Chasing Silver Kings – Tarpon Fishing in Folly Beach, SC with Captain John

If you're looking for one of the most electrifying fishing experiences on the South Carolina coast, look no further than tarpon fishing in Folly Beach. Known as the "Silver King" for their shimmering scales and incredible strength, tarpon are among the most sought-after game fish in the world—and you don’t have to travel to Florida to catch them.  In Charleston we call it glorified shark fishing. As sharks will be the main bycatch. 

Folly Beach, just a short drive from Charleston, offers a unique and often overlooked tarpon fishery that comes alive during the late summer and early fall months. And there’s no better way to get on the bite than with Captain John, a local legend who knows these waters like the back of his hand.

While Folly Beach is famous for its laid-back vibe, surf culture, and scenic beauty, it’s also home to some seasonal tarpon territory. The inlets, creeks, and nearshore waters surrounding the area offer the perfect mix of baitfish, water depth, and tidal flow to attract migrating tarpon.

Every year from July through September, tarpon cruise through these waters, feeding heavily and putting on acrobatic displays that rival anything you’ll see in Florida or the Keys.

Meet Captain John

Captain John has been fishing the Charleston and Folly Beach area for decades. He combines deep local knowledge with a true passion for the sport, making every trip memorable—whether you’re a seasoned angler or casting a line for the first time.

His setup is all about putting clients in the right place at the right time. From watching bait patterns to reading tides and tracking weather, Captain John’s instincts are second to none. His laid-back style, patience, and ability to coach through the fight make him a favorite among beginners and veteran anglers alike.

The Tarpon Experience

Fishing with Captain John starts early—just as the sun rises and the tides begin to turn. After launching from one of the local ramps, you'll head toward the inlets or barrier islands where tarpon are known to feed. The approach is part strategy, part patience, and part adrenaline rush.

You might free-line live mullet, menhaden, or cast large artificial lures, depending on the conditions. Then comes the moment every angler dreams of—a massive boil, a tight line, and an explosion at the surface as a tarpon clears the water in a wild aerial leap.

Tarpon fights are legendary. They’ll run, jump, twist, and dive—often taking 30 to 45 minutes (or longer) to land.  While tarpon are strictly catch-and-release in South Carolina, the experience of hooking and battling one is unforgettable.

What to Bring

Captain John provides all the gear, bait, and tackle you’ll need, but it’s a good idea to bring:

• Polarized sunglasses (for spotting fish and reducing glare)

• Sunscreen and a hat

• A camera or GoPro (you’ll want proof of your battle!)

• Snacks 

Book Your Trip

Whether you're visiting Charleston for a beach vacation or you're a local looking for a new thrill, tarpon fishing with Captain John in Folly Beach is a must-do adventure. With stunning coastal scenery, the possibility of dolphins and sea turtles, and the chance to battle one of the ocean’s most powerful fish, it’s the kind of trip that sticks with you long after the last cast.

Ready to chase the Silver King? Book your tarpon trip with Captain John today and experience one of South Carolina’s best-kept fishing adventures.  

 www.follybeachfishingcharters.com