Last Updated on December 8, 2025 by Eric Bonneman
December brings a noticeable shift to the South Carolina coast. The heat fades, the water clears, and the marsh settles into a calmer, more predictable rhythm. Cold fronts start shaping how fish move, yet water temperatures remain warm enough that the bite stays steady. For Carolina Guide Service, this is the month when winter patterns begin to click and the fishing becomes both consistent and rewarding.
Why December Works
December sits between fall and deep winter, which creates a sweet spot. Inshore species begin to school more tightly, but they still feed with energy. Redfish gather on the flats and in the creeks, often in enough light to be spotted well before the boat approaches. Trout concentrate along deeper creek bends and edges, and sheepshead and black drum settle onto the docks, pilings, and nearshore structure where they will hold through early spring.
Cool mornings give way to mild afternoons. Cold fronts bring crisp air and improved water clarity, especially in places like Winyah Bay, Pawleys Island, and Bulls Bay. Many charters begin mid morning or later, taking advantage of sunlight warming the shallows. The combination of lighter boat traffic and reliable fish behavior makes December one of the most enjoyable months to fish the region.
Redfish
Redfish define December. Schools become easier to find and easier to approach, especially on calm days with clear water. Light tackle anglers lean on soft plastics and natural presentations. Fly anglers use simple shrimp and baitfish patterns on eight or nine weight rods. The approach is quiet and deliberate, with long angles and slow retrieves that give fish time to track the fly or lure. When the water is clear, entire schools can glow bronze against the bottom.
Speckled Trout
December trout hold the middle of most winter days. Early in the month, you may still find them spread along shell points and shallow edges. As temperatures dip, they slide into deeper bends and soft current seams where slow working soft plastics and suspending plugs excel. Trout tend to feed in bursts this time of year, so when you find one, there are often more in the same spot.
Sheepshead and Black Drum
December marks the beginning of the dependable winter structure bite. Sheepshead cling tight to pilings, docks, rock piles, and nearshore reefs. Black drum often mix with them or hold in deeper pockets of the creeks. Vertical presentations with shrimp or fiddler crabs are the standard. Sheepshead are notorious for light, sneaky bites, which adds a fun challenge. Drum usually provide steady, simple action that suits anglers of any experience level.
Where December Trips Happen
The geography of this fishery plays in your favor. Georgetown and Winyah Bay offer broad flats, deep channels, and some of the clearest water of the season. Pawleys Island and Murrells Inlet provide intimate creeks and consistent trout and redfish patterns. Bulls Bay and the Cape Romain refuge stretch out for miles, giving redfish schools plenty of room to roam. On calm days, short nearshore runs open the door for winter sheepshead and drum on structure just outside the inlet.
Inshore and Nearshore Options
Most December trips focus on protected inshore water because it delivers consistent action and comfortable conditions. Nearshore fishing remains available whenever the wind and sea state allow. These short reef and jetty hops can be paired with inshore time to round out a full winter mixed bag. Your captain will shape the day around weather, tide, and what has been biting best during the days leading up to your trip.
What to Bring
Wear layers that can handle cool starts and mild finishes, including a wind blocking outer shell, warm hat, gloves, polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, and soft soled shoes. Bring drinks and snacks to your preference. The captain provides all rods, reels, tackle, bait, flies, licenses, ice, and fish cleaning. If you might fish outside the inlet and you know motion affects you, prepare beforehand.
- Layered clothing with a wind blocking outer shell, warm hat, and light gloves
- Polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, and soft soled non marking shoes
- Personal drinks and snacks
December Fishing for Every Style of Angler
Families appreciate the slowed down pace and clear water that makes it easy to see what is going on. Light tackle anglers enjoy technical shots at redfish schools and methodical trout presentations. Fly anglers get a strong stretch of sight fishing thanks to lower sun angles and clean water. December offers a relaxing, focused experience no matter how you prefer to fish.
Common December Questions
- Is December productive
Yes. It is one of the most reliable months for redfish, trout, sheepshead, and drum. Fish are grouped up and boat pressure is low. - Is it too cold to enjoy
Not usually. Mornings can be crisp, but sunshine warms things quickly and the captain will schedule around the most comfortable window. - When is the best time of day
Many December trips begin in late morning to use warming shallows and a favorable tide. Conditions drive the final call. - Can I keep fish
Yes, within regulations. Carolina Guide Service follows a conservation minded approach and will clean your catch at the dock.
Plan Your December Charter
December delivers clear water, schooling fish, and a peaceful atmosphere across the marshes and bays of coastal South Carolina. It is a strong lead in to the heart of winter fishing and a great month for both beginners and seasoned anglers. To match a date to the best tides and conditions, contact Carolina Guide Service through the booking page or call 843 814 7900. The team will pair your group with the right captain, the right boat, and a plan built around what early winter does best.