Last Updated on January 20, 2023 by Capt. R.C.

Pawleys Island, located in the beautiful state of South Carolina, is a premier destination for anglers looking to catch redfish and seatrout during winter. Pawleys Island offers an unparalleled winter fishing experience with its mild temperatures and diverse fishing opportunities.

Why Pawleys Island is the Place to be

Pawleys Island is a picturesque coastal town that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and southern charm. Its low-country scenery and abundance of fishing opportunities make it the perfect destination for a winter fishing trip. The town has a rich history and culture and is a great place to unwind and relax after a day on the water. Additionally, Pawleys Island offers plenty of options for accommodation and dining, making it an excellent destination for a fishing getaway.

a picture of Catching Winter Seatrout & Redfish off Pawley’s Island with Harvest Moon Fishing Charters

Locating Redfish

Redfish are the primary target during the winter season in Pawleys Island. These fish tend to school up on the shallow water flats and can be found in east-facing, sunny banks during the early and mid-parts of the day. They are looking for warmer water to help them survive the cold winter temperatures. Redfish can also be found in deeper pockets of water when water temperatures drop sharply, looking for comfortable temperature zones.

The key to catching redfish during the winter is to work the edges of the schools. Don’t dive-bomb your bait right into the middle, as this can disperse the school. Instead, try casting along the edges and retrieve slowly. Live bait, such as mud minnows, finger mullets, or shrimp, are practical options for catching redfish. Lures such as soft plastic jigs and topwater plugs can also be effective.

a picture of Catching Winter Seatrout & Redfish off Pawley’s Island with Harvest Moon Fishing Charters

Catching Seatrout

Speckled seatrout is another active species during the winter in Pawleys Island. Unlike other areas where trout fishing slows down during the colder months, around Pawleys Island, the action doesn’t stop. These fish can be found in various habitats, including creeks, marshes, and near structures such as oyster beds and jetties.

Effective lures for catching seatrout include soft plastic jigs, topwater plugs, and spoons. Live bait, such as mud minnows, shrimp, and finger mullet, can also be used. When fishing with live bait, try drifting with the tide or casting and retrieving slowly to mimic the natural movement of the bait.

fisherman with a seatrout

Fish With Us!

If you’re looking to maximize your chances of catching redfish and seatrout during the winter, consider fishing with Harvest Moon Fishing Charters. They take guests from Pawleys Island into the nearby Winyah Bay, which offers a great salt marsh environment and is the outlet for several coastal rivers. This means that the temperate waters that these fish species are looking for during the winter can be found right inside Winyah Bay.

Pawleys Island, South Carolina, is the perfect destination for winter fishing, offering opportunities to catch redfish and seatrout in a beautiful and relaxing setting. Its mild temperatures, diverse fishing opportunities, and abundant amenities make it an ideal destination for a winter fishing getaway. Book a charter with Harvest Moon Fishing Charters and experience the best that Pawleys Island has to offer.