Fly Fish Edisto, SC

At low tide, fish gather in staging areas, waiting for the next tidal surge to move them shallower. These fish can be found in deeper water and in the shallows leading to the spartina flats. During lower tides, they’re often seen feeding along creek edges or flats, typically in singles, groups, or larger schools. Observing their movements, like backing or tailing as they hunt for shrimp, crabs, and baitfish, is a unique thrill for fly anglers.

Fly anglers especially look forward to flood tides, which bring water to otherwise dry flats. Fish use the spartina grass flats to feed on fiddler crabs, a main food source during high tide. Here, fish can be found cruising, waking, and tailing, with redfish being the most popular gamefish in the Lowcountry.

Target Species in the Lowcountry

• Redfish: Iconic to the Lowcountry, redfish are available year-round and are among the most reliable fly fishing targets in Edisto. While seasoned anglers enjoy the precision required to feed flies to shallow-water redfish, beginners can also appreciate redfish’s eagerness to strike.

• Tarpon: In the warm months, mature tarpon migrate through Edisto’s waters, where they can be seen rolling, swimming, or “laying up” in rivers and basins. Watching these giants take a fly and leap out of the water is a true thrill.

• Cobia: Arriving each spring, cobia are found around Edisto’s nearshore wrecks, weed lines, and channels. Their surface strikes are unforgettable, making cobia a bucket-list fish for many anglers.

• Jack Crevalle: These powerful fighters are often seen around Edisto near the surface, churning the water as they chase baitfish. Jacks hunt in schools and have a reputation for aggressive strikes, giving fly anglers exciting opportunities to do battle with these incredible fish.

• Tripletail: A more elusive target, tripletail are often found around Edisto floating near debris or structures. Their unique appearance and ambush hunting style make them a fascinating change of pace for fly anglers of all abilities.

• Albies (False Albacore): Fly fishing for albies is a fast-paced experience, especially during "blitz" events when baitfish are driven to the surface by feeding albies below and diving birds above. Albies can be targeted in Edisto in the fall as the weather cools and the fall bait migration peaks.