
Photography by Jason Stemple (above Captain Jeremy Mehlhaff, below a red drum fish.

Jeremy Mehlhaff moved to the SC Lowcountry fourteen years ago from South Dakota. Soon thereafter he became immersed in the myriad fishing activities that were available. As he entered high school, he began to dream of becoming a fishing guide. As his saltwater experiences increased, his dream became a passion. Before he finished college, Jeremy had made his dream a reality.
Captain Mehlhaff has dedicated himself to learning as much as possible about the various types of angling opportunities available within a 10 mile stretch on either side of South Carolina's beautiful coastline. The unique coastline area that Charleston Shallows focuses on ranges from the highly productive flats, creeks, rivers, and saltwater marshes that typify the Low country; as well as through the oyster beds, sand bars, and barrier islands, to the near-shore waters of the Atlantic Ocean. For the last five years now Jeremy has specialized in sight-fishing for redfish. Jeremy has spent ample time throwing flys and artificials to reds in just inches of water, although he has a love for all types of fishing.
Jeremy is fortunate to have been tutored by some of the most skilled fishermen in the Southeast. One of his mentors is David Dalu, who is also an aficionado of fly-casting. There are three major tarpon fly fishing tournaments held annually in Florida. The three major tournaments are The Golden Fly, The Don Hawley, and The Gold Cup. David not only became just the fourth angler in history to win all three, he became the only angler to win all three in a single year!!
Not one to become complacent, Jeremy can often be found fishing in other areas of the country, learning new techniques that can be adapted to the many sport species available only a short boat ride from any landing in SC. This experience has allowed Jeremy to witness other guides temperaments and their ability to relate to their clients. As a direct result of these various experiences, Captain Mehlhaff has committed himself to being equally at home with a family or group out for fun, sightseeing, and non-competitive fishing; as he is with the serious angler that desires to spend hours stalking their targets in search of their trophy fish. If you want a young, energetic, affable, and extremely hard working guide that will put your desires ahead of his, contact Captain Jeremy Mehlhaff for your next successful guided adventure!
Charleston Shallowʼs operates 2010 Hell's Bay 18 Guide powered by a Yamaha 70hp 4 stroke. It is operated to do one thing—catch fish! The spacious open deck provides a stable platform for maximum fish–fighting enjoyment. The shallow draft (5 inches) allows access to the extensive flats around Charleston. Our boat is designed to keep you comfortable while cruising you to the action, and maximize your many Lowcountry fishing options!
We also offer a 2005 Hellʼs Bay Glades skiff for the ultimate shallow water fishing experience. There is no fish too shallow for this boat! All of Charleston Shallowsʼ boats are Coast Guard registered and insured.
For the light tackle enthusiast we provide custom rods and Shimano rods/reels. For fly fishermen we offer Orvis rods, reels, and lines.
All necessary fishing tackle (light tackle or fly-fishing), Cooler, Ice, Bottled water, Fishing licenses.
Favorite rod(s) and reel(s) if you have any, Polarized sunglasses, Sunscreen, Non-marking soled shoes, Any additional food or water that you would like, Hat to cut glare, Any medications needed during the trip, Any additional clothing you may need depending on the season (layers, rain jacket), and a Good attitude!
The most popular South Carolina target is the redfish, a specialty of Capt. Jeremy Mehlhaff. Redfish can be taken year-round, but chasing the large winter schools, or sightcasting to the tailing reds in the summer are especially exciting trips. Charleston Shallows will accommodate specific requests for both the target species and the fishing method (light- tackle or fly fishing). Captain Mehlhaff has the experience to assist veteran anglers, while relishing the opportunity to teach novices the art of Lowcountry angling.