Fishing In Mount Pleasant 101

Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, is a rare find for anglers. Nestled along the Lowcountry coast, this place has a vibe that’s as laid-back as it is full of action. Fishing here isn’t just about casting a line—it’s about soaking in the Southern charm, the sound of salt marshes in the breeze, and the thrill of a tug that tells you something big is on the other end. From redfish to tarpon, Mount Pleasant’s waters are as diverse as they are plentiful, making it a spot worth exploring every season of the year. Here’s your guide to making the most of your fishing adventure in Mount Pleasant, from the top species to the best spots, techniques, and what to expect as the seasons change.

The Top Species to Catch in Mount Pleasant

Mount Pleasant’s waters offer a solid mix of inshore, nearshore, and even some offshore species for those seeking variety. Here are the headliners you’ll want to chase:

• Redfish: Known for their powerful runs and year-round presence, redfish are the prize catch here. Look for them in the marshes and tidal flats.
• Spotted Seatrout: Popular in cooler months, these fish hit hard and make for great table fare.
• Flounder: An excellent catch in the summer and early fall, flounder are tricky but rewarding with their signature flat shape and white belly.
• Sheepshead: The “convict fish” with black-and-white stripes are a spring favorite, often found around dock pilings and structures.
• Tarpon: While not as common, tarpon make a grand entrance in the warmer months. They’re a challenge but well worth the pursuit.

Top Spots to Cast Your Line

Mount Pleasant is rich with fishing spots, whether you’re fishing from shore, boat, or kayak. Here are a few spots that locals and visitors alike swear by:

• Shem Creek: This spot is a favorite for good reason. Shem Creek’s tidal waters offer excellent access to redfish, flounder, and sheepshead. Plus, there’s nothing like the backdrop of shrimp boats and waterfront restaurants.
• Wando River: This river offers more secluded inshore fishing and is a solid choice for catching trout and redfish, especially in the back creeks.
• Bulls Bay: Known for its vast grass flats, Bulls Bay is a prime location for sight fishing for redfish, especially in the warmer months.
• Isle of Palms: A short drive from Mount Pleasant, Isle of Palms offers beachfront and pier fishing. It’s an ideal spot for catching a variety of inshore species, particularly in summer.
• Charleston Harbor: Just a few minutes from Mount Pleasant, the harbor offers access to deeper water for those looking to mix things up with nearshore species like king mackerel and, occasionally, cobia.

Techniques That Work

When it comes to fishing Mount Pleasant’s waters, a few techniques stand out based on the fish you’re after and the season.

• Sight Fishing: When the water clarity allows, sight fishing for redfish on the flats is one of the most rewarding techniques here. Polarized sunglasses are a must for spotting these stealthy fish.
• Live Baiting: Using live shrimp or mud minnows on a popping cork is a proven method, particularly effective for redfish, trout, and flounder.
• Fly Fishing: Mount Pleasant is a paradise for fly anglers, with plenty of open flats and marshes. Target redfish and trout with shrimp or baitfish patterns, especially in fall when fish are more active.
• Bottom Fishing: For species like flounder and sheepshead, a simple Carolina rig with cut bait or live shrimp works wonders.
• Topwater Lures: Summer mornings and evenings are prime time for using topwater plugs for trout and redfish. The thrill of seeing a fish break the surface is hard to beat.

Fishing Through the Four Seasons

Mount Pleasant’s fishing scene shifts with the seasons, and each brings its own set of opportunities.

Spring

Warming waters bring redfish, trout, and flounder out of their winter spots and into the shallows. Sheepshead spawn during this time, making them easier to target around structure. As the marshes and creeks come to life, spring fishing is all about energy and activity.

Summer

With high temperatures, early mornings and late evenings become prime times for fishing. Redfish and trout are active, while tarpon make their summer arrival, adding a thrill for those willing to chase them. Bulls Bay and the grass flats are ideal for sight fishing during these months.

Fall

Perhaps the best season for fishing in Mount Pleasant, fall brings cooler temperatures, and fish go on feeding frenzies. Redfish school up, making for memorable days on the water, and spotted seatrout are abundant. This is the time to try fly fishing or sight fishing for redfish in the clear, cool water.

Winter

Although temperatures drop, the action doesn’t stop. Redfish stay active and can be found in large schools on sunny days. Trout also remain a viable catch in deeper creeks and rivers. With fewer boats on the water, winter offers a peaceful, uncrowded experience for dedicated anglers.

Final Thoughts on Fishing in Mount Pleasant

Mount Pleasant is a place where fishing feels like more than just a hobby—it’s a connection to the Lowcountry’s soul. With its mix of species, variety of fishing spots, and a community that appreciates the simple pleasures of a day on the water, it’s the kind of place that keeps you coming back to South Carolina year after year. From sunrise casts to sunset reflections, each trip out in Mount Pleasant is a chance to experience the landscape, the culture, and the thrill of the catch in one of the South’s most iconic fishing destinations. So, grab your gear, plan your trip, and see what these waters have in store for you, season after season.