There is nothing more peaceful than being out in the salt marsh. While you are out looking for fish you may get to view a sea turtles head pop up, or a manatee swim up on the flats. Beaufort County South Carolina is said to have over 200,000 acres of salt marsh, and that is a lot of exploring to do!

One of the most interesting aspects of the salt marsh is how it is used by almost all of the fish and animals that live in and visit Beaufort at some stage of the tidal cycle or their lives. It speaks to the importance of this habitat and why it needs to be guarded and protected.

There are three main ways you can enjoy fly fishing the Beaufort, SC salt marshes:

1. Flats boat: This is the easiest way to enjoy flats fishing, you can cover more ground and access places that are not reachable by foot or by kayak due to distance. On the flats boat you stay high and dry which is a nice aspect in the cooler weather months. You can carry a wide range of tackle and supplies which allows for a fully outfitted trip. We offer a fully outfitted guide service that can take you fly fishing on a flat’s skiff.

The author slowly pols the flats skiff in search of tailing redfish. 

2. Wade fishing: Wade fishing is the most basic way to fish the salt flats of Beaufort, South Carolina. In order to wade fish this terrain you must poses a basic knowledge of the area as hidden dangers exist. We would not advise wade fishing the salt flats unless you are familiar with the area and the dangers and risks associated with it. A good alternative to wade fishing the salt marsh for less experienced anglers is the surf. The surf is easier and safer to navigate and walk on than it is to go through the salt marsh.

Fly fishing by foot is one of the most basic and rewarding experiences an angler can have. It allows you to enjoy the sport with the most minimal amount of gear. It is also great for before or after work quick trips.  

The author with a beautiful southern flounder caught on the fly wade fishing the salt marsh. This flounder was released alive.

3. Kayak fishing: Kayak fishing allows you to get into places that are not accessible by boat or on foot. It is great physical exercise and since the kayak has a very small footprint it allows you to stalk up to wary fish. 

The author entering through a narrow opening in the marsh which leads way to a much larger pool that holds redfish at low tide. 

A beautiful redfish caught and released while fly fishing on the kayak. 

No matter which way you enjoy fly fishing in Beaufort, South Carolina be sure to have fun with the sport, pass on information to others, and be a good steward of our amazing natural resources. 

Tight lines, Captain Randy.