Since I first came down to Charleston in August I’ve been fascinated with this site. The wealth of knowledge seems huge and I think there is a ton to be learned from the site. On to the fishing aspect…
We have been fishing the waters off of Isle of Palms a few times a week since September. We’ve had mixed success on the flats but have been struggling lately. From what I’ve read it seems that this winter is an odd one, but it still seems like there are a lot of fish to be caught. I’m certainly NOT asking for spots, I’ve fished all my life and I know that it’s not okay to post spots online, but I do have a few questions that I’d love if people had an opinion on.
What makes a dock good to fish? It seems that the fish are around the docks on a moving tide but where do you start?
Also, is there a chance of catching any large numbers of trout around the IOP area or am I wasting my time?
Any responses will be greatly appreciated as we try to keep the skunk out of the boat…
Welcome to the lowcountry Steve. I would say that if you are fishing every week, then you’ll figure it out soon enough. With that being said all docks provide structure and fish like structure. Structure helps shape the flow of water on incomming and outgoing tides…structure grows organic material and attracts various aquatic life forms…pieces and parts of the food chain. Docks, oyster banks, sunken boats, old dockage and piers, etc. are all good places to check out. Moon phase, tides, wind direction, barometric pressure fluctuations all combine to define optimal times to catch fish, but again…going often and paying attention is the real key. There are significant trout all over the coastal arena, and the IOP is no exception. The IOP is a big place, and that again requires getting out there. Check out the advice from local tackle shops(Haddrell’s and Charleston Angler) on trout fishing techniques and popular baits…I’ve had success trolling for them in the marina at 41st street, and behind goat island…even used to catch them in the surf back in the god old days…check out the creeks around your neighbor Dewees Is. too. Good luck.
Sol Mate
Mako 20B
225 Optimax
Thanks boss dog, I’ll be sure to post reports on here as often as possible to help share the knowledge.