Calm water redfish

The Palmetto Dunes Lagoon offers unique saltwater experience

September marks one of the most productive times of year for redfish fishing in the Palmetto Dunes Lagoon system on Hilton Head Island. As the summer heat begins to ease, redfish become increasingly active, taking advantage of the slightly cooler water temperatures and abundant baitfish in the 11-mile lagoon system. Anglers enjoy the unique opportunity of targeting these powerful inshore gamefish in a calm, scenic setting.

The Palmetto Dunes Lagoon is a brackish water system fed by tidal movements, creating an ideal habitat for redfish. In September, juvenile and slot-sized reds are most commonly found cruising along the banks, and around submerged structure. But don’t be surprised if you find yourself in a tussle with an oversized redfish. They are plentiful here, and not shy about taking your bait.

Live bait is king

Successful anglers rely on a mix of natural bait and artificial lures. Live mud minnows and live shrimp are among the most effective natural baits. These can be fished on a Carolina rig or under a popping cork to attract redfish feeding near the surface or mid-depths. Fresh bait tends to outperform frozen options, especially when the fish are selective due to changing water clarity or pressure systems.

Artificial lures are also highly effective in September, especially when conditions are right. Soft plastic paddle tails in natural hues like root beer, pearl white, or chartreuse rigged on a 1/8- to 1/4-ounce jighead are a staple for many inshore anglers. Gold spoons and weedless jerkbaits are also productive when worked slowly along the edges of surface vegetation. Early mornings and late afternoons, when the sun is lower, offer the best topwater action using walk-the-dog style lures like the Zara Spook or Skitter Walk.

Fish with the experts

Fly fishing enthusiasts find September ideal for targeting redfish with crab and shrimp pattern flies. Clearer water and tailing reds create the perfect conditions for precise casts and thrilling strikes.

Spinning gear with 20- to 50-pound braided line and a fluorocarbon leader is best for most situations, because big redfish will do their best to quickly wrap you around submerged trees, which are commonplace in numerous areas of this waterway. Patience and stealth are key in the shallow, quiet lagoon, where loud noises or quick movements can easily spook fish.

Getting access to fish the lagoon involves either staying at a rental on the lagoon or fishing with Palmetto Lagoon Charters (843-301-4634). The folks there fish the lagoon daily, and are experts at finding these fish, which is a lot different than finding them on typical inshore waters. The lagoon is a different ball game, and Captains Trent Malphrus and Stacy Garbett have it down to a science.