I live downtown Columbia and I have tried fishing out of the landing by the USC stadium, but I have not seen or caught anything. I have a jon boat and I would like to catch some trout and stripers. Where are some good places to put in on the river and what should I use? When will the stipers show up by the stadium? Where is a good tackle shop? I appreciate the help.
The rule of thumb in the Congaree is when the dogwoods are in bloom the rockfish are in the river. However,it appears that SCE&G would rather apease the homeowners on Lake Murray than benefit the striper spawn as they are not releasing enough water for the fish to want to come upriver. If we get some good rain the fish will be near the landing you are using. As for the trouts, they are in the Saluda River and the Hope Ferry landing off of Corley Mill Road is a good place to try. Beware, the Saluda is very rocky and will eat a lower unit in short order. Any questions on striper or trout fishing in the Cola - Lake Murray area can be answered by Richard or Dona Hall at Lake World on the Lexington side of the dam. They also have live herring and all the favorite trout lures.
Good Luck, Jim