Charleston flounder chomping on live baits

Guide says he’s catching multiple fish from same spots regularly

Fishermen are finding plenty of flounder in the Charleston Harbor, and where one bites, more are sure to follow, according to Justin Hubbard of Reel Shallow Charters.

“Flounder fishing takes a specialized technique, but even inexperienced anglers are reeling in good numbers of flounder,” said Hubbard (843-327-7563), who is having more success on flounder this year than he\’s had in several years. The key, he said, is keeping your bait on the move.

“Whether you are slowly dragging it or popping it as you retrieve, anglers need to keep their bait moving if they are after flounder,” said Hubbard, who has been using live mud minnows and small mullet for bait. “The baitfish that are small enough to get their gills caught in a cast net are working well right now when cast around a sandy or muddy bank, especially if a feeder creek is nearby,” said Hubbard.

While some anglers prefer a traditional Carolina-rig with a sinker, glass bead and swivel, Hubbard uses a simpler set up; he pinches on a No. 1 split shot about a foot to 18 inches above his hook. This makes up a lighter rig than many anglers use, but it works wonders for Hubbard and his clients.

“You really only need as much weight as it takes to make a good cast. The baitfish with a hook will sink enough, and the action of popping it will entice flounder to strike,” he said.

For anglers wishing to use artificials, Hubbard said you can\’t beat the bucktail jig.

Hubbard said some anglers leave a productive spot too soon, while others spend too much time in unproductive areas.

“When I catch a flounder, there are almost always others in the same spot, so cover an area thoroughly when you catch one. And there are plenty of good flounder spots in the harbor, so don\’t waste time in one area if things aren\’t working out in a spot. Stay on the move, and you will find them,” he said.