Spring Fishing in Georgetown SC

Spring is an exciting time for anglers in the South Carolina Low Country. The fish in and around Georgetown are just as excited as the people that the weather is beginning to warm!

Fishing typically takes off around early to mid April when the water temperature starts to stay in the high 50s and climb into the low to mid 60s during the day. The fishing will only get better with water temperatures climbing into the 70s. 

The warming water excites the menhaden, mullet, and shrimp that spend their winters in a lethargic state trying not to expend too much energy. They begin feeding frantically on zooplankton, algae, and anything they can scavenge. These small fish and crustaceans aren't the only ones in a frenzy. Flounder, redfish, and speckled trout are just as excited to break out of their winter state and feed on anything they come across.

Menhaden, shrimp, croaker, mullet, and many other species of small fish are also beginning to move in from offshore. This migration of multiple species into the inshore waters of Georgetown is one of the main things that make fishing in the Spring so special. The fish that have spent the winter in the marshes start to get excited while at the same time massive schools of flounder, speckled trout, and redfish flood into the bays and inlets. These fish have spent the winter in the warmer, deeper offshore waters and are eager to feed on the schools of bait in the coastal waters. 

This time of year an angler has the opportunity to target large bull redfish over 30” long as well as puppy drum, anything under 29”, on light tackle. It's not uncommon in the spring to see a 4 pound redfish tailing in the marsh grass, while watching a 40 pound trophy bull redfish peel the line off of a reel as it dives back into the channel.

Large speckled sea trout are the perfect target in the spring for an angler who loves the thrill of feeling the bite. Targeting these large fish with artificial lures is an incredible way to spend a spring afternoon. A calm spring morning is the best time of year in Georgetown to watch a gator trout blow a topwater plug 3 feet into the air. Popping flies are also an exciting option on those calm mornings.  

Very few flounder stay in Georgetown’s creeks and inlets during the winter, but it's the complete opposite in the spring. These fish can’t help but flood the coastal waters in search of the menhaden and mullet that are moving inshore.

The thick schools of mullet and menhaden will continue to bring Bull Redfish inshore with Tarpon close behind them!

Aside from excellent fishing, the Santee Coastal Wildlife Reserve and Tom Yawkey Wildlife Preserve provide excellent opportunities for observing migratory birds.

For example, this is the time of year to see the Swallow-Tailed Kite on its migration North from Central and South America. Juvenile eagles who’s heads and tails have not yet turned white are also all over Georgetown’s waters too.

The fishing for all species will be great throughout the spring and into the summer until the water begins to climb into the high 80s.