Fishing along the South Carolina coast in the fall is an experience every angler can enjoy. As the temperatures cool and the summer vacationers thin out, fall fishing on Isle of Palms gets hot!
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Our coastal waters become a beacon for anglers of all skill levels during the fall. From September through November, you can cast your line for fall fun and adventure. Keep reading to discover more about what to expect during your fall fishing retreat.
Fall Weather Conditions
Fall brings mild and comfortable weather to the South Carolina coast, with temperatures that change significantly from September to November. Fall daytime highs can range from 85° to 65° Fahrenheit. The humidity drops, making for pleasant days on the water. The risk of tropical storms decreases as the season progresses, providing more stable and predictable fishing conditions.
Be prepared to dress in comfortable layers, as mornings and evenings during the fall can be chilly.
What’s Biting: Fish Species
- Redfish (Red Drum): Fall is synonymous with Redfish (also called Red Drum) fishing. Anglers love the intense fight of these fish, which are easy to find in estuaries, bays, and tidal creeks.
- Speckled Trout: Speckled Trout head closer to shore as the water temperatures cool. These fish can be found around marshes, inlets, and grassy shorelines.
- Flounder: Fall brings the peak of flounder fishing season. They can be caught on live bait or jigs using bottom-fishing rigs.
- King Mackerel: Anglers who venture further off the shore love fishing for King Mackerel. These fast and aggressive fish are fun to catch.
- Sheepshead: Fishing around piers, jetties, and bridges allows anglers to reel in Sheepshead.
Click here for an Inshore Saltwater Fish Identification Guide.
Best Fall Fishing Spots
- Isle of Palms Public Dock
- Breach Inlet
- Intracoastal Waterway
- Capers Island
- Dewees Island
- Charleston Harbor
- Bull Island & Boneyard Beach
- Gray Bay
Tips for Fall Fishing Near IOP
- Live Bait: If you are fishing inshore for species such as redfish or trout, use live bait. Shrimp, mullet, or mud minnows are all good bait options.
- Artificial Lures: Other fish prefer soft plastic lures, topwater plugs, or spoons. These artificial lures help catch a wide variety of fish.
- Fly Fishing: Try your hand at fly fishing this fall. Shallow marches make fly fishing for redfish an exciting experience.
- Tides and Times: Be sure to check tide charts and tables so that you can fish the changing tide. Fishing the rising tide can be especially successful. Fish in the morning and late afternoon on warmer days since it is the coolest time of day.
- Be Weather Aware: Every responsible angler should check the weather before going fishing. Weather conditions along the coast change rapidly. This will help you to be prepared.
- Ask an Expert: Stop by one of our bait and tackle shops for an inside scoop on the best of fall fishing.
Types of Fishing Near IOP
- Deep-Sea Fishing
- Surf Fishing
- Fishing Charter
- Inshore Fishing
- Pier Fishing
- Kayak Fishing
Fishing Licenses and Regulations
- Saltwater Fishing License: In South Carolina, a Saltwater Fishing License is required for those 16 years old and older who harvest marine resources. This includes finfish, oysters, clams, shrimp, and crab. Exceptions would be if a person is fishing from a licensed public pier or a hired licensed charter boat (which supplies the fishing licenses on the client’s behalf). Please note that most fishing around IOP is in saltwater.
- Freshwater Fishing License: Anyone under 16 years old must have a freshwater fishing license when fishing in SC. This rule does not apply if you are fishing in a privately owned pond.
- Regulations: Anglers are responsible for knowing the regulations, size limits, and catch limits when harvesting saltwater and freshwater resources. Familiarize yourself with all the restrictions and limits before heading out for fishing fun.
Stay Near the Fall Fishing Action
East Islands Rentals offers a diverse selection of vacation rentals that will put you at the center of fall fishing on Isle of Palms. Host a fishing getaway for you and your friends, or plan a fall retreat for your family! Our vacation professionals are standing by to make your next trip to IOP a huge success. Browse our selection of rental homes today. From oceanfront villas to bayside bungalows, there is a rental that is perfect for you.