The SC River Guide offers a strictly catch-and-release fishing experience on South Carolina’s rivers near Columbia, led by an experienced captain with more than 20 years of fishing experience. The business is built around “The River Experience,” backed by up-to-date, double-checked equipment for a safe and rewarding day on the water, and even has its own short film documenting how the captain became The SC River Guide.

The Half-Day Striper Experience runs 5 hours (morning 6-11am or evening 5-10pm) for up to 2 anglers, with casting experience recommended but not required and all equipment provided; a $50 live bait charge applies if requested. This trip runs March 1st through October 31st. The Half-Day Smallmouth trip fishes a 22-mile stretch of the Broad River just above Columbia, described as “22 miles of smallmouth awesomeness,” running up to 7 hours for 2 anglers using artificial lures only, whether conventional tackle or fly. Fly fishing guests need to bring their own fly rods; all other equipment is provided for conventional trips, along with a cooler of ice and water on board.

All trips are strictly catch and release. Pricing runs $450 for the Half-Day Striper Experience and $500 for the Half-Day Smallmouth trip. The captain is sponsored by and connected to brands including Rivers & Glen, Abu Garcia, Fenwick, Berkley, and Eye Strike Fishing, along with a feature on Carolina Sportsman.

For anglers looking for a catch-and-release striper or smallmouth bass fishing experience on South Carolina’s rivers near Columbia, The SC River Guide offers a well-reviewed, deeply experienced operation.