Skilled Angler's Paradise: May River Fishing

Published Date: August 19, 2025
Fishing

Hilton Head
$400 - $600 price range

Summary

Ready for a real fishing challenge? Join Captain Allick for a 4-hour private trip in Hilton Head's May River. This outing is perfect for skilled anglers looking to test their mettle against prized catches like redfish, speckled trout, and tarpon. With room for up to 6 guests, you'll have plenty of space to work on your techniques or just enjoy steady action. The captain knows exactly where to set lines for the best results. All gear is provided, so just bring your expertise and enthusiasm. Captain Allick is committed to conservation too, ensuring only what's needed is kept. Whether you're after dinner, looking to sharpen your skills, or just want a productive day on the water, this trip delivers. Remember, deposits are non-refundable, so check the Trips & Rates page for details before booking your May River adventure.

Skilled Angler's Paradise: May River Fishing

May River Catches

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Casting lines through raindrops at the iconic Church of the Cross!

Braving the rain for the best deep sea action at Church of the Cross!

Hilton Head's Hottest Inshore Action

Get ready to test your skills on the productive waters of the May River. This 4-hour private trip with Capt. Allick is tailor-made for anglers who know their stuff and want to put it to work. We're talking serious fishing here – not your average tourist outing. You'll be targeting some of Hilton Head's most prized inshore species, from hard-fighting redfish to acrobatic tarpon. With room for up to 6 of your crew, it's the perfect way to spend a morning or afternoon on the water, whether you're looking to fill the cooler or just enjoy some steady action.

What to Expect on the Water

Capt. Allick knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he'll put you right on the fish. We provide all the gear you need – quality rods, reels, and fresh bait – so you can focus on the important stuff: catching fish. The May River's diverse habitats mean we can switch up tactics based on conditions and what's biting. One minute you might be sight-casting to tailing reds in the grass, the next you could be working a deep hole for monster trout. It's all about adapting and outsmarting these wily inshore species.

Techniques That'll Up Your Game

This isn't just a "drop your line and wait" kind of trip. We'll be using a variety of techniques to entice the bite. Expect to do some popping corks for trout, slow-rolling jigs for flounder, and maybe even some topwater action for aggressive reds. Capt. Allick's always happy to share tips and tricks, so don't be shy about picking his brain. Whether you're looking to refine your casting accuracy or learn the finer points of working a soft plastic, you'll come away a better angler.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

It's not just about the fish – though that's a big part of it. Our regulars rave about the overall experience. The scenery around Hilton Head is something else, with Spanish moss-draped oaks lining the banks and dolphins often making an appearance. Plus, Capt. Allick's commitment to conservation means you can feel good about your catch. We practice catch-and-release for most species, only keeping what's needed for a fresh dinner. It's all about sustainable fishing so these waters stay productive for years to come.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Redfish: The crown jewel of Lowcountry inshore fishing. These copper-colored bruisers are known for their powerful runs and ability to break tackle. In the fall, big schools of bull reds move into the area, offering the chance at trophy-sized fish. Year-round, you'll find slot-sized reds prowling the grass flats and oyster bars. There's nothing quite like the thrill of watching a red's tail break the surface as it roots for crabs in skinny water.

Speckled Trout: Don't let their size fool you – these spotted beauties punch well above their weight class. Known for their soft mouths and tendency to shake hooks, landing a big speck is a true test of an angler's finesse. They're most active in cooler months, with fall being prime time. A 5-pounder is considered a real trophy around here, and they make for some fantastic eating if you decide to keep a few for dinner.

Southern Flounder: The ultimate ambush predator, flounder require a different approach. These flat fish lie in wait on the bottom, attacking baitfish that swim by. Summer and early fall are peak seasons, with big females moving towards the inlets to spawn. Drift fishing with live bait or working a jig slowly along the bottom are go-to techniques. Landing a doormat-sized flounder is always a highlight of any trip.

Tarpon: The "silver king" needs no introduction to serious anglers. These prehistoric gamefish can reach sizes over 100 pounds in our waters, and their acrobatic leaps and long runs will test both your skill and your gear. Late summer is prime tarpon time, as they migrate along the coast. Hooking one is thrilling; landing one is an accomplishment you'll never forget.

Cobia: These curious, hard-fighting fish show up in late spring and stick around through summer. Often found around structure or following large rays, cobia are known for their powerful runs and excellent table fare. Sight-casting to a big cobia as it cruises near the surface is one of the most exciting experiences in inshore fishing.

Time to Book Your Spot

Look, if you're serious about your fishing and want to experience some of the best inshore action Hilton Head has to offer, this is the trip for you. Capt. Allick's knowledge, combined with the incredible fishery of the May River, makes for a day on the water you won't soon forget. Whether you're looking to put some fish in the box or just enjoy a day of steady action, we've got you covered. But fair warning – spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons. So don't wait around. Get in touch, lock in your date, and get ready for some world-class inshore fishing. The fish are waiting – are you?

Learn more about the species

Cobia

These strange-looking fish are like a mix between a shark and a catfish, and they fight like crazy. Cobia typically run 30-50 pounds around here, but 100-pounders aren't unheard of. They show up in our waters from spring through fall, often hanging around buoys, wrecks, or even free-swimming. May and June are prime months as they migrate through. Cobia are curious fish and will investigate just about anything, which makes sight-fishing for them a blast. They're also excellent table fare, with firm white meat. To target them, keep your eyes peeled for their distinctive profile near the surface. Have a heavy jig or live eel ready to cast. A local trick is to chum with cut fish to bring them in close to the boat. Once hooked, be ready for long runs and acrobatic jumps – these fish don't give up easily.

Redfish

These copper-colored bruisers are one of our most popular inshore targets. They typically run 20-30 inches in the shallows, but bulls over 40 inches cruise deeper waters. Look for reds tailing on the flats at high tide or hanging around oyster bars and creek mouths as the water drops. They're here year-round, but fall is prime time as they school up to spawn. Redfish are known for their powerful runs and dogged fights, especially in shallow water. They're also excellent eating, with a sweet, mild flavor. To hook up, try sight-casting with live bait or artificials when conditions allow. A local secret is fishing cut mullet or crabs on the bottom during the falling tide – redfish can't resist an easy meal. Just be ready when that rod doubles over – these guys don't give up easily.

Sea Trout

Also called speckled trout, these inshore favorites are a staple of our local fishery. Most run 14-20 inches, though gator trout pushing 5-6 pounds aren't uncommon. You'll find them year-round in our grass flats, oyster bars, and deeper channels. Sea trout are ambush predators, so look for them around structure and current breaks. They're especially active at dawn and dusk. Spring and fall are prime seasons as water temperatures are ideal. Anglers love targeting specks for their aggressive strikes and excellent table fare. To get in on the action, try working a popping cork rig with live shrimp or soft plastics. Another local trick is to fish topwater lures like a Zara Spook early in the morning – there's nothing like seeing a big trout blow up on your bait. Just remember to set the hook with a sideways sweep rather than straight up to avoid pulling the lure out of their soft mouths.

Southern Flounder

These flat, oval fish are masters of camouflage, blending into sandy or muddy bottoms. They typically range from 15-18 inches and 1-5 pounds, though some monsters hit 20+ pounds. You'll find them in shallow coastal waters, bays, and estuaries. Southern flounder are ambush predators, lying in wait for smaller fish and crustaceans. Spring and fall are prime seasons as they move in and out of inshore waters. Anglers love targeting them for their delicious, flaky white meat and the challenge of enticing a bite. To up your odds, try drifting or still fishing near drop-offs or structure using live bait like mullet or shrimp. A light touch on the line is key – flounder often grab bait and move before committing. When you feel that telltale thump, give them a second before setting the hook. It's a game of patience, but landing a big doormat is worth the wait.

Tarpon

The "silver king" is the ultimate bucket list fish for many anglers. These prehistoric beasts can top 200 pounds and put on an aerial show like no other. You'll find tarpon cruising our shallow flats and channels from late spring through fall, with peak action in the heat of summer. They're not the easiest to hook, but once you're connected, hold on tight. Tarpon will jump, roll, and generally try everything to throw that hook. It's an arm-burning battle that can last over an hour with a big fish. While not great eating, the sheer power and acrobatics make them a prized catch-and-release target. If you're looking to tangle with one, focus on deeper holes and passes during tide changes. Live mullet, crabs, or big swim baits are go-to offerings. Just remember to bow to the king when he jumps – it'll help keep that line tight.

About the Seafox 22 Bay

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6

Manufacturer Name: Suzuki

Maximum Cruising Speed: 30

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 150

Ready to test your angling skills in the May River? Captain Allick's 4-hour private fishing trip is tailored for experienced anglers looking to level up their game. You'll cruise the productive waters off Hilton Head, targeting a variety of sought-after species including redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and more. With room for up to 4 guests, this trip provides all the gear you need and expert guidance from the captain himself. Whether you're aiming to perfect your technique, catch dinner, or just enjoy consistent action, Captain Allick knows exactly where to drop your lines. He's also committed to conservation, ensuring responsible fishing practices that protect the local fishery. So grab your fishing buddies and get ready for a rewarding day on the water, putting your angling prowess to the test in one of South Carolina's prime fishing spots.

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