South Carolina anglers have a handful of great options when it comes to choosing the best lake for night bass fishing during the summer. Lake Jocassee, Lake Murray, Lake Wateree and Lake Hartwell are tops.
For quality fish, it is hard to beat Jocassee in the northwest corner of the Upstate. This deep, clear mountain lake holds some excellent fishing opportunities, including the rare opportunity to catch three different species of black bass on the same trip. Largemouth, smallmouth and redeye bass all live in this lake.
“Jocassee is perhaps the best night-time fishing lake on the (Savannah River) chain.” said veteran angler Jeff Rohaley of Greer, S.C. “You won’t get as many bites, but the ones you get will be tremendous.”
Lake Murray near Columbia gets a lot of pressure. But it regularly spits out good catches at night. With more boat docks and piers than anyone can count, excellent habitat for fishing at night is not lacking. Look for docks close to deeper water with lights that attract baitfish.
A hidden gem in the Midlands is Lake Wateree, which is better known for its catfish and crappie. But as far as fishing pressure is concerned, it’s virtually desolate at night. With long, deep channels and a host of feeder creeks, Wateree is a hidden gem for night bass.
Lake Hartwell is known for its deep, flooded timber, and Rohaley said that’s great structure for night fishing, especially in the 15- to 20-foot depth range. Another mainstay for night bass are the extended points near river channels.
“It doesn’t matter where you are on the lake as long as there is deep water available.” Rohaley said.
