SC among the best states for fishing in 2024, new report shows. Here’s where it ranks and why

Sarah Claire McDonald

This year, South Carolina placed fifth overall as the best state for fishing.

The ranking follows a study from the popular, large-scale charter booking platform FishingBooker in its second edition of the lineup.

The categorization is based on 17 different criteria placed into four different categories, which include community, facilities, financial, and geography, according to the site.

From these, South Carolina not only placed among the top 10 states in the U.S., but also placed fifth overall.

Phillip Sullivan, left, and James Strange reeled in a tarpon estimated at 150 pounds at Folly Beach.
Phillip Sullivan, left, and James Strange reeled in a tarpon estimated at 150 pounds at Folly Beach.

In the study, South Carolina received a total score of 102.5 out of a possible 210 points.

The Palmetto State scored best for the community, where the state only ranked below Delaware in the category.

“South Carolina has 187 miles of coastline, with plenty of inshore fishing opportunities. The network of marshes, inlets, and flats make a great environment for testing your skills against Spotted Seatrout, Redfish, and Tarpon,” detailed FishingBooker.

Redfish, which like to feed in the shallow waters, are known for the distinctive black spot on their tails.
Redfish, which like to feed in the shallow waters, are known for the distinctive black spot on their tails.

“Further offshore, you’ll find the Gulf Stream, which is a paradise for anglers chasing big game fish like Wahoo, Mahi Mahi, and Kingfish,” the site continued.

The top 10 best states in the country to book a fishing charter, according to FishingBooker, include:

  1. Alaska: 117 points

  2. Florida: 114 points

  3. Delaware: 108 points

  4. Michigan: 105.5 points

  5. South Carolina: 102.5 points

  6. Maine: 102 points

  7. Louisiana: 101.5 points

  8. Hawaii: 101 points

  9. Georgia: 100 points

  10. North Carolina: 99 points

Last year, three South Carolina charter captains were named as some of the best in the world by the booking company and earned FishingBooker’s “Anglers Choice Award.”

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