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Caught a Redfish Inshore in Hilton Head
Redfish Fishing in Hilton Head Island
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The Sciaenops Ocellatus belongs to the order Perciformes and family Sciaenidae. It typically measures between 30 and 61 inches in length, with a weight range from 10 to 45 lbs. Habitat: onshore, flats, backcountry, nearshore. - Redfish are also known as Red Drum and are prized game fish. - They can be identified by distinctive eyespots near the tail. - These fish have red-colored backs that fade to white bellies.
Fishing Charter by Captain Sangkyun Kim in August
Meet your Captain Captain Kim
- I Love Hilton Head Island Fishing Charters!
Summary
Captain Kim of I Love Fishing Charters on Thursday June delivered non-stop action targeting redfish in Hilton Head's productive inshore waters. This seasonal inshore fishing charter combines surf fishing, pier fishing, and backcountry techniques to maximize your chances at these feisty drum. Summer conditions bring excellent redfish activity around the flats and nearshore structure, with fish averaging 14-16 inches providing steady action for anglers of all skill levels. Our local expertise and gear-included approach makes this the perfect introduction to Hilton Head's renowned inshore fishing scene, whether you're after your first red drum or looking to add to your South Carolina fishing memories.
Fishing Charter with Captain Kim – Rates & Booking
Captain Sangkyun Kim of I Love Fishing Charters on Thursday June offers comprehensive inshore fishing experiences targeting redfish and other seasonal species. Our 3-hour seasonal inshore trips include all tackle, bait, and local expertise needed for a successful day on the water. Licensed and experienced, Captain Kim specializes in surf fishing, pier fishing, and backcountry techniques that put you on fish consistently. Trips accommodate various skill levels with hands-on instruction and prime fishing locations around Hilton Head's productive inshore waters. Book online or call for current rates and availability.
Highlights of Hilton Head Inshore Fishing Adventure
This charter delivered exactly what summer inshore fishing in Hilton Head is known for—consistent redfish action in shallow water environments. The combination of surf fishing, pier fishing, and inshore techniques allowed us to cover multiple productive zones throughout the trip. Redfish in the 14-16 inch range provided excellent sport, showcasing the aggressive feeding behavior these drum are famous for during peak summer months.
Partly cloudy conditions created ideal fishing weather, keeping fish active while providing comfortable conditions for anglers. The variety of techniques employed—from jigging to trolling—demonstrates the versatility needed to succeed in Hilton Head's diverse inshore environment.
Local Species Insights: Redfish
Redfish thrive in Hilton Head's shallow inshore waters, particularly around flats, backcountry areas, and nearshore structure where they feed aggressively on crabs, shrimp, and baitfish. These copper-colored drum are perfectly adapted to the area's oyster bars, grass flats, and tidal creeks, making them a year-round target species. Summer months bring particularly active feeding as water temperatures peak and bait concentrations increase around the island's extensive marsh systems. The 14-16 inch fish caught on this trip represent typical slot-size redfish that provide excellent sport while maintaining healthy population levels through proper management.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Our inshore fishing charters include all necessary tackle, bait, and safety equipment for up to six anglers. Trips typically start from convenient Hilton Head marinas with easy access to prime fishing areas within minutes of departure. Captain Kim provides hands-on instruction for all techniques used, making these trips suitable for beginners while still challenging for experienced anglers. We monitor weather conditions closely and adjust fishing locations based on tides, wind, and seasonal fish movements to maximize your success on the water.
Fishing in Hilton Head: Redfish
The Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus), also known as Red Drum, belongs to the order Perciformes and family Sciaenidae. This iconic game fish is easily recognized by its copper-red coloration, distinctive black eyespots near the tail, and robust build that makes it a favorite target for inshore anglers along the Atlantic coast. In Hilton Head waters this June, these drum provide consistent action for charter fishing enthusiasts.
Redfish Overview
Red drum are among the most sought-after inshore game fish in South Carolina, prized for their fighting ability and adaptability to various fishing techniques. They inhabit shallow coastal waters, making them accessible to anglers fishing from boats, piers, and surf zones around Hilton Head Island.
Redfish Habitat and Distribution
These fish thrive in the extensive marsh systems, oyster bars, and grass flats surrounding Hilton Head Island. They prefer water depths from 1 to 4 feet but can be found in deeper nearshore waters during certain seasons. The species ranges along the entire Atlantic and Gulf coasts, with South Carolina waters providing year-round fishing opportunities.
Redfish Size and Weight
Adult redfish typically measure between 30 and 61 inches in length, with weights ranging from 10 to 45 pounds. Slot-size fish like those caught on this charter (14-16 inches) represent juvenile redfish that provide excellent sport while contributing to sustainable fishing practices.
Redfish Diet and Behavior
Red drum are opportunistic feeders that consume crabs, shrimp, mullet, and other baitfish found in shallow water environments. They often feed in schools, creating the consistent action experienced during productive charter trips. These fish are most active during moving tides when prey becomes more accessible.
Redfish Spawning Season
Spawning occurs in nearshore waters during fall months, with fish moving between inshore and offshore environments based on reproductive cycles. Water temperatures between 70-85°F trigger peak feeding activity, making summer months particularly productive for charter fishing.
Redfish Fishing Techniques
Successful redfish fishing employs various methods including jigging with soft plastics, trolling spoons, and live bait fishing with shrimp or crabs. In June around Hilton Head, anglers find success using cut bait near oyster bars and artificial lures over grass flats during incoming tides.
Redfish Is It Good to Eat?
Red drum offer mild, flaky white meat with excellent flavor when prepared fresh. The fish provides high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it a healthy dining choice. Smaller slot-size fish are particularly prized for their tender texture and sweet taste.
Redfish Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for redfish?
A: Live or cut shrimp, blue crabs, and mullet work exceptionally well. Artificial lures like soft plastic jigs and spoons are also highly effective.
Q: Where can I find redfish near Hilton Head?
A: Focus on shallow flats, oyster bars, dock pilings, and tidal creeks throughout the island's extensive marsh system.
Q: Is redfish good to eat?
A: Yes, redfish offers mild, flaky white meat that's excellent grilled, blackened, or fried. Slot-size fish provide the best table fare.
Q: When is the best time to catch redfish?
A: Moving tides during early morning and late afternoon typically produce the best action, with summer months offering consistent fishing opportunities.
