How To Catch Redfish From A Kayak In Charleston South Carolina

June 13, 2024
Jake Smith

Charleston, South Carolina is renowned for its rich coastal waters teeming with various species of fish, making it a prime destination for anglers. Among the prized catches in these waters is the redfish, also known as red drum. Catching a redfish from a kayak presents a unique and exhilarating challenge that combines skill, patience, and a deep appreciation for the natural surroundings. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to successfully catch redfish from a kayak in Charleston, SC.

Understanding Redfish and Their Habits

Before heading out, it’s crucial to understand the behavior and habitat of redfish. Redfish are typically found in shallow waters such as estuaries, bays, and tidal creeks. They are most active during the warmer months, but in Charleston, they can be caught year-round. These fish are known for their copper-bronze bodies with distinctive black spots near their tails. They are bottom feeders and primarily prey on crustaceans, small fish, and shrimp.

Choosing The Right Kayak

Select a stable, sit-on-top kayak designed for fishing. Stability is paramount since you must maneuver and cast without tipping over. Models like the Feelfree Kayaks Lure 13.5 V2 or the Feelfree Kayaks Dorado V2 are famous among kayak anglers for their stability and built-in storage for fishing gear.

Feelfree-Lure 13.5 V2-Kayak-Desert Camo-

Feelfree-Lure 13.5 V2-Kayak-Winter Camo-

Essential Gear and Accessories

Paddle Ensure it’s lightweight and the right length for your height and kayak width.
Personal Flotation Device (PFD) Always wear a PFD for safety.
Anchor System A small anchor can help you stay in position while fishing.
Rod Holders Install these for convenience and to keep your rods secure.
Storage Use dry bags or waterproof storage boxes for your gear and personal items.
Fish Finder: Optional but helpful for locating fish and understanding the underwater topography.

Fishing Tackle and Bait

Rods and Reels

Opt for a medium to medium-heavy spinning or baitcasting rod, around 7 to 8 feet long. Pair it with a quality reel that has a smooth drag system. A reel with a line capacity of 200 yards of 10-20 lb braided line is ideal.

Line and Leader

Use braided line for its strength and sensitivity, and attach a 20-30 lb fluorocarbon leader to prevent the redfish from seeing the line.

Lures and Baits

Redfish respond well to a variety of lures and baits:

Soft Plastics: Paddle-tail swimbaits, shrimp imitations, and jerk baits.
Topwater Lures: Early morning or late afternoon, use poppers or walk-the-dog style lures.
Spoons: Gold or silver spoons mimic small baitfish and work well in murky waters.
Live Bait: Shrimp, mullet, and menhaden are excellent choices. Rig them on a circle hook to reduce gut hooking and ensure easier releases.

Finding the Right Spot

Charleston offers numerous productive areas for kayak fishing. Some prime spots include:

Wando River: Known for its healthy redfish population, particularly around its many creeks and marshes.
Folly Beach: The tidal creeks and flats here are excellent for redfish, especially during high tide.
Isle of Palms: Focus on the marshes and estuaries where redfish hunt for crabs and shrimp.
Kiawah Island: Offers pristine waters with abundant redfish, particularly near the inlets and creeks.

Feelfree Kayaks Dorado V2

Techniques for Catching Redfish

Sight Fishing: Redfish often tail in shallow waters, meaning their tails break the surface as they forage. Sight fishing involves scanning the water for these tails or other signs of fish movement. Once you spot a redfish, approach quietly and cast your bait or lure ahead of its path.

Drift Fishing: Allow your kayak to drift with the current or wind while casting lures. This method covers more water and helps locate active fish. Use a drift sock to control your speed if the current is strong.

Anchoring and Casting: Anchor near structures like oyster beds, grass flats, or drop-offs where redfish are likely to be. Cast your bait near these structures and let it sit on the bottom. Redfish are bottom feeders and will often pick up stationary bait.

Topwater Fishing: During low light conditions (early morning or late evening), use topwater lures. Cast near structures or along grass lines and retrieve with a steady or erratic motion to entice strikes.

Tidal Influence

Understanding and leveraging the tides is crucial for successful redfish fishing in Charleston. Redfish are more active and easier to locate during certain tidal movements:

Incoming Tide: Fish move into shallow waters to feed, making it an excellent time to target them in creeks and flats.
High Tide: Redfish spread out in the flooded grass flats, hunting for crabs and shrimp.
Outgoing Tide: Fish tend to congregate at the mouths of creeks and channels as the water recedes, making them more accessible.

Handling and Releasing Redfish

Redfish are robust, but handling them with care ensures their survival, especially when practicing catch and release. Here’s how:

Use Wet Hands: Handle the fish with wet hands or a wet cloth to protect their slime coat.
Proper Support: Support the fish horizontally with both hands, avoiding vertical holds that can harm internal organs.
Quick Release: Minimize the fish’s time out of water. If you need to take a photo, have the camera ready beforehand.
Revive the Fish: If the fish appears lethargic, gently move it back and forth in the water to help it regain strength before release.

Safety Tips

Fishing from a kayak can be challenging, so safety should always be a priority:

Check the Weather: Avoid heading out in rough weather or strong winds.
Stay Visible: Use bright colors on your kayak and clothing, and consider a flag or light for better visibility.
File a Float Plan: Let someone know your fishing location and expected return time.
Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized.

Local Regulations

Be aware of local fishing regulations, including size and bag limits for redfish. In South Carolina, the current regulations (as of 2023) state that anglers can keep up to three redfish per day, with a slot limit of 15 to 23 inches. Always check the latest rules from the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) before your trip.

Catching redfish from a kayak in Charleston, South Carolina, is a rewarding experience that combines the thrill of fishing with the tranquility of paddling through picturesque coastal waters. Understanding redfish behavior, choosing the right equipment, and employing effective techniques can increase your chances of landing these beautiful and powerful fish. Remember to prioritize safety, respect local regulations, and enjoy the incredible natural beauty that Charleston has to offer. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a newcomer to the sport, kayak fishing for redfish in Charleston is an adventure not to be missed.