Charleston, SC Winter Fly Fishing

As we are all enduring the winds of March here in the Lowcountry of Charleston, SC, I thought it'd be a good time to look back on some of the great weather and fly fishing we had in January and February. The old saying of In like a lion, out like a lamb has definitely been true for our Spring so far.  It seemed as though right as we turned into the month of March the winds started to blow heavily and daily.  All of us here at FishWater Outfitters were very thankful for really good weather through most of the winter months. 

Sunrise on the Stono River

Sunrise on the Stono River

We had some chilly mornings out on the water but we also had some unbelievable and unseasonable weather too.  In mid to late February, Charleston temperatures were in the mid 70's with a some days that tipped out in the low 80's.  Although that is not very common, it sure was welcomed by everyone and everything.  The fish were very happy to see the water temperatures rise from the dismal 40 degree temps in the beginning of January to the upper 50's and low 60's in late February.  We had fantastic fishing on many of the early morning low tides using a variety of different flies.  As always, any combination of black and purple feathers worked well in addition to basic olive and cream colored clouser patterns.  White baitfish patterns seemed to work well also, especially while targeting Redfish in the oyster mounds.

Redfish pushing wakes around oyster mounds

Redfish pushing wakes around oyster mounds

Generally while Fly Fishing in Charleston, SC during the winter months we are targeting Redfish around the low tides.  My personal favorite is a mid morning low tide where we can launch the boat at sunrise and fish 2-3 hours of the falling tide and then another 2-3 hours of the incoming tide before the water gets too high.  Once the tide gets too high, it makes sight fishing much more difficult. 

Charleston, SC redfish on fly

Charleston, SC redfish on fly

As we continue through the brutal winds of March, the springtime weather patterns can't come soon enough!  Once we start to see more consistent day time temps in the mid to upper 70's here in Charleston, SC the fishing will only get better and better!  The water temperatures will become much more stable and a lot of the bait will return to the marsh.  This means more shrimp, crabs and other baitfish that our Inshore species love to eat.  

Redfish Tail

Redfish Tail

Whether you are planning a trip for business or for fun here in the Holy City,  FishWater Outfitters can offer half day and 3/4 day Inshore Fly Fishing and Light Tackle Charters for your needs.  We cater to all families and corporate groups alike and are always excited to show a beginner angler how to catch their first Redfish!  Spring dates are booking fast so use the link below to schedule a charter with Capt. Braden Powell and FishWater Outfitters.

Thinking about your summer vacation plans already?  Don't forget that Capt. Braden Powell and FishWater Outfitters offer fly fishing trips on the legendary Madison River in the trout town of Ennis, Montana during the summer months!!