​Spence’s Guide Service offers professionally guided fishing trips on South Carolina’s renowned Santee Cooper Lakes—Lake Marion and Lake Moultrie. Operated by USCG-licensed Captain Alan Spence, a retired U.S. Air Force veteran with over 20 years of guiding experience, the service specializes in targeting large catfish and striped bass.

Trip Options & Rates:

Half-Day Trips (4–5 hours):
1–4 people: $250
5 people: $285
6 people: $320​

Full-Day Trips (8–9 hours):
1–4 people: $400
5 people: $450
6 people: $500​

A $100 deposit is required to secure your booking.

What's Included:

Tackle, bait, fuel, and fish cleaning services.
Fishing aboard a 25-foot Crest Tri-toon equipped with an onboard restroom.
Fishing licenses are required for individuals aged 16 and older; assistance is provided for obtaining them Children aged 8 and under fish for free (they count toward the boat's capacity and must be accompanied by an adult)​.

Fishing Techniques:

Captain Spence employs various methods tailored to seasonal conditions, including anchoring and fan-casting, vertical fishing over bait schools, and drift fishing. He primarily uses cut bait such as herring and shad, targeting areas with underwater structures and baitfish concentrations. ​

Lodging

I have a single wide trailer that I rent out anybody that fish's with me on a full day trip will get one night free if available. If you wish to stay more one night I charge $60.00 per night or if you wish to stay with out fishing. It can sleep 6 people with full kitchen and has all linen and towels. Exit 119 on I-95 has the best places to stay and eat on the north side. Hotels/Motels are:

Hampton Inn (803) 505-4800
Days Inn
Quality Inn (803) 473-7550
Super 8 Motel (803) 473-4646
Ramada Inn (803) 469-9001

Food:

Shoney’s Restaurant, Wendy’s, Zaxby’s, Buger King, Huddle House, Waffle House, Mariachis Mexican Restaurant/Bar,
Yucatan Mexican Restaurant/Bar, and Jerry’s Auto & Truck Stop.

Gas:

There are five main gas stations at Exit 119 and just up the road going into Manning, SC is the Wal – Mart with best prices in fuel. If you are pulling a boat the easiest place to get fuel is at Tanners just down Racoon Road past the Holiday Inn Express at the red light at Hwy 301.
Fuel prices vary. The lowest price is at Wal-Mart and the higher prices are at the lake.

For a memorable fishing experience on the Santee Cooper Lakes, consider booking a trip with Spence’s Guide Service.