Lowcountry Saltwater Fishing Report - 1/5/2016

Fishing Report for the Coastal Lowcountry of South Carolina:

Juvenile Black Drum caught Jan. 2 on Isle Of Palms

Inshore Report: Scott Hammond at Haddrell's Point West forecasts that we will continue to experience air and water temps that are above average, keeping the inshore bite at a level like they never shifted to winter. If targeting trout, fish in water depths from 4 to 6-feet for school-sized fish, or move on out to 8 to 10-feet of water to target larger specks, or perhaps even a 'Gator' trout. Artificial lures like Slim Swimz, Trout Tricks or DOA shrimp have been hands down the baits of choice, and live shrimp still work just fine too. Smaller trout, juvenile black drum and even a flounder can still be found at the surf zone for beach goers.

Sheepshead are a staple in winter, using fiddler crabs or live shrimp for bait. Some great reports are coming from the Charleston jetties, from bridge and pier pilings, and inshore rock piles and rip rap. Many times during cold weather fishing trips, sheepshead can be counted on to bite when other species seem sluggish. Redfish are another fish that can feed heartily in winter during bright sunny days, or seemingly develop lockjaw during dreary overcast days. Traditionally these redfish will school up in January and February, earning them the nickname of Channel Bass from old timers. Check low tide mud flats for shallow water fly fishing opportunities. For the latest seminar info from Haddrell's Point visit the Internet at Shallow Water Fishing Expo.

Offshore Report: Scott shares that finally a few day with lesser wind levels allowed sportfishers to slip out into the Big Pond in search of pelagic fish like Wahoo and blackfin tuna. Trolling lures in 150 to 200-feet of water along the ledge looking for a bite is working, with even some teenager dolphin being reported in the mix! Bottom fishing is yielding some monster-sized vermillion snapper, plus plenty of triggerfish and porgies. Those who go out for grouper and snapper may have some luck catching, but anglers need to be aware that the keeper-season for these fished is now closed, so they must be returned to the sea.

To view past Lowcountry Saltwater Fishing Reports click here.