From the mountains to the coast, South Carolina offers a diverse range of fishing opportunities for anglers of all levels. These fishing spots have been handpicked based on their unique features, fishing seasons, and the types of fish you can catch. Whether you’re looking for a trophy largemouth bass or a delicious redfish, these fishing spots are sure to deliver an unforgettable experience. So, join us as we uncover the best fishing spots that South Carolina has to offer.
15. Lake Murray
Lake Murray is a true gem for any angler seeking a top-quality fishing experience in South Carolina. The lake’s vast size, crystal-clear water, and diverse fish species make it a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts from all over the country.
Striped bass, one of the most popular species in the lake, can be found in great abundance in the deeper parts of the lake, especially during the summer months. The largemouth bass population in Lake Murray is also exceptional, with some anglers reporting catches of bass weighing over 10 pounds.
Aside from these two main species, Lake Murray is also home to crappie, catfish, bream, and other sunfish, making it a great place for anglers of all skill levels to test their fishing skills.
Lake Murray is also well-equipped for fishing with a number of public boat ramps, fishing piers, and fishing tournaments throughout the year. Additionally, there are plenty of fishing guides and charters available for those looking for a more guided and educational fishing experience.
14. The Santee Cooper Lakes
The Santee Cooper Lakes are a true angler’s paradise, with a vast expanse of waterways and an abundant population of fish species. Comprised of Lake Marion and Lake Moultrie, these two lakes in the Lowcountry offer a variety of fishing opportunities, from trophy-sized catfish to striped bass.
The catfish population in the Santee Cooper Lakes is particularly noteworthy, with some of the largest specimens in the state. Anglers looking for trophy-sized catfish will find plenty of opportunities here, as the lakes are home to a variety of catfish species, including blues, channels, and flatheads.
In addition to catfish, the Santee Cooper Lakes are also home to a robust striped bass population. These powerful fish can be found throughout the lakes, particularly in the deeper areas. Anglers targeting striped bass will have success using live bait or artificial lures, such as swimbaits and crankbaits.
13. Lake Jocassee
Lake Jocassee is a true hidden gem for any angler seeking a premier fishing experience in South Carolina. Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this crystal-clear lake offers some of the best trout fishing opportunities in the state, as well as a chance to catch trophy-sized smallmouth and largemouth bass.
Trout fishing is undoubtedly the main draw for anglers at Lake Jocassee. The lake is stocked regularly with rainbow, brown, and brook trout, providing a year-round opportunity for anglers to test their fly fishing skills. With an average depth of over 300 feet, the lake’s cool water temperatures provide a suitable habitat for trout, making it a great place for anglers looking to catch these elusive fish.
In addition to trout, Lake Jocassee is also home to a thriving smallmouth and largemouth bass population. The lake’s rocky shorelines and deep water structures provide an ideal habitat for these fish species. Anglers targeting smallmouth bass will find them in the deeper areas of the lake, while largemouth bass can be found in the shallower coves and bays.
One unique feature of Lake Jocassee is the opportunity to catch smallmouth and largemouth bass in the same area, allowing anglers to test their skills against both species in a single outing. Additionally, the lake’s abundant sunfish and crappie populations provide plenty of action for anglers looking for a fun day on the water.
12. Charleston Harbor
Charleston Harbor is a saltwater angler’s dream come true, offering some of the best inshore fishing opportunities in the Southeast. With its close proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, the harbor’s brackish waters provide an ideal habitat for a variety of saltwater species, including redfish, speckled trout, and flounder.
Redfish, also known as red drum, are the main draw for anglers fishing in Charleston Harbor. These hard-fighting fish can be caught using a variety of techniques, including live bait, artificial lures, and fly fishing. Anglers can find redfish throughout the harbor’s estuaries, creeks, and marshes, particularly around oyster beds and other structure.
Speckled trout are another popular target species in Charleston Harbor. These elusive fish can be found in the deeper areas of the harbor, particularly around drop-offs and channels. Anglers targeting speckled trout will have success using live bait or artificial lures, such as soft plastics or topwater baits.
Flounder are also abundant in Charleston Harbor, particularly during the fall and winter months. These flatfish can be found on the harbor’s muddy bottom, particularly around oyster beds and other structure.
11. Lake Hartwell
Lake Hartwell is a premier fishing destination in South Carolina’s Upstate region, offering anglers a diverse range of fishing opportunities for a variety of species. This 56,000-acre lake is known for its excellent largemouth and smallmouth bass fishing, as well as its thriving populations of crappie and catfish.
Largemouth and smallmouth bass are the primary target species for many anglers fishing at Lake Hartwell. The lake’s deep water structure, rocky shorelines, and abundant vegetation provide an ideal habitat for these species. Anglers targeting largemouth bass will have success using a variety of techniques, including topwater baits, jigs, and soft plastics, while those targeting smallmouth bass will find them in the deeper areas of the lake, particularly around drop-offs and channels.
Crappie are also abundant in Lake Hartwell, particularly during the winter months when they school up in deeper water.
Catfish are another popular target species in Lake Hartwell, with the lake’s abundant populations of channel, blue, and flathead catfish providing plenty of action for anglers.
10. Winyah Bay
Winyah Bay is a saltwater angler’s paradise, located just south of Georgetown, South Carolina. With its vast expanse of saltwater marshes, creeks, and channels, Winyah Bay offers anglers a variety of fishing opportunities for a range of species, including redfish, flounder, and speckled trout.
Redfish are the primary target species for many anglers fishing in Winyah Bay. These hard-fighting fish can be caught using a variety of techniques, including live bait, artificial lures, and fly fishing. Anglers can find redfish throughout the bay’s estuaries, creeks, and marshes, particularly around oyster beds and other structure.
Flounder are another popular target species in Winyah Bay, particularly during the fall and winter months. These flatfish can be found on the bay’s muddy bottom, particularly around oyster beds and other structure.
Speckled trout are also abundant in Winyah Bay, particularly during the fall and winter months. These elusive fish can be found in the deeper areas of the bay, particularly around drop-offs and channels. Anglers targeting speckled trout will have success using live bait or artificial lures, such as soft plastics or topwater baits.
9. Lake Marion
Lake Marion is a true gem in the heart of South Carolina, offering anglers an abundance of fishing opportunities for a variety of species. As one of the largest lakes in the state, Lake Marion’s 110,000-acre expanse provides ample space for anglers to explore and find their perfect fishing spot.
Catfish are one of the primary target species in Lake Marion, with the lake’s abundant populations of channel, blue, and flathead catfish providing plenty of action for anglers. These fish can be caught using a variety of techniques, including live bait, cut bait, and stinkbaits.
Striped bass are another popular target species in Lake Marion, particularly in the lower portions of the lake. Anglers targeting striped bass will have success using live bait,, as well as artificial lures like swimbaits and topwater plugs.
8. The Edisto River
The Edisto River is a true hidden gem in the heart of the Lowcountry, offering anglers an abundance of fishing opportunities for a variety of species. This blackwater river is particularly known for its trophy-sized largemouth bass, which can be found throughout the river’s meandering channels and backwaters.
Anglers targeting largemouth bass on the Edisto River will have success using a variety of techniques, including topwater baits, spinnerbaits, and soft plastics. These fish can often be found in the river’s deeper holes and along the edges of the river’s channels.
In addition to largemouth bass, the Edisto River is also home to an abundance of catfish and bream. Anglers targeting catfish will have success using live bait, such as worms or chicken liver, as well as stinkbaits and cut bait. Bream can be caught using a variety of techniques, including live bait and small jigs.
7. Lake Greenwood
Lake Greenwood is a true angler’s paradise, offering a wide range of fishing opportunities for a variety of species. Located in the Piedmont region of South Carolina, this lake is particularly known for its abundance of largemouth and striped bass, as well as crappie and catfish.
Anglers targeting largemouth bass on Lake Greenwood will have success using a variety of techniques, including topwater baits, jigs, and soft plastics. These fish can often be found in the lake’s shallow coves and along the edges of the lake’s channels.
Striped bass are also a popular target species on Lake Greenwood, particularly in the lower portions of the lake. Anglers targeting striped bass will have success using live bait, as well as artificial lures like swimbaits and topwater plugs.
Crappie and catfish are also abundant in Lake Greenwood, particularly during the spring months when they spawn in the shallow coves and backwaters of the lake. Anglers targeting crappie will have success using live bait, as well as jigs and other artificial lures. Catfish can be caught using a variety of techniques, including live bait and stinkbaits.
6. The Myrtle Beach State Park Pier
The Myrtle Beach State Park Pier is a fishing hotspot that is not to be missed by any angler visiting the Grand Strand. With its prime location and variety of species, this pier offers a fishing experience like no other.
Anglers targeting bluefish will have success using live bait, such as mullet or shrimp, as well as artificial lures like spoons and jigs. These fish can often be found in the deeper waters around the pier, particularly during the summer months.
King mackerel are also a popular target species on the Myrtle Beach State Park Pier. Anglers targeting these fish will have success using live bait, as well as artificial lures like spoons and plugs.
Flounder are another species that can be caught from the Myrtle Beach State Park Pier, particularly during the spring and fall months. Anglers targeting flounder will have success using live bait as well as artificial lures like jigs and soft plastics.
5. Lake Keowee
Nestled in the Upstate region, Lake Keowee is a clear-water lake that is known for its superb fishing opportunities. Anglers visiting Lake Keowee will have the chance to target a variety of species, including smallmouth and largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie.
The smallmouth and largemouth bass fishing at Lake Keowee is some of the best in the state, with many trophy-sized fish being caught each year. Anglers targeting these fish will have success using a variety of techniques, including topwater baits, crankbaits, and soft plastics. The clear water of Lake Keowee makes it an excellent location for sight fishing, with anglers having the ability to see fish cruising in the shallows.
Catfish are also a popular target species on Lake Keowee, with channel and flathead catfish being the most commonly caught. Anglers targeting these fish will have success using live bait as well as cut bait and stink bait.
Crappie fishing is another popular activity on Lake Keowee, particularly during the spring months. Anglers targeting crappie will have success using small jigs.
4. The Cooper River
The Cooper River, running through the heart of Charleston, is a saltwater angler’s dream destination. The river offers a variety of fish species, including redfish, speckled trout, and flounder, making it a prime location for anglers looking to catch some of South Carolina’s most popular saltwater fish.
Redfish, also known as red drum, are plentiful in the Cooper River, with many trophy-sized fish caught each year. Anglers targeting these fish will have success using a variety of baits and lures, including live bait, soft plastics, and topwater baits.
Speckled trout, another popular species found in the Cooper River, can be caught using similar tactics to redfish. These fish are known for their hard-fighting nature and delicious flavor, making them a popular target for many anglers.
Flounder are also common in the Cooper River, with many fish being caught near the river’s mouth where it meets the Atlantic Ocean. Anglers targeting flounder will have success using live bait as well as artificial lures designed to mimic baitfish.
3. Lake Wylie
Nestled in the Piedmont region of South Carolina, Lake Wylie is a popular destination for anglers seeking to catch a variety of fish species. With its clear water and diverse underwater structure, Lake Wylie offers excellent fishing opportunities for largemouth and striped bass, as well as catfish and crappie.
Largemouth bass are abundant in Lake Wylie and can be found throughout the lake’s structure, including points, drop-offs, and weed beds. Anglers targeting these fish will have success using a variety of techniques, including topwater lures, spinnerbaits, and soft plastics.
Striped bass, also known as stripers, are another popular species found in Lake Wylie. These fish are known for their hard-fighting nature and can often be found in deeper waters near the dam or in the lake’s main channel. Anglers targeting stripers will have success using live bait as well as artificial lures designed to mimic baitfish.
Catfish and crappie are also common in Lake Wylie, with many trophy-sized fish being caught each year. Anglers targeting these species will have success using live bait as well as jigs and other artificial lures.
2. The Lake Hartwell Tailwater
The Lake Hartwell Tailwater is a hidden gem for trout fishing enthusiasts. This section of the river is located below the Hartwell Dam, which creates optimal conditions for trout, particularly rainbow and brown trout. In addition to trout, striped and hybrid bass are also abundant in this section of the river. The tailwater is known for its strong currents and varying depths, which make for a challenging but rewarding fishing experience. Anglers can try their hand at fly fishing or traditional bait fishing for the chance to reel in some impressive catches. Overall, the Lake Hartwell Tailwater is a must-visit destination for any angler looking for an exciting and unique fishing experience in South Carolina.
1. Kiawah Island
Kiawah Island is a pristine barrier island off the coast of Charleston that offers a wealth of fishing opportunities. The island’s marshes, creeks, and estuaries are home to a variety of fish species, including redfish, spotted sea trout, and flounder. Anglers can enjoy fishing from the shore or on a boat, with many local charters available for hire. The island’s surrounding waters are also abundant in cobia, king mackerel, and shark, making for an exciting deep sea fishing experience. The fishing here can be challenging due to the ever-changing tides and currents, but the potential for landing a trophy fish makes it all worth it. Kiawah Island is a must-visit destination for any angler looking to experience the best of South Carolina’s coastal fishing.
Fishing regulations in South Carolina
Fishing is a popular activity in South Carolina, attracting both residents and visitors to its abundant waters. However, it’s important to follow the fishing regulations set by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) to ensure that the state’s fisheries are managed sustainably and the fish populations are preserved for future generations.
Some of the regulations include limits on the size and number of fish that can be caught and kept, restrictions on fishing methods and gear, and specific fishing seasons for certain species. It’s important for anglers to familiarize themselves with these regulations before fishing to avoid any legal issues or negative impacts on the environment.
Useful tips for fishing in South Carolina:
- Licenses: Anyone 16 years or older who wants to fish in freshwater or saltwater in South Carolina must have a valid fishing license.
- Check the fishing regulations: South Carolina has specific fishing regulations for each waterway, so it’s essential to check them before you go fishing.
- Pay attention to the seasons: Different types of fish are more active during different seasons in South Carolina. Understanding the seasonal patterns of your target species can help you plan your fishing trip accordingly.
- Bring the right gear: Having the right fishing gear is crucial for a successful fishing trip. Depending on the species you’re targeting, you may need different types of rods, reels, lines, lures, and baits. It’s always a good idea to do some research and bring the appropriate gear for the type of fishing you plan to do.
- Respect the environment: South Carolina’s waterways are home to many different types of wildlife. It’s important to respect the environment and leave it as you found it. Always clean up after yourself, dispose of any trash properly, and avoid damaging the natural habitats.
By following these useful tips, you can increase your chances of having a successful and enjoyable fishing trip in South Carolina.
Verdict:
South Carolina is a fantastic destination for any angler looking for a great fishing experience. With its diverse range of fishing spots, from mountain streams to tidal rivers and offshore waters, there is something for every angler’s taste. Whether you are a seasoned angler or a beginner, these top 15 must-visit fishing spots in South Carolina offer exceptional fishing opportunities for all. So, pack your tackle and head out to South Carolina to experience some of the best fishing in the country!