How to Fish on the Grand Strand in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

by Becky Lower, Demand Media

    The Grand Strand in South Carolina refers to the more than 60 miles of Atlantic Coast, of which Myrtle Beach is the hub. It encompasses a string of beach resorts, each with its own flavor and personality. People are drawn to the various resorts for swimming, golf, shelling, shopping and fishing. To cast a line, you need a saltwater permit, available as a daily license at designated piers, or obtain an annual pass from the state that will allow you to fish anywhere.

    Step 1

    Apply for a saltwater recreational fishing license with the state through their website. The annual fee is $35, as of 2011-2012, and will enable you to fish anywhere in the state.

    Step 2

    Fish from a pier that includes a day fishing permit in the pier admittance fee. Piers in Myrtle Beach that offer one-day fishing passes are Apache Campground Pier, Cherry Grove Beach Pier, Second Avenue Pier, Springmaid Pier, Myrtle Beach State Park Pier and 14th Avenue Pier. At Surfside Beach, you can obtain a day fishing pass at Surfside Pier. Fishing pass prices vary by location and, in most cases, there is a charge to walk on the pier.

    Step 3

    Use your own rod and reel, or rent one at the various pier locations. Bait also is available for sale at each pier. Ask the fishing pros at the pier or bait shop what the appropriate type of bait is for the type of fish you want to catch, and what type of fishing line and tackle you'll need to reel in a fish when you catch it.

    Step 4

    Rent a fishing charter boat. Most fishing charters include fishing permits as part of their fees and will enable you to go after the larger varieties of fish.

    Tips & Warnings

    • The most common fish caught in the Grand Strand area are black sea bass, snapper, grouper, larger sea bass, trigger, dolphin, wahoo and king mackerel.
    • The changing tides at dawn and dusk are often the most active times for fish off the Grand Strand, making these some of the best times to fish.

    About the Author

    Becky Lower began writing professionally in 2004. Her work has appeared in "elan" magazine, a northern Virginia publication, "Good Old Days" magazine, the "BGSU Alumni" magazine and on the website thenovelette.com. Lower has a Bachelor of Arts in journalism and English from Bowling Green State University.

    Photo Credits

    • Jack Hollingsworth/Digital Vision/Getty Images