Bob Matthews of Ladson said high water in rivers is not always a bad thing for anglers, especially in the long run.
“During the fall, from September on, the water level can easily change in the Santee River with tropical systems and associated rain — or the lack of the same,” he said. “The Santee River is prone to get high and muddy and can be difficult to fish. But even then, after a short recovery time, the river seems to be rejuvenated, and the bass fishing is usually outstanding. So I don’t let a temporary setback keep me away from the river long.
“In 2013, the water was high for an extended period, but when it recovered, we enjoyed the best bass fishing I’ve seen in years. Water level will dictate how and where you fish, especially in the smaller Santee River.”
Guide Joe Dennis of Bonneau said the past two years, in addition to the big bass, he’s seen and caught a lot more small bass, indicative of very successful spawns in the Santee and Cooper rivers.
“Good water level at spawning time is crucial, but I believe a lot more big bass are spawning because of the fish being added to the system during recent flood periods from Lake Marion,” he said. “That, with excellent spawn, has the bass population very high right now. We have mornings where catching 50 or more bass, including plenty of big fish, is common. It’s an excellent situation right now.”
