Charter Fishing in the Lowcountry

Spending a day on the water in the South Carolina Lowcountry is always a good idea. For years, locals and visitors alike set sail with Hilton Head’s legendary Captain Fuzzy Davis of Silva Dolla Fishing Charters. Though Captain Fuzzy has since retired, his legacy lives on through the many talented fishing charter captains who continue to share a love of the sea and the warm Lowcountry welcome he was known for.

Charlotte-Cropped-1 — Redfish are plentiful in the waters of the South Carolina Lowcountry.

Meet Captain Fuzzy Davis, Hilton Head’s Legendary Skipper

Davis fished the waters around Hilton Head for over 40 years. Featured in magazines and television shows, he’s held the South Carolina State Tarpon Record since 1986, and Saltwater Sportsman Magazine once ranked him among the “Top 50 Boat Captains in the U.S.”

Captain Fuzzy’s skill on the water and easygoing personality made him a favorite among locals and visitors. He’s the captain my family always called when it was time for a day of fishing.

Spending a Day on the Water

The day begins bright and early at The Boathouse dock, where Captain Fuzzy is ready and waiting. His boat is stocked with ice, bait, tackle, fishing licenses, bottled water, and plenty of fishing trivia to keep you entertained.

Dad Fishing — Dad gets in on the action.

After loading up, you’ll head off in pursuit of fish in the saltwater creeks, rivers, sounds, or offshore waters. Inshore excursions often focus on redfish and sea trout, while nearshore trips target tarpon, shark, redfish, trout, and cobia.

Char + Bonnethead — The first catch was a bonnethead shark.

The First Catch of the Day

The first catch is always the most exciting. Per Dad’s request, our group started fishing for sharks and it didn’t take long before we were pulling in some beauties. This bonnethead shark put up quite the fight before being hauled on board! Bonnetheads live in subtropical waters from North Carolina to the Caribbean and typically grow between two and five feet long.

Dad + Char + Shark — Dad and Charlotte with a Bonnethead

Char + Jess + Shark — The girls with a Blacktip Shark

After some thrilling shark fishing, we turned our attention to redfish. The girls each hooked a prize, but the contest couldn’t be settled. One fish was longer and the other heavier, leaving the score tied and the bragging rights out on the water.

Jess +Char + Redfish — Catching redfish brings out friendly competition.

After four hours battling sharks, stingrays, and redfish, we pulled into the dock exhausted yet elated, hearts full of memories, family ties strengthened and plans for the next adventure already forming.

Heading Out — The team heads home after a day of fishing.

A Legacy That Lives On

Though Captain Fuzzy has since hung up his captain’s hat, his legacy lives on through the many fishing charter captains who continue to share a passion for the Lowcountry’s waters, creating unforgettable experiences for anglers of all skill levels.

Whether you’re reeling in a trophy catch or soaking in the scenery, a charter fishing trip in the South Carolina Lowcountry is more than just a day on the water, it’s a story that becomes part of your own.

Plan Your Trip

Ready to cast your line in the South Carolina Lowcountry? Explore our full list of local fishing charters in the South Carolina Lowcountry and start planning your next adventure on the water.

Originally written by

Carmen Pinckney

I am the Director of Online Content for the SC Lowcountry Tourism Commission. I enjoy traveling the South Carolina Lowcountry in search of fun and exciting nature-based destinations. The natural beauty found in the area between Charleston and Savannah is my world and I love sharing it with you.

Edited by

Keelie Robinson

As an avid outdoorswoman, I love hiking, camping, kayaking, boating, and traveling. Come along and we’ll explore this region, south of Charleston and north of Savannah, to find what makes the SC Lowcountry NATURALLY AMAZING!

Frequently Asked Questions About Charter Fishing in the Lowcountry

1. What can I expect when charter fishing in the South Carolina Lowcountry?
Expect a day filled with sunshine, salt air, and plenty of action. Depending on your trip, you might reel in redfish, sea trout, sharks, cobia, or even tarpon, all while exploring the scenic creeks and waterways around the South Carolina Lowcountry.

2. Can families go on a charter together?
Absolutely! Many charters offer family-friendly trips that accommodate kids and adults, making for a memorable day on the water for all ages.

3. Do I need experience to go on a fishing charter?
Not at all! Charters welcome anglers of all skill levels, from first-timers to seasoned pros. The captain and crew will provide guidance and tips to help make your day successful and enjoyable.

4. Do I need a fishing license for a Lowcountry charter?
Yes! All anglers are required to have a valid South Carolina fishing license. Many charter services provide licenses as part of the trip but confirm with your captain beforehand to be prepared.

5. What should I bring on my fishing charter?
Bring non-aerosol sunscreen, a hat, polarized sunglasses, a camera, and a small cooler for drinks or snacks (unless otherwise provided). Most charters supply bait, tackle, and fishing licenses.

6. What’s the best time of year for a fishing charter?
The Lowcountry offers year-round fishing opportunities. Inshore trips for redfish and sea trout are popular in spring and fall, while nearshore excursions targeting tarpon and sharks peak during warmer months.

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The Lowcountry & Resort Islands Region of South Carolina includes the four, southern-most counties in the state, Beaufort, Jasper, Hampton, and Colleton, which are bordered on the east by the Atlantic Ocean and on the west by the Savannah River and the state of Georgia.