Beaufort, SC Marine & Fishing Forecast

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the tides in Beaufort, SC today?

Beaufort, SC has a semidiurnal tide with two highs and two lows each day. The South Carolina coast typically sees tidal ranges of 5 to 7 feet, creating powerful current flow that strongly influences fish feeding patterns.

What is the best time to fish in Beaufort, SC?

In Beaufort, SC, the strong tidal exchange along the South Carolina coast makes the last two hours of an incoming tide and the first hour of the outgoing especially productive. Fish the creeks and marsh edges on the rising tide, then shift to deeper structure as water falls.

Is it safe to boat in Beaufort, SC today?

Review the wind forecast above before heading out from Beaufort, SC. The South Carolina coast can see rough inlet conditions when outgoing tides meet onshore winds. Winds under 15 mph are generally comfortable for inshore boats, but check bar conditions at inlets separately.

What is the water temperature near Beaufort, SC?

Water temperatures near Beaufort, SC range from the low 50s in winter to the mid-80s in summer. The Gulf Stream offshore keeps ocean temperatures warmer than inshore waters during winter, creating excellent nearshore fishing opportunities when bay temps drop.

What wind conditions are expected in Beaufort, SC today?

See the live wind chart above for hourly conditions near Beaufort, SC. Along the South Carolina coast, northeast winds following cold fronts often produce the best fishing once conditions stabilize. Southwest winds ahead of fronts can trigger pre-frontal feeding activity.

Fishing in Beaufort, SC

Beaufort is the heart of South Carolina's Lowcountry fishing region, surrounded by the vast salt marshes, tidal creeks, and sounds of the Sea Islands. The Beaufort River, Port Royal Sound, and the numerous tidal waterways connecting them provide exceptional habitat for red drum, flounder, and spotted seatrout. Beaufort is a beloved destination for saltwater fly anglers pursuing redfish on the expansive flats.

Planning Your Trip

The ACE Basin — just north of Beaufort — is one of the most pristine and productive coastal ecosystems on the East Coast, supporting enormous populations of red drum and providing a remarkable wilderness fishing experience. The Hunting Island State Park shoreline offers productive surf and nearshore fishing for striped bass in winter and red drum in fall and spring.

Beaufort's tidal range is substantial, with 6–8 foot tides creating powerful currents that push baitfish through the creeks and channels. The best fishing here coincides with these moving tides. Monitor the live tide chart above closely to plan your Beaufort fishing adventure, and target the two hours before and after each tide change for maximum fish activity.

Nearby Marine Forecasts