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Elite Offshore Fishing Lessons in Kiawah Island
- Published Date: July 18, 2025
- Fishing
- Kiawah Island, SC, United States
- $350 - $2,700 price range
- Updated Date: October 5, 2025
Summary
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Offshore Action Shots
Mahi landed in Kiawah Island SC
Kiawah Island offshore boat trip
Adventure offshore Kiawah SC
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Kiawah Island offshore fishing day
Big catch on Kiawah Island waters
Snapper action off Kiawah Island SC
Offshore fishing trip Kiawah SC
Ocean catch Kiawah Island trip
Exciting day tuna fishing in Kiawah waters
Mahi landed in Kiawah Island SC
Kiawah Island offshore boat trip
Adventure offshore Kiawah SC
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Kiawah Island offshore fishing day
Big catch on Kiawah Island waters
Snapper action off Kiawah Island SC
Offshore fishing trip Kiawah SC
Ocean catch Kiawah Island trip
Exciting day tuna fishing in Kiawah waters
Mahi landed in Kiawah Island SC
Kiawah Island offshore boat trip
Adventure offshore Kiawah SC
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Offshore Fishing Mastery: Kiawah Island Edition
Ready to level up your offshore game? Captain Frank Schomaker's got your back. This isn't your average charter - it's a hands-on masterclass in deep sea techniques, right on your own boat off Kiawah Island. Whether you're looking to nail that perfect trolling speed or finally crack the code on bottom fishing, Frank's bringing decades of know-how straight to your deck. We're talking blackfin tuna, sailfish, and everything in between. Grab up to five of your fishing buddies and get set for a day of serious skill-building on the open water.
What to Expect on the Water
First things first - this trip is all about you calling the shots. Want to head out at the crack of dawn? Or prefer a leisurely start? It's your call. Captain Frank's hopping aboard your vessel, armed with all the specialized gear you need to turn your boat into a serious fishing machine. He's not just there to show you the ropes; he's there to make sure you can replicate these techniques long after the trip's over. From dialing in your trolling spread to mastering the art of bottom fishing in deep water, you'll be soaking up years of local knowledge. And the best part? It's hands-on all the way. You'll be working the gear, setting the lines, and hopefully, reeling in some monsters.
Offshore Tactics Breakdown
Let's talk techniques. Trolling's the name of the game for pelagics like mahi-mahi and wahoo. Captain Frank will show you how to set up a killer spread, choose the right lures, and nail that perfect trolling speed. It's all about creating that irresistible presentation that big fish can't ignore. Then there's bottom fishing - the go-to method for grouper, snapper, and other structure-loving species. You'll learn how to read your fish finder like a pro, drop your bait right where it needs to be, and feel those subtle bites even in deep water. And for the ultimate adrenaline rush? Get ready to try your hand at kite fishing for sailfish. There's nothing quite like watching a sail light up on a bait dangling from a kite line. It's next-level stuff, and by the end of the day, you'll have it dialed.
Top Catches This Season
Kiawah Island's offshore waters are teeming with gamefish, and each season brings its own highlights. In the warmer months, mahi-mahi (dorado) are the stars of the show. These acrobatic fighters are not only a blast to catch but make for some mighty fine eating too. As fall rolls around, keep your eyes peeled for the blackfin tuna bite to heat up. These speedsters will put your gear and your stamina to the test. And if you're lucky enough to hook into a wahoo, hold on tight - they're some of the fastest fish in the sea and will make your reel scream. Year-round, you've got a shot at tangling with a sailfish, the holy grail for many offshore anglers. Captain Frank knows all the hotspots and will put you in prime position for that fish of a lifetime.
Species You'll Want to Hook
Blackfin Tuna: These compact powerhouses are the bread and butter of Kiawah's offshore scene. Typically weighing in at 15-30 pounds, blackfins are known for their blistering runs and delicious sushi-grade meat. They often travel in schools, so when you find them, the action can be non-stop. Look for birds working the surface - that's often a dead giveaway that tuna are feeding below. Fall and winter are prime time for blackfins, but you can catch them year-round if you know where to look.
King Mackerel: "Smoker" kings are the stuff of legend around here. These toothy predators can top 50 pounds and are famous for their smoking runs (hence the nickname). They're typically targeted by slow-trolling live bait or dragging spoons and plugs. Kings love structure, so wrecks and reefs are prime territory. The biggest ones show up in late spring and fall, but you can tangle with kings most of the year off Kiawah.
Mahi Mahi: Also known as dorado or dolphinfish, mahi are the perfect gamefish. They're abundant, put up an acrobatic fight, and are absolutely delicious on the plate. These neon-colored beauties love floating debris, so keep an eye out for weedlines or floating boards - that's where you'll find the mahi. They can grow over 50 pounds, but even the smaller "peanuts" are a blast on light tackle. Summer is prime time for mahi, but you can catch them from spring through fall.
Indo-Pacific Sailfish: The crown jewel of Kiawah's offshore fishery. Sailfish are the fastest fish in the ocean, capable of speeds over 60 mph. Watching a lit-up sail attack a bait is a sight you'll never forget. They average 6-7 feet long and put on an incredible aerial display when hooked. While you can catch them year-round, the best action is typically in the late summer and fall. Captain Frank's kite fishing techniques are especially effective for enticing these billfish to bite.
Wahoo: Speed demons of the deep, wahoo are prized for both their fighting ability and their excellent table fare. They're solitary hunters, so hooking one is always a special occasion. Wahoo can top 100 pounds and are known for their blistering initial run - if your drag's not set right, they'll spool you in seconds. High-speed trolling with wire line is a favorite local technique. While you can catch them year-round, winter and early spring often see the biggest specimens.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
What sets this trip apart is the focus on education. You're not just along for the ride - you're actively learning skills that'll make you a better offshore angler. Captain Frank's approach is all about empowering you to run successful trips on your own boat. Clients rave about how much they learn in just one day, from reading the water to fine-tuning their trolling spread. And because it's on your vessel, you're getting real-world experience in the exact setup you'll be using in the future. It's like having a pro coach come to your home field.
Time to Book Your Spot
If you're serious about stepping up your offshore game, this is the trip for you. Captain Frank's wealth of knowledge, combined with the rich fishing grounds off Kiawah Island, create the perfect learning environment. Whether you're after your first sailfish or just want to dial in your deep-dropping technique, you'll come away with skills that'll last a lifetime. And let's not forget - there's a good chance you'll be putting those new skills to the test on some real trophy fish. So gather your crew, fuel up the boat, and get ready for a day of offshore education you won't forget. The fish are waiting - time to see what you're made of!
Learn more about the animals
Blackfin Tuna
Blackfin tuna are the smallest of the Thunnus family, usually topping out around 30-40 pounds. You'll find them in warm offshore waters, often hanging near floating debris or weed lines. These guys are fast swimmers and fierce fighters for their size. We typically target them from spring through fall when water temps are above 68°F. Blackfin make great eating - their meat is similar to yellowfin but with a richer flavor. To catch 'em, we'll often slow-troll live bait like pilchards or use chunking techniques. One tip: when you see birds working, there's a good chance blackfin are below. They feed aggressively near the surface, so watch for splashing and get your baits in the strike zone quick. These fish can really test your light tackle skills, so be ready for some drag-screaming runs.
Indo-Pacific Sailfish
Sailfish are the sprinters of the ocean, capable of short bursts over 60 mph. They average 6-8 feet long and 80-120 pounds. You'll find them in warm offshore waters, often near the surface and edges of currents. Spring and fall are typically best as they migrate. Sailfish are prized for their incredible acrobatics - they'll leap and dance across the water when hooked. It's all catch-and-release these days, focused on the thrill of the fight. We usually troll with live bait like ballyhoo or mullet, sometimes adding plastic skirts for extra flash. Here's a local tip: when a sail comes into the spread, free-spool your bait and let it drift back. Sailfish often track prey before striking, so this natural presentation can trigger more bites. Be ready for some serious runs - these fish will test both your gear and your stamina.
King Mackerel
King mackerel are speed demons of the coast, known for blistering runs that'll make your reel sing. They typically range from 20-40 pounds, though bigger ones over 50 aren't uncommon. You'll find kings in the warmer months, usually in 30-150 feet of water near structures like reefs or wrecks. They're migratory, following bait schools up the coast as waters warm. Kings are prized for their hard fighting ability - expect some impressive aerial displays when hooked. Their meat is good eating too, especially when smoked. We usually troll for them using live bait like mullet or menhaden. Here's a local trick: use a stinger rig with two hooks. Kings are notorious for short-striking baits, so that trailing hook ups your odds of a solid hookset. Keep your drag set light at first - these fish can easily snap light line on their initial run.
Mahi Mahi or Common Dolphinfish
Mahi mahi are some of the most colorful and acrobatic fish you'll see offshore. They average 15-30 pounds but can get much bigger. Look for them around floating debris and weed lines in blue water. Mahi are fast growers and constantly on the move, following warm currents. Spring through fall is prime time, with summer being the peak. Anglers love mahi for their spectacular fights - they'll jump, tailwalk, and make blistering runs. Plus, they're excellent eating with a mild, sweet flavor. We often troll for them using ballyhoo or artificial lures that mimic flying fish. Here's a tip: when you hook one, keep it in the water. Mahi often travel in schools, so leaving a hooked fish visible can draw in the rest of the pack. Be ready with pitch baits to capitalize on a feeding frenzy. These fish are a blast on light tackle and make for some great photos.
Wahoo Fish
Wahoo are like the cheetahs of the sea - sleek, fast, and built for speed. They average 3-5 feet long but can top 100 pounds. You'll find them in open blue water, often near drop-offs or floating structure. Late summer through fall is usually best as water temps peak. Wahoo are prized for their blistering runs - they'll smoke a reel faster than just about anything out there. Their meat is excellent too, with a mild flavor perfect for grilling. We typically high-speed troll for them at 12-15 knots using wire leaders and lures like bulletheads or jets. Here's a tip: when a wahoo hits, don't strike back. Their initial run is so fast, you risk pulling the hook. Instead, let them run and steadily increase drag pressure. Be ready for multiple runs - these fish have serious stamina and will test your arms as much as your gear.
About the 31 ft Pursuit
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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 27
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 300
