Hilton Head Island Deep Sea Fishing Charters: Your Gateway to Offshore Adventure

The waters surrounding Hilton Head Island offer some of the most productive deep sea fishing opportunities along the Southeast coast. With the Gulf Stream flowing just 60 miles offshore and numerous artificial reef structures within reach, anglers have access to diverse species ranging from king mackerel and cobia to amberjack and red snapper. At Above & Below Charters, our licensed 200-ton master captain brings over two decades of experience navigating these productive waters, ensuring your offshore adventure is both successful and memorable.

Hilton Head Island's strategic location provides exceptional access to multiple fishing environments. The continental shelf edge lies approximately 50-70 miles offshore, where depths drop from 120 feet to over 600 feet. This dramatic depth change creates upwelling currents that concentrate baitfish and attract larger predators. Our experienced captain knows these waters intimately, having fished these grounds for more than twenty years, understanding seasonal migration patterns and optimal fishing locations.

The artificial reef system off Hilton Head includes numerous permitted structures at depths ranging from 65 to 120 feet. These reefs support healthy populations of grouper, snapper, and amberjack throughout the year. Natural bottom structure, including live bottom areas with hard coral formations, provides additional fishing opportunities for species like black sea bass, triggerfish, and various grunt species.

Spring and summer months bring king mackerel into nearshore waters, with fish ranging from 15 to 40 pounds common around structure in 60-100 feet of water. Cobia migrate through these waters from April through September, with specimens exceeding 50 pounds regularly encountered. Our charter rates include all tackle and equipment necessary for targeting these premier game fish species.

Fall fishing often produces the year's best action, as cooler water temperatures trigger feeding activity among bottom species. Red snapper season, when open, provides exceptional opportunities for anglers seeking table fare, while vermillion snapper remain available year-round in federal waters. Winter months offer excellent bottom fishing for grouper species, including gag and red grouper in deeper water.

Safety remains our top priority during every charter expedition. Our vessel carries all required Coast Guard safety equipment, including EPIRBs, life rafts, and emergency communication systems. With over two decades of offshore experience, our captain maintains current CPR and first aid certifications, ensuring professional safety standards throughout your trip.

We provide high-quality tackle specifically selected for Lowcountry fishing conditions. Heavy conventional reels paired with 50-80 pound class rods handle the demands of deep sea fishing, while our selection of jigs, live baits, and rigged baits ensures optimal presentation for target species. Electric reels are available for deep water bottom fishing, reducing fatigue when fishing depths exceeding 200 feet.

Planning your deep sea fishing charter begins with selecting the right trip length and target species. Half-day trips typically focus on nearshore structure and reef fishing, while full-day expeditions allow time to reach more distant offshore grounds. Our photo gallery showcases recent catches and gives you an idea of what to expect during your charter experience.

Weather conditions play a crucial role in offshore fishing success and safety. Our captain monitors marine forecasts continuously and will recommend optimal departure times based on sea conditions, wind patterns, and barometric pressure. For booking information and current availability, contact Above & Below Charters at (843) 290-4132 to discuss your deep sea fishing goals and schedule your Hilton Head Island offshore adventure.

Experience the thrill of deep sea fishing with Above & Below Charters, where two decades of professional charter experience ensures your offshore adventure exceeds expectations. Schedule your charter today and discover why Hilton Head Island remains one of the Southeast's premier deep sea fishing destinations.