Thanksgiving Fishing Frenzy: Myrtle Beach Emerges as Top Destination for Anglers

Hook, Line, and Thanksgiving: Why Myrtle Beach is the Place to Reel in the Big One

Ah, Thanksgiving! A time for turkey, family gatherings, and a bit of reflection. While many folks are busy prepping their favorite dishes or planning that big football game, there’s a unique twist to the holiday that some adventurous souls are embracing—fishing. Believe it or not, a growing number of outdoor enthusiasts are casting their lines instead of carving turkeys, and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is snagging the spotlight as the top destination for this unusual holiday tradition.

Myrtle Beach: An Angler’s Paradise

According to a recent list from FishingBooker, a handy platform dedicated to helping anglers book their dream fishing trips, Myrtle Beach has emerged as the ultimate fishing hotspot this Thanksgiving. Renowned as an “angling epicenter,” Myrtle Beach boasts a stunning 60 miles of Atlantic coastline—ideal for a relaxing day on the water. With the mild fall weather rolling in and fewer tourists trampling through, it’s the perfect backdrop for both fishing pros and novices who simply want to try their luck.

What’s Biting?

So, why should you pack your tackle box and head to the Grand Strand this Turkey Day? For starters, November brings a bounty of migratory fish swimming through these waters. Expect to reel in everything from bluefish to king mackerel, but the excitement doesn’t stop there. FishingBooker highlights the chance to hook some truly impressive specimens like amberjack, black drum, flounder, redfish, sheepshead, and speckled trout. Whether you’re dreaming of snapping a photo with a big catch or simply want to enjoy the soothing sounds of the waves, Myrtle Beach serves up a festive ambiance worth experiencing.

Parking made Easy

If the thought of navigating crowded parking lots suddenly has you feeling overwhelmed, relax! During the off-season, parking at the beach is a breeze. Visitors to North Myrtle Beach and Surfside Beach can enjoy free parking. Not to mention, Horry County also offers complimentary parking year-round at three different beach access lots. Who doesn’t love a bit of convenience on a holiday?

What Else is on the List?

Myrtle Beach may have snagged the top spot, but it’s not the only fishing destination to toss a line this Thanksgiving. Here’s a sneak peek at the complete list of fishing hotspots across the U.S.:

• Fort Lauderdale, FL – Possible catches: grouper, kingfish, sailfish, snapper, swordfish, and wahoo
• Naples, FL – Possible catches: cobia, grouper, king mackerel, pompano, redfish, snapper, and snook
• San Francisco, CA – Possible catches: Dungeness crabs, largemouth bass, lingcod, rockfish, and trout
• Tacoma, WA – Possible catches: cabezon, Dungeness crab, and trout
• Plymouth, MA – Possible catches: cod, haddock, tautog, and trout
• Lake Buchanan, TX – Possible catches: largemouth bass, striped bass, and white bass
• Lake Shelbyville, IL – Possible catches: crappie, muskellunge, sauger, walleye, and white bass
• Silverthorne, CO – Possible catch: trout

Perfect Timing for Fishing Lovers

While Thanksgiving may traditionally be about feasting, it seems there’s a growing trend for anglers to celebrate with a different feast—one that can be found at the end of a fishing line. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just looking for an exciting way to celebrate the holiday, Myrtle Beach and other destinations around the country offer an enticing alternative for spending time in nature and making memories on the water. So why not break from tradition and give fishing a shot this Thanksgiving?

Who knows? You might just hook ‘the big one’ while creating unforgettable holiday tales to share around the dinner table!