Double up in the lowcountry

October is hot for lowcountry redfish and specks

Cooler weather and shorter days mark the beginning of some of the best fishing of the year for South Carolina’s lowcountry anglers.

Capt. Geoff Bennett of Charleston Charter Fishing (843-324-3332) said this month is a “can’t miss” month for anglers around Charleston.

“We’re about to experience the best fishing of the year, so don’t put away your boat just yet,” said Bennett.

Redfish and speckled trout are two of Bennett’s main targets, and he said anglers can catch them on either live bait or artificial lures right now.

“Fishermen can continue to succeed with live bait, but artificial lures should become increasingly effective this month,” he said.

Generally, October brings fairly stable weather to the area, as long as no tropical storms are forming. The clarity of the water also usually improves compared to the summer months.

Another reason for anglers to get excited this month is that redfish are beginning to gather together.

“The redfish have begun to form larger schools, so sight fishing should be great,” he said.

Artificial lures like jerk shads work great on these fish.

“We will cast jerk shad artificial lures, 4 to 5 inches in length, paired up with 3/0 flutter hooks. Hues of silver and blue are good colors to try,” he said.

When it comes to catching speckled trout, Bennett said it’s tough to beat 1/4-ounce jigheads with soft plastic bodies.

“I’ll tie a loop knot to give the lures even more action. Vary your rate of retrieve,” he said.

Another tip he offers is for anglers to add a small piece of shrimp to your hook.

“You can try pieces of live or frozen shrimp, and it will add a scent trail on your lure that is hard to resist,” he said.

Live bait is also working well this month, especially when fished under popping corks.

“Live shrimp and mud minnows, as well as artificial shrimp, will work fine when suspended about 18 to 24 inches below the cork. Trout and redfish alike will eat these baits as they pass by. Cork rigs work best when cast along grassy banks at mid and high tide.”