide or drop it straight into your booking page to reassure guests and boost conversions. Keywords covered: Myrtle Beach Charter Fishing, deep sea fishing in Myrtle Beach, Charter Fishing In Myrtle Beach.

Booking & Basics

Do I need my own fishing license? No. Most Myrtle Beach Charter Fishing boats carry blanket licenses for everyone on board. Always confirm when booking.

How far in advance should I book? Peak season (June–August, holidays, spring break) sells out weeks ahead. Book as early as you can; shoulder-season weekdays are easier to grab last-minute.

How long are charter trips? Options range from 2–3 hour inshore jaunts to 12+ hour deep sea fishing in Myrtle Beach adventures. Choose based on your goals, budget, and sea legs.

What’s included in the price? Typically: rods, reels, tackle, bait, fuel, licenses, and fish-cleaning. Not included: gratuity for the mate, food/drinks, and any special requests (live eels, upgraded bait, etc.).

How many people can go on a charter? Commonly 4–6 anglers for smaller inshore boats; larger offshore vessels may take 6–15. Coast Guard licensing and boat size dictate capacity—ask your captain.

On the Water

What will we catch? Inshore: redfish, speckled trout, flounder, sheepshead. Nearshore: Spanish/king mackerel, cobia, sharks. Offshore: mahi, wahoo, tuna, grouper, snapper—depending on season and trip length.

Will the crew clean and bag our fish? Almost always. Some included, some for an extra fee or a customary tip. Bring a cooler for the ride home.

Can we keep everything we catch? Only within legal size/bag limits. Captains follow state and federal regulations. Many promote selective harvest—keep what you’ll eat, release the rest.

What if the fish aren’t biting? It happens. Good captains adjust tactics or spots. Communicate your goals (action vs. trophies) so they can adapt.

Comfort & Safety

I get seasick—now what? Take motion meds (Dramamine/Bonine) the night before and morning of the trip. Eat light, avoid heavy or greasy foods, and stay hydrated. For rough-water worries, book inshore or shorter nearshore trips.

Is there a bathroom on the boat? Inshore skiffs rarely have one; many nearshore/offshore boats do (called a “head”). Confirm before booking if that’s essential.

Can kids come? Yes! Inshore trips are perfect for young anglers. Choose shorter, calmer outings for kids under ~10. Teenagers can handle longer nearshore or offshore runs if they’re up for it.

What should we wear? Lightweight, sun-protective clothing, non-marking shoes, a hat, and polarized sunglasses. Bring a light jacket—wind and spray can chill even in summer.

Is alcohol allowed?Usually in moderation; glass is often prohibited. Always ask the captain first.

Money Matters

How much should we tip? Industry norm is 15–20% of the trip price for the mate/crew. They rig baits, untangle lines, gaff fish, and clean your catch.

Are there extra fees? Potentially: fuel surcharges on far offshore runs, special bait upgrades, fish-cleaning fees, marina parking. Clarify before departure.

What’s the refund/cancellation policy? Weather calls are captain’s domain. If conditions are unsafe, most reschedule or refund. If you cancel late, deposits may be forfeited—read the policy.

Gear & Prep

Can I bring my own rod and tackle? Usually yes, but check first. Captains know what works locally; their gear is tuned for the job.

Do I need to bring bait? No—charters supply bait. But if you have special requests (live eels for cobia, for instance), ask ahead.

What food and drinks should we pack? Easy, non-messy snacks, sandwiches, water, sports drinks. Avoid bananas (many captains are superstitious!).

What else should I bring? Sunscreen (reef-safe), lip balm, hand wipes, small first aid kit, camera/phone (in a dry bag), cash for tips.

Regulations & Conservation

Who keeps up with regulations? Your captain. South Carolina and federal rules can change quickly. Trust their calls on what’s legal to keep.

Can we release everything? Absolutely. Catch-and-release is encouraged for big breeders and protected species.

Do we need to tag fish? Not typically for recreational anglers unless part of a research program. Some captains participate in tagging—ask if you’re interested.

Weather & Rescheduling

What if it rains? Light rain is usually fine—bring a jacket. Thunderstorms or high winds may force a delay, switch to inshore, or rescheduling.

Who decides if we go offshore? The captain. They monitor marine forecasts, wave heights, and safety advisories. Trust their experience.

Special Requests & Extras

Can we target sharks/billfish specifically? Yes—tell your captain ahead so they can prep gear, bait, and run times.

Can we do a mixed trip (inshore then nearshore)?Some charters offer combo trips if conditions allow. Expect added time/cost.

Is fly fishing an option? A few guides specialize in inshore fly trips. Bring your own rod or confirm the captain has suitable gear.

Can we bring pets? Usually no, for safety and liability reasons.

Final Hookset

From short kid-friendly outings to marathon deep sea fishing in Myrtle Beach expeditions, Charter Fishing In Myrtle Beach has a perfect option for every group. Ask questions, book early, prep smart—and get ready for tight lines and great stories.

Still unsure about something? Reach out to a reputable captain—North Myrtle Beach Fishing Charters are happy to help!