Fishing in South Carolina

Fishing

With charming towns, breathtaking sunsets, and picturesque beaches and lakes, South Carolina is every vacationer’s dream. Bursting with unmatched historical wealth and numerous natural treasures, South Carolina has something to offer to travelers of all ages. The Palmetto State also boasts spectacular reel action. Regardless of where you go in South Carolina, great fishing awaits you. With breathtaking spots along the ocean shore, meandering back-country rivers and streams, and plenty of freshwater and saltwater lakes packed with fish, you are guaranteed a memorable experience no matter where you choose to cast your line. Crappie, catfish, chain pickerel, carp, tarpon, flounder, trout, cobia, drum, bowfin, bass, walleye, and perch are some of the fish you can catch in the Palmetto State’s waters. Adults and children aged 16 or over must have a fishing license to wet a line in South Carolina.

Silhouette of a man and a boy fishing in the ocean against an orange, yellow, and grey sunrise.

Fishing Spots in South Carolina

Lake Robinson

Situated near Greer in Greenville County, Lake Robinson is one of South Carolina’s good fishing spots. Covering 800 acres, this reservoir is famous for all types of water sports, including kayaking, rafting, canoeing, swimming, and boating. Here, you will find a fishing pier, a boat ramp, two picnic areas, and restrooms open to the public. Bluegill, sunfish, crappie, catfish, bass, and carp are among the common species that you can hook.

Myrtle Beach

Head out to the northern coast of South Carolina, and you will find Myrtle Beach, which attracts over 14 million tourists every year. It’s one of the best deep-sea fishing destinations in the state. There are numerous boat launch facilities and fishing spots near the shore. You will also find eight fishing piers and 18 artificial reefs on the northern coastal area of this destination. Mahi-mahi, snapper, grouper, barracuda, flounder, and king mackerel are among the species that you can catch here.

Lake Murray

Fishing camping in South Carolina becomes more fun when you wet your line in Lake Murray. A 30-minute drive from Columbia, this 50,000-acre reservoir has over 500 miles of shoreline and offers hydroelectric power to the Palmetto State. You can access the lake via public marinas, boat ramps, and public parks near the reservoir. Species that you will catch here include largemouth bass, white bass, striped bass, white crappie, perch, and catfish. There are numerous lodgings, campsites, and other amenities in Dreher Island State Park nearby.

Lake Jocassee

Located in secluded and unique, Devils Fork State Park, Lake Jocassee is a perfect answer to where to fish in South Carolina. Situated about 40 miles from Greenville, this reservoir holds state records for fish species like brown and rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, and largemouth bass, which is the most popular fish here. Summer and spring are ideal times to try and hook the largemouth bass. Beyond fishing, you can enjoy hiking and biking through the spectacular wilderness. Devil’s Fork is the only access point to the reservoir. To get the most from your fishing trip to this beautiful artificial impoundment, you’ll want to spend a night or two at one of the campsites nearby.

Whitewater River

The Whitewater River makes fishing camping in South Carolina unforgettable. This river originates in Transylvania County, North Carolina, then runs south until it empties into Lake Jocassee. This remote area features some incredible scenery, including two breathtaking waterfalls, each 400 feet high. Brown trout and rainbow trout are the key species that you should expect to catch. To have a smooth angling experience at the Whitewater River, ensure that you have South Carolina and North Carolina fishing licenses because the dividing line is unclear.

Congaree River

With a variety of wildlife and lush vegetation, the Congaree River is one of the spots that make fishing in South Carolina unique. At 50 miles long, this spot offers numerous fishing opportunities. The types of fish you can land here include catfish, sunfish, largemouth bass, and perch. Don’t forget your binoculars; the Congaree River is an ideal birding location.

Lake Greenwood

Situated on the Reedy and Saluda Rivers in the Piedmont region, Lake Greenwood is an 11,400-acre reservoir teeming with significant striped bass and crappie populations. The area below Buzzard Roost Dam is the perfect spot to catch these species. You can also try fishing from the banks of Lake Greenwood State Park or the pier if you don’t have a boat.

Where to Fish in South Carolina

Charleston, one of South Carolina’s largest and oldest cities, has a lot to offer when it comes to both fishing and culture. Inshore waters teem with healthy populations of speckled trout, redfish, flounder, and sheepshead, all of which you can catch from fall to spring. You can land tarpon, Spanish mackerel, and bluefish during the summer months. If you plan to visit around May or June, expect to catch species like mahi-mahi, cobia, sailfish, wahoo, and tuna. If you’re a nature enthusiast, then you must explore the Boone Hall Plantation. With a variety of educational content and scenic views, this spot is perfect for families. If you love history, visit the famous Fort Sumter and learn a thing or two about the Civil War.

Camping and Fishing in South Carolina

Before you set off on any camping and fishing RV trip in South Carolina, make sure that you have the right fishing gear, and fill your tackle box with items attractive to various fish. Also, make sure that you carry your rain gear, a hat, polarized glasses, and sunscreen to stay protected no matter the weather. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about fishing.

With an RV rental, your fishing trip will be a little more comfortable! After you’ve spent a long day fishing, grill up your catch right at your campsite. Then, retire inside to enjoy all the comforts of home on board your RV. Plan your perfect fishing getaway with an RV rental from RVshare.