Hemingway lived to fish the Keys for that citation Marlin and thought fishing was an "act of healing and transformation." George Bush enjoys chasing the bonefish in Central America and finds it meditative. I like to cast for tarpon and watch them dance across the Port Royal sound like a well-toned ballerina, and find it an awakening.

Fishing abounds on and around Hilton Head Island. It doesn't matter if you want inshore or offshore, lagoon or creek, brackish or fresh, live bait or artificial you can find it on Hilton Head. Want to go after that school of kings or hook that 100 pound shark, there are more than 20 types of shark that swim local waters, you can do it on Hilton Head. You can charter a boat to go to the Gulf Stream or cruise the creeks and sounds, or rent a bare boat and explore. If you want your feet on the ground try your hand at surf casting, spin a plastic worm into one of the lagoons, or learn to throw a cast net. For something different go shrimping on one of the trawlers.

Unless you are one of the many returning visitors, guided fishing is recommended. The Island boasts many excellent guides, but it is best to make reservations as they almost always book out. If you are towing your own craft you can put it in at many of the marinas or at the public boat landings. Be aware that some of the plantations do not allow you to store boats within view, so make prior arrangements. Have fun and release what you can't eat.