What We’ve Been Seeing on the Water
August felt like two completely different fisheries here in the Lowcountry.
The month started with a welcome change from the heat. A cool front moved through, bringing with it some much-needed rain and, more importantly, a dramatic drop in water temperatures. In some areas, we watched water temperatures fall by nearly 10 degrees almost overnight.
The fish responded immediately.
For a short stretch, we experienced some of the best August tailing we’ve seen in years. Redfish were happy, aggressive, and willing to get well up into the grass on the flood tides. With cooler water and plenty of food available, the fish seemed far more comfortable than they typically do during the heat of August. It made for some truly memorable sight-fishing days.
Then August decided to remind us that it is, in fact, August.
The second half of the month brought record-setting heat and a return to more typical summer conditions. As water temperatures climbed back up, the fish settled into their familiar summer routine. Early mornings and late evenings became the best windows to be on the water, with the heat of the day generally being the toughest time to find actively feeding fish.
Most Active Species
Tailing Redfish
If there was one takeaway from August, it was just how much water temperature can change the behavior of these fish.
When the water temperature dropped this month, the redfish immediately seemed more comfortable getting onto the flats and feeding aggressively.
When the heat returned, the fish became much more predictable—early and late, with the best opportunities centered around the appropriate tide.
For anglers coming down in September, keep an eye on both the tide and the thermometer. A little weather change can make a big difference on the flats.
Shop Tips – What’s Working
Flies:
- Redfish: Crab and shrimp patterns (Fuzzle Shrimp can imitate both) remain the go-to choices for flood tide fish but let’s not forget these fish sometimes look up – sometimes for grasshoppers.
- Low Tide: Large profile flies like Redfish Goons and Po Boys have been doing well.
Gear:
- Redfish: 8–9 wt rods with floating lines remain the standard for sight-fishing the flats.
- Leaders: 9′ 20# fluorocarbon leaders get the job done this time of year.
Looking Ahead – September Fly Fishing (and hunting) Forecast
September is one of our favorite transition months in the Lowcountry.
The days are still warm, but even small changes in air temperature can begin to have a noticeable effect on the water. As we move toward fall, bait continues to build in the creeks and rivers, while redfish remain the primary target for sight-fishermen.
We’ll be watching for more consistent cooler weather which should continue to make the fish more comfortable and expand our opportunities throughout the day.
The flood tides will remain a major focus, but September can also offer some excellent low-tide sight-fishing as fish begin transitioning toward their fall patterns.
We also see Marsh Hen season open back up in South Carolina. The September floods will provide some extra excitement with the ‘Cast & Blast’ addition.
Final Word from the Shop
August taught us that successful anglers are always ready to adapt. Changing conditions can alter the fishery in an instant, and the ability to adjust your approach is often the key to a great day on the water.
For the fly angler, those changes are part of the fun. When the conditions line up, the redfish can be incredibly happy and when the heat returns, adjusting your timing and tactics can make all the difference.
September should bring more of those transition days, and we’re looking forward to seeing what the next change in weather brings.
Need help figuring out which tides to fish, what flies to bring, or how to rig for the current conditions? Stop by Bay Street Outfitters and we’ll get you dialed in.
