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Charleston Sunset Fishing: Top-Rated Inshore Trip

  • Published Date: July 16, 2025
  • Fishing
  • Mount Pleasant, SC
  • $200 - $700 price range
  • Updated Date: September 8, 2025

Summary

Looking for a quick fishing trip in Charleston? This sunset cruise is perfect if you're short on time but still want to experience the harbor's awesome inshore fishing. We'll head out as the sun's going down to try for redfish, speckled trout, and other local species. It's a great way to squeeze in some fishing, whether you're sneaking away from family vacation or have a break after work meetings. As we wrap up, you'll get to enjoy a beautiful Lowcountry sunset on the ride back – a nice bonus to end your evening on the water. Trip times are flexible, so give us a call to set up the perfect evening adventure. With room for 3 guests, it's an ideal way to make the most of your time in Charleston, even if you only have a few hours free.
Charleston Sunset Fishing: Top-Rated Inshore Trip

Sunset Catch Highlights

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One angler fishing in SC

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Redfish caught in SC on fishing tour

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Redfish catch in Mount Pleasant

The best bait? A perfect cast!

Angler catches 24-inch fish while fishing in SC

Saltwater fishing excitement in South Carolina!

Scenic view of Mount Pleasant landscape

Beautiful sunset after a sunset charter, great fish and great sunsets

Redfish caught during fishing tour in SC

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Best fishing tours in SC

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Scenic fishing tour in SC

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Person enjoying fishing tours in Mount Pleasant

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Redfish caught on fishing tour in SC

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One angler fishing in SC

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Redfish caught in SC on fishing tour

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Redfish catch in Mount Pleasant

The best bait? A perfect cast!

Angler catches 24-inch fish while fishing in SC

Saltwater fishing excitement in South Carolina!

Scenic view of Mount Pleasant landscape

Beautiful sunset after a sunset charter, great fish and great sunsets

Redfish caught during fishing tour in SC

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Best fishing tours in SC

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Scenic fishing tour in SC

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Person enjoying fishing tours in Mount Pleasant

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Redfish caught on fishing tour in SC

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One angler fishing in SC

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Redfish caught in SC on fishing tour

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Redfish catch in Mount Pleasant

The best bait? A perfect cast!

Angler catches 24-inch fish while fishing in SC

Saltwater fishing excitement in South Carolina!

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Sunset Fishing: Charleston's Hidden Gem

Hey there, angler! Looking to squeeze in some quality fishing time while you're in Charleston? Well, you're in luck. Our Quick or Half Day Sunset Cruise and Fishing Trip is just the ticket for folks who want to make the most of their evening and maybe land a few fish while they're at it. We'll hit the waters of Charleston Harbor just as the day's heat starts to fade, giving you a chance to wet a line and soak in those stunning Lowcountry views.

What to Expect on the Water

As soon as we push off from the dock, you'll feel the worries of the day melt away. The harbor's got a different vibe in the evening - it's calmer, more peaceful. We'll cruise out to some of my favorite spots where the fish tend to get active as the sun starts to dip. You might be new to fishing or a seasoned pro - doesn't matter. I'll make sure you're set up with the right gear and give you some pointers to up your chances of hooking into something good. And let's be real, even if the fish aren't biting, that Charleston sunset is worth the trip alone. It's the kind of view that'll have you reaching for your camera every few minutes.

Rods, Reels, and Relaxation

Now, let's talk fishing. We'll be using light tackle setups - nothing too fancy, but perfect for the inshore species we're after. I'll show you how to work a popping cork for trout or maybe we'll try some bottom fishing for sheepshead around the pilings. If the redfish are running, we might even sight cast to them in the shallows. It's all about reading the water and adjusting our technique to what's biting. Don't worry if you're new to this - I've got plenty of tricks up my sleeve to help you land a fish. And hey, if you're an old hand at this, feel free to bring your own lucky lure. Just remember, half the fun is in the chase, so relax and enjoy the ride.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Alright, let's break down the big three we're after on this trip. First up, the redfish. These copper-colored beauties are a Charleston staple. They've got a reputation for putting up a good fight, especially when you hook into a big one. Redfish love to hang around oyster beds and grass flats, and they'll often give themselves away with a tell-tale tail poking out of the water as they feed. Fall is prime time for reds, but we catch 'em year-round here.

Next, we've got speckled trout, or "specks" as the locals call 'em. These guys are known for their spotted sides and their tasty fillets. They're ambush predators, so we'll be targeting areas with moving water where they like to set up shop. Spring and fall are your best bets for trout, but a skilled angler (that's where I come in) can find them most of the year.

Last but not least, there's the sheepshead. Don't let those funny-looking teeth fool you - these striped fish are clever and can be tricky to catch. They love structure, so we'll be fishing near docks, pilings, and bridges. Sheepshead are year-round residents, but they really start to school up in the cooler months. Landing one of these guys is always a treat - they're known for their delicate, sweet meat that's prized by local chefs.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

You know, I've been running these sunset trips for years now, and there's something special about them that keeps folks coming back. Maybe it's the way the light turns golden over the water as we're reeling in that last catch of the day. Or it could be the laid-back vibe - no rush, no fuss, just good fishing and good company. I've had businessmen tell me this trip was the highlight of their whole conference week. Families love it too - it's just long enough to keep the kids engaged without wearing them out.

And let's not forget the bragging rights. There's nothing quite like heading back to your hotel with a story about the big one you landed (or the one that got away). Plus, you get a two-for-one deal: a fishing trip and a sunset cruise all wrapped up in one. It's the perfect way to cap off a day of sightseeing or to break up a work trip.

Time to Book Your Spot

So, what do you say? Ready to trade in a few hours of your evening for a chance at some real Charleston magic? Whether you're looking to bend a rod, snap some killer sunset photos, or just unwind after a long day, this trip's got you covered. We keep the groups small - just you and up to two of your buddies - so you'll get plenty of attention and a personalized experience.

Don't let your time in Charleston slip by without getting out on the water. These evening bites can be some of the hottest action of the day, and you don't want to miss it. Plus, that sunset... trust me, it's something you've got to see for yourself. So grab your hat, slap on some sunscreen (yes, even for an evening trip), and let's hit the harbor. Book your spot now, and I'll see you at the dock!

Learn more about the species

Redfish

Redfish are the crown jewel of Charleston's inshore fishing. These copper-colored beauties, with their trademark tail spot, typically run 28-33 inches when mature. You'll find them in super shallow water - sometimes with their backs out of the water! They love hanging around oyster beds, grass flats, and mud bottoms in 1-4 feet of water. Fall is prime time as they school up, but you can catch them year-round. Anglers love redfish for their powerful fights and excellent eating quality. To land one, try sight-casting with topwater lures or jigs in the shallows. Here's a pro tip: on hot days, look for them "tailing" in flooded grass during high tide. Just remember, they can be spooky in clear water, so a stealthy approach is key. Once you hook up with a big red, you'll be hooked for life!

Redfish

Sea Trout

Sea trout, also called speckled trout, are a favorite for Charleston anglers. These silvery, spotted fish usually run 14-24 inches and 1-5 pounds. You'll find them in grass flats and shallow waters, especially at night. They're most active in fall and spring when water temps are mild. Sea trout put up a good fight and make for excellent table fare with their mild, flaky white meat. To catch 'em, try working jerk baits or topwater plugs along grass edges during low light. Here's a local secret: on calm evenings, listen for their distinctive "drumming" sound to locate feeding schools. Sea trout can be a bit finicky, so matching your lure to the local bait is key. Once you hook one, you'll see why these fish keep anglers coming back for more.

Sea Trout

Sheepshead

Sheepshead are a unique catch in Charleston Harbor. These striped fish, nicknamed "convict fish," typically run 1-8 pounds and 14-20 inches. You'll find them around structures like docks, bridges, and reefs, where they feast on barnacles and crabs. Spring is prime time, as they form large spawning groups. Anglers love targeting sheepshead for their strong fight and tasty white meat. They're notorious bait stealers though, so set the hook fast when you feel a nibble. Here's a local tip: use a small, sharp hook with fiddler crab bait. Get as close to the pilings as you can without spooking them. Patience is key - these clever fish will test your skills, but landing one is seriously rewarding. Just watch out for those human-like teeth when you're unhooking them!

Sheepshead

About the The Bay Reef

Company vehicle

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 3

Manufacturer Name: Yamaha

Maximum Cruising Speed: 30

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 150

Ready to squeeze in some fishing on your Charleston visit? Join us for a quick sunset cruise and cast a line in Charleston Harbor. As the day winds down, we'll head out to try our luck at catching redfish, speckled trout, and other local species. Perfect for busy travelers or those looking for a relaxing evening activity. The trip wraps up with a picturesque boat ride back as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in classic Lowcountry hues. Trip lengths are flexible, so get in touch to plan your ideal evening outing. Whether you're an experienced angler or first-timer, this is a great way to experience Charleston's waters and possibly reel in dinner. Don't miss your chance to end the day on a high note - book your evening harbor fishing trip now!
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Join Happy Dog Charters for a day on the water with Captain Chris Gay, exploring the best fishing spots in Mount Pleasant, SC. Book your trip today and enjoy a fun-filled experience targeting Redfish, Speckled Trout, Sheepshead, and more!

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