On Hilton Head Island you can fish in fresh and brackish water lagoons, tidal lagoons, estuaries (tidal creeks), inshore on the Calibogue Sound and offshore in the Atlantic ocean.

Salt Water Fishing

You will you need a state license if over 16 to fish from a boat. Commercial fishing boats provide a license that will cover everyone fishing in the boat. In addition you can purchase a state license to fish from a private boat for about $15.00 for a three day non-resident license.

To fish from the beach or the banks of estuaries (tidal creeks) you do NOT need a license.

Inshore and offshore charter fishing boats are easily available. You can go fishing on a party boat with a dozen or more, which will drift fish. Usually these operate inshore or not far offshore, though some will go to the outer reefs. Some specialize in shark fishing, usually late in the day and into evening. You can also charter an offshore (or inshore) boat that carries up to six passengers and will fish by trolling the bait. This is usually called deep+ sea fishing. The trips offered are typically either half-day or full-day excursions. For serious deep sea fishing, anglers will go to the Gulf Stream, which is about 70 miles from shore. The best time to go to the Gulf Stream is June through September.

There are a number of artificial reefs and natural banks offshore that offer fine fishing. Charters are available from almost all commercial marinas.

Fresh Water Fishing

While it might seem that the most all of the creeks on Hilton Head are fresh water, they are not. They are actually estuaries with no major source of fresh water. To go fresh water fishing outside of the plantations or other private property any one over 16 years old needs a State fishing license. A seven day non-resident (SC) license can be purchased for $11.00.

In the plantations, which the State classifies as private property, you need no State license but are subject to the rules of the plantation. Sea Pines: You must be a resident or guest and you need a permit from CSA, available at the security office. They will ask you to prove you are a resident or guest. Shipyard: For residents or guests there is no license requirement and there are no restrictions. Palmetto Dunes: Fishing is restricted to owners and guests.

Oysters, Clams Shrimp and Crabs

The rules for licenses to harvest oysters and clams are the similar for ocean fishing from a boat. Hilton Head has designated areas for catching oysters and areas that are off limits at times. Oyster beds may be closed after a heavy rain due to the possibility of contamination. Shrimp may be taken with a cast net for personal use without a license, but traps no allowed.

You might hear about "shrimp baiting", but this is not an activity appropriate for tourists due to the expense and specialized knowledge required. Likewise, crabs may be taken by various methods, but crab pots are limited to two without a license. Crabs must be 5 inches across and females must not be pregnant to be kept. To see if a crab is carrying eggs, flip it over and if you see a spongy mass on it's underside, its best to put it back.