Raising an Outdoor Kid

My oldest has always been drawn to the outdoors. As a newborn, his colicky cries would instantly stop the moment we stepped outside. No matter the weather—rain, sunshine, flurries—we were out in it. So it’s no surprise that today, as a teen, he’s a true outdoorsman. From September to December, he splits his time between football and deer hunting in Wilkes County, North Carolina. The warmer months are for fishing—whether it’s casting off a pier, wading through a canal, or standing knee-deep in the surf, he’s always looking for that next big catch.

A Canceled Fishing Charter & A Second Chance

Last summer, we planned a fishing charter in Oak Island, but Hurricane Isaias had other plans. On the very day we were supposed to go, we were escorted off the island by the National Guard. Determined not to let that happen again, I started planning early for this year’s trip to North Myrtle Beach, SC.

Fishing Charter In North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

We were staying in the Crescent Beach Myrtle Beach Area, and after searching “fishing charters in North Myrtle Beach,” I discovered Captain Steve’s Ocean Tied Fishing Charters. His trips include options for inshore, nearshore, offshore, and deep-sea fishing. Since it was our first family fishing trip, I booked the inshore fishing charter, which promised calm waters, a four-hour duration, and plenty of chances to catch fish we could bring home and cook.

Planning a Family Inshore Fishing Trip

The inshore charter fishing trip with Captain Steve was exactly what I had hoped for—calmer waters in the Intracoastal Waterway, creeks, and estuaries, all ideal for beginners and kids. Four hours was the perfect amount of time for a first-time family fishing experience. As a mom, I also appreciated that four hours was just enough—especially considering bathroom logistics and early wake-up calls.

Not all of our kids were thrilled with the early morning start. My 12-year-old daughter gave a diplomatic “I’ll go if you really need me to” response. My 9-year-old was more game but wasn’t up for being boat-bound. So it was just the three of us—my husband, 14-year-old son, and me—headed out for what turned into one of our most memorable mornings on the coast.

Setting Out with Captain Steve

We met Captain Steve at the Cherry Grove Marina at 6:50am. It was a perfect July morning—sunny and 65 degrees. We came prepared with water, snacks, and Ziploc bags for fresh fish. (Pro tip: don’t bring bananas—they’re considered bad luck on fishing boats!)

Captain Steve navigated from the center console while we enjoyed the ride on the back benches. The smooth trip along the Intracoastal Waterway was beautiful—passing boats, waterfront homes, and the Big “M” Casino ships at Little River. We even cruised past an eerie abandoned marina, a ghost of what once must’ve been a bustling spot.

Fishing at the Jetty and Under the Bridge

Our first stop was a rock jetty between Cherry Grove Beach and Sunset Beach, where Captain Steve helped us cast lines toward the rocks. It was a busy spot with several other charter boats, and we managed to reel in a few speckled trout to keep, and several smaller fish we released.

When bites slowed down, we relocated to Sunset Beach Bridge, where Captain Steve suggested switching to dead shrimp. It was solid advice—almost instantly, our son reeled in a massive red drum, his biggest catch to date. Captain Steve’s experience and guidance made all the difference.

Four Hours Flew By

I was initially worried four hours on the water might be too long. I was wrong. Time flew by in the best way. The boat ride was peaceful and energizing. Every time someone caught something, the excitement was contagious. The quiet moments in between were surprisingly meditative—just soaking in the breeze and scenery.

The best part? On the ride back, Captain Steve kicked up the speed where allowed, and I finally understood why dogs love to stick their heads out of the car window. A full-on rush of salty air and sunshine—it was perfection.

Catch, Clean, and Cook

Back at Cherry Grove Marina, Captain Steve expertly filleted our fish while we watched and took mental notes. That night, we cooked our fresh catch, and let me tell you—it was the best fish we’ve ever eaten. There’s something so satisfying about eating what you caught yourself.

A New Beach Tradition

Our beach vacations are something we always look forward to, but this fishing charter was a whole new level of fun. It’s officially going on our list of must-do family activities in North Myrtle Beach.

Whether you’re looking for fishing charters for kids, a family fishing trip near Myrtle Beach, or just want to try inshore fishing on the Intracoastal Waterway, I highly recommend Captain Steve. He made the trip easy, fun, and unforgettable. Click here for more fun Myrtle Beach adventures.

Thanks again, Captain Steve

By Guest Blogger Andrea Ropko

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