This summer, catch fish, fun, and prizes at the Mount Pleasant and Folly Beach Piers’ tournament series! The Mount Pleasant Pier will host the summer’s first Cast Off Fishing Tournament on Saturday, May 11th. Then, on Saturday, May 25th, the Folly Beach Pier will host its first fishing tournament of the season.
The Mount Pleasant Pier offers fishing on the Charleston Harbor and under the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge. Opened in 2009, the pier is built on pilings from the old Silas N. Pearman Bridge, which have become a haven for many types of fish including red drum, spotted sea trout, flounder, and sheepshead.
The Folly Beach Pier reopened in December 2022. It stretches out 1045’ into the ocean and offers spectacular views, fishing, dining, and events. Common catches off the Folly Pier include blue fish, sheepshead, spotted sea trout, and whiting.
The 2024 Cast Off Fishing Tournament Schedule is:
Mount Pleasant Pier
- May 11, 6 a.m. - 2 p.m.
- June 15, 6 a.m. - 2 p.m.
- Sept. 21, 7 a.m. - 2 p.m.
- Oct. 26, 7 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Folly Beach Pier
- May 25, 6 a.m. - 2 p.m.
- June 22, 6 a.m. - 2 p.m.
- Sept. 14, 7 a.m. - 2 p.m.
- Oct. 12, 7 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Tournaments offer awards for the Biggest 3 Fish by Weight, the Biggest Youth Catch (12 and under) and the Best 5 Fish (total weight). Participants are only eligible to win one category. Tournament registration fees are $12 for ages 13 and up, $9 for members of the military, $9 for seniors (60 and up) and ages 12 and under, or $5 for fishing pass holders. Adult chaperones are required for ages 15 and under.
No pre-registration is required. On-site registration for tournaments begins the morning of the event. Parking fees are an additional charge at the Folly Pier.
Both piers offer everything an expert or a novice needs, including equipment rentals, tackle and frozen bait, plus knowledgeable staff to offer tips. The piers also provide snack bars, gift shops and restrooms. Tournaments are held rain or shine. Anglers of all experience levels are encouraged to slap on some sunscreen and head out for some good-spirited competition!
For additional details on the piers or the tournaments, call the Folly Beach Pier at (843) 762-9516, the Mount Pleasant Pier at (843) 762-9946, or visit CharlestonCountyParks.com.