What We’ve Been Seeing on the Water

May has come and gone in the Lowcountry, and with it came some of the most exciting fishing of the year. Water temperatures have climbed into the lower 80s, baitfish are abundant throughout the marsh, and the ecosystem is fully alive. Mullet schools are becoming more common, shrimp are active, and the spartina grass is greening up across the estuaries.

Water clarity has generally remained good, though afternoon thunderstorms, strong winds, and large tidal swings can create changing conditions from day to day. Flexibility remains important, but the overall trend is clear—our fish are becoming more aggressive and far more willing to chase a fly.

Most Active Species

Redfish

Redfish continue to be the foundation of our fishery, and May offered a wide variety of opportunities.

Flood tides are becoming increasingly consistent, and tailing fish are now a regular part of the game. On lower tides, we’re finding fish cruising oyster edges, feeding along grass, and staging around creek mouths where bait is concentrated.

Cobia

May was prime time for cobia in the Beaufort area. As water temperatures continue to rise, more fish are showing up in the river. Sight fishing opportunities can develop quickly, and anglers who stay prepared often find themselves with shots at fish when conditions are right. Success often comes down to covering water, maintaining a good vantage point, and having the right fly ready when an opportunity presents itself. When a cobia appears, things happen fast.

Jacks

While still somewhat sporadic, the first jacks of the season are beginning to show up. These fish bring incredible power and aggression and provide some of the most exciting visual fly fishing opportunities of the year. Keep an eye out for nervous bait, surface disturbances, and birds working schools of baitfish.

Shop Tips – What’s Working

Flies

Redfish

  • Small to medium patterns remain productive on flood tides – Fuzzle Shrimp.
  • Large flies have been working well when the tide falls outside of the grass – Po Boy & Dirty Bird Crab

Cobia

  • Large baitfish patterns continue to dominate
  • Flashtail Whistlers, Deceivers, and EP-style flies are all excellent choices
  • Orange, white, chartreuse, and red remain staple colors
  • Don’t be afraid to throw large profiles and strip fast

Jacks

  • Large baitfish flies with plenty of movement and popper flies
  • White and chartreuse combinations
  • Durable patterns capable of handling multiple aggressive fish

Tarpon

  • Keep your 11 or 12 weight rigged and ready – don’t say you weren’t warned

Gear

  • Rods: An 8 wt remains the most versatile choice for redfish. Keep a 10, 11, or 12 wt ready for cobia, jacks, and tarpon.
  • Lines: Floating lines continue to cover the vast majority of our sight-fishing situations.
  • Leaders: 9 ft leaders tapering to 16-20 lb fluorocarbon for redfish; step up to 20lb with 40lb shock tippet for cobia.

Pro Tip

June will be all about adapting. You may spend the morning targeting tailing redfish deep in the grass and find yourself chasing cobia along the river by afternoon. Conditions can change quickly, and the anglers who stay organized tend to capitalize on those unexpected moments. Keep multiple rods rigged, maintain a variety of fly styles in your box, and stay alert. This is one of those months when nearly every trip has the potential to produce something memorable. The Lowcountry is firing on all cylinders right now, and the weeks ahead only get better. If you’ve been waiting for the right time to get on the water, this is it.