So, I’ve been fishing for as long as I can remember, but I have been fishing in the Mountain, rivers, and streams, so this saltwater thing is pretty new to me. I was hoping to get some advice about fishing on the Ashley River near/close to the Citadel. I bought a 7’ PENN heavy rod for 10-25 test and PENN reel to match it. The rod has 15 test line on it right now, so I was wondering what are some rigs that are commonly used and to what fish are local.
Disclaimer: this post is full of speculation
JT, you’ll find plenty of info in the surf/pier section for fishing from the land.
I’m guessing you’re a new cadet, if I’m right your fishing time will be limited this year but you should try anyway. Any chance you’re from Franklin, NC? I met a guy up there earlier this summer and he told me his grandson was coming down to the Citadel.
As far as fishing near the Citadel goes… There are always fish moving at the bridge near 17 and lockwood. Further up is Brittlebank park, it has a little dock you can fish from and work the grasslines. Last, there is a little nature walk in the longborough neighborhood near wagner terrace where you can get some tailing reds to the right and make some casts of the little dock. You’ve probably heard the before and I promise you’ll hear it again, cut mullet on a carolina rig.
One more thing, don’t cast into the middle of the river or any river. All you’ll catch is stingrays which is cool 1 time. Cast near the grass lines and oyster beds and be patient.
S or F, thanks for your help. I’ll actually be a sophomore this coming year
And no, I’m not from Franklin, I’m actually from upstate SC…sorry.
Do you have an idea when the best time of day to fish some of these area is? And do you know a good place near the Citadel that sells tackle/bait and other fishing supplies?
-Joe
Incoming tide. Get a cast net and get comfortable throwing it and you’ll be good on baitfish for a while. Brittlebank will probably be a good place to throw the net. Walmart sells them, get cheap ones until you figure out where the oysters aren’t. I’ve caught plenty of fish on gas station bait but it’s way more rewarding catching your own. I like Haddrell’s in the South Windemere shopping center for any specialty gear and walmart for cheap stuff.
And if you have a little money, pull the 15 lb mono off that reel and spoll with a 30 lb braid. Learn to tie a palamar knot though or you’ll lose everything.
Olde Man Charters
You will need some type of flotation device to fish behind the Citadel. Kayak, sup, canoe…that would be your best bet. From land, your open windows to catch anything are pretty small. pay attention to the tides, too, or you will be high and dry for hours!
I wish I would have spent some time learning the waters of Charleston instead of chasing girls in the upstate when I was there. Sounds like you have your priorities in order. Does the boathouse and the ability to check out boats still exist? If so, suggest you take advantage of that opportunity. Nearest bait/tackle is probably Haddrells Point in West Ashley not far across the bridge. Should be easy enough to access.
I think your best bet is to get on some Citadel groups on Facebook or other Alumni sites and tell area alums that you want to learn to fish the salt. I imagine our Charleston brethren would trip over themselves to take a cadet fishing.
Good luck. J.Lee c/o '96 F-Troop.
16’ High Tide Flats (Green) w/Yamaha 90
Wilderness Ride 135
Wilderness Tarpon 120