October Fishing Report: What’s Biting Off Murrells Inlet & the Grand Strand
October brings one of the most exciting transitions of the year to the South Carolina coast. As summer heat begins to fade and cooler fall weather arrives, changing water temperatures, abundant bait and migrating fish create plenty of opportunities for anglers fishing in Murrells Inlet, Myrtle Beach and throughout the Grand Strand.
For anglers planning an October fishing trip, this is a great time of year to get on the water. Whether you are looking for nearshore action, bottom fishing or a full-day offshore adventure, Crazy Sister Marina in Murrells Inlet, SC offers fishing trips for anglers of all experience levels.
What’s Biting in October Around Murrells Inlet?
October is all about the fall transition. Cooler weather and changing water temperatures encourage many species to become more active as baitfish move through the area.
Spot Fishing Picks Up in Murrells Inlet
One of the most anticipated fall fishing events around Murrells Inlet is the annual spot run. Local fishing reports indicate that the spot bite typically gets underway in September and continues into October, with October being one of the most popular times to target these schooling fish.
The arrival of large schools of spot brings plenty of anglers to the Murrells Inlet area each fall. These smaller saltwater fish are popular with local fishermen and can provide fast-paced action when schools are located.
For visitors staying in Myrtle Beach and the Grand Strand, October can be an excellent time to experience the area’s fall fishing scene.
King Mackerel Remain a Fall Favorite
King mackerel are another species to watch as October arrives.
The Grand Strand’s nearshore king mackerel bite traditionally begins in late summer and can continue through October and sometimes into early November. Recent local reports have also indicated strong king mackerel activity along the Grand Strand.
These hard-fighting fish are a favorite among anglers looking for an exciting nearshore battle. When conditions cooperate, king mackerel can provide some of the most memorable fishing action of the fall.
Bottom Fishing in October
As anglers move farther offshore, October continues to offer opportunities for a variety of bottom-dwelling species.
Depending on location, depth, weather and current conditions, anglers may encounter species such as:
- Black sea bass
- Vermilion snapper
- Grunts
- Porgies
- Grouper
- Triggerfish
- Other reef and bottom species
Every fishing trip is different, and catches can vary from day to day. That is part of what makes offshore fishing along the South Carolina coast so exciting.
Crazy Sister Marina’s head boat fishing trips provide several ways to experience offshore fishing, from shorter trips that are great for families and first-time anglers to longer offshore adventures for those looking to spend more time fishing.
What About Red Snapper in October?
Red snapper may be one of the biggest topics for South Carolina anglers this fall.
The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources has submitted a revised proposal to NOAA Fisheries for a potential October 2026 recreational red snapper season in federal waters. The proposed program includes mandatory trip registration and electronic catch reporting, but anglers should understand that the October season is dependent on approval and final regulations.
Because regulations can change, anglers should always check the latest information from SCDNR and NOAA Fisheries before planning a trip specifically around red snapper.
South Carolina regulations also distinguish between state and federal waters, so knowing where you are fishing is important. SCDNR currently states that red snapper harvest remains open in South Carolina state waters under state regulations, while federal-water regulations are different.
October Is a Great Time for a Murrells Inlet Fishing Trip
One of the best things about fishing in October is the comfortable change in weather. The intense heat of the summer begins to give way to cooler mornings and pleasant fall days, making time on the water especially enjoyable.
For families visiting Myrtle Beach, couples looking for something different to do or experienced anglers wanting to take advantage of the fall bite, October offers plenty of opportunities to get out on the Atlantic.
At Crazy Sister Marina in Murrells Inlet, anglers can choose from a variety of fishing experiences depending on how much time they want to spend offshore.
Our 4½-hour Half Day Sea Bass Fishing Trip is a popular choice for families, first-time anglers and visitors looking for an action-packed fishing experience without spending an entire day offshore. Rod, reel, bait, tackle and fishing license are included.
For anglers looking to venture farther offshore, longer trips provide the opportunity to reach deeper water and target a wider variety of species.
Fall Fishing Means Changing Conditions
As always, fishing conditions can change quickly along the South Carolina coast. Weather, wind, water temperature, tides and bait movement all influence what is biting on any given day.
That means there is no guarantee of a particular species on a particular trip, but it also makes every day on the water different.
Our captains and crews monitor conditions and determine the best available fishing opportunities for each trip.
Plan Your October Fishing Trip in Murrells Inlet
If you are planning a fall vacation in Myrtle Beach or the Grand Strand, don’t overlook the fishing opportunities just south of Myrtle Beach in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina.
October’s cooler weather, fall bait movement, spot run and continued king mackerel action make it an exciting month to go fishing. Whether you are a seasoned offshore angler or picking up a fishing rod for the first time, Crazy Sister Marina is ready to help you experience a day on the water.
Check the current fishing schedule, reserve your spot and come see what is biting off the coast of Murrells Inlet and Myrtle Beach this October!
Fishing conditions and species availability vary. All catches are subject to current South Carolina and federal fishing regulations. Anglers should check the latest regulations before fishing.