Beginner's Bottom Fishing Adventure in Kiawah

Reel in Kiawah's Offshore Bounty

Ready to test your skills against some of South Carolina's most prized bottom-dwellers? Hop aboard with Resuwrecktion Charters for a 6-hour private fishing adventure off Kiawah Island. Whether you're a first-timer or looking to sharpen your offshore game, Captain Frank Schomaker's got you covered. We'll be targeting black sea bass, gag grouper, and other tasty bottom-feeders that call these waters home. With room for up to six anglers, you'll have plenty of elbow room to work those lines. The boat leaves the dock at 6 AM sharp, so grab your coffee and let's hit the blue water!

What's the Deal?

This isn't your average boat ride, folks. We're talking serious fishing action from the moment we clear the inlet. Captain Frank knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's all about putting you on the fish. You'll learn the ins and outs of bottom fishing techniques, from bait selection to reading the fish finder. The beauty of this trip is its flexibility – perfect for newbies who want to learn the ropes, but also great for experienced anglers looking to fill the cooler. And don't worry about fuel costs; that's all included. Just remember to bring some cash if you want to tip the captain for an awesome day on the water.

Dropping Lines, Not Anchors

Bottom fishing is all about precision and patience. We'll be using heavy-duty rods and reels, typically spooled with braided line to feel those subtle bites. Captain Frank will get us set up over prime fishing spots – usually natural and artificial reefs or underwater structures where the big boys like to hang out. We'll be using a mix of live and cut bait, maybe even some jigs if the bite is hot. The key is to keep your line tight and be ready for that telltale thump when a fish hits. It's not uncommon to hook into multiple fish at once, so be prepared for some arm-burning action!

Species You'll Want to Hook

Black Sea Bass: These feisty little fighters are a staple of offshore bottom fishing. Don't let their size fool you – they put up a great fight and taste even better. Black sea bass hang around structure and are suckers for squid or cut bait. They're available year-round, but the bigger ones tend to show up in cooler months. Expect to catch a bunch of these, with keepers typically in the 13-15 inch range.

Gag Grouper: Now we're talking about some serious pull! Gag grouper are ambush predators that love to hang around rocky bottoms and reefs. These bruisers can grow over 50 pounds, though most catches are in the 10-30 pound range. They're known for making a beeline back to their hidey-holes once hooked, so be ready to put some backbone into the fight. Gags are most active in the fall and winter months.

Grey Triggerfish: These oddball-looking fish are a blast to catch and delicious on the plate. Triggers have powerful jaws designed for crushing shellfish, so make sure your hooks are sharp! They tend to hang around the same areas as snappers and groupers. While not the biggest fish in the sea, a good-sized trigger can put up a surprisingly stubborn fight. They're available year-round but tend to be more active in warmer months.

Mahi Mahi: While we're primarily bottom fishing, there's always a chance to encounter some mahi (also known as dolphinfish). These acrobatic fighters are known for their stunning colors and delicious meat. Mahi are typically found near the surface, often around floating debris or weedlines. If we spot some, Captain Frank might break out the trolling gear for a shot at these high-flying fish. Peak season for mahi is late spring through summer.

Red Snapper: The crown jewel of bottom fishing in many anglers' eyes. Red snapper are prized for their firm, white flesh and hard-fighting nature. They love to hang around reefs and other structure in depths from 60 to over 300 feet. Snapper fishing is heavily regulated, so seasons can be short – but when they're open, it's game on! These ruby-red beauties can grow over 30 pounds, though most catches are in the 5-15 pound range.

Time to Get Your Fish On

Look, whether you're itching to bend a rod for the first time or you're a seasoned pro looking for a solid day on the water, this Kiawah Island charter has got you covered. Captain Frank knows his stuff, the fishing grounds are prime, and the variety of species means you're in for some real action. Plus, with a private charter, you've got the flexibility to tailor the trip to your group's needs. So why wait? Round up your crew, grab your sunscreen, and let's go put some fish in the box. The offshore bounty of Kiawah Island is calling – time to answer!