Charleston Braces for Thrilling Surf Fishing Season in “Red October”

Charleston: Get Ready for “Red October”!

As we move into the heart of September, the air is warmer, the days are a bit clearer, and if you’re a surf fishing enthusiast, you’re probably gearing up for what many call “Red October.” That’s right! This month is a special time for surf fishermen in Charleston, and it’s not just because the summer crowds have thinned out. The big bull redfish are already making their appearance, and it’s time to get your rods ready!

According to local angler Mike Able, now is a fantastic time to start casting lines along our beautiful beaches. “Pretty much everybody is thinking ‘Red October,’ catching big bull redfish in the surf,” he said. These fish usually start to come in as the weather begins to cool, and it looks like we’re entering that season right on schedule.

So, what should you know to snag one of these beauties? Able explains that the best fall surf fishing conditions often depend on the weather, particularly the storms. “When we have a clean level of storms, fall surf fishing tends to be really good,” he adds. As the temperature drops, those big redfish—often weighing in at 20 pounds or more—begin their migration. Many of them are breeding fish and can measure anywhere from 36 to 39 inches, with some stretching into the mid-40s!

Now, if you’re itching to catch one of these famous reds, keep in mind that finding them might require a bit of effort. “It helps to be a boat owner,” Able noted, as boats open up access to some well-known spots like Bulls Island, Capers Island, Dewees Island, and Morris Island all the way down to Edisto Beach. Don’t worry if you don’t have a boat, though. You can find great fishing at places like Fort Moultrie on Sullivan’s Island or the north end of Folly Beach, or by seeking out quieter areas up the coast from Edisto Beach.

Know Where the Fish Are

One insider tip from Able that every angler should keep in mind is to look for deeper water close to shore. Surprisingly, when you walk out about 100 yards from Sullivan’s Island or Isle of Palms, you might find yourself still in just six feet of water. But some areas near the barrier islands drop to around 12 feet just a tad offshore, which can be a prime spot for catching fish.

Gear Up for Success

When it comes to gear, you’ll want to use something that can handle these big boys. Able suggests using a 9 to 10-foot surf rod equipped with a quality reel, like the Shimano Baitrunner 8000 or the Penn Slammer 6500. Pair these with 50-pound braided line for the best shot at landing your fish. “Any reel in that size is going to be good,” he added, highlighting the importance of having a strong setup.

To help avoid gut-hooking those prized catches, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources recommends using a 3-way swivel setup with a short, 6-inch leader and a non-offset circle hook. Baits like mullet or menhaden are favorites among surf fishermen, and while you can buy frozen bait, nothing beats the satisfaction of catching your own!

As we all gear up for this exciting fishing season, remember to respect the local regulations, especially concerning size limits. Most big reds caught in the surf will exceed South Carolina’s 15-23 inch slot limit, so make sure to handle these fish carefully as they are likely to be released back into the ocean.

With a little preparation and an adventurous spirit, you could very well find yourself reeling in one of those big bull reds this fall! So grab your gear, head to the beach, and let’s make the most of “Red October” in Charleston!