The Palmetto State’s abundance of outdoor activities makes it a perfect place to explore
By Lisa Shames
When it comes to experiencing the great outdoors, South Carolina is eager to please — whether it’s the lush forests of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the pristine beaches or the natural beauty of the state’s parks. Then there’s South Carolina’s many opportunities for top-notch fishing adventures from freshwater lakes and backcountry rivers to some 187 miles of beautiful coastline.
In other words: The challenge isn’t finding an exciting outdoor activity to do during your stay in South Carolina but deciding on which of the many terrific options to choose from. Here, we offer some selections to help you organize your trip.
South Carolina Fishing
If you plan on doing any fishing in South Carolina — and you really should — there are three main types from which to choose: line fishing from shore or a pier, salt water or freshwater. Freshwater fishing can be done from one of South Carolina’s many lakes and rivers and because of the calm waters, is an ideal family activity. Salt-water fishing can be furthered separated into inshore fishing (in a marsh, inlet, channel or bay) and deep-sea fishing, the latter of which typically involves more of a time commitment and a bit more experience but often rewards when it comes to the size of the catch.
No matter where you fish, however, anglers over 16 years of age will need to buy a fishing license. Exceptions include fishing aboard charter boats, totally disabled veterans and active-duty South Carolina residents. Also, you can fish without a license in private ponds if the owner has given permission.
Now that you’re familiar with the what, let’s focus on the where when it comes to South Carolina fishing.
Surrounded by salt marches, tidal creeks, artificial reefs and, further out, the wide-open sea, Charleston offers outstanding fishing from family angling to hardcore sportfishing with plenty of professional charters available. Part of South Carolina’s “Grand Strand,” Myrtle Beach has the Intracoastal Waterway on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other, making it perfect for an angling adventure. Local bays, inlets and rivers keep the fish biting throughout the year. While Hilton Head might be best known for its beaches, golf course and luxe hotels, it also offers some of the best fishing in the state. Charters here range from inshore fishing (great for everyone) and reef fishing to deep-sea fishing for seasoned sport fishers. There are even catch-and-release shark fishing charters for an added adrenalin rush.
If freshwater lake fishing is what you’re after, Santee Cooper includes not one but two lakes, Lake Marion and Lake Moultrie. Charters can last just a few hours or an entire day, meaning that both families and pros are welcome. Santee Cooper, Lake Murray and Lake Hartwell host national and international level bass tournaments throughout the year and all three lakes have been named Top 100 Bass Lakes in America by Bassmaster.
Looking for something different? Opt for a guide-led charter at night and the opportunity to land catfish under the stars. Then there’s Lake Murray, which holds the state record for white bass, white perch and white catfish catches, and Lake Jocassee, the only lake in South Carolina offering both trophy trout and smallmouth bass.
Or maybe you’re looking for a more leisurely fishing adventure. The 985-foot Cherry Grove Pier in North Myrtle Beach attracts a wide range of fish, including bluefish and sea trout. A favorite for shallow-water flounder, redfish and bluefish, the Mount Pleasant pier has the added bonus of beautiful views of the Intracoastal Waterway and Charleston Harbor.
More Outdoor South Carolina Adventures
In the northwest corner of South Carolina along the Chattooga River, the state’s only designated National Wild and Scenic River, adventure is everywhere. Here, kayakers can navigate challenging rapids, while those looking for a less strenuous activity can opt for a guided rafting trip. Zip-lining through the Blue Ridge foothills is also an option. Or combine a hike with a spectacular waterfall sighting at Raven Cliff Falls, one of the most photographed waterfalls in the state. If bird’s eye views are more your fancy, head to Caesars Head State Park. From its 3,200-feet above sea level overlook, the views are breathtaking.
Not far from Columbia, the state’s capitol, three rivers (Broad, Saluda and Congaree) invite a range of water-focused adventures. Canoeing and kayaking are terrific options. Head to Congaree National Park for a paddling experience through a blackwater swamp with tupelos and cypresses overhead adding to the serenely spooky vibe. Hiking is another way to explore the park, which is filled with massive trees. Reward your efforts with a leisurely tube float down one of the rivers with or without a drink in hand.
Located just 20 miles from Charleston, the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge features 22 miles of beautiful coastline where freshwater rivers and streams meet the ocean, creating one of the most fertile ecosystems in the world. The 66,306-acre preserve is home to some 293 species of birds, 36 different kinds of mammals, 24 types of reptiles and 12 varieties of amphibians. All this unspoiled nature does come at a price: Cape Romain can only be reached by boat. The area’s sole concessionaire, Coastal Expeditions, does offer different ways to enjoy this one-in-a-lifetime experience, including boat tours, guided kayaking and hiking trips, and ferry service to Bulls Island, the largest of Cape Romain’s four barrier islands.
South Carolina still has plenty to offer travelers looking to experience the outdoors and all it has to offer. Be sure to Subscribe to Sports Planning Guide for more travel information
