Last Updated on November 18, 2022 by Capt. R.C.
Many times throughout the day, one can fish for redfish in Murrells Inlet, SC, but dusk and dawn are the best. During these times, the fish are active and easier to catch.
From Dusk Till Dawn
Redfish are a common saltwater game fish in coastal brackish and marine waters worldwide. They primarily feed on crustaceans, baitfish, and shrimp. A favorite targeted species of inshore fisherman in Murrells Inlet, SC, redfish can be caught by fly fishing during many hours; however, dusk and dawn offer some distinct advantages over other times of the day.
Big Fish
In South Carolina, the regulation states that you cannot keep a red drum outside the size range of 15-23 inches. This limit protects smaller fish from harvest and helps ensure future populations. Larger fish provide better table fare due to their higher fat content and more robust flavor profiles.
Many anglers pursue more oversized ‘bull’ reds believing they are more sporting catches as well. Given all this information, it would stand to reason that targeting redfish during their feeding periods would produce better catches overall – right? Absolutely!
Why the Morning and Evening?
From my experience fishing for red drum here on the Grand Strand along the coast, I have found that fishing at either first light or just before dark invariably produces the most bites. These two periods increase bait activity around estuarine areas and along drop-offs which attract predatory gamefish like Red Drum.
With lower light levels indexes triggering sensory functions in certain prey species, mixed with hungry predators on the prowl, you can often find yourself hooked into some pretty good-sized Reds during early morning or evening hours!
What To Use
While live bait is always a good choice, artificial bait can be just as effective. One of the best artificial baits for redfish is a soft-plastic shrimp. The white shrimp, brown shrimp, and grass shrimp are all popular choices, providing a lifelike facsimile of the crustacean that redfish are looking for.
Some baits also incorporate a slight rattle that makes a subtle clicking noise. This noise is similar to the sound that redfish associate with their natural forage, and it can help to increase the chances of getting a bite. When fishing the Atlantic coast, keep a few soft-plastic shrimp in your tackle box – they’re perfect for these redfish, but plenty of other inshore species are sure to bite them.
Putting it All Together
Inshore fishing for redfish in Myrtle Beach can be a great experience. if you’re looking for some of the day’s best action, remember the best time to fish for redfish is during dusk and dawn. This is because the water is more relaxed and the fish are more active.
Whether you use live bait or some soft plastics, if you fish at the best time, you’re sure to bring home a big one. If you’re interested in fishing these monsters using some of the info you’ve learned, book your trip today! See what the early morning reds in Murrells inlet have to offer.