Summer Fishing
The first day of summer is June 20th meaning it's time for new seasonal and tropical fish species to head to their favorite summer spots! South Carolina can be downright hot so warmer waters dictate the tides and time of day that is best to fish. Generally, the most productive times to fish in the summertime are the early morning and late evening flood tides aka tailing tides. With warmer water, our primary focus is in deeper water in the harbor.
While hitting these deep waters, large Founder, Trout, Cobia, Redfish and Sharks of all sizes can be found. Big Redfish can weigh over 30 pounds and are swimming in big numbers. Larger Sharks like Lemons, Hammerheads, Blacktips, Spinners and Bull Sharks ranging from 6-12 feet can be found hanging around the harbor due to the warmer water. If hooked, they'll go airborne multiple times while fighting! Cobia are coming into the harbor to spawn, but can also be found off the beach. There are so many other species that can be targeted in the harbor including Spanish Mackerel, Lady Fish, Jack Crevalle and Bluefish.
One of the easiest offshore catches is in high gear due to their love of the warm water, making the bite real fun - Mahi! They're acrobatic dolphin that can turn any reeling moment into a rush. The most common method of fishing for Mahi is trolling ballyhoo and the state limit is 10 per person per day according to the SCDNR.
Trout and Flounder can be found swimming in our inshore waters and can be caught along the oyster beds and grass lines. During this time, smaller Redfish have broken out of their schools and have headed to the banks to feed on shrimp and fiddler crabs. Spadefish school up and can be spotted just off of the beach making for some constant action!
Heading into July, the Tarpon migration can be targeted by anglers through our local waters, along with Sheep Head and Black Drum during warm summer months.
Even with the summer days heating up, some of the spring species are still available to be reeled in. Click here to find out!