Lowcountry Saltwater Fishing Report - 1/26/2016

Fishing Report for the Coastal Lowcountry of South Carolina:
Inshore Report: Scott Hammond at Haddrell's Point West shares that over the last few weeks the weather pattern jumped from rainy and windy conditions to downright cold. So choosing your fishing days, the in-between days when it is sunny and 60-degrees is even more important in January and February. Scott says to clean up your rods and reels, tackle and boats while nasty weather is upon us, but with days getting noticeably longer now keep the prospect of a late afternoon float trip in mind too.

The 12th SC Wahoo Series starts Jan. 29

As for the redfish, they have two priorities, don't get eaten by a hungry dolphin and try to stay warm. Days filled with sunshine and warmer temps are when the redfish feel the most limber, so look for them in schools in dark-colored mudflats. Keep in mind that if you spook one redfish, then you risk spooking the whole school, so cast wide of the school and let them find your offering slowly and in their own time. You might find that a fish caught from the edge of the school doesn't spook them all, since they will move off naturally, while your fish stays out of their way. It's not easy to do, but finding the right strike zone to leave your baits in can allow for multiple hook ups in one spot from one school over a couple of hours.
Scott recommends a combination of baits for a redfish spread including cracked blue crab, cut mullet and mud minnows so that even a finicky cold fish can find something to chew on. He likes a 3-ought Owner circle hook, with a split shot a few inches above the hook to aid in casting distance. The circle hook is designed to catch in the corner of the mouth on the fish, and not inside the mouth by their sensitive gills. Scott's Pro Tip is not to set the hook until the fish has the rod bent over taking line. If you want to switch over to the fly rod, then its OK to cast a little more towards the school since the flies presentation is delicate, then it's sight fishing at it best as you watch for a fish to approach and eat. To view the latest seminar information visit the Internet at Haddrell's Point.

Offshore Report: Anglers are gearing up for the 12th annual SC Wahoo Series that will be contested between January 29 through April 17. With windy winter weather an issue for offshore fishing, this tourney allows anglers to pick their days to fish.

To view past Lowcountry Saltwater Fishing Reports click here.