I Don’t Fish, But I Have a Fishing Story Anyway. Doesn’t Everyone? Plus a List of the Best Fishing Spots in the Lowcountry

I don’t fish, but it’s not because I don’t want to. I’ve just never done more than hold a little red plastic thingamajig shaped like a fish that had a line on it that you drop straight down into the water and hover over, hoping to land the Big One.1 I was five years old, staying overnight at a military recreation campgrounds with my family, all ten of us crammed into a small trailer. My mom gave us cool, sugary cereal in miniature boxes that we cut open and poured milk into for breakfast.

But I digress.

Since that halcyon vacation, no one has ever put a fishing apparatus in my hand again, and I’ve never asked why not. It’s actually pretty weird considering I grew up on the banks of Bohicket Creek, where an abundance of fish lives. All these years they might have been waiting for me to come back and visit.

I suspect I never developed a strong yen to fish again because any time the word fish popped up in conversation (which was rare) my mother worked in how seasick she got on a fishing charter. And to be honest, I’ve never gone up to a fishing boat captain and asked if I could join them for a day on the water—though the chances of that happening seem slim. Maybe it’s like a dating app situation. I should sign up for something like FUMBLE—a mix of ‘fish’ and ‘Bumble’—to find my happily ever after with fishing.

This post really is about finding good fishing spots, I promise. Whether you’re an avid angler or just looking to cast a line for fun, the Lowcountry offers some of the best fishing spots in the South. With its winding rivers, salt marshes, and coastal waters, Charleston and its surrounding areas provide diverse and plentiful opportunities to reel in everything from shrimp to redfish. So grab your rod and check out these top spots for fishing in the Lowcountry.

1. Charleston Harbor

For those who want to experience the beauty of the Lowcountry’s waters while fishing, Charleston Harbor is the ultimate destination. With easy access to both saltwater and freshwater fishing, this area is perfect for anglers of all levels. Whether you’re fishing from a boat or trying your luck from one of the many piers along the harbor, there’s always something to catch.

What to Catch: Redfish, speckled trout, sheepshead, black drum, and flounder.

Best Time to Fish: Spring through fall, especially during the tide changes.

Fishing Tip: Cast along the jetties or drop a line near the mouth of the harbor for great results.

2. Folly Beach

Folly Beach is not only a popular spot for sunbathers but also a haven for fishermen. The beach and surrounding waters are ideal for surf fishing, and the nearby Folly River offers plenty of opportunities for those preferring to fish from a boat. The Folly Beach Pier is a great spot for those who want to fish without a boat, offering sweeping views and excellent fishing right off the pier.

What to Catch: Pompano, redfish, black drum, and whiting.

Best Time to Fish: Early morning or late evening when the tides are low.

Fishing Tip: Bring along some fresh bait, like shrimp or sand fleas, for the best results.

3. Isle of Palms

The shores of Isle of Palms are home to plenty of great fishing opportunities. Whether you’re fishing off the beach, the island’s many docks, or from a boat, Isle of Palms provides an ideal mix of saltwater and inshore fishing options. The island is known for its fishing piers, and the waters around it are rich with fish.

What to Catch: Speckled trout, redfish, black drum, and flounder.

Best Time to Fish: Fall and spring are the prime seasons, especially early mornings or at dusk.

Fishing Tip: Fish along the sandbars and drop-offs for the best chance at catching bigger fish.

4. Edisto Island

If you’re looking for a quieter, more secluded fishing experience, Edisto Island is perfect. Known for its pristine beaches and calm, rich waters, Edisto provides fantastic fishing, especially along the creeks and saltwater marshes. There are plenty of charters available for offshore fishing as well, so there’s something for everyone.

What to Catch: Redfish, sheepshead, flounder, and shark.

Best Time to Fish: Fall, especially around the full moon for higher tides.

Fishing Tip: Fish the shallow waters around the island’s creek mouths and estuaries for the best results.

5. Sullivan’s Island

Sullivan’s Island is a great spot for a more laid-back fishing experience. Whether you’re casting from the shore or taking a boat out, this area offers calm waters that are perfect for targeting a variety of fish species. You’ll find a mix of beach and marsh fishing, with lots of spots to explore.

What to Catch: Redfish, black drum, flounder, and croaker.

Best Time to Fish: Year-round, with the best action in late spring and early fall.

Fishing Tip: Fish along the shallows, particularly around the docks and piers, where fish congregate near the structure.

6. Wadmalaw Island

Wadmalaw Island is home to some of the best saltwater and brackish water fishing spots in the area. This less touristy island offers access to a wide variety of fish species, and it’s a favorite for anglers seeking a more peaceful, off-the-beaten-path location. The Wadmalaw Sound is known for its abundant fish population, making it ideal for boat fishing.

What to Catch: Trout, redfish, black drum, and sheepshead.

Best Time to Fish: Fall and spring, especially early in the morning or late in the day.

Fishing Tip: Try fishing around the creek mouths and oyster beds for the best chances at catching large fish.