What We’ve Been Seeing on the Water

November has delivered that sweet spot between summer heat and true fall cool-down. Crisp mornings, mild afternoons, and steady northeast breezes have dropped water temps into the mid to low 60s—perfect for redfish and trout activity. The marsh is alive with movement: shrimp are still thick, mullet are thinning out, and the flats are full of life.

Clarity has improved (mostly), giving us excellent sight-fishing conditions on the low tides. On the higher tides, we were still seeing some tailers in the grass, though they’re now few and far between.

Most Active Species

Redfish:
November redfish have been a sight-fisher’s dream. As the water cools, the fish are grouping up, pushing tight on the mud flats and showing their copper backs in just inches of water. On the lows, stealth is everything—fish will be adjusting to the clear water – just like us anglers – so keep your casts accurate.

By the end of December, expect to start seeing larger schools forming on the flats as they prepare for winter patterns.

Speckled Trout:
Trout action has picked up significantly. The early morning topwater bite has been consistent around creek mouths and shell points. As the sun rises, switching to flashy baitfish has been productive.

Migratory Species

Tarpon:
See ya next year…

Shop Tips – What’s Working

Flies:

  • Redfish: Low tides – Darker large profile flies have been doing well – Dirty Bird Crab has been the top producer with the Drum Beater (Olive/Pink or Tan/Orange) not far behind. We did see a two week stretch where white seemed to be the color of choice, regardless of the tidal stage. This is a reminder to keep a variety of flies stocked in your kit.

  • Trout: Flashy baitfish imitations.

Gear:

  • Redfish & Trout: 8 or 9 wt with a floating line; keep that 16 lb fluoro leader handy.

Pro Tip:
Don’t overlook the midday low tides. As water temps cool, fish stay active longer, and that mid-day sun helps spot fish in skinny water. Vary your stripping presentations—the fish are feeding, but bait is plentiful!

Looking Ahead – December Fly Fishing Forecast

As we move into December, expect water temps to dip into the low 50s, concentrating redfish into larger winter schools. Sight-fishing becomes even better with the crystal-clear winter tides, but approach quietly—these fish will spook at the sound of a push pole tap.

Speckled trout remain a solid option through mid-December, especially on moving tides.

And don’t forget: cooler air means more comfortable days on the water, but early mornings can be chilly. Layer up and enjoy those glassy fall conditions.

Fly Shop December Prep List

  • Stock up on smaller shrimp and crab patterns for clearer water. Think transitional patterns but not as subtle as late winter selections.

  • Check your backing and leader connections—redfish are feeling frisky with the cooler weather.

  • Swing by the shop for our new cold-weather fly line selection. It may not be the time to make the switch, but it should be by the time the next fishing report comes out.

  • Keep a thermos of coffee in the skiff—it’s officially that time of year.

Final Word from the Shop

November in the Lowcountry is a gift. The pace slows, the marsh breathes, and every day feels fishable. Whether you were chasing reds in ankle-deep mud, watching trout smash topwater in the creeks, or catching your last tripletail of the year, this was a month for savoring every cast.

We’re here to help you make the most of it—stop by Bay Street Outfitters for local insight, fresh flies, or just a story from the most recent tide.