Edisto Redfish Tourney and Surf Fishing Brochure

Cut bait and pyramid sinkers on the beach.
A new Edisto brochure tackles surf fishing practices.

With the arrival of fall weather and cooler temperatures the coastal estuaries become more active for those in pursuit of saltwater hobbies. Edisto Beach kicked the season into high gear when Town Council decided to produce a brochure to educate both anglers and visitors on surf fishing practices. Shrimp baiting season began on September 7 and runs for two months, while oyster harvest season opened on October 1 and runs until Spring. This Saturday October 20 is the annual Redfish Tourney at Edisto Water Sports on Docksite Road, where spot-tail bass capture the spotlight.

After a week of public discussion about the merits of surf fishing practices, the Town of Edisto Beach decided to act to produce a brochure on the subject at their meeting on October 11. “I make the motion that the Town of Edisto Beach produce an informative brochure addressing the concerns that have been brought to the Town regarding surf fishing,” said Councilman Kizer. “This brochure will include consideration for swimmers, sunbathers and beach goers.” The motion passed unanimously.

            

The brochures will address placement of fishing rods on the beach when surf fishing, and include how to properly dispose of anything from bait to bycatch. First time visitors to the beach may not always understand the heritage and rights of saltwater anglers to cast their lines in the surf for sport or even for food. At the same time, lifelong anglers must be aware how the perception of fishing hooks and fishing tackle at the beach might be imposing. The brochure is to be placed at all businesses on Edisto island, especially the rental agencies.

To view the entire feature article in the newspaper click on Colletonian.

To view past blog entries about surf fishing click on Little St. Simon's Island - Bald Head Island, NC - Edisto Island, SC - Bulls Island, SC - South Island, SC