Charleston boating

Charleston boating boat landings

What is it about Charleston that attracts so many boaters? It seems as though nature's design for the area must've had boaters in mind. The Charleston area is surrounded by water. The rivers surrounding Charleston include: the Cooper River, to the Wando River, to the Ashley River, and the Edisto River. These Rivers are all perfect for boating, fishing, and every water sport imaginable. True Charlestonians will probably tell you, that in their opinions, the Cooper river and the Ashley River join together at the Charleston Harbor to form the Atlantic Ocean. Of course, the Charleston Harbor itself is an amazing natural wonder, steeped in history and in beauty.

If you prefer freshwater, consider lake Moultrie - 77,000 acres adjacent to Moncks Corner in Berkeley County - one of the most popular freshwater fishing spots in the US. Other good choices for freshwater are the upper Cooper River and the Edisto River (the longest black water river in America), and the many smaller lakes and ponds that dot the Charleston region.

Yes, the greater Charleston area has so much to offer. Still, it only takes an afternoon on the water to realize that a vast portion of the recreational resources can only be enjoyed completely by boaters. The incredible potential on the Charleston waterways is difficult to fully understand without experiencing it yourself.

If you're visiting the area and do not have the boat, you may want to take advantage of one of the many boat tour opportunities, hop on a local charter, or just take some time to hang out around some of the local marinas. One taste of the Charleston waterways and you will be hooked for life!

Do you enjoy salt water fishing? Charleston has a great variety of fish waiting for your hook:

Inshore Near Charleston Harbor

Flounder, Spanish Mackerel, Silver King - Tarpon

Bluefish, Sea bass, Spadefish, Sheepshead

Speckle Trout, Gray Trout, Triggerfish, Red Snapper

Red Drum (Redfish), Black Drum, Cobia, Grouper

Charleston Offshore Species

Yellowfin Tuna, Bluefin Tuna, Blackfin Tuna

Wahoo, Dolphin, King Mackerel, Amberjack, Bonita

Blue marlin, White Marlin, Sailfish, Mako Shark, Atlantic Sharpnose

Sailing