While Hilton Head may be known for its productive inshore waterways, it’s also a great gateway to the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf Stream. That means but one thing, Hilton Head deep sea fishing is off the charts! The island is a prime destination for anglers looking to reel in big catches. Whether you’re chasing Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, or even Sailfish, deep sea fishing in Hilton Head offers the perfect opportunity to experience it all.
Did we mention the island’s rich history? Hilton Head was once a favorite haunt for pirates in the 18th century who took advantage of its many hidden coves. Today, it continues to be a treasure trove—this time, filled with some of the best fishing spots on the East Coast!
Keep reading to explore Hilton Head’s top offshore fishing spots, the best species to target, and essential tips for making the most of your trip. We’ll cover everything from fishing techniques to local regulations, so you’ll be fully prepared for the adventure ahead. Let’s dive in!
Top Hilton Head Deep Sea Fishing Catches
First things first: what can you catch while deep sea fishing in Hilton Head? The short answer is anything from mighty Tuna to gorgeous Mahi Mahi! Let’s take a look at Hilton Head’s top deep sea fishing targets, in no particular order:
Blackfin Tuna
Without a doubt, Blackfin Tuna are the fish species every angler dreams of catching. These fighters rule the waters 40–70 miles offshore, where the Gulf Stream whips up currents that suit their fast pace. Their sharp instincts and fierce bites make them an exciting target. When you hook one, get ready for a fast-paced battle because with Tuna, it’s always a race you’ll both want to win.
Trolling is the way to go for Blackfin, with live bait like mullet or ballyhoo being a surefire choice. These impressive fish typically hang out around underwater structures like wrecks and drop-offs where they hunt in schools. While they average between 10 and 30 pounds, landing a bigger one is always a possibility.
Wahoo
Ask any local and they’ll tell you that Wahoo are the speed demons of Hilton Head’s waters. They’re capable of reaching insane speeds of up to 60 mph. These sleek, powerful fish are not for the faint of heart, though. They promise to test your reflexes and endurance during the warmer months. Wahoo love deep waters where they can dart between and prey at lightning speed. This is usually around the continental shelf’s drop-offs.
To land a Wahoo, your trolling game needs to be fast and steady, mimicking the fish’s frantic chase. Use diving plugs or live bait to lure them in just like local anglers do. Expect a thrilling sprint when they strike, and don’t expect them to give up easily. These fish can range from 30 to 60 pounds, and catching one is a true testament to your skills.
Mahi Mahi
It goes without saying that Mahi Mahi deserve their spot among the superstars of Hilton Head’s deep sea fishing scene. With their neon colors and wild jumps, they’re as fun to catch as they are to look at. Mahi Mahi patrol the waters between up to 80 miles offshore, hanging around floating debris and structures, where they chase smaller fish. This makes them easy to target with fast trolling.
Mahi Mahi offer one of the most rewarding deep sea fishing experiences for any angler. They’re fun to catch, offer a picture-perfect reward, and they’re absolutely delicious. Come in summer and fall when they’re most active and you’ll have the chance to land one that weighs up to 40 pounds.
Sailfish
For those looking to up their game even more, Sailfish are the ultimate prize. These majestic creatures are rare in Hilton Head’s waters, but summer can offer the occasional encounter with ’em. With their enormous sails and lightning-fast speed, Sailfish bring a level of excitement few fish can match. But to get your hand on one, you’ll need to travel far offshore.
Trolling with live bait like mullet or ballyhoo is the most popular way of catching Sailfish, but you can try kite fishing, too. These surface feeders are all about speed and, once hooked, they’ll give you an impressive show—leaping and diving like the acrobats they are. Sailfish can weigh anywhere between 100 and 150 pounds, but it’s their incredible agility and fight that will leave you in awe.
Triggerfish
Don’t let their smaller size fool you. Triggerfish are tough little fighters. These bottom-dwellers are found 30–50 miles offshore from Hilton Head, around reefs, wrecks, and Navy Towers. With their armored bodies and sharp teeth, they’re a challenging catch. And, while they might not be as flashy as other species, they’re no less exciting to reel in.
Targeting Triggerfish means bottom fishing with live or cut bait like shrimp or squid. These fish are most active from late fall until early spring, when they come closer to shore to feed. Although they’re average between just 2 and 5 pounds, they put up a solid fight. Plus, their meat is a real treat. Don’t just take our word for it, though. Head out and check for yourself!
How to Go Deep Sea Fishing in Hilton Head
Deep sea fishing in Hilton Head is all about variety, whether you’re targeting fish that lurk near the bottom or chasing fast-moving pelagics. It’s common to drop the anchor and fish the bottom using live bait. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, high-speed jigging can bring in some great action too. Then, there’s trolling for the pelagic creatures that feed near the tops…
The easiest way to go deep sea fishing in Hilton Head is by booking a charter. Your captain will provide the boat and top-tier equipment. Plus, their local knowledge will take you to where the fish are biting. Charters also handle all the permits and licenses, so you can focus on reeling in your catch. But there’s no reason you shouldn’t know what to expect:
Hilton Head Deep Sea Bottom Fishing
When it comes to bottom-dwelling species like Snapper, Grouper, and Triggerfish, bottom fishing is the way to go. This technique requires dropping your bait deep into the seafloor, where these fish hang out.
To ensure your bait reaches the right depth, a sinker is essential. By adding weight to your line, you help the bait sink quickly to the bottom. Experimenting with different baits, lures, and tackle setups will increase your chances of landing these fish. Mix it up with a range of medium to heavy weights depending on which species you’re after.
Hilton Head Deep Sea Trolling
Trolling is a favorite technique for good reason. It gives you the chance of covering more water and increases your chances of catching a range of fish. From Mahi Mahi and Wahoo to Tuna and Sailfish, this technique is the pillar of deep sea fishing—beyond just Hilton Head.
The trick is to match the pace of the fish you’re targeting. Slower trolling works well for species like King Mackerel, while faster speeds attract Mahi Mahi and Sailfish. You can even try drift fishing for some of these species, with trolling lines or your hand-held sticks. As many of these fish swim in schools, you’ll want multiple lines in the water to increase your chances further—and don’t forget to move between different depths!
Hilton Head Deep Sea Fishing Spots
Hilton Head’s location, a short ride from the Atlantic and Gulf Stream, means that every trip out offers the chance to reel in something exciting. Offshore towers, wrecks, and the Gulf Stream itself promise plenty of opportunities. Here’s a list of some top deep sea fishing spots in Hilton Head for you to consider:
- Navy Tower R7. Located 50 miles offshore, this spot is perfect for pelagics like King Mackerel, Tuna, and Mahi Mahi. The structure’s shadow attracts fish from all directions, making it a top choice for anglers seeking a variety of species.
- Navy Tower R8. About 60 miles out, R8 is perfect for hunting Barracuda and Wahoo. With its depth of 145 feet, this tower is known for fast, aggressive fish.
- The Gulf Stream. This current needs no introduction. It’s a prime location for big game fish such as Sailfish, Mahi Mahi, and Blackfin Tuna. Lying around 60–80 miles offshore, you’ll want at least a full-day trip to make the most of it.
- The 100-Fathom Curve. This underwater drop-off, about 50–60 miles out, creates a feeding zone for large predators like Blue Marlin, Sailfish, and Wahoo. It’s an ideal location for those looking to hook serious big-game fish.
- The Continental Shelf. Roughly 70 miles offshore, the continental shelf is home to some of the most sought-after fish in the Atlantic, including Mahi Mahi and Tuna, along with some more elusive creatures.
- Wrecks and Reefs. There are plenty of reefs and wrecks around 30–50 miles out. These spots offer excellent opportunities for bottom fishing, with species like Snapper, Grouper, Triggerfish, and Seabass providing steady action for anglers who want a shorter, yet equally rewarding trip.
Hilton Head Deep Sea Fishing Seasons
Summer is the best time for deep sea fishing in Hilton Head. The Gulf Stream fills up with pelagics like Tuna, Wahoo, Mahi Mahi, and Sailfish, and the waters are calmer than ever. While you might catch a glimpse of these species closer to shore, the real action is 60–80 miles offshore. The action stays hot through early fall before the waters get too choppy and many of the prime targets move down the coast.
For bottom fishing lovers, the cooler months are prime time. Species like Snapper, Grouper, Triggerfish, and Black Seabass hang out around live bottoms and structures like the Navy Towers and there’s less angling pressure. Come spring, the wrecks draw King Mackerel, Cobia, and Barracuda, and the offshore waters start filling up too.
Hilton Head Deep Sea Fishing Tournaments
For some more seasonal encouragement, why not time your visit to align with a world-famous competition? Hilton Head Island hosts some of the best fishing events around! The Hang Em’ High Kingfish Invitational is a highlight for King Mackerel anglers, while Wahoo lovers can enjoy the annual SC Wahoo Series. For Mahi Mahi fans, the SC Mahi Series offers a chance to reel in a true trophy. Participants choose two days to fish for Mahi, with an awards banquet afterwards.
Hilton Head Deep Sea Fishing Regulations
There’s some more good news about deep sea fishing in Hilton Head. As you’ll most likely be heading out with a charter operator, your license will be covered! However, if you’re heading out on your own, you’ll need a SC fishing license.
Other than that, some species have closed seasons to protect them during critical times in their life cycle. For example, Amberjack has a closed season from April 1 to April 30, while Red Snapper is off-limits for most parts of the year. South Carolina also has strict bag and size limits to ensure fish populations stay healthy for years to come. Check them out on the SCDNR website to get up-to-date on the vital information.
Hilton Head Deep Sea Fishing: Treasure Fit for a Pirate
Now that you know how deep sea fishing in Hilton Head is done, the only thing left is to book a charter. The island’s waters have long been a safe haven—not just for pirates, but for all kinds of marine life. It’s time for you to unlock the Gulf Stream’s treasure chest and reap those rewards!
Have you ever been on a Hilton Head deep sea fishing adventure? How far offshore did you go? Did you land a trophy? Share your fish stories with us in the comments below!
The post How to Go Deep Sea Fishing in Hilton Head: The Complete Guide for 2025 appeared first on FishingBooker Blog.
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