The Fishing Pier
The fishing pier is quite the attraction for locals and for overnight visitors that visit the park from near and far. Surf fishing from the beach is also permitted but only when there are no lifeguards present. Licenses are required for surf fishing (see DNR requirements) but are not needed for fishing from the pier. Some of the more common fish that are caught and sought here include king mackerel, bluefish, flounder, Spanish mackerel, drum, whiting, spot and sea trout. You can look below to see when each of these and other fish are typically found near shore along the Grand Strand.
Fees:
- 16 and older - $8
- SC Senior Citizen - $5
- 6 to 15 - $3
- 5 and younger - Free!
You pay for fishing and get your fisihing pass at the store located where you get enter onto the dock. Here you can also find bait and tackle, souvenirs, ice and snacks. Annual passes and 7 day camper passes can be purchased. See the SC state park site for more information or ask at the pier store.
Some Rules and General Pier Information
- There is a limit of two fishing poles per person
- Alcohol, pets and flammable devices (lanterns, grilles, etc.) are not allowed on the pier
- No fishing license is required but you do need to abide by South Carolina fishing regulations regarding size and number of fish that can be taken. You can find out what these regulations are at the Pier store.
- No shark fishing.
- You are required to wear shoes on the pier.
Fishing Information and Tips
In general a good way to fish off the pier is to get and leave some good fresh bait sitting on the bottom of the water. This bottom fishing method should be done in a way that finds a balance between two opposing things. First, you want your line and sinkers to be heavy enough to keep your baited hook resting on the sand underwater. You also want your bait to be able to drift around a bit but not so much that it is kept off the bottom.
You can also ask the folks at the office when you pay your fee, or perhaps someone that is already fishing, what might be biting and the best way to fish for the current conditions.
One of the reasons why piers make good fishing locations is because the pier itself serves to attract fish. Some marine species attach themselves to the pier or use the pilings as structure they can use to their advantage. This in turn draws in fish that seek out the organisms that are found here.
The information below shows when different marine species are in close to shore in the Grand Strand area. This does not mean these fish are catchable during the whole time they are known to be around, just that they are in the area.
| Amberjack | May-October |
| Barracuda | April-October |
| Blue Fish | April-October |
| Cobia | June -October |
| Dolphin | April -September |
| Flounder | April -September |
| King Mackerel | May-November |
| Red Drum | May-November |
| Red Fish | July -November |
| Sea Bass | January - December |
| Sea Trout | July - November |
| Shark | May-October |
| Spanish Mackerel | May-November |
| Speckled Trout | Jan-March and Nov-Dec |
| Spots | October - November |
| Stripers | Jan-March and Nov-Dec |
| Tarpon | Jan-Feb |
