Trout Fishing in South Carolina | An Angler’s Guide
Introduction
South Carolina is a hidden gem for fly fishing enthusiasts, offering diverse and picturesque locations for trout fishing. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, the Palmetto State provides a variety of rivers and lakes teeming with Rainbow, Brown, and Brook trout. Knowing the best spots and the right techniques is crucial for a successful fishing trip. This guide aims to help you discover the top seven trout fishing destinations in South Carolina, including well-known rivers like Eastatoee, Saluda, Chattooga, and Chauga, as well as hidden treasures like Lake Jocassee, Middle Saluda River, and Whitewater River.
We will cover the best times to fish, recommended flies, and tips for each location. By the end of this guide, you'll be well-equipped to plan your next fly fishing adventure in South Carolina, ensuring a rewarding and memorable experience.
Eastatoee River
Location and Accessibility
The Eastatoee River is a hidden gem located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, making it a prime spot for fly fishing enthusiasts. The river flows through the Eastatoee Valley, merging with the Keowee River. To access the Eastatoee River, head to Sunset, SC, and take Cleo Chapman Highway to Water Gauge Road, which leads directly to the Eastatoee Creek Heritage Preserve. The preserve has a parking area and a well-maintained trail that takes you to the river.
Best Times to Fish
The Eastatoee River offers excellent fishing year-round, but spring and fall are the best seasons due to ideal water temperatures. During these times, trout are more active and likely to feed. Early mornings provide the best opportunity, as the water is cool and trout are more aggressive. Late afternoons can also be productive, especially in shaded areas
Types of Trout Found
The Eastatoee River is home to Rainbow, Brown, and Brook trout. The upper reaches of the river, especially within the heritage preserve, are known for wild Brook trout, providing a more challenging fishing experience. The lower sections are populated with stocked Rainbow and Brown trout, offering plentiful opportunities for catches.
Recommended Flies
For the Eastatoee River, dry flies such as Adams and Elk Hair Caddis are effective in the spring and fall. Nymph patterns like Pheasant Tail and Hare's Ear work well throughout the year. During summer, terrestrial patterns like beetles and ants are successful. Using these flies will increase your chances of catching both stocked and wild trout.
Tips for Success
When fishing the Eastatoee River, approach the water quietly and maintain a low profile to avoid spooking the fish. Use a light tippet and long leader for the clear waters. Pay attention to local hatches and match your fly patterns accordingly. Always check local regulations and ensure you have the necessary permits. Practicing catch-and-release helps maintain the river’s wild trout population.
Saluda River
Location and Accessibility
The Saluda River, particularly the Lower Saluda, is a renowned fly fishing destination flowing from the Lake Murray Dam in Columbia, SC. The river is easily accessible from multiple points, with the most popular being Saluda Shoals Park. To reach Saluda Shoals Park, take I-26 to exit 104 (Piney Grove Road), then follow signs to the park. Ample parking and easy river access make it a convenient spot for anglers.
Best Times to Fish
For the Saluda River, the spring and fall months are prime times to fish, with cooler water temperatures encouraging trout activity. Early morning fishing is particularly effective, especially during the warmer months, as the water is cooler and trout are more active. Late afternoons can also yield good results, especially in areas with shade or deeper water.
Types of Trout Found
The Saluda River is home to both Rainbow and Brown trout. These trout are primarily stocked, with occasional reports of holdover fish that have adapted to the river's environment. While the presence of wild trout is rare, the stocked population provides ample opportunities for anglers.
Recommended Flies
The best flies for the Saluda River include streamers and dry flies. In the spring and fall, patterns like Blue Wing Olives, Caddis flies, and Stoneflies are highly effective. During the summer, terrestrial patterns such as hoppers, ants, and beetles can yield good results.
Tips for Success
On the Saluda River, monitor water release schedules from Lake Murray Dam as flow changes can affect fishing conditions. Using a sink-tip line or adding weight to your leader can help get your flies down to the deeper holes where larger trout reside. Fish during low light conditions for better results. Always check local regulations and obtain necessary permits. Catch-and-release practices help sustain the trout population.
Chattooga River
Location and Accessibility
A designated Wild and Scenic River, the Chattooga offers some of the best fly fishing in the Southeast. It forms the border between South Carolina and Georgia, flowing through the Sumter and Chattahoochee National Forests. Access points are plentiful, with Burrells Ford being one of the most popular. To get there, take Highway 107 from Walhalla, SC, and follow signs to Burrells Ford Road, which leads to a well-marked parking area and a short hike to the river.
Best Times to Fish
The Chattooga River is best fished in the spring and fall when water temperatures are moderate, making trout more active. Early mornings and late afternoons are the optimal times of day to fish, with trout feeding more aggressively during these cooler periods. Summer can also be productive, especially in shaded or higher elevation sections where the water remains cooler.
Types of Trout Found
The Chattooga River is home to Rainbow, Brown and Brook trout, with both stocked and wild populations. Wild trout are more common in the upper reaches of the river, providing a challenging and rewarding experience for anglers.
Recommended Flies
Effective flies for the Chattooga River include dry flies like March Browns and Blue Wing Olives in spring and fall. Nymphs such as Prince Nymphs and Stoneflies work well throughout the year. In summer, try terrestrial patterns like grasshoppers and beetles. These flies are suitable for both stocked and wild trout found in the river.
Tips for Success
For the Chattooga River, use stealth when approaching fishing spots and wade carefully to avoid disturbing the water. A long leader and fine tippet are beneficial in the clear waters. Focus on fishing near structure and deeper pools where trout are likely to be hiding. Always adhere to local regulations and have the appropriate permits. Practicing catch-and-release is crucial, especially for wild trout.
Chauga River
Location and Accessibility
The Chauga River, a lesser-known but excellent fly fishing destination, flows through the Sumter National Forest in Oconee County, South Carolina. The river is accessible from various points, with Cassidy Bridge being a popular access spot. To get there, take Highway 76 west from Westminster, SC, and turn onto Whetstone Road, which leads to Cassidy Bridge Road. Ample parking and clear trails provide easy access to the river.
Best Times to Fish
Fly fishing on the Chauga River is most productive during spring and fall, when the water temperatures are perfect for trout activity. Early mornings are particularly effective, as the cool, quiet conditions make trout more likely to feed. Late afternoons can also be successful, especially in areas with good cover and structure.
Types of Trout Found
The Chauga River is home to both Rainbow, Brown and Brook trout. While primarily hatchery-supported, there is a presence of wild trout, particularly in the upper reaches of the river, providing a more challenging and authentic fishing experience.
Recommended Flies
For the Chauga River, dry flies like Parachute Adams and Elk Hair Caddis are effective during spring and fall. Nymphs such as Copper Johns and Zebra Midges are productive year-round. During summer, terrestrial patterns like ants and beetles can be very successful. These patterns target both stocked and wild Rainbow and Brown trout.
Tips for Success
On the Chauga River, fish during early mornings and late afternoons when trout are most active. Approach the river quietly and use a light tippet to avoid spooking the fish. Pay attention to insect hatches and adjust your fly selection accordingly. Make sure to follow local fishing regulations and obtain the necessary permits. Practicing catch-and-release helps maintain the river’s ecosystem and trout population.
Lake Jocassee
Location and Accessibility
Lake Jocassee, located in the northwest corner of South Carolina, is a pristine reservoir known for its deep, clear waters and excellent trout fishing. The lake is situated within Devils Fork State Park, offering easy access for anglers. To get there, take Highway 11 to Jocassee Lake Road, which leads directly to the state park. The park provides ample parking, boat ramps, and shore access points for fishing.
Best Times to Fish
Lake Jocassee offers good trout fishing throughout the year, but the best times are in spring and fall when the water temperatures are optimal. Early mornings are ideal for targeting trout near the surface or in shallow areas. As the day progresses and temperatures rise, trout tend to move to deeper waters, making late afternoon fishing productive with sinking lines.
Types of Trout Found
Lake Jocassee is primarily known for its Rainbow Trout, which are stocked regularly to maintain the population. There is a mix of stocked and holdover trout, with the latter providing a more challenging and rewarding fishing experience. While wild trout are rare, the lake's environment supports healthy and vigorous fish.
Recommended Flies
At Lake Jocassee, streamers such as Woolly Buggers and Muddler Minnows are highly effective, particularly in deeper waters. Wet flies like Zug Bugs and Hare's Ear Nymphs are also recommended. In summer, sinking lines with nymphs can help reach trout in deeper areas. These patterns are ideal for targeting stocked and holdover Rainbow trout.
Tips for Success
At Lake Jocassee, using a boat or kayak can increase your reach and access to productive fishing spots. Focus on fishing near tributary mouths and deep channels where trout are often found. Use sinking lines to get your flies down to the deeper waters. Always check local regulations and ensure you have the required permits. Practicing catch-and-release, especially for holdover trout, helps preserve the lake’s fish population.
Middle Saluda River
Location and Accessibility
The Middle Saluda River, located in Jones Gap State Park within the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area, is a prime fly fishing destination in South Carolina. This river is renowned for its natural beauty and clear, cold waters. To access the Middle Saluda River, take Highway 276 to River Falls Road, which leads directly to Jones Gap State Park. The park provides parking and well-marked trails that offer easy access to various points along the river.
Best Times to Fish
The Middle Saluda River is best fished during the spring and fall, with water temperatures that encourage trout to be more active. Early mornings and late afternoons are the most productive times, with trout feeding heavily in the cooler parts of the day. Winter fishing can also be effective, especially on warmer days when trout are more likely to be near the surface.
Types of Trout Found
The Middle Saluda River is home to Rainbow and Brown trout. Both stocked and wild populations can be found here, with wild trout being more prevalent in the upper reaches of the river, providing a more challenging and rewarding experience for anglers.
Recommended Flies
Effective flies for the Middle Saluda River include dry flies like Blue Wing Olives and Elk Hair Caddis in spring and fall. Nymphs such as Pheasant Tail and Hare's Ear are productive year-round. In summer, terrestrial patterns like ants, beetles, and hoppers are successful. These flies work well for both stocked and wild trout in the river.
Tips for Success
When fishing the Middle Saluda River, approach the water with stealth and use a long leader and light tippet to avoid spooking the fish. Focus on fishing during early mornings and late afternoons for the best results. Pay attention to local insect hatches and match your fly patterns accordingly. Adhere to local fishing regulations and obtain the necessary permits. Practicing catch-and-release helps sustain the river’s wild trout population.
Whitewater River
Location and Accessibility
The Whitewater River, located in the Jocassee Gorges area of South Carolina, is a scenic and productive trout fishing destination. This river flows through dense forests and rugged terrain, providing a serene and challenging environment for fly fishing. To access the Whitewater River, take Highway 130 to the Whitewater Falls Road, which leads to a parking area near Whitewater Falls. From there, hiking trails offer access to various points along the river.
Best Times to Fish
The Whitewater River is at its best in spring and fall, when water temperatures are most suitable for trout activity. Early mornings and late afternoons are the prime times to fish, as trout are more active and feeding during these cooler periods. Summer can also offer good fishing, particularly in shaded sections or areas with higher elevation where the water stays cooler.
Types of Trout Found
The Whitewater River is home to both Rainbow and Brown trout. The river supports a combination of stocked and wild trout, with wild trout more commonly found in the remote upper sections. This variety allows anglers to experience both stocked fish in easily accessible areas and the challenge of pursuing wild trout in more rugged, secluded spots.
Recommended Flies
For the Whitewater River, streamers like Woolly Buggers and Sculpin patterns are effective, especially in deeper pools. Nymphs such as Prince Nymphs and Hare's Ear work well throughout the year. During summer, try terrestrial patterns like ants, beetles, and grasshoppers. These patterns target both stocked and wild Rainbow and Brown trout in the river.
Tips for Success
For the Whitewater River, use a stealthy approach and wade carefully to avoid disturbing the water. Target deeper pools and areas near structure where trout are likely to be hiding. Use streamers and nymphs to reach trout in deeper sections. Always check local regulations and ensure you have the required permits. Practicing catch-and-release is essential to maintaining the river’s wild and stocked trout populations.
That's a Wrap
In this guide, we've explored some of the best fly fishing destinations for trout in South Carolina, including the Eastatoee, Saluda, Chattooga, Chauga, and Whitewater Rivers, as well as Lake Jocassee and the Middle Saluda River. Each location offers unique opportunities to catch Rainbow, Brown, and Brook trout, with a mix of stocked and wild populations. We've highlighted the best times to fish, recommended flies and bait, and shared tips for success.
I encourage you to explore these beautiful locations and experience the thrill of fly fishing in South Carolina's diverse waters. Remember to approach the water quietly, use appropriate gear, and always check local regulations. Practicing catch-and-release helps preserve our precious trout populations. With the right knowledge and preparation, you're sure to have a rewarding and memorable trout fly fishing adventure in South Carolina.
