At the beginning of March, Charleston began to shed winter’s hold. The bite improved noticeably, then two weeks of storms and wind slowed things down again. Redfish are available, and trout can be found if you work the right lures. Temperatures should rebound in April, and with warmer water the fishing will too.
The big winter schools of redfish are breaking up as these fish become more active. Switch to artificial plastics that mimic baitfish—jerk-shad style lures are a great choice and come in many colors. I’ve had the best results with silver and blue patterns; they produce even when the water is stained. Rig them with a 3/0 flutter hook for optimal action.
The trout bite should ramp up in April as water temperatures warm. Live bait under a popping cork remains a top tactic. Live shrimp are now available and offer a solid alternative to mud minnows. If you can cast-net finger mullet, use them under a cork—finger mullet under a popping cork is deadly.
Flounder are on the feed. Target structure—docks, pilings, and other bottom contours—using mud minnows on the bottom or mud minnows under a popping cork. Keep your bait on or just above the bottom; flounder sit tight and ambush prey, so presentation in their strike zone is key.
See you on the water!
