🎣 Beach & Pier Fishing in Myrtle Beach: What You Need to Know Before You Cast

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🎣 Beach & Pier Fishing in Myrtle Beach: What You Need to Know Before You Cast

Planning a coastal getaway and thinking about dropping a line into the surf? Whether you’re a seasoned angler or trying your luck for the first time, fishing from the beach or the iconic Apache Pier in Myrtle Beach is a great way to unwind and maybe even catch dinner. Here’s everything you need to know to get started!

🐟 Where to Fish: Beach vs. Apache Pier

Beach Fishing (Surfcasting):

Surf fishing is allowed on most public beaches in Myrtle Beach, including right in front of many resorts. It’s best done early in the morning or late in the evening when crowds thin and fish are feeding. Just make sure to steer clear of swimmers and respect any posted signs.

Apache Pier Fishing:

Located in North Myrtle Beach, the Apache Pier is the East Coast’s longest wooden pier and offers a family-friendly, shaded environment with rod rentals, tackle, and a small bait shop. It’s open year-round and even lights up at night for evening anglers.

🎣 What You Can Catch

From both the beach and the pier, anglers frequently reel in:

  • Whiting (Kingfish) – Mild and tasty, great for frying

  • Pompano – A surf-fishing favorite

  • Flounder – Often caught near the pier pylons or close to shore

  • Bluefish – Known for their fight and flavor

  • Spotted Sea Trout – A local favorite in spring and fall

  • Black Drum & Red Drum – Powerful fighters, especially near the pier

  • Spanish Mackerel – Often caught off the pier during warmer months

  • Sheepshead – Found clinging to pier pilings

🪪 Fishing License Requirements

Before you bait your hook, make sure you’re legal:

  • Beach Fishing:

    South Carolina requires a Saltwater Recreational Fishing License for anyone surf fishing. This includes casting from the beach or jetties.

  • Apache Pier:

    No individual fishing license is required because the pier holds a blanket commercial license. That means you can fish worry-free after paying your daily access fee (usually $9–$10).

How to Get a SC Fishing License:

You can purchase a license online through the SC Department of Natural Resources or at local tackle shops and outdoor retailers.

  • 3-day license: $11 (non-resident)

  • 7-day license: $35 (non-resident)

  • Annual license: $75 (non-resident)

🧰 What to Bring (or Rent)

  • Rod & reel (rentals available at Apache Pier)

  • Tackle & bait (bloodworms, shrimp, squid, or artificial lures)

  • Polarized sunglasses (to spot fish and protect your eyes)

  • Beach chair or sand spike (for surfcasting)

  • Cooler for your catch

  • Sunscreen and water — it gets hot out there!

✅ Tips for a Great Fishing Day

  • Check the tides: Fish are more active during rising and falling tides.

  • Use fresh bait: Especially for flounder, drum, and trout.

  • Fish near structure: Piers, sandbars, or cuts in the surf often attract baitfish and predators.

  • Ask locals or pier staff: They’ll know what’s biting and the best bait to use that day.

🏖️ Make it a Vacation Highlight

Whether you’re casting from the sand at sunrise or soaking in ocean views on the Apache Pier, fishing in Myrtle Beach is more than just a pastime — it’s a coastal experience. And who knows? You might just catch the freshest dinner of your trip.

🎯 Book your stay and get more local tips at CoastalCarolinaLifestyles.com

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