October Fishing Forecast – Hilton Head, SC

By this time of the year were starting to see our first mild cold fronts which in turn will drive our fall fishing into full swing. The inshore waters are loaded with bait and the fish are taking advantage of this as they begin to feed up for the winter. Weather is less of a factor inshore, and we will still be looking for calm days to venture out towards open water.

This month’s feature is Bull Redfish

 When we talk about bull redfish we are referring to the largest of redfish; many weighing over 30 pounds. These bruisers move into our inshore waters after they spawn and are a true trophy fish for any angler. Bull reds are not only sought after for their great size but also for their power as a great fighting bottom fish. This is the last large fish to push into our inshore waters before winter so get out and enjoy a day on the water fishing for the big bulls.

Inshore Fishing

There are still quite a few tarpon around but we will see less of them as the bull redfish move in. Look to catch good numbers of redfish in the 25-40 pound range along with a hand full of sharks and whiting. This is also a great month to fish the flats for tailing redfish and redfish around the shell bars and flats. Speckled sea trout will be moving in and feeding heavily; it’s not uncommon to catch 20-30 trout on a half day trip this time of year. Shrimp season is in full swing…if you enjoy eating shrimp, try eating them on the same day that you caught them.

Wreck Fishing

Bull reds will start to take over the wrecks this time of year. Also look to catch good numbers of weak fish (summer trout) and sea bass. This is also one of the best times of the year to fish the live bottom areas for big snapper and grouper, sea bass, jacks and cobia. If you’re looking for a trip with non-stop action this is it. Due to the fact that these wrecks are located in open water we generally look for light winds and calm seas to go offshore.