Last Updated on December 3, 2024 by Eric Bonneman
The Lowcountry waterways around Pawleys Island transform this time of year. You’ll find quieter creeks, clearer water, and schools of fish moving in patterns dictated by the chill in the air and sea.
Pawleys Island fishing charters can feel extra special in the winter. The quiet marshes, the smell of salt air, and the chance to slow down and enjoy the beauty of the Lowcountry make this place one-of-a-kind. But the fishing itself? That’s the cherry on top. Doesn’t matter if you’re targeting redfish, speckled trout, or sheepshead, the variety and accessibility here in the colder months make it a great winter fishing spot.
That said, the cooler water makes the fish less aggressive, so you’ve got to adjust your technique. Soft, subtle movements and downsizing your tackle can make a big difference. For redfish and trout, small artificial baits that mimic shrimp or baitfish are excellent. Don’t forget to check the local fishing report—live bait like shrimp, mud minnows, and fiddler crabs can be especially effective for sheepshead and black drum.
What Fish Species You Catch in Pawleys Island, SC in Winter?
As you may already know, redfish are definitely the standouts of South Carolina inshore fishing in winter. On colder days, redfish move to deeper water pockets to stay comfortable. However, they also school up tightly on shallow flats, seeking the warmth of the sun, especially along East-facing banks.
Tip: Spotting these schools can feel like hitting a jackpot—once you do, work the edges of the school rather than casting straight into the heart of it. You’ll spook fewer fish, and they’re more likely to bite.
Speckled trout are another highlight. Unlike in other places where the bite might taper off in winter, the trout fishing here stays solid. These fish hold near structure—dock pilings, oyster beds, and drop-offs are all prime spots. A slow presentation with soft plastics or live shrimp under a popping cork is a reliable tactic.
Black drum and sheepshead are also around winter. (Sheepshead, in particular, can be a challenge, but they’re worth it.) They hang around rock piles, jetties, and bridges, feeding on fiddler crabs and barnacles. You’ll need patience and a light touch to hook these bait-stealers, but when you do, it’s a fight you won’t forget.
Tip: The tides play a huge role in winter fishing success. Low tide exposes the flats, making it easier to spot redfish schools, while the incoming tide pushes baitfish into areas where predators are waiting. Paying close attention to water movement and planning your trip around the tides is key.
Why Pawleys Island is Great for Fishing Charters—Even in Winter
Winter Redfish in Pawleys Island
Redfish, or Sciaenops ocellatus, are a fascinating and resilient species. In the unique ecosystem of Pawleys Island, reds adapt to the seasonal changes in water temperature and forage availability, making them particularly interesting to target in the winter. Here’s a closer look at why winter is such a great time for fishing Pawleys Island, along with some practical tips to maximize your chances of catching reds.
Why Redfish School Up in Winter
As water temperatures drop in winter—typically ranging from 50°F to 60°F along the South Carolina coast—redfish exhibit a schooling behavior for two main reasons: thermal regulation and predation avoidance. In the shallows, the sun warms mud flats and east-facing shorelines faster than other areas, creating comfortable spots for reds to gather. These schools can range in size from a few dozen fish to over a hundred.
Clear winter water improves visibility, making it easier for anglers to spot these schools. However, this clarity works both ways. Redfish are more skittish in winter, so a quiet approach and light tackle are essential. Stick to braided line in the 10-15 lb test range with fluorocarbon leaders for minimal visibility.
Feeding Behavior in Winter
Redfish slow down their metabolic rates in cooler water, so they feed less aggressively compared to warmer months. Their diet in winter consists primarily of small crustaceans like shrimp and fiddler crabs, as well as baitfish like mud minnows. Fishing with live or cut bait is often effective, but slow-moving artificial lures like soft plastics on jig heads can also entice a strike. Focus on mimicking their natural prey with your bait selection and retrieval speed.
Habitat Preferences
In winter, redfish stick to areas where food is plentiful, and water temperatures are stable. Key habitats include:
- Shallow Mud Flats: These areas warm quickly under sunlight, attracting redfish.
- Oyster Bars: Oyster beds are rich feeding grounds for crustaceans, drawing redfish to these spots during higher tides.
- Deeper Pockets: When temperatures plummet, redfish retreat to deeper channels and pockets where water temperatures remain more consistent.
Using a depth finder can help locate these deeper areas, and fishing just outside of these pockets often yields the best results.
Spawning/Growth
Most of the redfish you’ll encounter in winter are juveniles or sub-adults ranging from 15 to 30 inches. These fish are part of a year-round population in estuaries like Winyah Bay and Pawleys Creek. Older, larger redfish—sometimes called “bull reds”—tend to migrate offshore after their fall spawning season. However, catching slot-sized fish (15 to 23 inches in South Carolina, as per local regulations) is common and ideal for anglers seeking a mix of challenge and conservation-friendly catches.
Tools & Techniques for Winter Fishing Trips in South Carolina
- Best Baits: Live shrimp, mud minnows, and cut mullet are top choices. Artificial lures like DOA shrimp or Gulp soft plastics rigged on a 1/4 oz jig head are effective for sight fishing.
- Timing: Redfish are most active during midday when the sun has warmed the water. Plan your trip around a rising or high tide to increase your chances of success.
- Stealth: Use a push pole or trolling motor to minimize noise. Redfish are easily spooked in clear, shallow water.
Book Pawleys Island Fishing Trips – Come Fish with Us!
If you want to make the most of fishing South Carolina’s coastal waters in Winter, reach out to Carolina Guide Service. We’ve been navigating these waters for years—and know where to find the fish, even on tough days. Give us a call at 843-814-7900 or click here to book your fishing charter.
