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Redfish Adventures with Captain Kim
Redfish Inshore in Hilton Head Island
5.0
12 Reviews
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The Redfish (Sciaenops Ocellatus) is a member of the drum family, recognizable by its coppery-red color and distinctive black spot near the tail. These popular gamefish are found throughout the coastal waters of the southeastern United States, particularly in shallow, inshore environments. - Redfish typically measure between 30-61 inches and weigh 10-45 pounds when fully grown. - They inhabit various coastal environments including flats, oyster bars, and backcountry areas. - Known for their strong fights and excellent table fare, making them prized catches.
Fishing Charter by Captain Sangkyun Kim in August
Meet your Captain Captain Kim
- I Love Hilton Head Island Fishing Charters!
Summary
Thursday July on Hilton Head Island was perfect for our inshore fishing charter with Aaron and crew. Launching from C.C. Haigh, Jr. Boat Landing under partly cloudy skies, we had a productive 3-hour trip targeting the local inshore species. The variety of fishing techniques we employed—from surf fishing to light tackle approaches—paid off with a 17-inch Redfish, a solid 20-inch Black Drum, and even a 10-inch Oyster Toadfish. This type of family-friendly charter is ideal for experiencing Hilton Head's diverse inshore fishing opportunities without committing to a full day. Whether you're an experienced angler or new to fishing, our local waters offer non-stop action and the chance to catch multiple species during the summer season.
Fishing Charter with Captain Kim – Rates & Booking
Captain Kim of I Love Fishing Charters on Thursday July offers 3-Hour Fishing Trips perfect for anglers of all skill levels. Our inshore charters accommodate up to 3 guests, providing all the necessary fishing equipment and expert guidance to put you on the fish. These trips are particularly popular during summer months when Hilton Head's waters are teeming with activity. We launch from C.C. Haigh, Jr. Boat Landing, giving you quick access to productive fishing grounds. As a licensed fishing guide with intimate knowledge of local waters, Captain Kim ensures a safe, enjoyable experience focused on catching fish and creating memories. Whether you're looking for light tackle action or want to try different fishing techniques, we've got you covered.
Highlights of 3 Hour Fishing Trip
Our 3-hour trips are designed for maximum fishing time with minimal commitment, perfect for families or those wanting to squeeze in some quality angling during their Hilton Head vacation. You'll experience a variety of fishing techniques including surf fishing, inshore light tackle, and potentially pier fishing depending on where the bite is hottest.
The diversity of species is one of the highlights of Hilton Head fishing. Beyond the Redfish that are a staple target, you might also hook into Black Drum, Speckled Trout, or even the unusual but entertaining Oyster Toadfish. Captain Kim provides hands-on instruction tailored to your experience level, making this trip accessible to beginners while still challenging for seasoned anglers.
Local Species Insights: Redfish
Redfish (also known as Red Drum) are one of Hilton Head's most sought-after inshore species. These copper-colored gamefish with their distinctive tail spot thrive in our shallow coastal waters, especially around oyster beds, grass flats, and creek mouths. During summer months, they're often found in 1-4 feet of water, making them perfect targets for light tackle fishing.
For the best results, we typically use live bait such as shrimp or mullet, though artificial lures like gold spoons and soft plastics can be equally effective. Redfish are known for their strong initial runs when hooked, making them an exciting catch even at the smaller "puppy drum" size. The 17-inch specimen caught on our recent trip is a perfect example of the quality fish available in our waters, providing both great sport and, for those who choose to keep them, excellent table fare.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
For our 3-hour trips, we recommend wearing comfortable clothing appropriate for the weather, along with sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. While all fishing gear is provided, you're welcome to bring your own if preferred. A small cooler for drinks and snacks is also recommended, though we do have onboard storage.
Morning trips typically begin around 7:00 AM, while afternoon sessions start at 1:00 PM, though we can be flexible based on your schedule and the tides. For the best experience, arrive about 15 minutes before departure time to get settled and discuss the day's fishing plan. Captain Kim will handle all the technical aspects—you just need to bring your enthusiasm and be ready to catch some fish!
Fishing in Hilton Head: Redfish
The Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus), also known as Red Drum, is a prized gamefish belonging to the Sciaenidae family within the order Perciformes. These distinctive fish are immediately recognizable by their coppery-bronze to reddish color and the characteristic black spot (sometimes multiple spots) near the tail. In Hilton Head waters this July, Redfish provide exciting action for anglers in the shallow inshore waters.
Redfish Overview
Redfish are one of the most sought-after inshore species along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. Their fighting ability, accessibility to shore-based anglers, and excellent table fare make them a favorite target for both recreational and tournament fishermen. They're known for their powerful runs when hooked, often stripping line and testing both tackle and angler.
Redfish Habitat and Distribution
Redfish inhabit diverse coastal environments including onshore waters, flats, backcountry areas, and nearshore zones. They're particularly fond of shallow waters around oyster beds, grass flats, mangroves, and marsh edges. Around Hilton Head Island, they can be found in the numerous tidal creeks, sounds, and around structure like docks and bridges where they hunt for prey.
Redfish Size and Weight
Adult Redfish typically measure between 30 and 61 inches in length and weigh anywhere from 10 to 45 pounds. The "bull reds" (larger specimens) tend to stay in deeper offshore waters, while the smaller "puppy drums" between 15-30 inches are more common in the inshore waters around Hilton Head. The 17-inch specimen caught on our recent trip represents a typical inshore catch.
Redfish Diet and Behavior
Redfish are opportunistic feeders, primarily consuming crustaceans like shrimp and crabs, as well as small baitfish including mullet and menhaden. They often give themselves away by their "tailing" behavior—when feeding in shallow water, their tails break the surface as they root for crabs and shrimp in the bottom sediment. They tend to be most active during early morning and evening hours, especially during moving tides.
Redfish Spawning Season
In South Carolina waters, Redfish typically spawn from August through November, with peak activity in September and October. During this time, large adult fish gather in coastal waters near inlets and passes to form spawning aggregations. After spawning, the young redfish utilize estuaries as nursery grounds until they mature, creating a year-round presence of different size classes in the Hilton Head area.
Redfish Fishing Techniques
For Redfish around Hilton Head Island, several techniques prove effective. Live bait fishing with shrimp, mud minnows, or finger mullet on a Carolina rig works exceptionally well in deeper channels and around structure. Artificial lures such as gold spoons, soft plastic jerkbaits, and scented soft plastics like Gulp! shrimp are also productive. In July, anglers around Hilton Head find success targeting Redfish during falling tides around oyster bars and creek mouths, where cooling water flowing out of the marshes attracts feeding fish.
Redfish Is It Good to Eat?
Redfish is considered excellent table fare with a mild, sweet flavor and medium-firm white flesh that flakes nicely when cooked. It's versatile in the kitchen—perfect for blackening, grilling, or baking. The fish is also nutritionally valuable, being high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids while remaining relatively low in mercury compared to other game fish. In South Carolina, regulations typically allow anglers to keep Redfish within a specific slot size limit, preserving both smaller juveniles and larger breeding stock.
Redfish Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for Redfish in Hilton Head?
A: Live shrimp, mud minnows, and finger mullet are top natural baits. For artificial lures, gold spoons, scented soft plastics (especially those mimicking shrimp), and shallow-running jerkbaits work well in the Hilton Head area.
Q: Where can I find Redfish near Hilton Head Island?
A: Look for Redfish around oyster beds, creek mouths, grass flats, and along marsh edges. During summer, they often frequent areas with moving water, particularly during falling tides when bait is being pulled out of the marshes.
Q: Is Redfish good to eat?
A: Yes, Redfish is considered excellent eating with a sweet, mild flavor and medium-firm texture. It's particularly popular blackened or grilled, though it's versatile enough for most cooking methods.
Q: When is the best time to catch Redfish in Hilton Head?
A: While Redfish can be caught year-round in Hilton Head, summer and fall offer consistent action. The best times are typically early morning and evening, especially during moving tides. July through October provides some of the most reliable fishing.
Q: What size Redfish can I keep in South Carolina?
A: South Carolina regulations typically specify a slot limit for Redfish (check current regulations as they may change). Generally, fish must be between 15-23 inches to harvest, with a daily bag limit of 2 fish per person.
Q: Do Redfish fight hard?
A: Yes, Redfish are known for their strong initial runs and dogged fights. Even smaller specimens in the 15-20 inch range put up an impressive battle on light tackle, making them a favorite among sport anglers.
