Posted on 9/29/2022

6 Best Fishing Locations On Kiawah Island

When it comes to natural beauty and coastal charm, few destinations can compete with Kiawah Island, a beautifully preserved and unspoiled barrier island nestled between the Kiawah River and the Atlantic Ocean. Ranked one of the top fishing destinations on the East Coast, Kiawah Island delivers a great Lowcountry fishing experience for all fishing enthusiasts in all four seasons. 

Kiawah Islandâs diverse and incredible ecosystem includes 10 miles of pristine beaches, freshwater and brackish ponds, saltwater rivers, and serene marshlands teeming with fish and wildlife. Local fish species include redfish, spotted sea trout, flounder, rays, and sharks with big game fish like tuna, grouper, snapper, and marlin regularly caught in the offshore waters.

Whether youâre seeking to cast your line from a quiet dock or the thrill of reeling in a trophy marlin offshore, weâve got you covered with the top fishing spots on Kiawah Island. 

Local's Tip: Unless youâre fishing with a certified charter captain, a fishing license is required on Kiawah Island even for the private docks and fishing ponds. 


1. Beachwalker Park


Combine a classic beach day with surf fishing at Kiawah Islandâs Beachwalker Park, ranked one of the best beaches in the US for 2022 by Dr. Beach! Beachwalker Park is public, pet-friendly and a popular spot for surf fishing on the South Carolina coastline with miles of uncrowded scenic shoreline to sit back, cast a line, and wait for a bite. Surf fishing is always best on a rising tide so be sure to check the local tide charts before you head out - or stay steps from the Beachwalker Park boardwalks with Kiawah Exclusives for a daily surf check from home!

2. Kiawah River


Kiawah Island is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and thriving Kiawah River with oyster banks, tidal creeks and salt marshes abounding in saltwater fish species, and Kiawahâs local wildlife. One of the best fishing spots on Kiawah Island is at the Kiawah River inlet near the west end of Beachwalker Park â" you may even witness Kiawahâs local dolphin pods fishing for their own food at Captain Sams Inlet. Captain Sams Inlet on the Kiawah River is one of the few places in the world where you can experience the spectacular phenomenon of dolphinâs strand feeding.