Trolling

Trolling charters off Hilton Head

Some fish are always on the move, and so are we. Trolling lets us cover water and put baits in front of fast, migratory fish when the conditions line up.

Trolling means pulling baits or lures behind the boat to cover ground and find active, migratory fish. It is a productive way to fish when species are on the move and spread out.

Instead of sitting on one spot, trolling turns the whole area into your fishing ground. It is an efficient way to locate fish that roam, and the strikes can be explosive. Ian adjusts speed, spread and location to match what is running and where.

Trolling often works alongside a broader offshore plan, so we can switch to it when the signs are right and go back to structure when they are not.

What you might catch

Depending on the season and conditions, trolling can produce fast-moving gamefish as they migrate through local waters.

  • King mackerel
  • Spanish mackerel
  • Bluefish
  • Cobia
  • Other migratory gamefish

Species vary with the season, water temperature and conditions, and no trip can guarantee a specific fish. For a fuller rundown, see the fish we catch and what bites by season.

Included

What comes with every charter

  • Trolling rods, reels and spreads
  • Fishing licenses covered for the charter
  • Bait and ice
  • Catch cleaned at the docks
  • A private boat, up to six guests

You are welcome to bring whatever food, drinks and alcohol you would like.

A bright red snapper caught offshore aboard Southern Hook Fishing Charters

Good to know

When is trolling most productive?

It shines when migratory fish are around and spread out, which changes through the year. Ian will know whether it is the right call for your date. See seasonal fishing.

Do we have to troll the whole trip?

No. Trolling is one tool. We often mix it with bottom or wreck fishing depending on what the day gives us.

Cover water, find fish

Curious whether trolling fits your date? Send your dates and Ian will let you know what is running.

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