What We’ve Been Seeing on the Water

As this report is being published, there is snow on the Lowcountry ground. Cold mornings, shorter days, and the occasional stiff north wind have pushed water temperatures into the low 50s to mid 40s. The marsh feels quieter now—but don’t let that fool you. The fish are still there; they’re just playing by winter rules.

Bait presence has thinned considerably. Shrimp are mostly gone, mullet are scarce, and what little forage remains is tightly balled up. Water clarity has been excellent on most days, especially on the low afternoon tides, giving us some of the best sight-fishing of the year if you can handle the cold fingers. On higher tides, fish are largely absent from the grass, but on the lows, the flats and oyster edges have been holding exactly what we’re looking for.

Most Active Species

Redfish:

January Redfish are all about winter schools. We’re seeing large, tightly packed groups pushed up on dark mud flats and along creek bends where the sun can warm the water just a degree or two. These fish are cooperative—but spooky. Clear water and cold temps mean slow movements, long casts, and a quiet approach are mandatory.

Presentation matters more than pattern right now. Subtle entries and slower retrieves have been the difference between getting a shot and watching a whole school slide off the flat.

Speckled Trout:

Trout are still in play, but they’ve shifted into deeper winter lies. Look for them in holes, creek mouths, and deeper shell or mud transitions. The bite window has been shorter, with the best action happening mid-day once the water has had time to warm.

Topwater season isn’t officially over, but subsurface is the primary game now.

Black Drum and Sheepshead:

Black Drum and Sheepshead can be pursued now but primarily with spin gear.

Migratory Species

Still on vacation. Check back in late spring.

Shop Tips – What’s Working

Flies:

Redfish:

  • Small to medium shrimp patterns have been the most consistent producers

  • Muted colors are key: tan, olive, brown

  • Top picks: Dirty Bird Crab has been THE fly.

Speckled Trout:

  • Baitfish with flash

  • Think slow sink, slow strip

Gear:

  • Rods: 8 or 9 wt

  • Lines: Floating lines still dominate, but intermediate can help for trout in deeper water

  • Leaders: 12 lb fluoro; longer leaders help in clear water

  • Extras: Hand warmers aren’t a luxury—they’re gear

Pro Tip

Really LEAD the lead fish…