Bluegill beatdown

Bream are easy, and fun, to catch

Fishing for bluegills in the Carolinas during May is an enjoyable and rewarding experience, with the fish moving into shallow waters to spawn. Anglers can take advantage of this time by fishing in some of the best bluegill spots in both South Carolina and North Carolina.

In South Carolina, Lake Marion and Lake Greenwood offer excellent bluegill fishing.

Lake Marion

Lake Marion, part of the Santee Cooper system, is renowned for its diverse fishery. During May, bluegills gather near submerged structure, stumps, and cypress trees in shallow water. Anglers using crickets, worms, and small jigs often find success, especially when fishing near vegetation. Casting small popping bugs on ultralight tackle during the early morning or late afternoon can also produce plenty of strikes.

Lake Greenwood

Lake Greenwood, with its combination of shallow coves and submerged brush piles, provides another hotspot for bluegill action. Anglers fishing along the edges of grassy flats or around docks often fill their stringers quickly during May.

In North Carolina, Lake Norman and Jordan Lake are prime destinations for bluegill anglers.

Lake Norman

Lake Norman is a large reservoir known for its healthy population of bluegills. During May, these fish are easy to locate near shallow coves and around boat docks. Live bait, such as crickets and red worms, works best when fished under a bobber in areas where bluegills are bedding. Anglers who prefer artificial lures often have success with small jigs or spinners worked slowly through shallow water.

Jordan Lake

Jordan Lake, near Raleigh, is another bluegill haven during May. The lake’s numerous shallow coves and brush-filled flats attract bluegills as they move in to spawn. Anglers fishing with nightcrawlers or mealworms find consistent action, especially when targeting areas near sandy bottoms where bluegills prefer to build their beds.

Targeting shaded areas, fallen trees, and aquatic vegetation increases the chances of success. Using ultralight tackle and small hooks allows anglers to feel the subtle bites that bluegills are known for.