About Your Guide

Brad Padgett

Independent Guide
Chase trophy catfish on South Carolina’s legendary Santee Cooper Lakes with Captain Brad at the helm. With over 30 years of experience fishing Lake Marion and Lake Moultrie, Captain Brad brings deep local knowledge and a lifelong passion for putting anglers on fish.

Whether you're after Blue, Channel, or Flathead Catfish, Captain Brad knows where they live and how they bite. From half-day to full-day trips, he tailors each outing to your goals, skill level, and the day's conditions.

Fully licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard and certified in CPR and First Aid, Captain Brad runs a safe, professional operation—perfect for families, beginners, and serious anglers alike.

The Santee Cooper system has produced some of the biggest freshwater fish in the country, including record-breaking catfish. Come find out why—and make some fishing memories of your own.

About Your Guide

Brad Padgett

Independent Guide
Chase trophy catfish on South Carolina’s legendary Santee Cooper Lakes with Captain Brad at the helm. With over 30 years of experience fishing Lake Marion and Lake Moultrie, Captain Brad brings deep local knowledge and a lifelong passion for putting anglers on fish.

Whether you're after Blue, Channel, or Flathead Catfish, Captain Brad knows where they live and how they bite. From half-day to full-day trips, he tailors each outing to your goals, skill level, and the day's conditions.

Fully licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard and certified in CPR and First Aid, Captain Brad runs a safe, professional operation—perfect for families, beginners, and serious anglers alike.

The Santee Cooper system has produced some of the biggest freshwater fish in the country, including record-breaking catfish. Come find out why—and make some fishing memories of your own.
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Lake Marion Catfishing

NEW 1 - 6 People 4 Hours From $400
4-8 Hours Trip
4-8 Hours Trip
4-8 Hours Trip
4-8 Hours Trip
4-8 Hours Trip
4-8 Hours Trip
4-8 Hours Trip
4-8 Hours Trip
4-8 Hours Trip
4-8 Hours Trip
4-8 Hours Trip
4-8 Hours Trip
4-8 Hours Trip
4-8 Hours Trip
4-8 Hours Trip
4-8 Hours Trip
4-8 Hours Trip

About Your Trip

Water Type

Lake

Skill Levels

Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

Weather

You won’t lose your deposit if the trip is canceled due to weather

Head out for an unforgettable day of Catfishing on Lake Marion with Captain Brad! As South Carolina’s largest lake and part of the legendary Santee Cooper system, Lake Marion is home to some of the best Catfish action in the country. With Captain Brad at the helm—a local expert who’s been fishing these waters his entire life—you’re in for a trip that’s equal parts exciting and rewarding.

You'll be fishing from Captain Brad’s 25’ Crest...

About Your Trip

Head out for an unforgettable day of Catfishing on Lake Marion with Captain Brad! As South Carolina’s largest lake and part of the legendary Santee Cooper system, Lake Marion is home to some of the best Catfish action in the country. With Captain Brad at the helm—a local expert who’s been fishing these waters his entire life—you’re in for a trip that’s equal parts exciting and rewarding.

You'll be fishing from Captain Brad’s 25’ Crest
pontoon, a spacious and comfortable boat that accommodates up to six guests. Whether you're bringing the family or a group of friends, there's plenty of room for everyone to fish at the same time. Powered by a reliable 150 HP Suzuki engine, this vessel is built for smooth cruising across the lake, getting you to the best fishing spots in just 10–30 minutes. Plus, it’s fully equipped with all the necessary navigational and safety gear, so you can focus on reeling in your next big catch.

Catfish are the name of the game here, and Captain Brad has mastered the art of catching them using both drift fishing and bottom fishing techniques. Whether you opt for a half-day or full-day adventure, he’ll take you to proven honey holes where you can battle hefty Blue, Flathead, and Channel Catfish. If you’re up for something special, don’t miss out on his night fishing trips during the summer—a unique way to chase Catfish under the stars while escaping the heat of the day.

All the fishing gear and fresh bait are provided, and Captain Brad even supplies a cooler to store your catch while you're out on the water. If you plan to take your fish home, be sure to bring a cooler and leave it in your vehicle for transport. Catch cleaning is available for an additional fee, so you can head home with fresh fillets, ready for the fryer.

A South Carolina fishing license is required for all anglers and can be easily purchased online through SCDNR or at a local Walmart before your trip. Just bring your snacks, drinks, weather-appropriate clothing, and get ready for an epic day on Lake Marion!

Captain Brad is passionate about putting you on fish and making sure you have a blast while doing it. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a first-timer, you’re in great hands—so book your trip today
Amenities

Water Type

Lake

Skill Levels

Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

Tackle

All rods, reels, and tackle are included.

Fish Cleaning

This guide will clean your catch for an additional fee.

Boat Restroom

This boat has a restroom.

Weather

You won’t lose your deposit if the trip is canceled due to weather

Kid Friendly

This trip can cater to small children.

Flexible Cancelation

This trip can be canceled up to 14 days before the trip.

Beer

No beer allowed.

Live Bait

Live bait is not used on this trip.

Disability Friendly

This trip is not suited for those with disabilities.

Lunch

Please provide your own food / snacks.

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About Your Boat

Boat photo for Lake Marion Catfishing
Boat Type
Pontoon
Boat Manufacturer
Crest
Year Built
2005
Boat Length
25'

About Your Boat

Boat Type
Pontoon
Boat Manufacturer
Crest
Year Built
2005
Boat Length
25'
Boat Restroom
Yes
Engine Manufacturer
Suzuki
Total Horsepower
150
Number of Engines
1
Additional Amenities
GPS, Fishfinder
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Potential Target Species

Color-coded seasonality below is based on .
View Full Species Seasonality Chart »
  • Get it while it's HOT!
  • This species is in play.
  • You might get lucky (as long as things are in-season).
  • Couldn't tell ya! (no data)

Techniques

Artificial Lure Fishing
Bottom Fishing
Drift Fishing

Type of Fishing

Lake

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Lake Marion Catfishing
February 4th, 2025
Summerton, South Carolina
Lake Marion Catfishing
February 4th, 2025
Summerton, South Carolina
Lake Marion Catfishing
February 4th, 2025
Summerton, South Carolina
Lake Marion Catfishing
February 4th, 2025
Summerton, South Carolina
Lake Marion Catfishing
February 4th, 2025
Summerton, South Carolina
Lake Marion Catfishing
February 4th, 2025
Summerton, South Carolina
Lake Marion Catfishing
February 4th, 2025
Summerton, South Carolina
Lake Marion Catfishing
February 4th, 2025
Summerton, South Carolina
Lake Marion Catfishing
February 4th, 2025
Summerton, South Carolina
Lake Marion Catfishing
February 4th, 2025
Summerton, South Carolina
Lake Marion Catfishing
February 4th, 2025
Summerton, South Carolina
Lake Marion Catfishing
February 4th, 2025
Summerton, South Carolina
Lake Marion Catfishing
February 4th, 2025
Summerton, South Carolina
Lake Marion Catfishing
February 4th, 2025
Summerton, South Carolina
Lake Marion Catfishing
February 4th, 2025
Summerton, South Carolina
Lake Marion Catfishing
February 4th, 2025
Summerton, South Carolina
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